Cybersecurity Awareness Month: DIFS Shares Tips to Help Michiganders Avoid Online Scams

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Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 1, 2026

(LANSING, MICH) October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is sharing steps Michiganders can take to protect themselves from falling victim to scammers and cyberattacks.

"Cybersecurity Awareness Month serves as an important reminder for Michiganders to take necessary precautions to safeguard their information and money from constantly evolving cyberattacks and online scams," said DIFS Director Anita Fox. "As scams become more sophisticated, the most important step is simple but offers the most protection: never give out any personal information."

Here are some steps consumers can implement to protect their personal and financial information:

• NEVER provide any information to anyone calling, writing, emailing, texting, or messaging you on social media, even if caller ID or an email looks legitimate or the person contacting you says it's for "verification purposes." This information should be provided only when you have initiated contact with the person or business using contact information from their website, statement, or other official documentation.
• Create strong, unique passwords. Passwords should have at least 12 characters and never be reused across accounts. Consider using a password manager.
• Use multifactor authentication and protect passwords and security codes. Strengthen your account security by using multifactor authentication, which requires a second step after entering your password, such as a security code sent via text or email, in order to access your account. Never share these passwords or security codes with anyone.
• Click safely. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, pop-ups, or attachments unless you can verify the source. Reach out to the sender directly to verify the email is legitimate. Never use your work email for personal communications.
• Update software regularly. Promptly install updates on phones, computers, and apps to fix security vulnerabilities.
• Check your own credit reports. You are entitled by law to a free copy of your credit report from each of the reporting agencies once a year. You may request your free credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. Looking at your reports regularly is important to ensure all the information is accurate and your identity has not been stolen. Catching inaccuracies and reporting those immediately to the credit reporting agencies is key to clearing fraud from your name, getting approved for loans and other services, and protecting yourself as a consumer.
• Report any scams or suspicious activity in a timely manner. Monitor your accounts and report any suspicious activity right away to your bank or credit union.

The DIFS Fraud Investigation Unit (FIU) investigates criminal and fraudulent activity related to the insurance and financial markets, and DIFS works with the Attorney General and other state, county, and local law enforcement agencies to investigate these cases and refer them for prosecution.

Suspected fraud in the insurance and financial sectors can be reported to the FIU safely, easily, and, in most cases, anonymously by visiting Michigan.gov/ReportFraud2DIFS. Consumers with questions or concerns about their insurance or financial services can contact DIFS Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by calling 877-999-6442 or file a complaint at Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. Translation services are available for individuals with limited English proficiency who contact the Department. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS or follow the Department on Facebook, X, or LinkedIn.

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