Bureau warns auto insurance refund checks open the door for scammers to take advantage of residents

The Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association, per the request of Governor Gretchen Whitmer, will be returning surplus funds to auto insurance policy holders in the state of Michigan. The refund of $400 per vehicle, will come from resident’s insurance company, and policyholders will receive checks or ACH deposit between now and May 9.

Unfortunately, as was learned when stimulus checks were issued, this presents a prime opportunity for scammers to try and take advantage of those expecting refund checks.

“Scammers are very savvy, and when you have a large group of consumers waiting for a payment to come, this is a great opportunity for them to try and fool people into giving out their personal information,” said Melanie Duquesnel, president & CEO of Better Business Bureau® Serving Eastern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. “Beware of fake text messages, emails or phone calls claiming to need personal information to issue your refund. If you would like your check direct deposited, contact your insurance company and make sure they have the proper information to do so, if not your insurer will send you a check.”

BBB has some tips to help residents avoid auto insurance refund check scams:

• Stay calm. Resist the urge to act immediately, no matter how dramatic the story is. Scammers try to get people to act before thinking about the situation.

• Don't reply directly. Don’t respond to unknown calls, texts, or emails. If you think the message may be real, contact your insurance provider directly.

• Beware of look-alikes. Scammers will often spoof existing company names, websites, and caller I.D.’s. If something seems fishy, double check the phone number or website on your insurance policy and make sure you are dealing with your actual insurance provider. If the call stills seems off, hang up and call your provider directly.

• Remember, you do not pay money to receive this check. This money is being given for free to all Michiganders who had auto insurance as of Oct. 31, 2021. If you receive a message from anyone claiming that you must pay money to receive your check, it is a scam.