Rental scams are starting to become a serious problem in Metro Detroit as high-tech criminals take advantage of fears about the coronavirus (COVID-19). Hundreds of online advertisements are promoting rental properties across the area, but officials with the Better Business Bureau said beware of potential scams. Criminals are posting fake ads and sometimes saying they can’t show anyone the properties because of the threat from COVID-19. Another red flag is if they demand cash up front or ask for payments through gift cards. You can watch Hank Winchester’s full report and hear from an expert with the BBB in the video posted above.

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Treasury issued a warning Tuesday that Michigan residents are receiving text messages regarding unclaimed property that is likely a scam. The department says multiple individuals have reported receiving text messages from an unknown source that offer to reunite the individual with their “unclaimed property.” These messages typically come with a link that the recipient is asked to click to claim their property. Michigan residents are urged not to interact with or respond to the text messages, as they are not affiliated with the state treasury. Unclaimed property such as assets in dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, valuables left in safe deposit boxes and certificates are turned over to the state treasury by law once they are considered abandoned and unclaimed, officials said. Anyone concerned that they have unclaimed property can visit the state’s website here or call 517-636-5320 between 9 a.m.-noon on Monday and Friday or 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday.

Phone scammers are targeting seniors, threatening to shut off their gas or power unless paid, often demanding payments in gift cards or Bitcoin. People are advised to use caution as these scammers are using public utility companies as their caller ID. Remember, companies do not call customers demanding payment and do not accept payments in the form of gift cards or Bitcoin. For more information from the state of Michigan, go here. Watch above for more information.