Scam Postcards Targeting Veterans Are Back in West Michigan

The holidays are supposed to be a season of joy, but unfortunately, it’s also a season when scammers get bolder. We’re distracted, our schedules are packed, and that’s exactly the kind of chaos scammers love to take advantage of. Most of us think about sketchy texts or phishing emails, but in this case, the threat is arriving the old-fashioned way: right in the mailbox.

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Scam Postcards Targeting Vets in West Michigan

Ottawa County Veterans Services is sounding the alarm about scam postcards circulating around West Michigan. According to the county, this isn’t the first time this tactic has shown up, and it appears the mailers are making the rounds once again.

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How the Scam Works

The postcards are designed to look official and reference things like the “2025 Michigan Veteran Savings Program” along with bold phrases like “Do Not Discard.” They may seem like they’re connected to real benefits, but they are not from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. These mailings are bait, designed to get veterans to call the number listed and hand over personal or financial information.

The goal is simple: gain access to things like Social Security numbers, bank details, or VA claim information — all of which can be used for identity theft or financial fraud.

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Red Flags to Watch For

If something shows up unexpectedly in the mail and promises money, benefits, or quick savings, take a pause before responding. Local officials recommend reaching out directly to your county Veterans Service Office or calling the VA at 1-800-827-1000 to confirm whether anything you’ve received is legitimate. Visiting VA.gov is another safe way to verify information without risking your privacy.

And the biggest rule of all: never share personal information with unsolicited callers or unknown companies—especially if the message feels urgent or high-pressure. That kind of pushiness is a classic red flag.

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Scammers may be persistent, but staying cautious, asking questions, and using official channels can go a long way in protecting yourself and the veterans in our community.