Lakes and Pines CAC, Inc. is a 501(c)3 organization; a charitable, educational, private, non-profit corporation serving the seven county area of: Aitkin, Carlton, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs and Pine. If necessary, arrangements can be made to have applications for assistance taken at a location throughout the service area, a home visit or through the mail. [ Phone: (320)679-1800 | Toll Free: (800)832-6082 | Fax: (320)679-4139 ]

SCAM ALERT: Fraudsters Are Using Commerce’s Name and Logo
Commerce is warning consumers about scammers impersonating the Department to demand money under false pretenses.

In a recent case, a consumer received a fraudulent letter using Commerce’s name, address, and logo. The letter demanded a fee to release a supposed bank payment.

This is a scam. The Department of Commerce does not charge consumers fees and will never solicit money from individuals. Scammers may also impersonate the FBI, fraud hotlines, and other government agencies, targeting people who have already lost money. They may demand payment to investigate a case, prioritize a report or recover lost funds. Fraudulent websites may also imitate official reporting services and steal personal or financial information.

Protect yourself:
• Never pay an upfront fee to receive promised funds or recover lost money.
• Verify requests using contact information from an agency’s official website.
• Never provide personal or financial information through unverified websites or unsolicited messages.

If you’ve been targeted: Report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or report online scams through the FBI’s official website at IC3.gov. Type these addresses directly into your browser rather than following unsolicited links. Learn more on our website.

Remember: Scammers can make letters, websites and calls look official. Always verify before you send money or share information.