LANSING, Mich.–The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) shut down websites for four fake banks and one credit union.
The DIFS said a temporary cease-and-desist order was issued on Sept. 2 against CEO World Credit Union, Eastern Trust Finance, EH National Bank, and Capital Standard Institution.
The DIFS stated it found numerous discrepancies and issues on the websites, and the department could not find any physical location for the unauthorized institutions. The institutions claimed they were located in Southfield but listed incorrect zip codes and phone numbers for the area, according to the DIFS.
“DIFS is committed to protecting Michiganders from predatory entities seeking to collect personal and financial information for harmful purposes,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “Websites like these take advantage of unsuspecting consumers, and we will do everything possible to ensure they stay deactivated.”
Administrative Law Judge Stephen Goldenstein will hold a hearing at 9 a.m. on Oct. 19 to determine if the cease-and-desist order should be made permanent.