Don’t fall prey to DATCP scams targeting licenses
In recent months, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), has been impersonated several times, by scammers who target professional license holders.
License holders have reported receiving emails from what appears to be an official DATCP email address, such as “admin@mydatcp.wi.gov” or “admin@datcp.wi.gov.” Despite appearances, these are not legitimate messages from the DATCP.
The fraudulent emails may contain the DATCP’s official logo and a subject line similar to “2024 Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Information Verification.” They provide accurate license information, and claim the recipient’s license will expire or be revoked, unless immediate action is taken.
The emails prompt the recipient to click a link and “update their information,” a scam strategy called phishing. Clicking the link or providing any personal, professional or business information, could expose a user to malware or identity theft risks.
Professionals and businesses, who receive an email fitting the above description, should avoid opening the message. If doing so, close it immediately. Never click any links, reply to the email or call using a phone number provided in an email. If it’s suspected it may be a real message, log in to MyDATCP or contact the DATCP directly.
Report it to the licensing program, using publicly available and verifiable contact information.
The DATCP provides free online fact sheets on imposter scams, phishing, fraud against business and other scams, that can be accessed from ConsumerProtection.wi.gov.
