State warning of fake eviction notices that come by email

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- If you rent an apartment or a home, you better know your rights! Landlord-tenant laws in Wisconsin are meant to protect you -- but fear of eviction is getting people in trouble.

Melissa Erickson shared her story with FOX6 News in September because building inspectors were evicting her and another family.

The building was deemed uninhabitable.

The landlord claimed to be unaware of the problem -- and then didn't show up when inspectors had requested.

This is a rare case -- one that makes the news.

FOX6's Contact 6 doesn't cover landlord-tenant issues, because there are just too many.

Instead, Contact 6 gives folks numbers to contact building inspectors.

When a tenant says they are being unjustly evicted, Contact 6 tells them to get all of their information together, and present it to a judge.

But now, the state is warning people about fake eviction notices.

They come by email, and claim you are going to be kicked off the premises "due to multiple violations."

The email then prompts you to click on an attachment to see the details of the violation.

FOX6's Contact 6 says don't do it!

The link has software that will infect your computer.

Eviction notices never come by email -- and it's an empty threat. Don't let your fear invite thieves into your personal information.

If this has happened to you, you're urged to file a complaint with Wisconsin Consumer Protection.

CLICK HERE to access the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection's website.