How to Protect Yourself from a Con Artist

Within the next few weeks, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service will mail brochures alerting Americans to the warning signs of fraud.

This nationwide consumer initiative will reach every household and is made possible by money collected in fines and damages from criminals convicted of fraudulent schemes.

Every day, con artists try to victimize millions of American consumers. Successful cons can seriously harm victims and their families, who may lose their life savings to developers of a well-plotted scam. That’s why Postal Inspectors are educating employees, as well as the public. People who know the warning signs of fraud can protect themselves from becoming victims. Here are some tips to help avoid a scam:

-- People who are unsure about a financial offer should keep a record of it — including all mail and envelopes — and get guarantees in writing before acting on an offer.
-- Don’t divulge credit card or bank account numbers without knowing and trusting the recipients of this information.
-- Resist high-pressure sales tactics. Insist on time to think about offer and discuss them with friends, family members or advisors. Respectable companies give customers time to think about their offers.
-- Ask promoters for a callback number.