Latest mail scams
Scammers are always coming up with new ways to trick people out of their money. Here are some of the latest mail scams to be aware of:
- Fake Inheritance Scams: Scammers send fake letters or emails claiming that you've inherited a large sum of money from a distant relative or a wealthy individual. They may ask you to pay a fee to release the inheritance or provide personal information.
- Phony Lottery and Prize Scams: Scammers send fake letters or emails claiming that you've won a lottery or prize, but you need to pay a fee to claim your winnings.
- IRS Impersonation Scams: Scammers call or email claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and threaten to arrest or fine you for unpaid taxes. They may ask for personal information or payment.
- Fake Check Scams: Scammers send fake checks or money orders and ask you to deposit them into your bank account. They may then ask you to wire back a portion of the funds or provide personal information.
- Grandparent Scams: Scammers call or email claiming to be a grandchild or family member in distress and ask for money to be sent to them.
- Fake Online Pharmacy Scams: Scammers send fake prescription medication or offer to sell you medication online. They may ask for personal information or payment.
- Fake Government Grant Scams: Scammers send fake letters or emails claiming that you've been awarded a government grant or loan, but you need to pay a fee to receive the funds.
- Fake Charity Scams: Scammers send fake letters or emails claiming to be from a charity and ask for donations. They may use fake names, logos, and addresses to make it seem legitimate.
- Fake Investment Scams: Scammers send fake letters or emails claiming to offer high-return investments, but they may be Ponzi schemes or fraudulent.
- Fake Online Shopping Scams: Scammers send fake emails or messages claiming to be from a legitimate online retailer and ask you to provide personal information or payment.
To avoid falling victim to these scams:
- Be cautious of unsolicited emails, letters, or calls asking for personal information or payment.
- Verify the authenticity of the sender and the request.
- Don't respond to suspicious emails or calls.
- Don't deposit fake checks or money orders.
- Don't wire money to strangers.
- Report suspicious activity to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local authorities.
Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!