Look for these warning signs to avoid fraud:

• Someone asks you to send money to claim a lottery or prize or to obtain a credit or loan.
• Someone you don't know requests that you send money via wire transfer, the most common way fraud criminals obtain money from victims. There is NO legitimate reason for someone who claims to be giving you money to ask you to wire money back.
• An unknown caller claiming to be a lawyer or in law enforcement offers to help you get your money back (for a fee).
• The deal is only good "for today" or a short period of time.
• The seller offers "free gifts" in return for a minimum effort or a fee.
• A "repair person" suddenly finds a dangerous defect in your car or home.
• You are given little or no time to read a contract.
• A sale item is suddenly unavailable but a "much better item" is available for slightly more money.
• Someone is trying to scare you into purchasing credit protection plans.
• The solicitation looks like a government document and suggests contest winnings or unclaimed assets are yours for a small fee. (The government doesn't solicit money from citizens.
• You are asked for your bank account or credit card number.

Quick Tips for Avoiding Fraud

1. Don't' give out personal information. Be suspicious of anyone you don't know who asks for your Social Security number, credit card and bank account details, date of birth, etc.
2. Don't be intimidated. Be suspicious of callers who want you to immediately provide or verify personal information. Tell them you're not interested and hang up.
3. Monitor your accounts. Review bank and credit card statements carefully. Report unauthorized transactions to your financial institution immediately.
4. Use a shredder. Tear or shred credit offers you receive in the mail, bank statements, insurance forms and other papers with personal information.

The Best Way to Help Stop Fraud Is To Report It

If a scam artist has contacted you or if you've been defrauded, contact the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC gathers evidence, identifies fraud trends and alerts law enforcement throughout the U.S., Canada and abroad. By reporting your experience, you can prevent others from becoming victims.