(NAPSA)—Each year, organized groups of criminals target and victimize thousands of Americans by telephone, e-mails and through the mail—but you can protect yourself and your family. The United States Postal Inspection Service has documented over $42 million in losses from this type of fraud. In some cases, people have lost their homes and their savings by chasing the dream of a big “lottery jackpot.” Inspector Paul Krenn advises, “One of the main techniques scammers use is a foreign lottery scam, where they tell you to send money to pay for taxes or fees. If you've received a suspected fraud via mail or if the mail was used to continue a crime started online, over the phone or in person, report it to The U.S. Postal Inspection Service.” What To Watch Out For Here are a few facts and signs to consider: *Scammers are using new techniques, such as legitimate mailing lists and new technology. They “spoof” caller ID to make it look as if they’re calling from the U.S. or even a government agency. Older consumers, especially shut-ins, are often a favorite target for foreign lottery fraud. Look out for checks written or money wired internationally; a telephone that rings constantly; or a stack of Foreign lottery fraud, a criminal practice where scammers entice U.S. consumers to send money and even provide bank and credit card information, is a growing problem that can have devastating and longlasting effects on victims and their families. lottery or sweepstakes entries. *Scammers are constantly updating their methods. One of their latest tricks is to convince you that you’ve won a foreign lottery and all you need to dois wire a small processing fee (relative to the gigantic prize). Don’t—you’ll neversee that money again. *Beware of calls from foreign countries, especially if they’recalling an elderly person. eIf you or a loved one receives an unsolicited offer, hang up the phoneor delete the e-mail. *Don’t give out personal or financial information to anyone over the Internet or phone. Never wire or send money to anyone, anywhere, who says you have wona foreign lottery. *Don’t let anyone pressure you into making an immediate decision. Never purchase anything until you getall information in writing. WhereTo Get Help To help people recognize and prevent frauds and scams, The U.S. Postal Inspection Service set up a website, www.deliveringtrust.com. At the site, you can educate yourself, share the information with family and friends, and report suspected fraud sent through the U.S. mail.
