National Consumer Protection Week runs from March 2 to March 8 this year, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service wants to use the event to warn about scams.
Imposter scams happen when a suspect works to convince a victim that they're someone they are not, such as a friend or relative, or that they're from a legitimate organization like a bank or government agency.
The fraudsters then attempt to gather personally identifiable information about the victim and use it to steal their money.
Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the Criminal Investigations Group says that imposter scam messages generally start with phrases like, "I'm in trouble...," "I need...," or things like, "You've won!"
Inspector Shen shares the following tips to avoid getting caught in this particular type of scam:
- Take your time to make financial decisions - don't rush into sending money to someone you do not know.
- Verify that people are who they say they are; even if you need to call the organization or business back directly.
- Before sending money to a "grandchild," make sure it's really them - give them or their parents a call first.
- If you meet someone over the internet who professes their love for you immediately, but needs money from you - end the conversation.
- The U.S. Postal Service will never send an unsolicited text message. Any text or email claiming there is a USPS delivery problem is not legitimate.
- Putting your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry can help; you can do so by calling 1-888-382-1222.
If you'd like more information on how to spot imposters trying to steal your information, check out the USPIS website.
