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How can I recognize mail fraud?

While the specific scams change everyday, a common warning sign is a letter asking you to send money or personal information now to receive something of value later.

Some common types of high-risk mail you may receive are:

  • Notices of prizes, sweepstakes winnings, vacations, and other offers to claim valuable items
  • Personal appeals for money or information from people you do not know
  • Letters from psychics or religious figures offering to predict or change your future

Tip: The US Postal Service has a lot of information about different types of mail fraud . 

To report suspicious mail, you can file a complaint online with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can also call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357) or 1-866-653-4261 (TTY). The FTC cannot resolve individual complaints, but your complaint could help law enforcement detect patterns of fraud and abuse. That may lead to investigations and eliminate unfair practices.

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