- Do not throw away papers with bank account numbers, credit card information, social security numbers or things of that nature. Instead, invest in a paper shredder and shred all documents that contain any personal information that a thief can use to steal your identity.
- Take advantage of banking online to monitor your account activity. Report any fraud to your financial institution immediately.
- Report any credit cards, debit cards, and/or checks lost or stolen as soon as you realize they are missing.
- If you believe you are a victim of identity theft, immediately contact your local law enforcement agency.
2. Telephone/Telemarketing scams.
It is estimated that telemarketing scams steal more than $40 million dollars each year from consumers. There are telephone sales offering legitimate products and services, but there are some companies that are involved in telemarketing fraud. Telemarketers that are fraudulent will use phony prizes, cheap products and high-pressure sales tactics to rip off consumers. Many times phony telemarketers will target senior citizens. This is because many times senior citizens are more trusting and polite. One thing to always remember is if something is too good to be true, then it probably is. Here are some ways to help you avoid telemarketing scams:
- Don't be pressured into making a decision immediately.
- Never give out your credit card, checking account or social security number to unknown callers. If you would like make a purchase from a telemarketer, do some research on the company before giving out any personal information.
- If you do not want to receive telemarketing calls, you can place your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry. To register online, visit www.donotcall.gov. You may also register by phone at 1-888-382-1222, you must call from the phone number you wish to register.
3.Foreign Lottery Scams.
This type of scam is either operated by telephoning consumers or by direct mail to inform consumers that they have been selected to purchase lottery tickets in a high-stakes foreign lottery. These lottery solicitations rob consumers of $120 million each year, according to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Consumers are enticed by the prospects of instant wealth. Here are a few things to consider before being lured into a foreign lottery scam:
- You are violating federal law if you play in a foreign lottery through the mail or over the telephone.
- No matter how great the chances sound of you winning a foreign lottery, in reality, the chances of you winning more than the cost of your tickets are slim to none.

Here are a few general tips that may help you to avoid being victimized by scams:
- Guard your bank account information carefully.
- Always shred/destroy documents that contain bank account information and credit card information before throwing them into the garbage. Also documents that contain personal information such as social security number and drivers license numbers.