Information from onguardonline.gov: Some email users have lost money to bogus offers that arrived as spam in their in-box. Con artists are very cunning; they know how to make their claims seem legitimate.
Some spam messages ask for your business, others invite you to a website with a detailed pitch. Either way, these tips can help you avoid spam scams:
1 — Protect your personal information. Share credit card or other personal information only when you’re buying from a company you know and trust.
2 — Know who you’re dealing with. Don’t do business with any company that won’t provide its name, street address, and telephone number.
3 — Take your time. Resist any urge to “act now” despite the offer and the terms. Once you turn over your money, you may never get it back.
4 — Read the small print. Get all promises in writing and review them carefully before you make a payment or sign a contract.
5 — Never pay for a “free” gift. Disregard any offer that asks you to pay for a gift or prize. If it’s free or a gift, you shouldn’t have to pay for it. Free means free.
For more information, go to onguardonline.gov.
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