Every year, illegal telemarketing and mail fraud schemes rob consumers, often elderly citizens, of their hard-earned life-savings.

If someone contacts you or a loved one with an unsolicited offer:

• Don't give your financial information to callers you don't know.
  
• Don't be pressured into making an immediate decision.
  
• Get all information in writing before you agree to a purchase.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Senior Action Coalition are committed to protecting seniors from telemarketing and mail fraud schemes.

• Tips on how to protect yourself from illegal telemarketing and mail fraud schemes.
  
• Tips on how to protect your loved ones from illegal telemarketing and mail fraud schemes.
  
• Read an article that explains sweepstakes fraud targeting the elderly.

Check these Web sites for more information on fraud that targets elderly citizens:

• Fighting Fraud Against Older Citizens
  
• National Consumers League
  
• Better Business Bureau
  
• AARP
  
• Federal Trade Commission
  

  Or, file a mail fraud complaint.