Protect yourself from fraud by knowing how to recognize it.

Debt collection scams: Scammers pose as debt collectors, asking you to pay for debts you don’t owe or that have already been paid. Do not provide any financial information until you have verified the debt is valid.

Debt settlement and debt relief scams: Debt settlement companies claim that they can renegotiate or settle your debts in some way with a creditor or debt collector.

Foreclosure relief scams: In this scam, foreclosure relief or mortgage loan modification makes the false promise of saving you from foreclosure.

Grandparent scam: You could receive a call from someone posing as a grandchild or another relative asking you to wire money or send gift cards.

Imposter scams: A scammer poses as someone you know or an authority figure such as a local, state or federal government official requiring you to send money. Remember, caller ID can be faked, so you should call the organization to be sure the individual works for them before sending money.

Mail fraud: Any letter that requires you to send money or personal information with the promise that you will receive something of value later is a scam.

Mortgage closing scams: Beware of any emails arriving close to your closing date requesting financial or other personal information; it could be a scammer posing as your real estate agent or settlement agent.

Lottery or prize scams: Any call or email congratulating your win while asking for an upfront tax or fee payment is a scam.

Wire or money transfer fraud: Beware online “friendships.” Someone you get to know online may pose as a new friend that needs help with medical bills, but they are executing a scam.