Postal service celebrates National Consumer Protection Week

National Consumer Protection Week runs March 5-11, 2017. This coordinated, consumer-education campaign is sponsored by the Federal Trade Commission and encourages individuals across the country to take full advantage of their consumer rights.

The Postal Service and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service are playing an important role by drawing attention to the continuing consumer fraudulent schemes, and building on a national outreach effort to help protect consumers against identity theft.

"The Postal Service is proud to work with a broad coalition of groups to share tips and information to protect consumers against fraud," said spokesperson Sean Hargadon. "As the most trusted government agency, consumers have a high confidence in the mail and expect the Postal Service to protect the privacy of their personal information."

This year's theme educates the general public about scams to which older Americans are increasingly susceptible. "Anyone can be a victim of a scam, but scammers often target individuals whom they perceive as vulnerable, so older adults tend to be targeted again and again," said Hargadon. "These crimes take a toll, both financially and emotionally. Financial exploitation can seriously affect the lives of seniors and their families, who are often unaware until it's too late," added Hargadon.

Persons who expose themselves to sales situations, even legitimate ones, are more likely to be victimized by fraud. Consumers of all ages should start doing this today:

• Get a nonpublished number and install an answering machine with a large caller ID display. Screen all incoming calls. Pick up only if you recognize the caller. Otherwise, let the call roll to the answering machine.

• Reduce robocalls and block unwanted telemarketing offers. Visit www.DeliveringTrust.com for details.

• Opt-out of preapproved credit offers by enrolling in the national credit bureaus' Opt Out program. Call (888) 567-8688 or go to www.DeliveringTrust.com and sign up online.

• Never enter free prize and sweepstakes drawings.

• Never attend free lunch seminars.

• Never respond to any solicitation you receive over the internet.

An educated public is the first line of defense. Visit www.DeliveringTrust.com for more information on how to protect yourself and your loved ones from fraud.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.