Cover Story — National Consumer Protection Week,
March 6–12, 2011

Introduction/Overview

National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) is a fed­eral program, led by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to draw attention to issues and ideas that help customers become smarter consumers of products, materials, and services and improve their knowledge of how to combat fraud. NCPW is fully supported by the U.S. Postal Service^® and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. NCPW is managed by the Office of the Consumer Advocate and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

What is National Consumer Protection Week?

The Office of Consumer Affairs and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service are working to educate consumers about identity theft and fraudulent schemes and provide them with the information needed to combat these illegal activities. During NCPW, other federal, state, and local consumer protection agencies — together with consumer organizations and industry associations — are launching consumer protection and education efforts around the country.

NCPW 2011 Theme

“Your Information Destination”

The national theme is intended to highlight consumer education resources available through various distribution channels. The Postal Service™ and the United States Postal Inspection Service is committed to helping consum­ers of all ages learn how they can protect their private infor­mation and steer clear of frauds and scams.

Priority Program

This is a priority program for Consumer Affairs manag­ers (CAMs). CAMs will be responsible for overall program planning with assistance from U.S. postal inspectors. Cor­porate Communications staff will promote events and activities with local media.

District Consumer Affairs Manager

The district CAM should serve as a consultant and resource for planning NCPW activities.

Corporate Communications

Corporate Communications staff will coordinate media outreach and press coverage of the week and planned events through media advisories, news releases, letters to the editors at local newspapers, and calls to area reporters.

Postmasters and Facility Managers

Postmasters and facility managers are not mandated to participate in NCPW events, but are encouraged to join in this annual consumer awareness effort by supporting local activities during NCPW, March 6–12, 2011.

Typical Kinds of Fraudulent Schemes

This information can be used in speeches or incorpo­rated into fact sheets or handouts for consumers.

In fraudulent schemes, scammers often look for their potential victims on websites or in chat rooms, or they share their “sucker lists” with other crooks. The scams may be disguised as a work-at-home business opportunity, a prize from a foreign lottery, or a transfer of foreign money into a U.S. bank. All of them involve receipt of a check that looks genuine and will be accepted for cashing by most banks. The scammer convinces the victim that all or part of the check must be immediately wired out of the United States. When the victim takes the bait and wires money away, he or she will be responsible for repaying the money to the bank when the check is later found to be counterfeit.

Once consumers become educated about how these schemes work, they can stop scammers before the deposit of a fake check leads to an unplanned expense of thou­sands of dollars. When a potential victim is stopped from participating in fraudulent schemes, a crime has been pre­vented from taking place.

The U.S. Postal Service goals are to do the following:

n Increase Americans’ awareness about fraudulent financial schemes.

n Give consumers valuable information about protect­ing their assets from the schemes.

n Provide a central location where consumers can report suspected financial fraud.

The best defense against the constantly evolving threat of fraud is to be prepared to instantly identify it. An edu­cated public is the first line of defense. These schemes involve counterfeit checks, gift checks, traveler’s checks, or money orders. Virtually every American could be a scammer’s target, primarily through e-mail, though also through mail and phone solicitations.

The Alliance for Consumer Fraud Awareness conducted a survey of American adults and found the following:

n Two out of three adults say they receive at least one potential scam contact per week.

n Eighteen percent of adults say they or a family mem­ber has fallen for one of these scams.

n A majority of those surveyed believe the fraudulent check writer is responsible for the funds.

Identity theft and fraudulent schemes are fast-growing crimes that could ruin financial investments and cost thou­sands of dollars. There are many types of fraudulent schemes, but they all start when someone offers a realistic-looking check or money order and asks a potential victim to send cash somewhere in return.

Below are some examples of fraudulent schemes.

The Mystery Shopper Scam

It’s a new twist on the “fake check” scam: People across the country are receiving letters in the mail — accompanied by fat checks — inviting them to earn extra money as mys­tery shoppers.

The letter invites you to become a paid mystery shopper in your area and the letterhead and check appear to come from a legitimate U.S. company. The listed phone numbers, however, originate in Canada.

Here’s how it works: the letter instructs you to deposit the check — for, say, $3,750 — into your checking account, wire $3,150 using a company like Western Union or Money Gram, keep $300 as pay, take out $200 for wiring fees, and use $100 to purchase merchandise. Then you’re told to contact the person named in the letter for further instructions.

Sounds like an easy way to make money, right? But if you deposit the check, you will get a notice from the bank that it bounced. And you’re left holding the bag for the $3,750.

Postal inspectors advise that if you receive this offer, do not respond. Instead, report the incident to postal inspec­tors at 877-876-2455 or file a report online at https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/forms/MailFraudComplaint.aspx.

Reshipping Scams

Have you been asked to receive packages at your home or business and mail them to someone else? Postal inspec­tors advice: Don’t do it!

Criminals use a variety of come-ons to trick people into reshipping fraud. They may even send counterfeit mailing labels to their recruits as a part of the scheme.

See if you recognize one of these reshipping scenarios:

Work-at-Home Scams

Criminals post phony job announcements and/or respond to resume postings on Internet career sites offer­ing positions such as “merchandising manager,” “package processing assistant,” or a similar title. Job duties include receiving packages and mailing them to a foreign address on behalf of a “client.” They may even ask you to complete a job application and offer you a salary. They may even send you postage-paid mailing labels to ship the merchan­dise overseas.

The real story: A criminal has purchased merchandise with stolen credit cards and needs your help to smuggle the goods out of the country. The company is fake — even the mailing labels are purchased with stolen credit cards — and you are committing a felony when you help out these criminals.

Sweetheart Scams

Fraudulent reshippers also lurk on dating websites. They send a few e-mails to get to know you and may even send a photo or flowers. Once they have your attention, they ask you to help their business or family by shipping packages to Europe or Africa. They may even claim to be working with a charity or mission and request help in get­ting “donated” merchandise delivered to Africa or another part of the world.

The real story: You’re being asked to commit a crime by smuggling stolen goods. The merchandise is often pur­chased with stolen or fake credit cards. The photo may look like your perfect match, but it’s a fake — and could be the picture of your worst nightmare. Do some research before participating in such an activity. Research the char­ity foundation online and call them for clarification on their procedures.

Postage-Paid Label Scams

Scammers sometimes buy merchandise on Internet auctions or classified advertisement sites (and they often use counterfeit checks or stolen credit accounts to pay). When they contact the seller, they ask if they can provide a postage-paid shipping label instead of paying for postage. Then they e-mail a label that looks legitimate.

The real story: The label is counterfeit or it was bought using a stolen credit card. When postal inspectors follow the clues to the return address, it often leads to an unsus­pecting victim of a postage-paid label scam. Too often, the victim tells how the payment for the merchandise bounced, too. USPS Click-N-Ship^® customers will want to make special note of this scheme.

Reshipping Fraud Prevention

n Don’t respond to suspicious mail.

n Don’t accept packages at your address for people you don’t know.

n Be wary of anyone asking to send you a mailing label purchased online.

n Stop all communication with operators who try to solicit your help in reshipping items.

n If you already have merchandise from such an offer, don’t mail it.

n Keep all correspondence (e-mails, faxes, etc.) related to these scams.

n Contact postal inspectors at 877-876-2455.

Fraud on the Internet

Old games, new tricks. Con artists are always offering deals that sound “too good to be true.” Originally, they came by mail or in a phone call. Now they’re coming through a more anonymous venue to pitch fraud — the Internet.

Although the Internet offers a safe and convenient venue to do business, fraudsters also like the Internet to target unsuspecting consumers.

Online scammers can ignore national borders or bound­aries. They have only one objective: to steal your money. Whether it’s auction fraud or identity theft, reshipping scams or foreign lotteries, be cautious, and be smart.

U.S. postal inspectors offer these tips:

n Be suspicious of e-mail that appears to be from banks, online auction sites, or other retailers.

n Never use a link in an e-mail to visit a website.

n Only purchase goods and services from sites you vis­ited on your own.

n Examine all online offers before buying anything. When you’re online, be on guard. Don’t respond to suspicious e-mail.

n Never provide your personal information (Social Security number, credit card account, etc.) unless you initiated the communications.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service has these consumer publications to help you learn more about fraud concerns:

n Don’t Be the Victim of a Reshipping Scam!

Notice 129, http://www.usps.com/cpim/ftp/notices/not129/welcome.htm

n Don’t Be the Victim of a Check Scam!

Notice 174, http://www.usps.com/cpim/ftp/notices/not174/welcome.htm

n Identity Theft:

Publication 280 text-only version, www.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub280/welcome.htm

n Consumer Fraud By Phone or Mail:

Publication 281 text-only version, http://www.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub281/welcome.htm

n Consumer & Business Guide to Preventing Mail Fraud:

Publication 300-A text-only version, www.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub300a/welcome.htm

n Know Your Rights: A Guide to Victims and Wit­nesses of Crime

Publication 308, http://www.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub308/welcome.htm

n A Consumer’s Guide to Sweepstakes and Lotteries

Publication 546, http://www.usps.com/cpim/ftp/pubs/pub546/welcome.htm

Foreign Business Offers

The potential victim receives an e-mail from a supposed foreign official, businessman, etc., with a proposal. The sender wants to move large sums of money from a foreign country and needs assistance. The victim is usually offered a portion of the proceeds. If the victim agrees, he usually receives checks for large sums of money in the mail. The victim deposits the checks into his bank account and the funds are posted to the account and shown as “available.”

The con artist wishes to send more money to the victim but quickly needs a portion of it returned in order to sup­posedly bribe an official, pay taxes or transfer fees, etc. The victim believes the previously deposited checks were gen­uine because the funds show as “available” in his bank account, so he honors the request and wires a portion of the funds back to the fraudster. The original deposited checks are later returned by the bank as counterfeit, and the victim is then held responsible for the loss and associ­ated fees.

Sudden Riches

The potential victim receives a letter stating he has the right to receive a substantial sum of money. For example, the letter may say that the potential victim has won a for­eign lottery or is the beneficiary of someone’s estate, such as that of a long-lost relative. The letter will inform the vic­tim that he must pay taxes and/or a processing or transfer fee before receiving the money. However, a check or money order is enclosed to cover the required fee. The let­ter will ask the victim to deposit the check or money order into his bank account and wire the fee to a third party, usu­ally in a foreign country.

No legitimate contest promoter will ever ask for money to be paid upfront in order to send out a prize. It’s also wise to ask yourself whether you even entered the contest in the first place.

Overpayments

A scammer offers overpayments on items that a con­sumer advertised in the classifieds or an online auction. The scammer sends the seller a check or money order for more than the purchase price and then asks that the extra money be sent to a company or someone who will take care of shipping.

In another scenario, scam artists say that a check or money order payment will come from someone who owes them money and tells the victim to deduct his/her share and send the rest. They may claim they’re in a foreign country and that because of currency differences it’s diffi­cult to make payment directly.

Consumers who buy and sell on Craigslist should make special note of this scheme.

Scammers sometimes claim they sent the wrong amount “by mistake” and ask victims to return the excess. Legitimate buyers will be happy to send the exact amount you’re owed.

Suggested Message Points

These message points can be used at National Con­sumer Protection Week events:

n It’s never too early or too late to become a more informed and empowered consumer. This year, NCPW is working to educate all consumers on how they can protect themselves from scammers.

n The United States Postal Service has long been part of the fabric of the nation, bringing people together through the power of the mail. Postal employees make a difference in every community across the country.

n The Postal Service has been named most trusted government agency for 6 consecutive years by the Ponemon Institute, and is committed to maintaining the public’s trust.

n The Postal Inspection Service, one of the country’s oldest federal law enforcement agencies, has more than 200 years of experience protecting the nation’s mail system and ensuring public trust in the mail.

n We are proud to help spread the word and increase awareness about consumer fraud and educate con­sumers of all ages on how they can better protect themselves from scams.

Common Defenses Against Fraudulent Schemes

n It is never too early to learn the warning signs of scams:

n Sounds too good to be true. (If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.)

n Pressure to act right away.

n Guaranteed success.

n Promises unrealistically high returns.

n Requires up-front investment — even for a free prize.

n Doesn’t act like a real business (multiple addresses, multiple phone numbers, etc.).

n Something doesn’t feel right.

n And even if all looks right, it never hurts to do your homework and check the offer out with a local Better Business Bureau, state’s attorney’s office, or local consumer groups.

n Even if the person or company has no track record of complaints, a scam may be familiar to watchdog consumer protection agencies.

n Don’t hesitate to discuss identity theft and fraudulent schemes with friends and family.

n And don’t forget to watch out for those you love — sometimes just a simple “What’s new?” can alert you to a loved one who has become a victim of identity theft.

Questions and Answers: Identity Theft and Fraudulent Schemes

Q. Why should consumers be alert to identity theft and fraudulent schemes?

A. These crimes are a growing problem, and millions of American consumers are being targeted by scam art­ists.

n Wiring money that appears to have come from a fraudulent scheme could destroy your financial foundation.

n Not only could you be out the money you wired, your bank could charge return or overdraft fees to your account.

n You are responsible for the money you put into your bank account, and also for what you with­draw or wire out. If the check is a fake, you’re required to make good on the loss.

n Almost any business account can be made into a counterfeit. The newest complaints include cash­ier’s checks, checks that look like they’re drawn on business accounts, money orders, traveler’s checks, and gift checks.

n Just because a deposited check shows up as “funds available” in your account register, it doesn’t mean the check is good or has cleared. This is a common theme in all fraudulent schemes.

n Federal law gives consumers the right to have quick access to the funds from deposited checks (usually within 1 to 5 days). However, it can take weeks for counterfeit checks to be discovered and returned to the original depositor.

n The consumer is then responsible for all fees associated with a fraudulent scheme. No one who wants to give you money should ask you to send them money back.

Q. How does the Postal Inspection Service help to pre­vent identity theft and fraudulent schemes?

A. The Mail Fraud Statute is the oldest and most effec­tive consumer protection statute, and postal inspec­tors have been using this law to preserve the integrity of the U.S. Mail since it was enacted in 1872. Postal Inspection Service efforts have combined vigorous enforcement of the law with public education, con­sumer awareness, and crime prevention programs. Postal inspectors work with local, state, federal, and international law enforcement agencies — as well as a variety of bank and credit card issuers, financial in­stitutions, retail merchants, credit bureaus, and other industry sources — to educate consumers and to prevent the spread of identity theft and fraudulent schemes.

Q. What can consumers do to protect themselves from becoming victims of identity theft and fraudulent schemes?

A. Use common sense. Take your time when respond­ing to offers. Investigate. Talk to family, friends, and local consumer protection experts. Educate yourself about fraud. Know who you are dealing with. And protect your personal information. Every year, thou­sands of people and businesses are victimized by scammers. In general, consumers should be skepti­cal of any offer that sounds “too good to be true.”

Q. What should consumers do if they suspect fraud?

A. It is important to report the fraud to law enforcement. Since many fraudulent solicitations come through the mail, U.S. postal inspectors have taken the lead in in­vestigating these schemes. A fraud complaint can be filed online at the website FakeChecks.org or by tele­phoning 800-372-8347.

The Federal Trade Commission works for the con­sumer to prevent fraud and deception. Call 877-FTC-HELP (877-382-4357) or log on to www.ftc.gov.

Locate your local Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org.

Q. What is a fraudulent scheme?

A. It’s a fast-growing fraud that could cost you thou­sands of dollars. There are many types of fraudulent schemes, but it all starts when someone offers a re­alistic-looking check or money order and asks you to send cash somewhere in return. It’s phony, and so is the person’s story, but that may take weeks to dis­cover. Now, your bank wants the money back. Turns out that just because you can get the cash doesn’t mean the check or money order is good. If it’s not, the crook will be richer and you’ll be the loser, be­cause you’re responsible for the checks or money or­ders you deposit or cash. That’s how the scam works.

Q. How do the scammers find victims?

A. They scan newspaper and online advertisements looking for people listing items for sale or places to rent. They check postings on online job sites from people seeking work-at-home employment and place their own ads with phone numbers or e-mail addresses for people to contact them. They meet people through social networking sites, chat rooms, and other places online. They make phone calls and send faxes, e-mails, or letters to people randomly, knowing that some will take the bait.

Q. How can I tell if an offer is fraudulent?

A. Know the scenario of a fraudulent scheme:

n No legitimate transaction includes overpayment or requires a refund.

n Typically, counterfeit checks and money orders are so realistic-looking that even bank tellers can be fooled. You can get information from money order and check providers with tips to help tell if their products are real.

n The best way to avoid being a victim is to be cau­tious. If it seems too good to be true, it likely is. If the person approaches you and wants to com­plete the transaction in a hurried manner or is pressuring you to do so, reconsider the transac­tion altogether.

Q. Why do scammers want cash to be sent using a mon­ey transfer service?

A. Because it’s fast — the money is often available to them within minutes. That means the victim may not be able to stop the payment before it’s received. Since the money is usually picked up in cash and in person, it may be impossible to find the crook and get it back. Some scammers are also instructing victims to send cash using a delivery service. If you suspect you’ve been scammed, immediately contact the money transfer service or delivery service you used — it may be possible to stop the crook from getting the money if it hasn’t been picked up yet.

Q. Why can’t my bank, credit union, or check cashing service tell if the check or money order is good?

A. When you deposit a check or money order, federal law requires you to have access to the funds within 1 to 5 days, but the actual processing takes longer. Banks, credit unions, and check cashing services ac­cept checks and money orders based on your iden­tification. They don’t have any information about the source. Because the check or money order goes back to the source, it can take a while for counterfeits to be discovered. For instance, if a check seems to come from a business account, the business may not learn about it until it appears on the next statement. You’re responsible because you’re in the best posi­tion to determine the risk of accepting the check or money order. You dealt with the person who gave it to you.

Q. What if I deposited or cashed the check or money or­der but haven’t sent the cash yet?

A. Immediately notify your bank, credit union, or a check cashing service if you used one. You will need to return the money or have your account corrected. Explain that you’ve been scammed and ask not to have any negative action taken against you such as closing your account or reporting you to a checking account abuse database. If that has already hap­pened, ask if that action can be reversed. File a re­port with your local police to put on record that you’re a scam victim. Report the scam to the National Con­sumers League, which will pass the information along to law enforcement agencies.

Q. How much could I lose in a fraudulent scheme?

A. According to the National Consumers League, vic­tims lose an average of $4,000 — a significant amount for most people. But your losses could be even higher. If you engaged in multiple transactions or if you used some of the money to pay bills or for other purposes, you’ll have to pay that amount back to your bank or credit union as well. There may also be bounced check and overdraft charges as a result of the scam. And you could lose more than money — your account could be closed and it could harm your credit rating. Some victims have even resorted to criminal acts to recoup their losses.

Q. How can I avoid becoming a victim?

A. Think about it — there is no legitimate reason why a stranger would give you a check or money order and ask you to send cash anywhere in return. Be aware that just because you can get the cash quickly — usually in 1 to 5 days — doesn’t mean the check or money order is good. Crooks take advantage of the fact that coun­terfeits can take weeks — even months — to discover. By then, you’ve sent the money and have to pay it back to your bank. Only cash a check or money order from a person or business you know or trust. When making any business deal, do not be rushed.

Take your time to be certain you trust the people you are dealing with. You can be a fraud fighter by telling everyone you know — your family and friends, the people with whom you work or go to school, the peo­ple who attend your place of worship, the people you chat with online, the members of clubs or other groups to which you belong — to learn the warning signs of fraudulent schemes and know how to pre­vent becoming a victim. Send them the links to the videos in this kit and encourage them to spread the word.

Suggested Activities

Listed below are suggested activities to highlight the week’s event:

n Have an NCPW kickoff and open house.

n Invite a local expert to speak. A local postal inspector would be perfect, but a representative from a con­sumer advocacy group or an appropriate regulatory body would also be good.

n Invite a bank or credit union official to a sponsored event to discuss what could happen to fraud victims from a financial institution perspective.

n If you can find someone willing to be identified as a victim, invite that person to speak.

n Collaborate with a financial institution to host an event about identity theft and fraudulent schemes.

n Establish a partnership with other federal agencies, community groups, educational institutions, and businesses to sponsor educational workshops or seminars for consumers all ages.

n Hold a joint news conference with another consumer agency and include a local postal inspector. The postal inspector can discuss fraud from a national and community perspective.

n Working with Corporate Communications, contact your local television, radio, and cable access station to do an interview on the tools consumers need to fight fraud.

n Work with a local postal inspector to inform senior citizens about fraudulent schemes. Hold seminars at local retirement communities. Postal inspectors can discuss recent identity theft cases, fraudulent schemes, and steps to prevent older Americans from becoming victims.

n Provide your postal employees with information about NCPW activities planned for your area.

n Set up a booth at a busy shopping area, and distrib­ute brochures on fraud prevention and other con­sumer information. Show identity theft and fraud prevention videos.

n Work with local schools, colleges, and universities to have an NCPW event to raise awareness among stu­dents, parents, and faculty.

n Work with local Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops and other community-based youth clubs to host an event to educate young people about protecting them­selves against fraud and scams.

n Let customers know that for 6 years the U.S. Postal Service has been named in a national survey as the most trusted government agency in protecting con­sumers’ privacy. Refer customers to the following websites for additional information: www.usps.com, https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/, and/or
www.deliveringtrust.com.

n Hand out consumer publications such as:

n Publication 280, Identity Theft.

n Publication 281, Consumer Fraud by Phone or Mail: Know How to Protect Yourself (also available in Spanish).

n Publication 300-A, U.S. Postal Inspection Service Guide To Preventing Mail Fraud.

n Publication 370, Extra Services.

n Notice 129, Don’t Be the Victim of a Reshipping Scam!

n Notice 174, Don’t Be the Victim of a Check Scam!

n Shout it from the rooftops. Tell friends, family, col­leagues, and others about National Consumer Pro­tection Week. Word of mouth is a very powerful tool!

The video drama, Truth or Consequences, produced by the Postal Inspection Service, can be viewed and downloaded at http://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/pressroom/videos.aspx.

Please work with your Corporate Communications con­tacts in your area to create materials for reporters, includ­ing fact sheets and background materials that will support interviews.

Check out the publications at the Postal Service Policy­Net website before placing an order. Go to http://blue.usps.gov/cpim and click on PUBs.

Publications can also be downloaded from the public website at www.usps.com; click on All Products & Ser­vices, Publications, and then Postal Periodicals and Publi­cations.

Event Planning Checklist

When planning National Consumer Protection Week events, keep the following suggestions in mind:

n Begin planning early.

n Contact your local postal team — postal inspectors, Corporate Communications managers, CAMs, and Government Relations representatives — to see how they can help support and participate in the fraud prevention events in your city.

n Set a date.

n Secure participants.

n Acquire posters, videos, fact sheets, brochures, and other supplies for the event.

n Secure staging, sound equipment, and a podium.

n Plan signage, including signs and banners.

n Launch a local publicity campaign.

n Draft a sequence-of-events agenda and speaker remarks.

n Plan retail opportunities (i.e., booth, bag stuffers, etc.).

n Prepare ceremony programs and invitations.

Suggested Event Flow/Timed Agenda

Events should be held between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to increase chances of media coverage and secure patron participation.

10 a.m.	Guests arrive and are seated
10:05 to 10:10 a.m.	Welcome and opening remarks USPS representative
10:10 to 10:15 a.m.	Remarks on local resources to combat fraud Partnering organization, BBB representative
10:15 to 10:25 a.m.	Keynote address/most important statements Highest ranking elected official or consumer with a fraud story
10:25 to 10:30 a.m.	Closing remarks/reminder to collect handouts and information USPS representative

Sample Remarks for USPS Employees to Use at Local NCPW Events

Good [morning/afternoon/evening].

It’s a pleasure to be with you today.

For the past 13 years, the country has dedicated one full week to National Consumer Protection Week. It is a time when government agencies, consumer protection groups, and industry associations join forces to shine a spotlight on issues and ideas that help people become better consum­ers and improve their knowledge of how to combat fraud.

The U.S. Postal Service and the Postal Inspection Ser­vice have been members of the Steering Committee for National Consumer Protection Week since 1998, and we are pleased and proud to once again be a part of this year’s effort to help spread the word and increase awareness about consumer protection issues.

The theme of this year’s National Consumer Protection Week is “Your Information Destination,” and what better way to highlight the importance of using good consumer sense at every stage of life.

With so much personal information that is readily avail­able, both online and in the mail, we have learned that age doesn’t matter when it comes to crimes like identity theft. Indeed, we know that children are ideal victims for identity theft because they have viable social security numbers with available credit, and often it is years later before the identity theft scam is uncovered.

We also know that school-age children are increasingly vulnerable to fraud and scams due to their use of technology.

So, it’s never too early to learn how to protect yourself and your personal information.

For the U.S. Postal Service, customer service and con­sumer protection are year-round priorities, and we are very proud of the fact that, for 236 years, Americans have placed their trust in the mail.

For over 200 years, postal inspectors have been fighting fraud, protecting the mail, and delivering justice for the American people to promote the honesty and integrity of the American marketplace.

In fact, Americans have voted the U.S. Postal Service as the most trusted government agency for protection of con­sumers’ privacy for 6 years in a row.

We take our universal service obligation — to connect every household and business in the country through the mail — very seriously, and we also know that an educated consumer is the best defense against criminals. That is why we’re doing all that we can to educate, advise, and encour­age consumers to learn how they can protect their privacy, avoid identity theft, and steer clear of frauds and scams.

Unfortunately, scams flourish during difficult financial times. For example, work-at-home scams are being used by fraudsters with greater frequency. That is why postal inspectors are warning the public about this new twist on an old scam.

And you may have heard about mystery shoppers: where you may receive a letter accompanied by a fat check and the invitation to earn extra money as a mystery shopper.

The letter and check will appear to come from a legiti­mate U.S. company; however, the listed phone numbers originate in Canada.

The letter instructs you to deposit the check into your checking account, withdraw an equal amount from your account, and wire it to the address on the letter. You are encouraged to keep a small amount to cover the wire fees and the cost of merchandise purchased.

The problem is the check will prove to be worthless and you’ll be left holding the bag for the amount you wired.

Postal inspectors advise that the safest way to handle this offer is to not respond. Report incidents to http://postalinspectors.uspis.gov or call 877-876-2455.

At the Postal Service, we want you to learn about how to protect yourselves from fraudulent schemes and identity theft, because being educated about these crimes could keep you from losing thousands of dollars.

Consumers of all ages should educate themselves on how to recognize other fraudulent schemes, such as cross border fraud, check fraud, identity theft, foreign lottery fraud, investment fraud, and Internet fraud.

There are many forms of fraud — and we can be sure that con artists and identity thieves will continue to devise new ways to commit their crimes and defraud the public.

But, there is no reason any of us should feel defenseless or become a victim.

National Consumer Protection Week is the perfect opportunity to make an investment in yourself and your family with education on schemes seeking to destroy everything you’ve worked so hard to build.

Do not make the mistake of thinking that it can’t happen to you — or that you are too smart for this kind of thing.

If you become a victim of fraud report it to local authorities.

It has happened to the best of us. It happens to people just like you and me.

Consumers must do all we can to put scammers out of business. The only true way to stop these crimes is through increased public awareness, education, vigilance, and aggressive law enforcement.

In closing, I’d like to leave you with six short tips on how you can avoid scams:

n First, if it sounds too good to be true — it is.

n Second, remember that foreign lotteries are illegal in the U.S.

n Third, always check your monthly bank statements.

n Fourth, on an annual basis, order and review your credit reports from the three credit bureaus — Expe­rian, Equifax, and TransUnion.

n Fifth, never deposit a check if you don’t know who sent it to you.

n Sixth, remember that your bank will never e-mail or call asking for your account number, password, credit card number, or other private information.

If you follow these tips and exercise good judgment and common sense, it is likely you can avoid becoming a victim. To learn more, visit our fraud education and prevention website at www.deliveringtrust.com.

On behalf of the U.S. Postal Service, I’d like to thank all of you — our customers — for your business and for trust­ing us with your mail. It’s truly a pleasure to serve you.

Thank you!

Proclamation: NCPW 2011

This proclamation can be adapted to reflect local com­munity information and printed and displayed at NCPW events as a visible display of a community’s commitment to promoting National Consumer Protection Week.

Whereas National Consumer Protection Week was established in 1998 by representatives of federal, state, and local governments as well as national advocacy groups as a means to highlight consumer protection,

Whereas the postmaster general established the Office of the Consumer Advocate in 1971 to ensure that the inter­ests of consumers would serve to guide the development, progress, and actions of the United States Postal Service,

Whereas postal inspectors have safeguarded the sanc­tity of the U.S. Mail and protected Postal Service custom­ers for more than 200 years, combating crimes such as robberies, mail theft, and fraud,

Whereas consumer fraud is detrimental to the economic interests of the nation and the well-being of its citizens,

Whereas fraud is destructive not only to individuals but to families, threatening their livelihoods, endangering their retirements, and attacking their household security,

Whereas fraud of all kinds frequently depends for its suc­cess upon the compliance and participation of its victims,

Whereas by its very nature fraud can be reduced and often eliminated by consumers who are educated and use common sense,

Whereas the national theme for this year is “Your Infor­mation Destination,”

Whereas the focus of our efforts is on identity theft and fraudulent schemes,

And, whereas the [NAME OF LOCAL CITY, MUNICI­PALITY, ETC.] is home to more than [X THOUSAND] men, women, and children who depend on an open, honest, safe, and secure marketplace to conduct commerce and earn a living,

Therefore, be it resolved, that [LOCAL COMMUNITY OR ORGANIZATION]

(1) Supports National Consumer Protection Week.

(2) Joins with the Postal Service and the Postal Inspec­tion Service to educate consumers on how to recog­nize and avoid identity theft and fraudulent schemes.

(3) And, declares (day of event) as Consumer Awareness Day.

National Consumer Protection Week Downloadable Fraud Prevention Videos

https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/pressroom/
videos.aspx

Truth or Consequences: Fake Check Scams

Mixed in with the bills you get a surprise — it’s a big check made out to you. It looks real, but is it? Before you cash that check, ask one simple question. Is it free money or a shortcut to big trouble? It looks like a real check, but is it? These days, the scammers are getting better and the scams more elaborate. Their fake checks and money orders are so good, they could fool your bank. It’s harder and harder to know if the next big offer you receive is real or yet another scam designed to empty your pockets. To view the video, click http://www.postalinspectorsvideo.com/truthorconsequences.htm

All the King’s Men: Picking Up the Pieces

Fraud schemes victimize millions of Americans each year, leaving many financially devastated. There are laws to protect victims, and services and support available to them. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service urges victims to learn more about their rights and services by downloading the free video. Remember, being a victim of a crime is noth­ing to be ashamed of. And neither is seeking help to recover from it. To view the video, click
http://www.postalinspectorsvideo.com/allthekingsmen.htm

Nowhere to Run: Cross-Border Fraud

The Internet and international phone calls make it easy for fraudsters to work from anywhere in the world. This video illustrates how U.S. postal inspectors created task forces with Canadian law enforcement partners to stop “long distance” scams. To view the video, click http://www.postalinspectorsvideo.com/NowhereToRun.htm

Web of Deceit: Internet Fraud

Internet scams are like old wine in new bottles. Telemar­keting and mail fraud scams are now coming to you from cyberspace. This video tells the story of a scammer who uses the Internet to victimize unsuspecting consumers around the world until he gets caught in his own web of deceit. The video also provides tips on what to watch out for when you do busi­ness on the Internet. To view the video, click http://www.postalinspectorsvideo.com/webofdeceit.htm

Long Shot: Foreign Lottery Scams

It’s illegal to play foreign lotteries in the United States. But another reason not to play is that you are almost guaranteed to lose. And once you play, you can count on receiving more “chances” to play and lose. This free video tells the story of a foreign lottery fraud victim and the con artist behind the scam. Produced by High Noon Film and presented by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, it also provides tips on helping you avoid becoming a victim of this scam. To view the video, click http://www.postalinspectorsvideo.com/longshot.htm

Work-at-Home Scams: They Just Don’t Pay

Working at home has become attractive to many stay-at-home moms, college students, and retirees. While some jobs are legitimate, others just don’t deliver on their prom­ises. This free, short video tells the story of a new type of work-at-home scam and how a young mother gets caught up in it. It also provides tips on how you can avoid being duped by criminals and what to do if you’ve been victim­ized. This High Noon video is presented by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. To view the video, click http://www.postalinspectorsvideo.com/TheyJustDon’tPay.htm

Identity Crisis: Protect Your Identity

Identity fraud is the fastest-growing crime in America. With millions of victims and losses in the billions of dollars, it con­tinues to be one of consumers’ biggest fears. This free video tells the story of a couple whose credit is ruined and of the criminals who defrauded them. The video by High Noon Film, presented by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, also pro­vides tips on how to protect yourself against identity fraud — and what to do if you become a victim. To view the video, click http://www.postalinspectorsvideo.com/identitycrisis.htm

Dialing for Dollars: Telemarketing Fraud

Telemarketing fraud costs Americans millions of dol­lars each year. And when it comes to phony investment “opportunities,” older Americans are prime targets. This free, 15-minute video tells the story of such a scam and the lives that are ruined by criminals. The film provides tips on how to protect yourself from investment fraud and tells you what to do if you’ve been victimized. “Dialing for Dollars” is a High Noon video presented by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. To view the video, click http://www.postalinspectorsvideo.com/dialingfordollars.htm

Postal Service Brochure Ordering Information

Postal Service publications make perfect handouts for customers during NCPW. They also are good resources for post­masters and managers when preparing for the week’s events.

You can also order these publications from the Material Distribution Center (MDC) by using touch-tone order entry (TTOE): Call 800-273-1509.

Note: You must be registered to use TTOE. To register, call 800-332-0317, option 1, extension 2925, and follow the prompts to leave a message. (Wait 48 hours after registering before placing your first order.)

Use the following information to order these publications:

 

Title	PSIN	PSIN	Quick Pick Number	Unit	Price	Min. Order	Bulk Pack
Consumer Fraud by Phone or Mail: Know How to Protect Yourself	PUB 281	7610-02-000-9388	641	EA	$0.0297	100	1,000
USPIS Guide to Preventing Mail Fraud	PUB 300-A	7610-04-000-6949	426	EA	$0.2840	25	300
A Consumer’s Guide to Sweepstakes and Lotteries	PUB 546	7610-03-000-4600	465	EA	$0.1410	50	1,000

District Consumer Affairs Managers (CAMs) and Area Customer Service Program Specialists (CSPAs)

 

District/Area	Name	Office Phone	Address	ZIP Codes Served
Capital Metro Area	Grove LeTarte (A)	301-548-1468	16501 Shady Grove Rd. Gaithersburg, MD 20898-3209	Atlanta, Baltimore, Capital, Greater South Carolina, Greensboro, Mid-Carolinas, Northern Virginia, Richmond
Atlanta	Kim Amis	404-765-7702	3900 Crown Rd. S.W., Rm. 2050 Atlanta, GA 30304-9631	300, 301, 302, 303, 305, 306, 311, 399
Baltimore	Cathy Miller	410-347-4330	900 E. Fayette St., Rm. 109C Baltimore, MD 21223-9631	210, 211, 212, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219
Capital	Gilbert Otero	202-636-1200	900 Brentwood Rd. NE Washington, DC 20066-9998	200, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209
Greater South Carolina	Darcus Gordon	803-926- 6335	PO Box 929632 Columbia, SC 29292-9632	290-296
Greensboro	Cathel Brown	336-668-1246	PO Box 27499 Greensboro, NC 27498-9631	270-279, 286
Mid-Carolinas	Kathryn Kerzner-Gunter	704-424-4472	2901 Scott Futrell Dr. Charlotte, NC 28228-9976	280-285, 287-289, 297
Northern Virginia	Tracy Dobson	703-698-6350	8409 Lee Hwy. Merrifield, VA 22081-9631	201, 220-223, 226, 227
Richmond	Michele Martel (A)	804-775-6313	1801 Brook Rd. Richmond ,VA 23232-9631	224, 225, 228-239, 244
Eastern Area	Thomas Hurley	412-494-2504	5315 Campbells Run Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 60117-4000	Appalachian, Central PA, Cincinnati, Columbus, Kentuckiana, Philadelphia Metro, Northern Ohio, Philadelphia Metro, Pittsburgh, South Jersey, Tennessee, Western NY, Western PA
Appalachian	Cynthia Coles	304-561-1071/ 73	PO Box 59631 Charleston, WV 25350-9631	240-259, 261-268 incl:37621, 37625
Central Pennsylvania	William Fegan (A)	717-257-4803/4815	1425 Crooked Hill Rd. Harrisburg, PA 17107-9631	169-188, 195, 196
Cincinnati	Rhonda Mullins (A)	513-684-5794	1591 Dalton St., Rm. 108 Cincinnati, OH 45234-9631	410, 434-436, 450-455, 458, 470
Columbus	Linda Lantto	614-469-9758	850 Twin Rivers Dr. Columbus, OH 43216-9631	430-433, 437, 438, 456, 457
Kentuckiana	Jenise Hale	502-473-4224/4225/26	PO Box 31631 Louisville, KY 40231-9631	400-409, 411-418, 420-427, 471, 476, 477
Northern Ohio	Sarita Montgomery-King	216-443-4416	2400 Orange Dr., Rm. 25 Cleveland, OH 44101-9631	439-449
Philadelphia Metro	Regina Foster-Carter	215-863-6060	3190 S. 70th St., Rm. 503 Philadelphia, PA 19153-9631	189-194
Tennessee	Ruth McCarver	615-872-5642	811 Royal Pkwy. Nashville, TN 37229-9631	307, 370, 371, 372, 373, 374, 376, 377, 378, 379, 380, 381, 382, 383, 384, 385 (excludes 37620,37621, and 37625, which are in the Appalachian District)
South Jersey	Cathy Sinesi	856-933-4459	PO Box 9001 Bellmawr, NJ 08099-9631	077, 080-087 197-199
Western New York	Christine Kogutowski	716-842-4738	1200 William Street Rm 100 Buffalo, NY 14240-9631	40-149
Western Pennsylvania	Mark Wahl (A)	412-359-7845	1001 California Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15290-9631	150-168, 260
Great Lakes Area	Lois Gunlogson	630-539-4716	244 Knollwood Dr., 4th floor Bloomingdale, IL 60117-4000	Central Illinois, Chicago, Detroit, Gateway, Greater Indiana, Greater Michigan, Lakeland, Northern Illinois, Southeast Michigan
Central Illinois	Beverly Howard	708-563-7756	6801 W. 73rd St. Bedford Park, IL 60499-9631	604, 605, 609, 613-619, 625-627
Chicago	Carmen Santiago	312-983-8351	433 W. Harrison St., 2nd floor Chicago, IL 60607-9631	606, 607, 608
Detroit	April James (A)	313-234-8833	1401 W. Fort Street, Rm. 226A Detroit, MI 48233-9501	481, 482, 492
Gateway	Beverly Lambert	314-436-3699	1720 Market St., Rm. 1015 St. Louis, MO 63155-9631	620, 622, 623, 624, 628, 629, 630, 631, 633, 634, 635, 650, 651, 652, 653
Greater Indiana	Joy Simmons	800-558-1777	PO Box 9631 Indianapolis, IN 46298-9631	460-469, 472, 473, 474, 475, 478, 479
Greater Michigan	John Gerencer	616-776-6146	PO Box 999631 Grand Rapids, MI 49599-9631	486-491, 493, 494, 495, 496, 497
Lakeland	Lisa Androus	414-287-2530	PO Box 5011 Milwaukee, WI 53201-5011	498, 499, 530, 531, 532, 534, 535, 537, 538, 539, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 549
Northern Illinois	Susan Wagner	630-260-5171	500 E. Fullerton Ave. Carol Stream, IL 60199-9631	600, 601, 602, 603, 610, 611
Southeast Michigan	Juanita Banks	48-524-6763	1 Ajax Dr., Ste. 101 Madison Heights, MI 48071-9620	480, 483, 484, 485
Northeast Area	Jodi Gay (A)	860-285-7104	6 Griffin Rd. North Windsor, CT 06006-7030	Albany, Caribbean, Connecticut Valley, Greater Boston, Long Island, New York, No. New England, No. NJ, SE New England, Triboro, Westchester
Albany	Dave Desrosiers	518-452-2376	30 Old Karner Rd. Albany, NY 12288-9631	120, 121, 122, 123, 128-139
Caribbean	Iraida Reyes	787-622-1817	585 F. D. Roosevelt Ave., Ste. 195 San Juan, PR 00936-9631	006, 007, 008, 009
Connecticut Valley	Lori Gaither-Gordon	860-524-6085	141 Weston St., Rm. 206 Hartford, CT 06101-9631	010-013,060-069
Greater Boston	Joanne Killackey-Hogan	617-654-5740	25 Dorchester Ave., Rm. 4009 Boston, MA 02205-9631	0014-019, 021, 022, 024, 055
Long Island	Marge Brady	631-582-7510	PO Box 7604 Islandia, NY 11760-9631	05, 115, 117, 118, 119
New York	Rosalie Torres	212-330-3667	421 8th Ave., Rm. 4202-0 New York, NY 10199-9631	090-098, 100, 101, 102, 104
Northern New England	Kathi Roy	207-482-7196	151 Forest Ave., Ste. 7022 Portland, ME 04101-9631	030-054, 056-059
Northern New Jersey	Jake Truex	973-468-7047	494 Broad St., 2nd Floor Newark, NJ 07102-9335	070-076, 078, 079
Southeast New England	Patrice Salvas	401-276-6949	24 Corliss St. Providence, RI 02904-9631	020, 023, 025, 026, 027, 028, 029
Triboro	Pelrique Price	718-348-3900	1050 Forbell St., Rm. 2015-0 Brooklyn, NY 11256-9631	103, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 116
Westchester	Rita Cody	914-697-7000	1000 Westchester Ave. White Plains, NY 10610-9631	004, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 124, 125, 126, 127
Pacific Area	Russ Morehouse	858-674-3128	390 Main St., Ste. 710 San Francisco, CA 94105-2081	Bay-Valley, Honolulu, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, Santa Ana, Sierra Coastal
Bay-Valley	Elma Ramirez	510-622-7240	201 13th St., Rm. 228 Oakland, CA 94612-9605	939, 945, 946, 947, 948, 950, 951
Honolulu	Lynne Moore	808-423-3471	3600 Aolele St., Rm. 112 Honolulu, HI 96820-9631	967, 968, 969
Los Angeles	Beverly Young	323-586-1250	7001 S. Central Ave., Rm. 267-A Los Angeles, CA 90052-9631	900, 901, 902, 903, 904
Sacramento	Gail Sattler	916-373-8630	3775 Industrial Blvd. W. Sacramento, CA 95799-0070	936, 937, 938, 942, 952, 953, 956, 957, 958, 959, 960
San Diego	Victoria Gramoy	858-674-2670	11251 Rancho Carmel Dr., Rm. 144 San Diego, CA 92199-9631	919, 920, 921, 922, 923, 924, 925
San Francisco	Kim Wu	415-550-5005	PO Box 7834 San Francisco, CA 94120-7834	940, 941, 943, 944, 949, 954, 955, 962, 963, 964, 965, 966
Santa Ana	Carrie Montserrat (A)	714-662-6215	3101 W. Sunflower Ave. Santa Ana, CA 92799-9325	05, 906, 907, 908, 917, 918, 926, 927, 928
Sierra Coastal	Alicia Delgadillo	661-775-6681	28201 Franklin Pkwy. Santa Clarita, CA 91383-9606	910, 911, 912, 913, 914, 915, 916, 930, 931, 932, 933, 934, 935
Southwest Area	Patricia Lewis	214-819-8867	7800 N. Stemmons Fwy., Ste. 900 Dallas, TX 75247-4225	Albuquerque, Arkansas, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Rio Grande
Alabama	Viola Freeman	205) 521-0822	351 24th St. N., Rm. 123 Birmingham, AL 35203-9631	350,351,352,354-360,361,362,363, 364,365,366,367,368
Albuquerque	Barbara Wood (A)	505-346-8004	1135 Broadway Blvd. N.E., Rm. 221 Albuquerque, NM 87101-9631	865, 870, 871, 872, 873, 874, 875, 877, 878, 879, 880, 881, 882, 883, 884
Arkansas	Cary Chism	501-228-4280	420 Natural Resources Dr. Little Rock, AR 72205-9631	716-729
Dallas	Kelley Davis	972-393-6755	951 W. Bethel Rd. Coppell, TX 75099-9631	750-759
Fort Worth	Joann Scarpelli	817-317-3626	4600 Mark IV Pkwy. Fort Worth, TX 76161-9631	760, 761, 762, 763, 764, 768, 769, 795, 796, 739 790, 791, 792, 793, 794
Houston	Carlos Rivera (A)	713-226-3442 (press 3)	PO Box 250001 Houston, TX 77202-9631	770-778
Louisiana	Gail Hamilton	504-589-1130	701 Loyola Ave., Rm. 1101 New Orleans, LA 70113-9631	700, 701, 703, 704, 705, 706, 707, 708, 710, 711, 712, 713, 714
Mississippi	Doug Kyle	601-351-7378	PO Box 99655 Jackson, MS 39205-9655	369, 386, 387, 388, 389, 390, 391, 392, 393, 394, 395, 396, 397
North Florida	Lindy Green	904-858-6520	PO Box 40005 Jacksonville, FL 32203-0005	320, 321, 322, 323, 324, 325, 326, 344
Oklahoma	Kerry Rennels	405-815-2342	320 S.W. 5th Oklahoma City, OK 73125-9631	730, 731, 734, 735, 736, 737, 738, 740, 741, 743, 744, 745, 746, 747, 748, 749
Rio Grande	Gerry Garcia	210-368-8498	10410 Perrin Beitel Rd. San Antonio, TX 78284-9631	733, 765, 766, 767, 779, 780, 781, 782, 783, 784, 785, 786, 787, 788, 789, 797, 798, 799, 885
South Florida	Ellen Uptgrow	305-470-0890	2200 N.W. 72nd Ave., Ste. 225 Miami, FL 33152-9000	330, 331, 332, 333, 340, 349
South Georgia	Angela Hardy	800-219-3721	451 College St. Macon, GA 31213-9631	298, 299, 304, 308, 309, 310, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, 398
Suncoast	Alan Stigall	813-889-3947	6013 Benjamin Rd., Ste. 201 Tampa, FL 33634-5144	327, 328, 329, 335, 336, 337, 338, 339, 341, 342, 346, 347
Western Area	Max Raizada	303-313-5480	1745 Stout St., Ste. 100 Denver, CO 80299-0100	Alaska, Arizona, Big Sky, Central Plains, Colorado/ Wyoming, Dakotas, Hawkeye, Mid-America, Nevada-Sierra, Northland, Portland, Salt Lake City, Seattle
Alaska	Dawn Peppinger	907-564-2940	3201 C St., Ste. 201 Anchorage, AK 99503-9631	995, 996, 997, 998, 999
Arizona	Steve Kern	602-223-3223	PO Box 21628 Phoenix, AZ 85036-1628	850, 851, 852, 853, 855, 856, 857, 859, 860, 863, 864
Big Sky	Lisa Blomquist	406-657-5776	841 S. 26th St. Billings, MT 59101-9631	590, 591, 592, 593, 594, 595, 596, 597, 598, 599
Central Plains	Sharon Predoehl	402-573-2109	5303 N. 91st Ave. Omaha, NE 68134-9631	515, 516, 664, 665, 666, 668, 669, 670, 671, 672, 673, 674, 675, 676, 677, 678, 679, 680, 681, 683, 684, 685, 686, 687, 688, 689, 690, 691, 692, 693
Colorado/ Wyoming	Marcela Juarez Rivera	303-853-6070	7500 E. 53rd Pl., Rm. 2214 Denver, CO 80266-9631	800, 801, 802, 803, 804, 805, 806, 807, 808, 809, 810, 811, 812, 813, 814, 815, 816, 818, 819, 820, 821, 822, 823 824, 825, 826, 827, 828, 829,830, 831
Dakotas	Patti Larson	605-333-2647	PO Box 7570 Sioux Falls, SD 57117-7570	565, 567, 570, 571, 572, 573, 574, 575, 576, 577, 580, 581, 582, 583, 584, 585, 586, 587, 588
Hawkeye	Helen Rush	515-251-2330	PO Box 189996 Des Moines, IA 50318-9631	500, 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 507, 508, 509, 510, 511, 512, 513, 514, 520, 521, 522, 523, 524, 525, 526, 527, 528, 612
Mid-America	DoJuan Hobson	816-374-9194	300 W. Pershing Rd., Ste. 207 Kansas City, MO 64108-9631	636, 637, 638, 639, 640, 641, 644, 645, 646, 647, 648, 654, 655, 656, 657, 658, 660, 661, 662, 667
Nevada-Sierra	Loretta Kirkpatrick	702-361-9204	1001 E. Sunset Rd., Rm. 1002 Las Vegas, NV 89199-9655	889, 890, 891, 893, 894, 895, 897, 898, 961
Northland	Natalie Sorvari	612-349-4401	100 S. 1st St., Rm. 121 Minneapolis, MN 55401-9631	540, 546, 547, 548, 549, 550, 551, 553, 554, 555, 556, 557, 558, 559, 560, 561, 562, 563, 564, 566
Portland	Patricia Carcasses	503-294-2269	715 N.W. Hoyt, Rm. 1012 Portland, OR 97208-9631	970, 971, 972, 973, 974, 975, 976, 977, 978, 979, 986
Salt Lake City	Dave Matheson (A)	801-974-2332	1760 W. 2100 St. Salt Lake City, UT 84199-9631	832, 833, 834, 836, 837, 840, 841, 843, 844, 845, 846, 847
Seattle	Binke Miller	206-378-2600	PO Box 90306 Seattle, WA 98109-9631	980, 981, 982, 983, 984, 985, 988, 989, 990, 0991, 992, 993, 994

Postal Inspection Service Contacts

 

Division/Location	Name	E-Mail Address	Work Phone
Atlanta Division
Atlanta, GA (DHQ)	Yulanda Burns*	YNBurns@uspis.gov	404-608-4533
Atlanta, GA (DHQ)	Jessica Wagner	JLwagner@uspis.gov	404-608-4511
Birmingham, AL	Tony Robinson	TMRobinson@uspis.gov	205-326-2908
Memphis, TN	Susan Link	SFLink@uspis.gov	901-746-1027
Boston Division
Boston, MA (DHQ)	Bernadette Lundbohm*	BMLundbohm@uspis.gov	617-556-4489
Boston, MA (DHQ)	Mike Gendron	MJGendron@uspis.gov	603-644-4035
Boston, MA (DHQ)	Kenneth Walker	KAWalker@uspis.gov	617-556-0494
Buffalo, NY	Raymond Williams	RWilliams2@uspis.gov	716-853-5332
Charlotte Division
Charlotte, NC (DHQ)	Justin Crooks	JGCrooks@uspis.gov	704-329-9131
Charlotte, NC (DHQ)	Sandra Tidwell*	SRTidwell@uspis.gov	704-329-9124
Charleston, SC	Tom Gasser	TJGasser@uspis.gov	843-760-5441
Raleigh, NC	Regina Faulkerson	RLFaulkerson@uspis.gov	919-501-9383
Richmond, VA	Michael Romano	MJRomano@uspis.gov	804-418-6123
Chicago Division
Chicago, IL (DHQ)	INC Tom Brady*	TPBrady@uspis.gov	312-983-7920
Chicago, IL (DHQ)	Dave Colen	DMColen@uspis.gov	312-983-7850
Milwaukee, WI	Lori Groen	LAGroen@uspis.gov	414-287-2225
Milwaukee, WI	Brian Haraway	BWHaraway@uspis.gov	414-287-2245
St. Louis, MO	Dan Taylor	DATaylor@uspis.gov	314-539-9342
St. Louis, MO	Todd Loos	TALoos@uspis.gov	314-539-9423
Denver Division
Denver, CO (DHQ)	Jeff Reed*	JHReed@uspis.gov	303-313-5382
Denver, CO (DHQ)	Richard Sheehan II	RFSheehan@uspis.gov	303-313-5335
Denver, CO (DHQ)	JoJan Henderson	JHenderson@uspis.gov	303-313-5331
Denver, CO (DHQ)	Andrew Jones	ABJones@uspis.gov	303-313-5342
Cedar Rapids, IA	Ron Jewell	RWJewell@uspis.gov	319-399-2993
Des Moines, IA	W. Kevin Marshall	WKMarshall@uspis.gov	515-253-2687
Kansas City, KS	David Nitz	DENitz@uspis.gov	913-266-2470
Minneapolis, MN	Jeffery Long	JDLong@uspis.gov	612-349-4703
Omaha, NE	Dave Margritz	DAMargritz@uspis.gov	402-392-8925
Omaha, NE	Paul Beekhuizen	PABeekhuizen@uspis.gov	402-392-8930
Detroit Division
Detroit, MI (DHQ)	Wylie Christopher*	WRChristopher@uspis.gov	313-337-2187
Detroit, MI (DHQ)	Felicia George	FBGeorge@uspis.gov	313-226-8221
Detroit, MI (DHQ)	Cheryl Smith	CLSmith@uspis.gov	313-226-8201
Grand Rapids, MI	Jane Anderson	JLAnderson@uspis.gov	616-771-8527
Indianapolis, IN	Laura Carter	LACarter@uspis.gov	317-328-2515
Ft. Worth Division
Ft. Worth, TX (DHQ)	Amanda McMurrey	ARMcMurrey@uspis.gov	817-359-2797
Ft. Worth, TX (DHQ)	Mona Hernandez*	MLHernandez@uspis.gov	817-359-2728
Ft. Worth, TX (DHQ)	Dan Adame	DAAdame@uspis.gov	817-359-2733
Little Rock, AR	Daniel Medrano	DMedrano@uspis.gov	501-945-6717
Oklahoma City, OK	Charlie Thigpen	CDThigpen@uspis.gov	405-815-2680
Houston Division
Houston, TX (DHQ)	Marian Williams*	MKWilliams@uspis.gov	713-503-3352
Houston, TX (DHQ)	Vanessa Kimbrough	VGKimbrough@uspis.gov	713-238-4440
Austin, TX	Michael W. Sullivan	MWSullivan@uspis.gov	512-342-1563
Corpus Christi, TX	Henry Herrera, Jr.	HLHerrera@uspis.gov	361-886-2203
New Orleans, LA	Terence Barrett	TLBarrett@uspis.gov	504-589-1206
San Antonio, TX	Michael MartinezPartida	mrmartinezpartida@uspis.gov	210-368-1623
Los Angeles Division
Los Angeles, CA (DHQ)	Renee Focht*	RMFocht@uspis.gov	626-405-1285
Los Angeles, CA (DHQ)	Jarrett Arrington	JWArrington@uspsi.gov	323-586-1974
Los Angeles, CA (DHQ)	Tracy Putnam	TSPutnam@uspis.gov	909-387-8737
Los Angeles, CA (DHQ)	Silvia Torres	STorres@uspis.gov	213-830-2540
Los Angeles, CA (DHQ)	Cissy Tubbs	CMTubbs@uspis.gov	213-830-2541
San Diego, CA	Rick Vida	RJVida@uspis.gov	619-531-8213
San Diego, CA	Patricia Mendoza	PMMendoza@uspis.gov	858-577-3567
Miami Division
Miami, FL (DHQ)	Delfin Alvarez*	DMAlvarez@uspis.gov	954-436-7218
Miami, FL (DHQ)	Bladismir Rojo	BRojo@uspis.gov	954-436-7269
Miami, FL (DHQ)	Blanca Alvarez	BRAlvarez@uspis.gov	954-436-7287
Jacksonville, FL	Jack Cowen	JJCowen@uspis.gov	904-858-7111
Orlando, FL	Ed Moffitt	ERMoffitt@uspis.gov	407-850-6391
Tampa, FL	Douglas Smith	DJSmith@uspis.gov	813-281-5228
Tampa, FL	Dexter Brown	DEBrown@uspis.gov	813-281-5241
Newark Division
Edison, NJ	Dave Arias*	DSArias@uspis.gov	201-714-6412
Newark, NJ (DHQ)	Joshua D. Shandler	JDShandler@uspis.gov	973-693-5462
San Juan, PR	Eliezer Julian	EJulian@uspis.gov	787-749-7654
San Juan, PR	Mitchell Perez	MPerez@uspis.gov	787-749-7658
New York Division
New York (DHQ)	Thomas Boyle*	TEBoyle@uspis.gov	212-330-3049
New York (DHQ)	Emily Tarrats	ETarrats@uspis.gov	212-330-2334
Philadelphia Division
Philadelphia, PA (DHQ)	Reginald Wade*	RLWade@uspis.gov	610-668-4524
Philadelphia, PA (DHQ)	Patrick Corrigan	PFCorrigan@uspis.gov	610-668-4592
Philadelphia, PA (DHQ)	Oriey Glenn	OWGlenn@uspis.gov	610-668-4506
Harrisburg, PA	Lawrence Dukes	LCDukes@uspis.gov	717-257-2338
Harrisburg, PA	Joseph Corrado	JJCorrado@uspis.gov	717-257-2378
Bellmawr, NJ	Alex Sylvester	ASylvester@uspis.gov	856-933-4183
Phoenix Division
Phoenix, AZ (DHQ)	Patricia A. Armstrong*	PAArmstrong@uspis.gov	602-223-3269
Phoenix, AZ (DHQ)	Greg Torbenson	GLTorbenson@uspis.gov	602-223-3256
Tucson, AZ	David Birch	DEBirch@uspis.gov	520-388-5409
Las Vegas, NV	Luke Caggiano	LVCaggiano@uspis.gov	702-737-6119
Salt Lake City, UT	Randy Tuckett	RRTuckett@uspis.gov	801-974-2274
Salt Lake City, UT	Steve Danson	SEDanson@uspis.gov	801-974-2273
Salt Lake City, UT	Robert Maes	REMaes@uspis.gov	801-887-1923
Pittsburgh Division
Pittsburgh, PA (DHQ)	Andrew Richards*	AFRichards@uspis.gov	412-490-6425
Pittsburgh, PA (DHQ)	Kenneth Gournic	KPGournic@uspis.gov	412-490-6426
Charleston, WV	Cathy Cantley	CGCantley@uspis.gov	304-357-4136
Cincinnati, OH	Alejandro Almaguer	AEAlmaguer@uspis.gov	513-684-8033
Cincinnati, OH	Lisa Fitzpatrick	LMFitzpatrick@uspis.gov	513-684-8038
Cleveland, OH	Terrence Sullivan	TCSullivan@uspis.gov	216-443-4022
Lexington, KY	Roberta Bottoms	RRBottoms@uspis.gov	859-231-6781
San Francisco Division
Richmond, CA	Jeff Fitch*	JMFitch@uspis.gov	415-778-5857
San Francisco, CA (DHQ)	Dave Guerra	DRGuerra@uspis.gov	415-778-5979
San Francisco, CA (DHQ)	Bill Zemblidge	WBZemblidge@uspis.gov	415-778-5916
Sacramento, CA	Misty Racimo	MNRacimo@uspis.gov	916-263-7257
Seattle Division
Seattle, WA (DHQ)	Jerry Styers*	JSStyers@uspis.gov	206-748-5423
Seattle, WA (DHQ)	Alan Damron	ACDamron@uspis.gov	206-748-5438
Seattle, WA (DHQ)	John Murphy	JFMurphy@uspis.gov	206-442-6320
Anchorage, AK	Andrea Avery	AMAvery@uspis.gov	907-261-6326
Portland, OR	Dennis Fernald	DGFernald@uspis.gov	503-279-2072
Spokane, WA	Randy Griffin	RLGriffin@uspis.gov	509-838-0257
Washington Division
Washington, DC (DHQ)	Jervay Rodgers*	JCRodgers@uspis.gov	410-715-7726
Baltimore, MD	Frank Schissler	FJSchissler@uspis.gov	410-347-4710
National Headquarters
NHQ	Michael Romano*	MJRomano@uspis.gov	202-268-6867
NHQ	Denise Backus	DNBackus@uspis.gov	202-268-6896
* Lead PIO for NCPW

Corporate Communications Field Managers

 

Name	Function	Office Telephone	E-mail Address
Earl Artis	Southwest Area	213-819-8704	earl.c.artis@usps.gov
Maureen Marion	Northeast Area	860-285-7265	maureen.p.marion@usps.gov
Jim Mruk	Great Lakes Area	630-539-6565	james.a.mruk@usps.gov
Teresa Rudkin	Western Area	303-313-5130	teresa.rudkin@usps.gov
Don Smeraldi	Pacific Area	858-674-3149	don.a.smeraldi@usps.gov
Paul Smith	Eastern Area	215-863-5055	paul.f.smith@usps.gov
Connie Totten-Oldham	A/Capital Metro Area	202-268-3276	connie.totten-oldham@usps.gov

See also http://www.usps.com/communications/newsroom/mediacontacts.htm for more contacts.

Congressional State/Manager/Representatives

To dial extension, use area code and prefix (202) 268-xxxx

 

State	Representative	Extension
Alabama	Ekaterina Silina	7626
Alaska	Jerome Giles	3745
American Samoa	Jerome Giles	3745
Arizona	Jerome Giles	3745
Arkansas	Mico Milanovic (A)	7217
California	Linda Macasa	3750
Connecticut	Jo Waterman	6748
Colorado	Jerome Giles	3745
Delaware	Jo Waterman	6748
District of Columbia	Jim Cari	6029
Florida	Mico Milanovic	7217
Georgia	Mico Milanovic	7217
Guam	Jerome Giles	3745
Hawaii	Jerome Giles	3745
Idaho	Ekaterina Silina	7626
Illinois	Talaya Simpson	7839
Indiana	Sandra Calos	7505
Iowa	Sandra Calos	7505
Kansas	Jerome Giles	3745
Kentucky	Laurie Solnik	3743
Louisiana	Mico Milanovic (A)	7217
Maine	Marita Hines	6027
Maryland	Jim Cari	6029
Massachusetts	Marita Hines	6027
Michigan	Talaya Simpson	7839
Minnesota	Sandra Calos	7505
Mississippi	Ekaterina Silina	7626
Missouri	Sandra Calos	7505
Montana	Jerome Giles	3745
Nebraska	Jerome Giles	3745
Nevada	Jerome Giles	3745
New Hampshire	Marita Hines	6027
New Jersey	Jo Waterman	6748
New Mexico	Mico Milanovic (A)	7217
New York	Marita Hines	6027
North Carolina	Laurie Solnik	3743
North Dakota	Sandra Calos	7505
Northern Marianna Islands	Jerome Giles	3745
Ohio	Laurie Solnik	3743
Oklahoma	Ekaterina Silina	7626
Oregon	Jerome Giles	3745
Pennsylvania	Jo Waterman	6748
Puerto Rico	Marita Hines	6027
Rhode Island	Jo Waterman	6748
South Carolina	Laurie Solnik	3743
South Dakota	Sandra Calos	7505
Tennessee	Laurie Solnik	3743
Texas	Mico Milanovic (A)	7217
Utah	Ekaterina Silina	7626
Vermont	Marita Hines	6027
Virgin Islands	Marita Hines	6027
Virginia	Jim Cari	6029
Washington	Linda Macasa	3750
West Virginia	Jim Cari	6029
Wisconsin	Talaya Simpson	7839
Wyoming	Linda Macasa	3750

— Consumer Affairs, Corporate Communications, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, 2-10-11

Letter to the Editor Template (request for coverage)

[Insert Date]

[Insert Publication Name]

[Insert Street Address]

[Insert City, State ZIP+4]

Dear Editor:

The U.S. Postal Service^® office of Consumer Affairs and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service are working to educate consum­ers about fraudulent schemes and to provide them with the information needed to combat these frauds.

During National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), March 6–12, 2011, the Postal Service™ and the Postal Inspection Ser­vice will be hosting events nationwide to provide information on a variety of common schemes as well as important consumer protection resources. Consumers of all ages are invited to attend.

NCPW 2011 — Dollars and Sense: Rated A for All Ages — highlights the importance of using good consumer sense at every stage of life — from grade school to retirement.

NCPW partners are promoting free resources to help people protect their privacy, manage money and debt, avoid identity theft, understand credit and mortgages and steer clear of frauds and scams. In addition, NCPW partners are reaching out to kids, focusing on websites, videos and games designed for a younger audience.

I wanted to let you know what is taking place in our community. [INSERT EVENT INFORMATION, INCLUDING DAY, TIME, LOCATION, ACTIVITIES, ETC.].

I want to make sure the people of [INSERT NAME OF COMMUNITY] know about events taking place locally during National Consumer Protection Week.

I hope you will help us publicize event information and stop by [insert location, address] to join us in spreading the word on how consumers can steer clear of fraudulent schemes and scams.

Sincerely,

[Insert Name]

Postmaster

[INSERT CITY]

March XX, 2011 Corporate Communications Contact: [INSERT NAME]
(O) [INSERT NUMBER]
(C) [INSERT CELL]
[INSERT E-MAIL ADDRESS]@usps.gov
U.S. Postal Inspection Service Contact: [INSERT NAME]
(O) [INSERT NUMBER]
(C) [INSERT CELL]
[INSERT E-MAIL ADDRESS]@uspis.gov
usps.com/news

Media Advisory
U.S. Postal Service and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service
Celebrate National Consumer Protection Week

Consumers of All Ages Learn How to Avoid Scams and Fraud

 

WHAT: U.S. Postal Service^® officials will host a [INSERT EVENT DESCRIPTION] to celebrate National Consumer Protection Week. Officials will distribute DVDs and brochures warning against identity theft and fraudulent schemes, providing consumers with valuable information about protecting their financial assets from these types of crimes, as well as ways to report suspected financial fraud.

WHO: [INSERT NAMES OF PARTICIPANTS AND TITLES]

WHEN: [INSERT TIME]
[INSERT DATE]

EVENT: [INSERT EVENT LOCATION, PARKING INFORMATION AND OTHER RELEVANT INSTRUC­TIONS FOR MEDIA]

BACKGROUND: National Consumer Protection Week, set for March 6–12, is a national program led by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to help customers become smarter consumers of products, materials and services, and improve their knowledge of how to combat fraud schemes.

The U.S. Postal Service Office of Consumer Affairs and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service are work­ing to educate consumers about fraudulent schemes and how they can protect themselves. The Postal Service will provide consumers with the tools and information needed to combat these types of crimes.

There’s no age limit on fraud. This year, the Postal Service and the Postal Inspection Service are working together to educate all consumers how they can protect themselves from scammers.

# # # 

A self-supporting government enterprise, the U.S. Postal Service is the only delivery service that reaches every address in the nation — 150 million residences, businesses and Post Office™ Boxes. The Postal Service™ receives no tax dollars for operating expenses, and relies on the sale of post­age, products and services to fund its operations. With 32,000 retail locations and the most fre­quently visited website in the federal government, usps.com, the Postal Service has annual revenue of more than $67 billion and delivers nearly 40 percent of the world’s mail. If it were a private sector company, the U.S. Postal Service would rank 29th in the 2010 Fortune 500. Black Enterprise and Hispanic Business magazines ranked the Postal Service as a leader in workforce diversity. The Postal Service has been named the Most Trusted Government Agency six consecutive years and the sixth Most Trusted Business in the nation by the Ponemon Institute.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is the federal law enforcement, security and crime prevention arm of the United States Postal Service that protects the U.S. Postal Service, secures the nation’s mail system and ensures public trust in the mail. To learn more, visit http://postalinspectors.uspis.gov.

Press Release Template

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: [INSERT NAME]
[INSERT DATE] (O) [INSERT NUMBER]
(C) [INSERT NUMBER]
[INSERT NAME]@usps.gov
usps.com/news

U.S. Postal Service and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Celebrate National Consumer Protection Week

Educate Consumers of All Ages How to Avoid Scams and Fraud

[INSERT TOWN] — Today the United States Postal Service^® and the Postal Inspection Service join with fed­eral, state and local government agencies and consumer protection organizations to announce the 13th Annual National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), March 6–12, 2011. This coordinated consumer edu­cation campaign encourages individuals across the country to take full advantage of their consumer rights.

This year’s theme — “Your Information Destination” — highlights resources available to consumers through various channels. In recognition of NCPW 2011, the Postal Service™ and its partners are promoting free resources to help people protect their privacy, manage money and debt, avoid identity theft, understand credit and mortgages and steer clear of frauds and scams.

“The message of National Consumer Protection Week 2011 is simple: It’s never too early or too late to become a more informed and empowered consumer,” said [postmaster]. “Regardless of your age or financial situation, there are useful lessons to learn about protecting privacy and avoiding scams and fraud schemes. The Postal Service encourages everyone to visit the U.S. Postal Service/Postal Inspection Service website dedicated to fraud education and prevention, www.deliveringtrust.com, and the NCPW website sponsored by the Federal Trade Commission, www.ncpw.gov, for tips about making smarter decisions in the marketplace.”

[HERE, HIGHLIGHT YOUR ORGANIZATION’S 2011 NCPW EVENT]

National organizers of this year’s NCPW include AARP, the Comptroller of the Currency, the Consumer Fed­eration of America, the Council of Better Business Bureaus, the Federal Citizen’s Information Center, the Federal Communications Commission, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, the Federal Trade Commission, the National Association of Attorneys General, the National Associa­tion of Consumer Agency Administrators, the National Consumers League, the U.S. Department of the Trea­sury, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the U.S. Postal Service^®.

# # # 

Note: For broadcast quality video and audio, photo stills and other media resources, visit the USPS News­room at www.usps.com/news.

A self-supporting government enterprise, the U.S. Postal Service is the only delivery service that reaches every address in the nation — 150 million residences, businesses and Post Office™ Boxes. The Postal Ser­vice receives no tax dollars for operating expenses, and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations. With 32,000 retail locations and the most frequently visited website in the federal gov­ernment, usps.com, the Postal Service has annual revenue of more than $67 billion and delivers nearly 40 percent of the world’s mail. If it were a private sector company, the U.S. Postal Service would rank 29th in the 2010 Fortune 500. Black Enterprise and Hispanic Business magazines ranked the Postal Service as a leader in workforce diversity. The Postal Service has been named the Most Trusted Government Agency six consecutive years and the sixth Most Trusted Business in the nation by the Ponemon Institute.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is the federal law enforcement, security and crime prevention arm of the United States Postal Service that protects the U.S. Postal Service, secures the nation’s mail system and ensures public trust in the mail. To learn more, visit http://postalinspectors.uspis.gov.