Resist high pressure. Con-artists want you to send money before you think. Take your time. Insist on written information in advance. Avoid promotions that demand immediate payment, especially by cashier's check or courier service.
Phony prizes are the number one hook for scams.
Keep your accounts private. Don't give out bank account or credit card numbers unless you know who you are dealing with. Telemarketing fraud is declining in Iowa, in part because our office has been extremely tough on the crooks. We will do all we can to stop telemarketing fraud, but citizens need to keep on the alert, too.