SLAM THE SCAM

USPS observes National Consumer Protection Week

Scene from a video on http://www.fakechecks.org/.

USPS and the Federal Trade Commission are promoting National Consumer Protection Week. The observance started yesterday and lasts through March 8.

The week-long celebration draws attention to issues and ideas that help Americans avoid fraud and identity theft.

The USPS Office of Consumer Advocate and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service will highlight their ongoing efforts to educate consumers about fraudulent schemes and identity theft and to provide tools and information needed to combat fake check frauds. In addition, Postal Service officials will host an awareness event today in Washington, where they'll distribute DVDs and brochures warning against fraudulent financial schemes and offer tips to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft.

USPS will urge its customers to go to http://www.fakechecks.org/, established by the Inspection Service, to warn citizens about financial scams. USPS also is hosting local consumer-oriented events across the country.