It pays to be sensible

At tough times like these, the predators come out.

Unfortunately, their most likely victims are those who are already hurting because of the difficult economy.

Telephone scams, fake charities, identity thefts, and itinerant magazine peddlers always proliferate in a sour economy.

In recent weeks there have been warnings, both official and unofficial, of scam artists working in the neighborhood.

In that climate, it makes sense to put your guard up.

If you get a phone call from someone making a pitch, ignore it. Don't worry about being rude.

If you get a phone call from someone claiming that they know you or they're a distant relative and it sounds fishy, ask for a phone number so you can call them back. Chances are, they'll hang up.

If you get a pitch for an investment scheme that sounds too good to be true, run in the opposite direction as fast as you can.

If someone says you've won a lottery or have a mysterious inheritance, toss the communication in the trash can.

And never, ever give out information about yourself like Social Security numbers or credit card numbers, no matter how good the pitch sounds or how high pressure the scammer.

Times are tough enough, but a little consumer common sense can make it tough for the predators as well. - J.R.[[In-content Ad]]