The best way to avoid falling for a scam is to be careful when it comes to your money and personal information. Follow the “Don’t Get Scammed” hints outlined in the “What is a “Scam”?" section.  Make sure your number is listed on the National Do No Call Registry. You can register your telephone number for free by calling 1-888-382-1222.

Most importantly: do not give money or personal information to anyone in response to an email or telephone call. If a caller claims there is an emergency, insists on secrecy, or  pressures you to send funds: HANG UP.

If you would like to check out an offer that sounds too good to be true, or if you want to know if a charity is legitimate, call the Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation at 1-877-624-8525.