Type of scam
Letter and Mail Scams
Not every scam comes by phone or computer. Scammers also send official-looking letters, fake bills, prize notices and personal letters through the regular mail.
The one thing to remember
An official-looking letter can still be a scam. Look up the company yourself before you send a check.
Which one sounds like what happened?
“A psychic sent me a letter saying great luck is coming if I send money”
Psychic and Fortune Letters
“I got a renewal notice for a magazine or newspaper that costs more than usual”
Fake Subscription Renewal Letter
“A letter offers me a copy of my house deed for $80 or more”
Official-Looking Deed Copy Letter
“A pen pal I write to by mail is asking me for money”
Lonely-Hearts Letters
Warning signs
- A bill or renewal notice for something you don't remember ordering.
- A letter promising luck, a fortune or a prize, if you send money first.
- Small print saying “this is not a bill” or “not affiliated with any government agency”.
Last checked: October 31, 2026