Scam warning
Psychic and Fortune Letters
A personal-looking letter from a psychic, astrologer or clairvoyant says they've seen great luck in your future, like winning the lottery, or a danger you can be protected from. All you have to do is send money for a lucky charm, a reading or a “ritual”. These letters are mass-mailed to many people.
Also called: Psychic scam, Astrology letter scam, Clairvoyant mail scam
The one thing to remember
A letter that knows your name doesn't know your future. Don't send money to anyone promising luck or protection.
How it happens
- You get a warm, personal letter that uses your name and birth date.
- It says the writer has a vision about you: a big win, or a curse.
- You're asked to send money for a charm, a reading or a ritual.
- Once you pay, more letters come, each asking for more money.
Warning signs
- A letter from a psychic you never contacted.
- Promises of lottery wins or fortunes.
- Warnings of bad luck unless you pay.
- Requests to keep it secret.
What to do
- Throw the letter away. Don't reply.
- If you've been paying, stop. More letters will come, but that doesn't mean anything.
- Report mail scams to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at uspis.gov.
Last checked: October 31, 2026