Mail Frauds
Visa is committed to keeping you informed of the latest frauds.
Why? Because knowledge is one of the most effective forms of fraud prevention.
Basic mail advice
Always treat unsolicited mail with suspicion. Mail fraud can take on several forms, from official- and legitimate-looking letters to offers that seem too good to be true. Never send your personal information through the mail, without first verifying that the source requesting it is legitimate.
Bank imposters
Identity thieves have been known to send out official-looking letters, most of the time posing as banks. It’s easy to be fooled. These letters look real, right down to the logos. A red flag should be raised if you’re asked to provide your account or personal information in a reply envelope, email, or by dialing a number. Never give out this information.
Visa and its member banks will never ask for this type of information.
Free prize scheme
Be on guard for postcards informing you that you’ve won a prize, such as a TV or a car. Sure, it may be free, but victims are asked to pay for shipping and handling. Depending on the size of the item, the shipping can run up to hundreds and even thousands of dollars. Shipping and handling is paid, but the prize never comes.
Telefunding
The Telefunding fraud mentioned on the Phone Frauds page is also run through the mail.
The foreign lotto
This is usually in the form of a brochure asking you to enter a lottery drawing in another country. Many individuals fall victim to this scam, sending money to these bogus lotteries and never get anything in return.
