Some tips for avoiding scams

• Hang up if you suspect a scam.

• Stop and think. Get a second opinion.

• If a caller says they are from your bank or credit card company, call your bank or credit card company directly using numbers you know to be correct. Do not call a number given to you by the caller.

• Do not provide any personal information.

• Do not give out your Social Security number.

• Do not send cash through the mail.

• Do not agree to purchase gift cards and mail them in exchange for a check. Be suspicious if someone wants you to cash a check for more than the amount of purchase and send cash or gift cards back for the difference.

• Do not send money expecting to receive more money in return. That’s not the way the lottery or sweepstakes work.

• If you receive an unexpected check in the mail, take it to your bank for verification. Don’t deposit it. If you do deposit it, do not immediately spend the money as the check may most likely be no good.

• Be mindful of how you use social media. While it’s a good way to communicate with family and friends, especially in these days of social limitations, keep in mind not everyone who looks at your posts have your best interests in mind. “Think about the photos you post. People look at background, where are you, what are you showing to the world,” Osmond said. “For every person who is using social media is a good way, there is another person looking to use it in a mischievous way. If you have a widen open profile, you are open for trouble.”

• Be mindful of responding to offers, messages and emails. Once you respond to one, you may be deluged with them.

• Use caution when accepting friend requests on Facebook. Watch for fake pages and scams involving Craigslist and Ebay.

• When shopping online, be cautious. Visit verified sites. Look for the lock icon in the URL (which signifies security) as well as the “s” after http in the address. While not fail-proof, their absence can help identify a site that is not safe.