Gulf Atlantic Post Offices celebrate Consumer Protection Week

The U.S. Postal Service and the Postal Inspection Service recently joined with government agencies, advocacy organizations and private sector groups nationwide to celebrate National Consumer Protection Week in March.  

Special lobby information was provided at Post Offices in Warner Robins GA, Tallahassee FL, Macon GA and Jacksonville FL.

This coordinated, consumer-education campaign encouraged individuals across the country to take full advantage of their consumer rights.

“The Post Office is proud to work with a broad coalition of groups to share tips and information to   protect consumers against fraud,” said Consumer and Industry Contact Tony Joy. “As one of the most trusted companies and the most trusted government agency, consumers have a high confidence in the mail and expect the Postal Service to protect the privacy of their personal information.”

This year's focus was on sweepstakes scams. How can you tell if a sweepstakes is legitimate? Thankfully, most sweepstakes are legitimate and appropriate marketing devices.

The Deceptive Mail Prevention and Enforcement Act, sometimes referred to as the “Sweepstakes Law,” helps safeguard consumers by placing certain requirements on companies that sponsor sweepstakes contests.

At a minimum, sweepstakes sponsors are required to include these statements in their mailings:

• No purchase of a product or service is required to win, and a purchase won’t improve your chances of winning.
• Number, retail value, and complete description of all prizes.
• Name and business address where sponsor can be contacted.
• Entry procedures and eligibility requirements.
• Termination date for eligibility.
• Estimated odds of each prize.
• Winner selection method.
• Geographic restrictions for the offer.
• Approximate dates when winners will be selected and notified.

All required disclosures must be “clear and conspicuous” to consumers.

These tips can help protect you from becoming a victim in a sweepstakes scam. To learn more, visit our fraud education and prevention website at www.deliveringtrust.com.

 

Warner Robins GA

Homeland Security Coordinator Jill Jacquin interacted with Warner Robins customers sharing key facts in how to protect themselves from fraudulent schemes during this month's National Consumer Protection Week.

 

Tallahassee FL

At the Tallahassee Centerville Station (from left to right)  Consumer and Industry Contact Tony Joy, Postmaster Michelle Kulik and  Tallahassee Manager Customer Services Marion Grubbs worked at a display to distribute literature to customers about safeguarding their personal information.