Mail fraud on the rise

The United States Postal Service says it has seen an increase in mail fraud and is promoting community strength and fraud awareness as a way to prevent abuse.

On the other hand, the prosecution of fraud cases is reportedly down 35 percent from 2014. In 2015, about 6,416 fraud cases were prosecuted. In volumne, mail fraud is the second highest form of fraud reported.

You or a loved one might receive an advertisement in the mail, but it could be from a private company or even a scammer.

U.S. law prohibits people or non-government businesses from using words or emblems that mislead others. Their advertising can’t lead people to believe that they represent, are somehow affiliated with, or endorsed or approved by the Social Security Administration, for example.

Scammers commonly target people who are looking for Social Security program and benefit information. If you receive misleading information about Social Security, send the complete advertisement, including the envelope it came in, to: Office of the Inspector General Fraud Hotline, Social Security Administration, P.O. Box 17768, Baltimore, MD 21235.

The U.S. Postal Service also receives reports where someone pretending to be a Social Security employee has contacted members of the public. 

The intent of this type of call may be to steal your identity and/or money from your bank accounts. They may state that your Social Security number will be suspended or they may demand immediate payment. 

The caller generally asks you for personal information such as your Social Security number, date of birth, your mother’s maiden name, or your bank or financial account information. You should not provide any of this information to these individuals.

It’s possible that a Social Security employee may contact you to follow-up on a previous application for Social Security benefits or to follow-up on other business you initiated with Social Security.

Remember, however, that Social Security employees will never threaten you or demand any kind of payment in exchange for services.

It’s important that everyone report any and all fraud. This can only strengthen our communities and your family. You can report Social Security fraud at oig.ssa.gov/report.

According to the TRAC reports company, the prosecution of white collar crimes in the U.S., like mail fraud, is down 35 percent  from  2014 statistics.  

The U.S. Postal Serice is noting an increase in mail fraud while the prosecution of mail fraud cases in down 35 percent from five years ago. What’s wrong with this picture?