Fraud by telephone, Internet and mail is a serious international problem. The Palm Beach Post suggests these common sense guidelines to follow:

For your own protection, never respond to any e-mail or verbal request that asks you to send payment or to provide personal information such as a bank account.

Deal locally with people you can meet in person. Follow this one simple rule and you will avoid most fraud.

If you suspect a scam, please contact the following agencies:

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC) toll free hotline: 877-FTC-HELP (877-382-4357)
  
• FTC online complaint form (www.ftc.gov)
  
• Canadian PhoneBusters hotline: 888-495-8501
  
• Internet Fraud Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov)
  
• Non-emergency number for your local police department.
  
• Local Better Business Bureau

If you suspect that an item posted for sale or the person attempting to buy an item may be part of a scam, please email the details to PalmBeachPost.com. Be sure to include the URL (or seven-digit Mobile & Web ID number) in your message.