The numbers are staggering when it comes to scams. Over 30 million people were scammed in 2007 and scam artists are very good at what they do. Our financial expert Aaron Maguire has some helpful tips how to avoid common scams.

What are some common scams we should be aware of?
· Weight loss cures, claiming to help you lose weight when they don't.
· Online dating, someone sends you pictures of "themselves" and eventually asks you to send them money because they had a family tragedy.
· Someone calls you and says your relative has been hurt, and you need to send them money to treat them.
· You receive a letter that says you won the lottery, they just need you to send all of your personal information and/or money for a transaction fee.
· A company offers to get you out of foreclosure, and all you need to do is send them a check for $950.
· Work at home scam…stuffing envelopes is a popular one. You just need to send them a check for $100 to get started.
· Bogus emails from someone claiming to be the IRS, they want your personal information, don't give it to them!

What should we look out for when buying investments?
· Buy only from a licensed professional.
· If the advisor says "it's a sure thing" just walk away.
· If the advisor says "there is no risk involved" walk away.
· Never make the payment to the advisor.
· Never invest over the phone.

Are there any common sense things we should think about?
· Don't get caught up in the hype of the scam!
· Never give your financial data online.
· Never cash a check for someone you don't know.
· If something sounds too good to be true, It probably is!

For more financial information visit www.reliancewealth.com or e-mail Aaron with questions aaron.maguire@reliancewealth.com