1. The scammers get your name and email address, physical address or phone number.

2. Scammers write up a scam email or letter.

3.You receive the email, letter or call.

4. You contact the scammers and give them personal information.

5. Next, they begin to con you for money.

6. The money you sent is picked up at any remittance company.

7. The criminals walked out the door of the office with your money and disappear.

How to protect yourself

1. Don't pay to collect sweepstake winnings.

2. Hold on to your money - scammers pressure people to wire money.

3. Lookalikes aren't the real thing - Scammers often lie about affiliation.

4. Phone numbers can deceive - Internet can disguise area codes.

5. Take control of calls you receive - Put a block on unknown numbers.

6. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

Source: US Federal Trade Commission