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 make money fast usps




From: tjw+@pitt.edu (TJ Wood)
Newsgroups: alt.folklore.info
Subject: Make Urban Legends FAST!
Date: 13 Apr 94 22:41:38 GMT

Ever wonder if DAVE RHODES is out there somewhere on the net lurking? Did he retire after his "MAKE MONEY FAST!" chain letter brought him fame and forture?

Well, this was sent to me in regards to chain letters. It's supposedly the USPS standard letter about chain letters. You may find it of use when confronted with newbies who think they've "Discovered" this "unique" way to make it rich quick:

In case there are any uncertainties as to the United States Postal Service's (USPS) position on chain letters, the following should clear things up. This is a letter I received from the USPS Inspection Service. ---------begin letter------------------------------------------------ October 29, 1993

Dear Postal Patron:

This is in response to your complaint letter regarding receipt of a chain letter.

This type of letter ordinarily is challenged by the Postal Service because it violates postal lottery, false representation, and/or fraud statutes. It offers a prize (large amounts of money) to individuals if they participate in accordance with the letter's terms. However, the receipt of this prize is dependent on the participation of other individuals to whom the chain letter is sent. Individuals have no control over who will participate in the future. There is merely a chance or possibility that a sufficient number of individuals will participate to guarantee payment of prize. Payment of a fee to the individuals already listed in the letter is also required.

Promoters of chain letters may claim they are legal in that they provide a "report" or other items of alleged value to those participants who pay the required fee. Providing such items does not exempt the chain letter from being challenged under postal laws.

We have contacted the promoter of this scheme advising the individuals of the violations involved. Your interest in contacting our service concerning this matter is appreciated.

Sincerely,
(signed)
Robert J. Edwards,
Manager, Inspection Service
Operations Support Group-Memphis

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