Tough economic times like these unfortunately bring out the worst in some people. So you have to be more vigilant than ever to protect your money and yourself.

Seniors are particularly vulnerable, so beware investment salespeople who call themselves "senior specialists." Often these people hire hotels or restaurants to give seminars to seniors. Calling themselves retirement or senior counselors, they may urge you to sell off your investments. They then put you in new products that can contain high fees and/or early withdrawal penalties.

Since many of these so-called senior specialists have little or no investment training, you could find yourself jumping from the frying pan to the fire.

Read the SEC's "Check Out Brokers & Investment Advisors" first. It's available at SEC.gov. Make sure you know who's handling your money!

For more information: Be sure to check our Retirement Center to learn much more about protecting your retirement savings.