HARRISBURG, Pa. – As the nation celebrates Military Saves Week (Feb. 25-March 2) the Department of Banking and Securities urges members of the military, veterans and their families to use caution and avoid investment scams targeting the military community.

Through its Investor Education program, the Department of Banking and Securities reaches out to groups across Pennsylvania, including members of the military and veterans, to educate them about investing as well as how to avoid financial scams.

In addition, members of the military community in the Pittsburgh area are encouraged to attend the 2013 “Money Matters” investor education conference on April 30, which will feature a special session devoted to veteran’s issues.

“Before investing, members of the military, veterans and their families should check with the Department of Banking and Securities to verify that the investment and the person recommending it are properly registered,” advised Tina Kotsalos, the department’s Investment Education Coordinator.

Information on these programs is available at www.dobs.state.pa.us.

Investors, including the military, veterans and their families, with questions about investment opportunities or other types of financial transactions can call the Department of Banking and Securities toll-free hotline: 1-800-PA-BANKS (800-722-2657).