The Federal Trade Commission issued a consumer alert in May cautioning consumers to be skeptical of mail and phone calls warning that the warranties on their cars are about to expire.

According to the agency, some of those contacting consumers leave the false impression they are working for their vehicle dealers or manufacturers. Instead, according the FTC, they work for unrelated businesses trying to sell expensive service contracts or extended warranties.

Those contacting consumers also may be seeking personal financial information that could be used for identity theft.

The FTC warns consumers that some selling warranties may be selling warranties for companies that might not be in business long enough to fulfill warranty commitments.

The agency suggests that consumers not take the vehicle warranty information they receive through unsolicited contacts at face value.

If you have warranty questions, check your owner's manual for warranty information or contact your vehicle dealer or manufacturer.

Consumers should be careful about fast talkers and high pressure sales tactics. The FTC reports that these are often part of pitches. Do not rush into things.

Do not give out personal information such as a Social Security number or bank account information unless you know and trust the person you are dealing with. Also, be careful with those who send unsolicited mail or make unsolicited calls.

To read the Consumer Alert, visit http://www.ftc.gov and type, "How to Steer Clear of Auto Warranty Scams," at the search engine prompt.

Opinions are solely the writer's. Joseph Pellicciotti is a lawyer, professor and vice chancellor at Indiana University Northwest.