DENVER -- Tough economic times mean many of us are struggling to pay bills. But that also makes you a prime target for unscrupulous people who want to profit from your misfortune.

The district attorney cautions anyone needing debt assistance to follow these recommendations:

1. Contact your creditors directly and see what you can work out.

2. If you need assistance, work with a local, non-profit agency, not a company who solicits you by e-mail.

3. Avoid companies who require large up front fees to “fix” your credit or who promise to eliminate your debt. Seldom does anything get fixed; and instead of reducing your debt, you will have less money to pay your bills.

Remember, it takes time to get out of debt and to rebuild your credit. Anyone offering a quick and painless solution is not someone to whom you should be listening.