Online banking is certainly convenient, but is it safe? If you are not careful, your online banking activities could inadvertently grant access to hackers, identity thieves, and others who mean you harm. But you do not have to give up the advantages of online banking; taking a few common sense precautions can help you protect yourself and your money. Here are six simple ways to make your online banking experience safer and more secure. #1...
The term "phishing" refers to fraudulent methods of obtaining personal information. There are a number of phishing methods that fraudsters employ, the most common being by email. Phishing emails are designed to look as though they come from legitimate companies (often banks and credit card companies) with the aim of tricking you into entering personal information such as: Online bank log-in usernames and passwordsPersonal Identification NumbersSocial Security Numbers Phishing emails often look very realistic at...
Seniors are one of the most vulnerable groups in our society. Far too often unscrupulous people prey upon this vulnerability. If you know a senior who may be experiencing abuse of any kind, it’s important to understand the warning signs and guide them to help quickly. Abuse by a Relative, Caregiver, or Neighbor Sadly, far too often a senior is targeted by someone that they know and trust. This could be a caregiver, a neighbor,...
When it comes to investing, you must find a financial advisor who is honest and has your best interests at heart. Unfortunately, while the vast majority of brokers and financial advisors work hard for their clients, that is not always the case. Investment fraud is a real problem, and you could suffer a devastating financial loss if you fail to recognize the warning signs. Whether you are already working with an advisor or still looking...
Despite what you may believe, financial fraud does not always come in the form of strangers touting Ponzi schemes or investments that sound too good to be true. Instead, all too often financial fraud arises from people you trust - like the college classmate who just reached out on social media or the distinguished gentleman who recently joined your church group. This unique, and often devastating, type of financial fraud is so common it has...