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Looking for ways to protect your identity? Two options to consider are fraud alerts and credit freezes. But what’s the difference? A fraud alert makes companies verify your identity before granting new credit in your name. Usually, that means calling you to check if you’re really trying to open a new account. Placing a fraud alert is easy – you contact any one of the three nationwide credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) and that one must notify the other...

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Every business is susceptible to fraud, but small businesses are the most vulnerable. According to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), private companies and small businesses rank highest in occupational fraud which can total a median loss of $164,000. Cybercriminals continue to develop sophisticated means to commit fraud. Spoof emails, malicious software spread through attachments and social media, fund transferring, and information breaches are just a few ways to gain access to...

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Let’s face it, very few people actually take the time to balance a checkbook anymore. With online banking and eStatements, it’s easy to check to make sure you have enough in your account to cover your purchase without really taking the time to look at each withdrawal. You probably don’t take stock in what’s happening with your account until there’s a noticeable problem. Debit card fraud thrives in these situations, especially when the withdrawals are small amounts over...

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Romance scams are on the rise, affecting good people of all ages. Scammers actively seek out vulnerable people via Facebook and various dating apps, typically targeting individuals who have recently been separated, divorced or widowed, or just lonely, looking for companionship. They are good at what they do. They’ll take their time, establishing a “relationship” and gaining your trust. Eventually, they’ll introduce some sort of financial involvement. Here are some ways to...

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The headline of the first article in the February IRS newsletter reads: Don't be victim to a 'ghost' tax return preparer. Wow! What next! The IRS is now warning taxpayers about unscrupulous tax preparers, known as ‘ghost’ tax return preparers. These individual preparers do not sign the return, instead they are instructing the taxpayer to sign themselves and mail to the IRS. These preparers are making some quick fees based on their aggressive write offs and generous refunds. By...

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When I was in fourth grade my mother asked me to clean the refrigerator. The fridge was white and instead of just cleaning it, I decided to spray it with a can of white paint! It did not work so well. I remember my father telling my mother, “Well honey, it’s a good thing we have 10 kids. At least one of them should be able to take care of us when we retire!” Relying on your children to take care of you during your retirement years may not be the easiest solution to achieving...

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Identity theft is using someone else’s private identifying information without their permission, usually for their financial gain. In this day and age, it’s important to protect yourself from identity theft and the potential of a messy financial situation.  Here are 5 ways to keep yourself protected. 1.       Guard your Social Security Number Your Social Security number is the gateway to your personal information. Don’t carry your card...

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