cyber security
Scammers Use Dating Apps to Launder CARES Money
BBB Column The CARES Act, which was passed into law in late March, has been providing financial relief to consumers and businesses across the country. With money being moved into the economy, scammers are looking to profit at the expense of the everyday consumer. BBB has received reports of consumers being targeted over dating apps…
Read MoreKnowing Debt and Credit Obligations during COVID-19
BBB Column As the COVID-19 crisis moves forward, with businesses closing temporarily and employee layoffs, many are wondering how they will manage their finances. Among these worries are how to handle credit and debt repayments. The CARES Act offers relief to those financially impacted by the pandemic. The new law requires lenders to report to…
Read MoreCancellation Tips Amid COVID-19 BBB Column
With the coronavirus strain COVID-19 appearing in multiple cities and countries, travel plans are being postponed, or canceled altogether. Not only travel, but the schedules of large-scale events like sports, music festivals and more are being affected. Many are left wondering what to do about canceled travels and purchased tickets they can no longer use.…
Read MoreAvoiding Tax Identity Theft
BBB Column Tax season is upon us, and you have until April 15 to file your return. Scammers are also busy during tax season, hoping to steal money you earned. How will you know your tax return has been taken from you? When you go to file, you’ll get a written notice from the IRS…
Read MoreThe Information Age
The Information Age began in the year 2000. First, in human history we had the “Hunter-Gatherer Age” which continued for hundreds of thousands of years until about 10,000 years ago when the “Agriculture Age” began. That was followed by the “Industrial Age” beginning about 200 years ago. So far, I am under-whelmed by the “Information…
Read MoreAvoiding Advance Fee Loan Scams this Holiday Season
Avoiding Advance Fee Loan Scams this Holiday Season December is here, and consumers are preparing for the holidays. The season has become known for being hectic and stressful, as people travel to see family and attempt to find the perfect gifts for their loved ones without breaking the bank. It can also be a time…
Read MoreCensus Scams
BBB Column As 2019 draws to a close, a new decade will be here before we know it. However, as we usher in a new era, there is business to be taken care of; namely, the census. The deadline to take part in the national event is April 1, so you’re likely to hear a…
Read MoreI’m on Facebook! Why would I need a website?
It’s a good question and one I hear often. And to be honest over the years I have probably waffled more on this then actually eaten my favorite breakfast choice. That said I think the answer becomes clear when one looks at what each is designed to do. Who doesn’t like free and easy? What’s…
Read MoreWhat If?
When I sit on our patio in the late afternoon on a bright sunny day with blue skies and my favorite adult beverage nearby, I like to meditate and play “what If?” games. Part of my nonfiction reading during retirement has been about the living cells in plants, animals and humans. The chemical reaction that…
Read MoreTax Identity Theft Awareness
Tax season has officially begun, and scammers may be looking to steal your identity and your refund. The Federal Trade Commission declared last week “Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week”. This awareness week provides a great opportunity to learn more about what a tax scam looks like and how scammers can use your private information for…
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