Scammers can be very convincing. They call, email, and send text messages trying to get our money or personal information. They often target specific communities, including Latinos, and frequently use scare tactics. And, unfortunately, they're good at what they do. So if you’ve already paid someone you think is a scammer, what’s your next step? Click here to read the full Learn More about Paid someone you think is a scammer?
How to spot, stop, and report post-disaster scams
Whether you’re starting to assess the damage from Hurricane Ida, the recent flooding in Tennessee, the wildfires in the West, or another natural disaster, coping with the aftermath is never easy. But when scammers target people just trying to recover, it can be even worse. Here are ways to help you avoid common post-disaster scams. Continue reading the full article here. *The Learn More about How to spot, stop, and report post-disaster scams
What to do when someone steals your identity
Did someone use your personal information to open up a new mobile account or credit card? Or maybe buy stuff with one of your existing accounts? Or did they file for unemployment or taxes in your name? That’s identity theft. Read the full article> Learn More about What to do when someone steals your identity
If you have federal student loans, read this
A few months ago, we told you that the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act gave some flexibility to federal student loan borrowers. Understanding these options can help you make more informed decisions about paying your bills and prioritizing your debts. The benefits benefits have been extended until December 31, 2020. So, just to recap, what does the CARES Act mean for Learn More about If you have federal student loans, read this
How can you spot a tech support scam?
Are you getting pop-up warning messages on your computer screen? Or maybe a phone call that your computer has a virus? That may well be a tech support scam. But how do you know? And what do you do? Read the full article Learn More about How can you spot a tech support scam?
What to do when you (and your kids) are online at home
If you have kids in school, there’s a good chance they’re kicking off their school year…in your living room. All the while, you might be working away, yourself, in some carved out corner at home. The start of a new school year is a good time to double-check your online set-up at home, since lots of people might depend on it. Here are a few things to check or consider. Continue reading Learn More about What to do when you (and your kids) are online at home
Scams in between stimulus packages
As we publish this post, a second stimulus package has not yet been finalized by Congress. While there’s a lot we don’t know, we DO know a few things about what scammers do when this kind of uncertainty is in the headlines. If there’s another stimulus payment, you won’t have to pay to get it. Just like last time. Nobody will call to ask for your Social Security, bank account, or credit card Learn More about Scams in between stimulus packages
Activate your EIP Visa debit card now
Did you get an Economic Impact Payment VISA debit card in the mail from the U.S. Department of the Treasury? If you did, you might get a letter from Treasury this week, reminding you to activate your card. Treasury’s letter gives you instructions on how to activate the card. Once you do that, you can get cash or use it anywhere that accepts VISA debit cards. Or, you can also transfer the money Learn More about Activate your EIP Visa debit card now
Fake emails about fake money from a fake COVID-19 fund
Because of COVID-19, unemployment rates are high and many people’s cash flows are low. Scammers view these as ripe conditions to strike. They’ll stop at nothing — not even a pandemic — to trick you into sharing your personal or financial information. That includes pretending to be a government official from the Federal Trade Commission to gain your trust. Read the full article here Learn More about Fake emails about fake money from a fake COVID-19 fund
How to avoid COVID-19 government imposter scams
Many of us are paying close attention to the guidance from federal, state, and local governments during this COVID-19 health emergency. Unfortunately, scammers are also paying attention. Some are even pretending to be affiliated with the government – just to scam you out of money. Click here to read the full article. Learn More about How to avoid COVID-19 government imposter scams