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Posts about Security (2)

close up of hands taking money out of a wallet

Federally Backed Finances: The NCUA, Credit Unions, & You

By: American Heritage 10.12.23 3 minute read Security
 

When compared to other financial institutions, credit unions are the masters of keeping members’ funds secure and stable. This is due in no small part to the National Credit Union Administration, which regulates credit unions and provides insurance for member deposits. But what exactly does that mean, and how does it compare to the safeguards in place for banks?

We’ve got answers for everything you need to know about the NCUA and NCUA insurance so that you can better understand how credit unions keep your finances secure.

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older woman on the phone holding a credit card

Common Scams Targeting Credit Cards

By: American Heritage 09.21.23 4 minute read Security
 

More than 150 million Americans were victims of credit card fraud last year, according to Security.org's 2023 Credit Card Fraud Report. It’s a serious issue that can impact financial well-being and personal security. Credit card fraud often leads to unauthorized transactions, which may result in financial losses for the victim. Fraudulent activity on credit cards can also negatively affect victims’ credit scores if the unauthorized charges are not resolved promptly. This can make it harder to secure loans or credit in the future and lead to higher interest rates.

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Person using a smartphone and laptop for two-factor authentication, entering a six-digit verification code displayed on the phone into a login screen on the laptop.

Tips to Protect Yourself Online for World Password Day and Every Day

By: Kevin McNamara 05.09.23 4 minute read Security

In the last five to ten years, large scale data breaches appear to be getting ever more common. It seems like every week, another news story breaks about a large company that fell victim of a data breach. These breaches see millions of users’ personal information compromised, often including usernames and passwords, either encrypted, or in the worst cases, in plain text.

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Woman using two-factor authentication on her phone to log into a laptop for added security.

Protect Yourself with These Tips from Identity Theft Awareness Week

By: Holly Love 02.02.23 5 minute read Security
 

Identity theft can be a devastating crime that victims may not notice until it is already too late. Anyone can become a victim of identity theft, but luckily, anyone can take precautions to protect themselves.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and its partners hosted Identity Theft Awareness Week from January 30 through February 3, 2023. Their mission is to raise awareness that any person, of any age or background, can be a target for identity theft.

Continue reading to learn how to detect, prevent, and report identity theft.

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older-couple-looking-at-their-statement

Investing Safely: Recognizing Ponzi Schemes

By: Holly Love 12.08.22 4 minute read Investing & Retirement Security
 

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If someone asks you to invest and promises impossible returns on your money, such as guaranteeing that your money will be doubled or tripled with no risk, it’s probably a Ponzi scheme.

Knowing how to recognize different types of fraud is a key component to financial literacy. There are many types of investment scams, but one of the most famous is known as the Ponzi scheme.

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carved-pumpkins-sitting-on-a-porch-outside

Scare Off Scammers With These Halloween Security Tips

By: American Heritage 10.13.22 3 minute read Holiday Security

Ghosts, goblins, witches, and vampires – everyone knows All Hallows’ Eve is full of creepy creatures. But the scariest of them all may be scammers who try to trick you into revealing your sensitive personal information. Millions of Americans have their identities stolen or compromised each year, and dealing with the aftermath of identity theft and fraud is no treat.

In honor of both Halloween and Cybersecurity Awareness Month, check out these tips to stay safe online and protect yourself from cybercriminals.

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man-using-atm-machine

ATM Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

By: American Heritage 03.09.22 3 minute read Security
 

There’s no doubt about it – we’re living in an increasingly cash-free society these days. Between credit cards and mobile wallets, you may spend long stretches of time without using actual cash. But eventually there will come a time when paying with plastic just won’t cut it.

If you need to pay the babysitter, a vendor who doesn’t accept cards, or an unexpected toll on your next road trip, having cash in your wallet can definitely come in handy. And ATMs are a convenient way to get money when you’re out and about, without having to go into the branch during business hours. However, not all ATMs are created equal.

Whether you’re using a stand-alone ATM, one inside a grocery store, or a drive-through ATM, here are some ATM safety tips that can help keep you, your money, and your financial information safe from would-be criminals.

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