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

By: Kevin McNamara05.09.23 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. While there is little that can be done from a user perspective to prevent data breaches from websites, there are ways to protect yourself from cyber threats, including using strong and unique passwords.

Swipe Left On Romance Scams, Catfishing & Other Online Tricks

By: American Heritage02.09.23 Culture Security
Millions of people use dating apps or social networking sites like Facebook and Instagram in the hope of finding love. But instead of finding their dream person, they wake up to an empty bank account. In fact, in 2021 alone, the Federal Trade Commission said that losses from romance scams were up nearly 80% from 2020, totaling $547 million. There are lots of things to look out for when it comes to romance and other online scams. In this blog, we’ll look at some different kinds of scams so you can avoid them and the heartache that can come along with them.
Woman logging into her online account on her laptop using 2F authentication on her phone

Protect Yourself with These Tips from Identity Theft Awareness Week

By: Holly Benedetto02.02.23 Security Culture
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.
Senior couple sitting and solving a financial issue together

Investing Safely: Recognizing Ponzi Schemes

By: Holly Benedetto12.08.22 Security Investing & Retirement
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.
A rustic porch with carved pumpkins and mums.

Scare Off Scammers With These Halloween Security Tips

By: American Heritage10.13.22 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.
Blog ATM Safety Tips

ATM Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

By: American Heritage03.09.22 Security
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.
Blog Fight Fraud

Fight Fraud and Create a Safer World

By: Holly Benedetto11.18.21 Security
This week, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (AFCE) holds its annual International Fraud Awareness Week from November 14–20, 2021. The ACFE is the world’s largest anti-fraud organization and works with its partners to provide training and prevention education.
Blog 6 Ways to Boost Your Smartphones

6 Ways to Boost Your Smartphone's Security

By: American Heritage10.07.21 Security
Your smartphone is a fantastic tool. Where else can you stay in touch with friends, make a work call, manage your checking account, and book a vacation – all while on the go? These portable devices make everyday tasks quick and easy, but they certainly carry with them some risk. After all, they’re often used to enter or view personal and financial information, making them prime targets for identity theft and phone scamming.
Blog Guarding Against Debit Credit Card Fraud

Guarding Against Debit & Credit Card Fraud

By: American Heritage06.03.21 Credit Security
It’s no surprise the credit and debit cards are so popular. They’re simple, easy to use, and accepted almost everywhere. But this popularity has also made them a common target for thieves and fraudsters. In 2019 alone, more than 270,000 people fell victim to credit card fraud. The consequences can be serious, from financial loss to damage to your credit (not to mention the stress).
Blog Don't Forget These Financial Safety Tips for Travelers

Don’t Forget These Financial Safety Tips for Travelers

By: Holly Benedetto05.20.21 Security
You already know to protect your home while traveling, but there are still more precautions to take while on the go. Whether traveling domestically or abroad, your wallet and your smartphone are your lifeline. Defend them both with these key tips to help your trip go as smoothly as possible.
Boxes sitting unattended on a front porch

4 Tips to Protect Your Mail (for Travel and Every Day!)

By: Holly Benedetto05.13.21 Security Home & Mortgage
Mail theft is an issue that can leave you feeling blindsided, especially if the stolen mail contains sensitive information that puts your identity at risk. On top of that, stolen bills or statements can cause late payments or other financial headaches. Many people don’t think about protecting their mail until it’s too late, so take these proactive steps today!
Blog Member Benefits

Did You Know About these Credit Union Member Benefits?

By: Holly Benedetto03.25.21 Savings & Budgeting Security
When you join a credit union, you join a community. As a member of that community, you get a say as a shared owner of the credit union as well as a host of other benefits, like financial education, events, and discounts! Your American Heritage account comes with special member prices on tickets, insurance, and more. But did you know about these additional benefits?

Ask the Experts: Risk Management

By: Holly Benedetto03.11.21 Ask the Experts Security
In this series, we take a look at the inner workings of the Credit Union and meet some of the champions who help our members in every facet of their financial lives. This month, we met up with expert Rachel Nguyen, who leads her team in detecting and preventing fraud to protect the membership.

Life Stages: Should I Insure My Engagement Ring?

By: Holly Benedetto02.18.21 Security Culture
According to The The Knot, the average engagement ring costs $5,500. For an object designed to be worn on the hand, that’s an expensive item to go unprotected. Accidents happen. Your ring could get lost, stolen, or damaged during daily life or travel. Keep reading to learn how to secure this sentimental purchase’s safety with an insurance policy designed to protect fine jewelry.
Man sits with a laptop in his living room, decorated for the holidays

Scams to Be Aware of for Holiday 2020

By: Holly Benedetto12.03.20 Security Holiday
‘Tis the season to be careful. Amidst the holiday deals, package deliveries, and charity donations, danger lurks. No one wants to ruin their holiday cheer with a headache and a disputed credit card charge, but a little caution goes a long way. Due to current world circumstances, many are choosing to do the bulk of their shopping online this year. While avoiding the crowd can keep you safe in one way, you still need to protect yourself on the web. Here are some common scams you can expect to see this holiday.
Peaceful riverbank at sunset

What Happens to an Account when a Loved One Passes?

By: American Heritage11.05.20 Security
Beyond the emotional toll of the loss of a loved one is a list of responsibilities. While paperwork and documentation may be the last thing on your mind, it is important to settle certain matters quickly, such as managing the deceased’s bank accounts. At American Heritage, we strive to treat this sensitive topic with the respect it deserves by making the process smooth and uncomplicated. For the purposes of this article, the information provided will be written with American Heritage accounts in mind.

Can You Spot a Phishing Email? We'll Show You How

By: American Heritage10.15.20 Security
October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and it’s a good time to learn how this common scam works. When you know what phishing emails look like, you’ll be more likely to avoid failing for one – and can prevent the stress and financial harm that these scams cause.

Improve Your Account Security with These Simple Steps

By: Holly Benedetto12.12.19 Security
You have a right to privacy and having your secure information protected from prying eyes. But why is privacy so important? You may think that you have nothing to hide or that your life is not interesting enough to be kept a secret. However, a carefree mentality can lead to identity theft, stolen banking information, unauthorized account access, and more.

4 Strategies to Keep Your Information Safe and Organized in the Digital Age

By: American Heritage12.10.18 Security
At the core of American Heritage’s mission is the commitment to enhance the lives of our members by building trusted relationships. One of the ways we do this is by educating our members on financial news and other potential factors that may impact their financial health. That’s why, we’ve focused the following blog on the very timely news regarding the state of financial security in today’s digital age, along with a few recommended strategies on how our members can keep their information safe.

 

 

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