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Senior couple reviewing online security

Don't Get Scammed Online: Spot the Signs

By: American Heritage09.26.24 Security
We spend a lot of time on our screens — working, playing, shopping, and, of course, banking. Cybercriminals know this and are constantly crafting new ways to access our sensitive information. In this blog, you'll learn about some common financial scams and other social engineering tactics that cyber bad guys use and how to avoid being scammed.
A young girl with sunglasses playing in the pool with her mother

Vacation Money Tips for a Safe Trip

By: American Heritage07.03.24 Culture Security
Summer means vacations—at home or abroad—but managing your finances while traveling can sometimes be challenging. Luckily, a variety of tools and services are available to help you keep track of your finances so you can enjoy a worry-free getaway. We’ll show you how to manage your money, save time, and protect your accounts while you’re away from home.
Women inserting debit card into ATM.

Combat Fraud and Scams Using These Helpful Tactics

By: American Heritage 05.09.24 Security
At American Heritage, we are continually looking for ways to provide our members with educational resources and tips that can aid in fighting frauds and scams, including card skimming. Members have access to various account tools to protect themselves against the ongoing and increased scam activity. Tools and digital services available to members include Mobile Teller card controls, eAlerts for each card transaction, and on-demand educational content on the Learning Center.
Closeup of person's hands counting cash

The Best Way to Carry and Keep Cash

By: American Heritage11.30.23 Security
Do people still carry cash? The answer is a resounding YES. While most transactions can be handled with your digital wallet, credit card, or debit card, cash is still useful, especially in an emergency, when digital or card payment options might not be available. As with most things in life, it’s smart to be prepared. Let’s look at how much cash you should have on hand and how to keep it safe.
Smiling young family looking at candy and Christmas presents

Tips For Keeping Your Money Safe This Holiday Season

By: American Heritage11.16.23 Holiday Security
‘Tis the season to be wary. The holidays are a busy time for shoppers, travelers, and helping hands. Unfortunately, the cold weather months are also when scammers turn up the heat. A recent study found that nearly one in four Americans have fallen prey to fraud during the holidays. In this article, we’ll cover seven costly scams that are currently on the rise and offer a few tips for staying safe.
Closeup of a man's hands while he holds his open wallet

Federally Backed Finances: The NCUA, Credit Unions & You

By: American Heritage10.12.23 Security Policy & Economy
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?

Common Scams Targeting Credit Cards

By: American Heritage09.21.23 Security Credit
More than 150 million Americans were victims of credit card fraud last year, according to this 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.
password blog

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
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?

 

 

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