Financial Fundamentals Blog

Identity theft is the use of another person’s personal information, such as their name, address and Social Security Number (SSN) for personal gain. Identity theft can create many problems for those affected, including a decline in credit scores and finances. Those affected by identity theft may feel anxiety about their future...

It’s important to be proactive and keep your credit card information safe year-round to avoid identity theft. While safeguarding your credit cards often comes down to common sense, fraudsters are always on the hunt for passwords and PINs. If fraudsters are successful in gaining your personal information, it can prove to be...

Holiday shopping is in full swing, and with it comes the increased potential to fall victim to holiday season fraud. Keep your safety and security a priority by unwrapping our fraud prevention tips below.

7 17 Credit Union is committed to providing our members with the safest online and mobile banking experience that we can by implementing the most sophisticated security technology. But we can’t do it alone. We want you, our members, to be aware of the measures you can take to safeguard your information. While we’ve compiled a...

Fraudsters are leveraging fears over the coronavirus (COVID-19) as an opportunity to scam financial institutions and individuals. Scams include phony websites, fake Go-Fund me accounts and phone calls and text messages that ask for personal information. While the best way to protect yourself is to remain vigilant, we’ve compiled some tips to help you safeguard your personal information.

Fraud is on the rise, and there are so many different ways the scammers try to take advantage of people. Learn about the most popular scams and how to recognize the warning signs. Staying vigilant is the best way to protect yourself.

Knowing the signs of elder financial abuse can help protect yourself or your loved ones. Seniors are increasingly becoming targets for financial abuse. People over the age of 50 control over 70 percent of the nation’s wealth, and fraudsters are using new tactics to take advantage of the growing number of older Americans. Senior abuse is estimated to have cost victims at least $2.9 billion in the last year alone.

In 2018, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reported that tax-related identity theft is on the decline. Even though its numbers are dropping, you should still be aware of it. With tax time rapidly approaching, let’s look at its signs and what you can do to protect yourself.

They might sound cute and clever, but phishing, vishing and smishing are anything but that. Let’s take a look at these common attempts to steal your personal information and how you can protect yourself.

The National Retail Foundation (NRF) estimates that America’s retail sales are set to hit between $717 billion and $720 billion this Holiday season. It’s prime shopping season not just for those who want to make the season joyous for their friends and family, but also for those fraudsters looking to take advantage of the giving spirit. Here’s what to keep your eye on as the Holidays approach.
 

Feeling the pressure of the Holidays already? Don’t worry, we have some tips on how online and mobile banking can truly make the Holidays the most wonderful time of the year.