Due to complications arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, over 26 million Americans have recently filed for unemployment benefits (including a record 22 million Americans in the 4 weeks leading up to April 11), and even more are expected to file in the coming weeks. The record-smashing number of filings have slowed down filing websites and… Read more »
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) has released an advisory regarding a recent rise in medical scams related to COVID-19. The fraudulent activity centers around fake medical products and services, non-delivery scams, and price gouging of medical items. Fraudulent Medical Products Examples of fraudulent medical products and services related to COVID-19 may include false claims… Read more »
World Password Day is the first Thursday in May every year, and it serves as a great reminder to check in on the strength of all of your passwords. You may already know that it’s a good idea to update the password to your online banking account once every couple of months, but it’s equally… Read more »
A Message From The Federal Trade Commission Regarding Coronavirus Scams: “As the Coronavirus takes a growing toll on people’s pocketbooks, there are reports that the government will soon be sending money by check or direct deposit to each of us. The details are still being worked out, but there are a few really important things… Read more »
The vulnerability and anxiety spreading alongside the Coronavirus (COVID-19) present an opportunity for cybercriminals. Over the last few weeks, there’s been an increase in social engineering and phishing campaigns targeting Americans, and Coronavirus-themed phishing kits have emerged for sale on the Dark Web. Taking advantage of widespread fear, cybercriminals have launched fake websites made to… Read more »
The Federal Trade Commission recently released new data about fake check scams. Here’s what we learned: Fake Check Scam Facts Complaints about fake check scams increased 65% since 2015. In 2019, over 27,000 fake check scams were reported resulting in over $28 million in losses. Individual median losses were $1,988. People in their 20’s were… Read more »
A credit card skimmer is a portable device that attaches on top or in front of a legitimate scanner. The skimmer passively records your card data when you insert your card in the real scanner. Card thieves often temporarily attach these skimmers to gas pumps or ATMs. Check out the tips below and exercise caution… Read more »
NEW SCAM ALERT: Beware of fraudulent calls claiming to be from the Social Security Administration. Never provide your social security number or other private information to someone over the phone. These types of scams can take on many forms. Today, a PVB employee received a voicemail from someone claiming to be from the Social… Read more »
Traveling in style means traveling secure. These cybersecurity tips from Homeland Security can help keep your information safe while you’re on the go this summer. 9 Cybersecurity Tips for Traveling Before You Hit the Road… Update Your Phone Software In addition to being our lifeline to friends, family, and most of the world,… Read more »
With summer soon arriving, many of us are gearing up for trips and vacations. Here are some tips from the Federal Trade Commission to help ensure you have a scam-free vacation. Research A good place to start is asking friends and family for recommendations on travel agencies, vacation rentals, hotels, and packages. Next, Google the… Read more »