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May 2008
Welcome to the online version of Housecalls. This version will be updated monthly and will keep you connected with important information and financial tips.
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Holiday Closings
Memorial Day
Monday, May 26
Independence Day
Friday, July 4
Protect yourself from “PHISHING”
What is it?
"Phishing" is a form of Internet piracy. It's pronounced "fishing" and that's exactly
what these thieves are doing: they're "fishing" for your personal financial information.
The thieves will act as if they are representing your institution and try to "hook" you
into providing personal information. They can dupe you into providing your social
security number, financial account numbers, PIN's, passwords, mother's maiden names and other personal information and use them to access your checking account or run up bills on your credit cards.
How do I protect myself?
Phishing attempts targeted against credit unions and their members are increasing
in numbers and sophistication. From time to time even the most vigilant member may
click on a link that looks very authentic and then find themselves at a phishing site.
There is a FREE and simple way credit union members can prevent this.
anti-phishing tool bar. It will appear under their normal default browser toolbar.
In the event they accidentally try to connect to a phishing site, the tool bar will block them and give a warning so that they can cancel the connection request before they compromise their personal information.
How do I tell if an e-mail message is fraudulent?
Here are a few phrases to look for if you think an e-mail message is a phishing scam.
"Verify your account."
Businesses should not ask you to send passwords, login names, Social Security
numbers, or other personal information through e-mail.
If you receive an e-mail from Microsoft asking you to update your credit card information, do not respond: this is a phishing scam.
"If you don't respond within 48 hours, your account will be closed."
These messages convey a sense of urgency so that you'll respond immediately without thinking. Phishing e-mail might even claim that your response is required because your account might have been compromised.
"Dear Valued Customer."
Phishing e-mail messages are usually sent out in bulk and often do not contain your
first or last name.
"Click the link below to gain access to your account."
HTML-formatted messages can contain links or forms that you can fill out just as you'd fill out a form on a Web Site. The links that you are urged to click may contain all or part of a real company's name and are usually "masked," meaning that the link you see does not take you to that address but somewhere different, usually a phony Web Site.
For more information on “Phishing”, call us at 407-826-5005 or 866-687-5005, toll free.
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Fake Check Scams
What is a fake check scam?
It's a fast-growing fraud that could cost you thousands of dollars. There are many types of fake check scams, but it all starts when someone gives you a realistic-looking check or money order and asks you to send cash somewhere in return. It's phony, and so is the person's story, but that may take weeks to discover. Now your bank wants the money back. However, just because you can get the cash doesn't mean the check or money order is good. Ultimately, you are responsible for the checks or money orders you deposit or cash. That's how the scam works.
What are the warning signs?
New variations of fake check scams constantly pop up, but in each case they give you a realistic-looking check or money order and ask you to send cash in return.
- Scammers befriend you and ask you to cash a check or money order as a favor.
- They want to buy something that you are selling and send a check or money order for more than you are asking.
- They hire you to work at home and ask you to deposit checks or money orders in your account s part of your job. Sometimes they have you open a new account for the "business", but you're still responsible for any checks you deposit.
- They send you a check or money order as an "advance" on the millions that you're going to receive from a sweepstakes, lottery, or inheritance.
- They offer you a foreign business deal and send you a check or money order as an advance on your profits.
Why can’t my bank, credit union or the check cashing service tell if the check or money order is good?
- Then you deposit a check or money order, federal law requires you to have access to the funds within one to five days, but the actual processing takes longer.
- Banks, credit unions, and check cashing services accept checks and money orders based on your identification. They don't have any information about the source.
- Because the check or money order goes back to the source, it can take a while for counterfeits to be discovered. For instance, if a check seems to come from a business account, the business may not learn about it until it appears on the next bank statement.
- You're responsible because you're in the best position to determine the risk of accepting the check or money order-you dealt with the person who gave it to you.
How can I prevent becoming a victim?
- Think about it. There is not legitimate reason why anyone would give you a check or money order and ask you to send cash anywhere in return.
- Ne aware that just because you can get the cash quickly-usually in one to five days-doesn't mean the check or money order is good. Crooks take advantage of the fact that counterfeits can take weeks-even months-to discover. By then you've sent the money and have to pay it back to your bank.
- Only cash a check or money order for a close relative or someone you've met in person and known for a long time, since you'll be responsible if it's phony.
What can I do?
You can be a fraud fighter by spreading the word to everyone you know – your family and friends, the people with whom you work or go to school, the people that attend your place of worship, the people you chat with online, the members of clubs or other groups to which you belong. Remember the warning signs of fake check scams to prevent becoming a victim. Share the links to the videos and tests on this website and encourage friends and family to pass the word along.
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Auto Advisors Link
Auto Advisors is proud to announce the official launch of the newest feature of the Auto Advisor Program...Auto Advisors Direct!
Auto Advisors Directt ( www.autoadvisorsdirect.com ) allows you to shop for a vehicle from the convenience of your home or office, without walking on a dealer's lot! This link does not provide direct contact with the dealer, nor does it feature any financing options. If you find a vehicle you are interested in simply contact our Auto Advisors contact, Dan Burns at 407-267-1065 and don’t forget to get pre-approved for financing which you can do 24 hours a day by clicking here.
This new feature is also available by going to, www.autoadvisors.com, and by clicking on the Auto Advisors Direct logo on the left hand column or by simply clicking here: www.autoadvisorsdirect.com. It is that simple.
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Phishing Scam
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A recent phishing email appearing to be from the National Credit Union Administration(NCUA), is targeting consumers and their fear of security relating to the recent TJX Companies data breach. The false email discusses the TJX Companies data breach, which was made public in January. The breach incidents spanned periods from 2003 through 2006. The phish email gives the wrong dates for the breach and says Visa notified NCUA in January about the breach.
The notice warns that "magnetic strip information was being stored and you PIN may have been captured" and "strongly" urges NCUA's members to update their information within the next 48 hours.
This false e-mail asked for the recipient to click on a link to verify their credit union account registration. If the recipient proceeded to do so, the link directed them to a false website and asked for their credit union account number and PIN, along with other personal information.
If you responded to such an e-mail and provided any confidential account information, please notify your credit union immediately of the scheme. You should also change your account’s PIN, and take any additional action recommended by your credit union to protect your account.
If you receive an unsolicited e-mail alleging to be from the NCUA, take the following steps:
- Remember that NCUA does not ask credit union members for personal account information.
- Anyone who has received a fraudulent phishing e-mail purportedly from NCUA should forward the entire e-mail message to Phishing@ncua.gov.
- Do not open any attachments to the e-mail, in case they contain malicious code that will infect your computer.
- If you have received this, or a similar hoax, please file a complaint at www.ic3.gov.
- If you have been victimized by a spoofed e-mail or web site, you should contact your local law enforcement, US Postal Inspector, or FBI.
For more information on phishing please click on following link:http://www.antiphishing.org
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What is Credit Freezing and is it Good for You?
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In 2006, more than 17,000 Floridians became victims of identity theft. Starting July 1, you can now help protect yourself from identity theft by asking the credit bureaus for a “freeze” on your credit, which prevents credit bureaus from disclosing your credit scores, history or any information without your permission. The credit freeze locks the data at the bureaus until you give permission for the release of the data. Credit freezes are frequently viewed as the most effective way to prevent financial identity theft. Once it is in place, a credit freeze is a complete block that could hamper your own access to your report. With a frozen credit report, you might not be able to take out a loan or get instant credit at a retail store or obtain a cell phone contract.
To learn more about credit freezing and if it is right for you, contact CCCS at 1-800-741-7040 or at www.cccsfl.org.
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Check 21 and You
Check clearing is now more efficient. The Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act (passed 10/24/2004) permits quicker processing of checks by allowing the receiving financial institutions to treat an electronic image the same as the check itself. This new ability is called Check 21.
With Check 21, financial institutions can now implement the efficiency of electronic transmission by taking a picture of the check or creating a legal "substitute check," then transferring it electronically. This new efficiency offers the following benefits:
- Checks clear faster
- Security is increased
- Check fraud is decreased
- Check processing costs less
Members who request or receive an original check can expect to begin receiving substitute checks. The substitute check will contain an image of the original check and will bear the legend: "This is a legal copy of your check. You can use it the same way you would an original check." Substitute checks are the legal equivalent of an original check for all purposes, including any provision of federal or state law. Check 21 significantly reduces the amount of time required to move the money out of your account and pay recipients of your checks. This means your checks clear more quickly, and you'll need to keep closer tabs on your accounts to ensure funds are available on time. For more information on Check 21, call us at 407-826-5005.
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What You Need to Know About Long Term Care Costs
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We all dream about a comfortable life in retirement. But there is a 50/50 chance that you will need some form of long term care during your lifetime. 1 You are 120 times more likely to need long term care than to be involved in an automobile accident. 2 LongTerm Care is expensive. The average nursing home costs more than $55,000 per year. 3 By 2007, that cost is expected to rise to $94,000 per year. 4 A recent study by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)5 found that 45% of Americans age 45 and older do not know how much long term care costs. Further, 55% mistakenly believe that Medicare will cover nursing home or home health care costs (it only covers short term stays). Others believe that Medicaid will rescue them from the high cost of long term care. But Medicaid only begins to pay for long term care once you have exhausted our own assets and savings. 6 Plus Medicaid may restrict your options when it comes to choosing the type and location of care you will receive. What can you do to protect yourself, your spouse and your family? Long term care insurance programs are available to provide funding for home health care visits, assisted living facilities and nursing home stays. This lets you preserve your savings and retirement income. Long term care insurance also lets you make your own decision on which type of care is best for you or your
spouse- a skilled nursing facility or care in your own home. Now is the time for you to find out more about this important part of planning for a secure future. For more information about long term care insurance that is available through your credit union, call toll-free (800) 443-6003 or click here.
1. Americans for Long Term Care Security, 2001
2. Underwriter's LTC Council, 2000
3. National Underwriter Magazine, 1999
4. American Academy of Long Term Care Insurance Professionals, 2001
5. AARP, 2001
6. Health Care Financing Administration, 1998
Insurance sold through league Insurance Agency in Connecticut and Member Protection Insurance Plan, Inc in other states. LIA & MPIP are subsidiaries of CUNA Mutual group. Similar products may be purchased from an agent or company of your choice. Not federally insured and not underwritten or guaranteed by the credit union.
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 Beneficial for You- the Credit Union Advantage
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Beneficial for You- the Credit Union Advantage is a new service offered to our members in partnership with Consumer Credit Counseling Service* (CCCS), the original credit counseling service that has served Florida for over 30 years.
The Beneficial for You partnership offers you credit counseling services by a trusted organization. The following assistance is available:
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Debt Management Programs - review your options, and even provide a structured repayment plan.
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Credit Score Analysis-review your report with you, maiking sure you know your rights.
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Money Management Counseling - take a closer look at your spending and savings plan, and develope a plan of action to meet your goals.
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Housing Counseling - first homebuyer seminars and learn about homebuyer assistance programs.
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Identity Theft Solutions - avoid becoming a victim of identity theft, or to recover is damage has already been done.
Some members who access credit counseling under the Beneficial for You partnership will experience a new beginning towards financial wellness while others will simply access helpful resources to reinforce their financial well-being. These and other services are available to HealthCare FCU members for free or at a reduced cost. To receive the free or reduced cost benefits of this service, please acknowledge that you are a member of HealthCare FCU.
For more information about Beneficial for You, visit
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CCCS of Central Florida and the Florida Gulf Coast, Inc. is a nonprofit United way agency that provides confidential counseling, debt reduction and financial literacy education. CCCS is a Florida-based agency that has helped millions regain financial stability for more than 30 years. It is a member of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), the oldest established national credit counseling member organization in the United States. CCCS ranks among the top 15 largest agencies in NFCC serving 18 counties in Florida. CCCS' mission is to "help people achieve financial wellness." Accredited through the Council on Accreditation, CCCS is recognized by the Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide home ownership, foreclosure prevention, predatory lending, and other housing counseling and education. Counseling services are provided by certified counselors via phone, in-person, and the Internet. In addition, financial literacy and consumer education presentations (Identity Theft, Budgeting, Credit, First Time Homebuyers, etc.) are conducted throughout the service area. CCCS provided over 1,000 presentations to more than 22,000 Floridians in 2005.www.beneficialforyou.org.
At the website, you will find helpful debt reducing calculators, interesting articles and New Beginning, the CCCS newsletter. Also, confidential face-to-face telephone appointments may be scheduled online or by calling 1-888-999-1794. Do not forget to inform CCCS that you are a HealthCare FCU member to receive free or reduced cost benefits.
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 FREE Credit Report
| As of June 2005, Floridians can now request free credit reports by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com.
This central site allows you to request a free credit file disclosure, commonly called a credit report, once every 12 months from each of the nationwide consumer credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
This free credit file can also be requested by directly contacting the three credit reporting companies.
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Beware of Jury Duty Scams!
There is a new emerging threat with in the realm of identity theft. It's known as the jury duty scam or duty jury scam. The fraudster or criminal may call you claiming her or she is working for your local or district court. They will then state that you've failed to report for mandatory jury duty. The fraudster or scammer will then tell you that a warrant has now been issued for your arrest. The victim of the duty jury scam then tries to tell the scammer that they never received the jury duty notification in person or via mail.
To clear it up, the caller will then ask the victim for some information for "verification purposes"-your birth date, social security number, maybe even a credit card number.
Although this duty jury scam has only recently appeared is known to have been successful across the United States. If we look at the scam closely we can easily see why it is successful. The first important step in any scam is to catch the victim off guard. This is obvious by telling the victim that there has been a warrant issued for their arrest. As a result the victim is less likely to be careful and protective regarding their confidential information. Of course, court workers never call and to ask for any personal information over the phone. This information would include social security numbers, bank account information, credit card information, etc.
The duty jury scam is the latest scam under the cloak of identity theft. Never give out your personal information unless you know person you are dealing with.
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Your online banking security has always been a top priority.
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Now, we're implementing an additional layer of security to protect you from fraud. Introducing new Enhanced Login Security, a free and easy way to help prevent fraud. Sign up once and you're all set. It's that simple-the next time you log in, it's business as usual. And the rest of your online banking experience will remain exactly the same.
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Superior Technology Means Maximum Security
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This superior security technology protects your identity from whatever computer you're using, whether at home, at the office, or on the go. It identifies you as the true "owner" of your accounts by recognizing no only you password, but your computer as well. If your computer isn't recognized by us-you've logged in from a public computer or one you haven't used before-we'll ask you challenge questions as an additional line of defense to prevent unauthorized access. Your identity is protected, and you peace of mind? At ease.
For questions or more information, call us toll free at 866-687-5005.
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Health Savings Accounts
FAQ's about Health Savings Accounts
The Health Savings Accounts (HSA) is an account designed to offset healthcare costs and provide tax advantages to those that qualify.
Who is eligible for an HSA?
Individuals under the age of 65, covered under a "high deductible" health plan and are NOT eligible for coverage under their spouse's non-high deductible insurance plan.
What is a high deductible plan?
A high deductible plan is one that has a minimum deductible of $1,100 for an individual and $2,200 for a family. With a $5,600 out of pocket cap for individuals and $11,200 out of pocket cap for families.
How much can an individual contribute to their HSA?
Individuals can contribute up to 100% of their annual deductible, but cannot exceed $2,900 for an individual and $5,800 for a family.
Who can make contributions? Is it limited to the account holder?
No, it's not limited. The account holder, an employer or any other family member can make contributions. If you are unsure whether you meet the qualifications for an HSA, please check with your employer's benefits department.
Your Credit Union offers Health Savings Accounts. To open one or for more information call us
toll free at 1-866-687-5005.
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How to take control of your next vehicle purchase
Many credit union members ask how to shorten the car buying experience, make it more pleasant, less confusing and less painful. As a member we make it easy for you:
Simply call Auto Advisors- our in-house car buying experts- who provide a free car buying and information service to you- our members. Many of you , however; still want to follow the process and want to understand all of the decisions you'll have to make when purchasing a new or used vehicle. The following steps will help guide you through the this process and will help you Take Control of Your Next Vehicle Purchase!
Step 1- Getting Pre-Approved
Arranging your financing through your credit union BEFORE going to a dealership is crucial to taking control of your purchase. There is no other single step you can take that will save you more time and money! Why? Credit Unions offer extremely competitive interest rates on their auto loans; in fact they have some of the lowest rates in the nation today. What does this mean? This means that once you are pre-approved through your Credit Union, you know how much you can afford to spend, the interest rate, the term of the loan and most importantly- the monthly payment!
Step 2- Finding out about GAP Insurance and Extended Warranties
While you're getting your loan approved, be sure to ask your Member Service Representative the price schedule for GAP ( Guaranteed Asset Protection) and the cost and terms of our Extended Warranty offerings.
Why? Because Credit Unions offer the lowest prices on these products which can save you anywhere from 30% to 50% off dealer prices for similar products. How? Credit Unions sell these products at very little to no mark-up! The savings is passed on to you.
What is GAP insurance? If your vehicle is stolen or declared a total loss by your insurance company, GAP insurance makes up the difference between what you owe on your vehicle and what the insurance company pays you for the present day value of your vehicle. If you purchase a new or used vehicle, and finance it, we highly recommend you have this coverage.
Step 3- Doing Your Homework in the Comfort of Your Home
There is no substitute for doing research on the vehicle you wish to purchase. Before going to a dealership, narrow down the selection of what you want to buy. The fewer choices you need to see and test drive, the shorter your visit will be. If you have numerous models you wish to drive, go with the intention of test driving and be sure to disclose this when you arrive, but do not buy anything until you've completed Steps 1 and 2. It is also imperative that you understand where invoice pricing starts on the vehicle you have selected and check on the Internet or check the ads in your local newspaper for discounts and rebates, etc. The less you know, the more you will spend.
The Final Word
Remember, if you decide to undertake a car purchase without the assistance of our in-house experts- Auto Advisors- go prepared and go with your Credit Union pre-approval in hand. Avoid financing at the dealer if at all possible. When you control your financing, you control your purchase!
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