Author Archives: Business Development Rep Samantha

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this December 2024

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We can’t think of anything more jolly than free or inexpensive family activities happening in the community this holiday season. Although the temperatures might be dropping, grab your friends and family (and winter coats) to enjoy the countless festive events throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties this December.

December 3

Tree Lighting (Freehold) – Stop by the Annual Christmas Tree lighting at the Hall of Records from 5pm-7pm, with a rain date of Wednesday, December 4th. Not only will there be a free choir performance and hot cider, but the Freehold Fire Department may stop by with a very special holiday guest! Additional information can be found here.

December 4

The Village at Anne Ellen (Manalapan) – Every Wednesday to Sunday through December 30th, Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm is creating a magical and enchanting winter wonderland between 5pm-9pm. A nostalgic hayride through Anne Ellen’s Christmas tree fields will captivate you with a 400,000 holiday light show and conclude by dropping you off at a bustling holiday village with houses and displays. Various shops among the quaint village offer you the chance to wrap up some of your holiday shopping, too! Tickets are $22 per adult and $12 per child ages 3-12 and can only be purchased online. You can learn how to embark on this mesmerizing holiday adventure and purchase tickets here.

December 5

Festival of Trees (Toms River) – Toms River Elks #1875 is welcoming everyone to a gala-style display of beautifully decorated trees and holiday decor from 5pm-9pm. As you walk through the display of trees and Dr. Seuss inspired decorations, you can enjoy the S’mores Bar, light fare and beverages, children’s activities, and a live performance by the Toms River Orchestra. Santa will also be in the house! Admission is free, and more information can be found here.

December 6

Asbury Park Holiday Bazaar will take place every weekend (12pm-5pm), including Fridays (3pm-8pm), at Convention Hall and Asbury Park Hotel (select dates) through December 22nd. Consistently rated as one of the best holiday markets in New Jersey, this bazaar will feature handcrafted goods and unique holiday gifts made by vendors from far and wide. Aside from shopping, you and your crew can enjoy photos with Santa, craft workshops, activities for your youngsters, holiday music, and more. Admission is free for all ages. Click here to learn more.

Seaport Holiday Boat Rides (Tuckerton) – Tuckerton Seaport is spreading holiday cheer with one-hour long narrated boat tours on various days through December 21st. The holiday fun doesn’t stop after you learn about holiday traditions of the past and present on your ride through Tuckerton Creek—there are plenty of activities to enjoy once you are back on land. Your admission includes holiday displays, make and take craft areas, an outdoor reindeer scavenger hunt, and more. Admission is $16 per person, and Tuckerton Seaport will welcome those ages 2 and older “aboard.” To learn more information and purchase tickets, click here.

December 7

Holiday Fun with Santa (Neptune) – Stop by the Summerfield Elementary School cafeteria between 10:30am-12pm to enjoy holiday fun with a special guest from the North Pole. Admission is free and can help get you in the holiday spirit with a DJ, dancing, arts and crafts, and pictures with Santa. Learn more here.

Winter Wonderland (Toms River) – Bring your friends and family to Washington Street between 11am-5pm to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year! Enjoy family activities, crafts – including ornament painting, holiday music and stories, as well as caroling in Downtown Toms River. For more information, click here.

December 8

Barnyard Celebration (Howell) – Grab your friends and family for a magical afternoon of celebrating Christmas at Liberty Haven Farm from 1pm-4pm. Admission is $10 for adults and $15 for children, with all proceeds benefiting special causes, including providing for their farm animals. Included in admission are pictures with Santa, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, family-friendly games, and donut decorating. Certain activities have an additional cost – including pony rides, face painting, and feeding the animals. You can find additional information and purchase event tickets ahead of time here.

Christmas at Allaire (Wall) – On December 8th and 15th from 11am-4pm, join the Historical Village at Allaire for a day of family fun. Arriving at the Historical Village promises to be like stepping into the North Pole—from visits with Santa to stepping back in time to celebrate among live carolers, you are sure to get in the holiday spirit. Tickets are $10 for those ages 2 and older, and includes a visit with Santa, crafts, games, admission to all buildings on site, and more. To find additional information and purchase tickets, click here.

Holiday Market (Howell) – Visit Echo Lake Park from 10am-2pm for a shopping experience that promises to bring you some holiday cheer! This holiday market is bringing together a variety of local vendors, giving you the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind gifts for anyone on your “nice list.” Additional information can be found here.

December 12

Old Fashioned Christmas (Wall) – Allaire Community Farm is turning their farm into a life-sized seasonal village once again, and you can visit Thursdays-Sundays from 4pm-8pm through December 29th. Sporting thousands of holiday lights, visits with Santa, a Model Train House, petting zoos, and more—you’ll truly feel like you are at the North Pole. Tickets must be purchased at the door, with admission costing $10 per adult and $6 per child 18 and under. Click here for more pricing and event details.

December 15

Pine Barren Bonfires (Freehold) – Warm up around a bonfire at Turkey Swamp Park from 6-8pm. The park will be lit up by a full moon as you enjoy games and s’mores around the fire. Admission costs $15 per family of four and can be paid with cash or check, and those under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. You can find additional information here.

December 20

Holiday Evening Stroll (Wall) – Use one of your last chances to get into the holiday spirit by taking a stroll at the Historic Village at Allaire between 6-9pm. Aside from a tree lighting at 7pm, you can wander through the Allaire Village paths to view the lit-up exteriors of their various historic buildings. Additionally, the Allaire Bakery and General Store will be open in case you’re looking for some odds and ends to tie up your holiday shopping. Admission is $10 per person, and free for those ages 2 and under. Click here for additional information and to purchase tickets.

December 22

Brunch with Santa (Freehold) will take place at the American Hotel from 10am-3pm. Santa will be making a guest appearance, so be sure to bring your wish lists and an empty stomach to enjoy the various brunch specialties. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (732) 431-3220.

December 26

Menorah Lighting (Howell) – The Howell Municipal Building will have a Menorah Lighting beginning at 5:30pm. In addition to lighting the Menorah, there will be free hot drinks and pastries for all who attend. Additional information can be found here.

December 27

Christmas Train Village (Spring Lake) – Come down to Duggan Hall on Washington Avenue from 12pm-5pm through December 31st to view the holiday train display. The holiday train display encapsulates the holiday spirit, and with admission being free-of-charge—you won’t find a more inexpensive way to stay merry this month! You can find more information here.

December 31

Twilight Fun Run/Walk & Party (Manasquan) – Think about your New Year’s Resolutions for 2025 over a fun 2.5 mile run or walk, starting at Leggett’s Sand Bar at 4pm. This event promises to help you start the New Year on a good “foot,” with a buffet and party with all participants afterward. The Twilight Fun Run costs $35 per runner/walker, or $20 for those just looking to join in on the fun at the Twilight Party afterwards. Registration and additional information can be found here.

Happy holidays to you and yours from the team at First Financial! We look forward to ringing in the new year and continuing to serve the Monmouth and Ocean County community in 2025.

There’s Deals and Then There’s Nightmares: Black Friday Scams

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As people around the United States hurriedly gobble down their Thanksgiving dinner in hopes of securing their spot in store lines, scammers are gearing up to take advantage of one of the most lucrative weeks of the year. While scammers are likely not lining up at storefronts, blending into the crowds of Black Friday deal-seekers, they are doing one thing—preying on the people who conduct their Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping online.

Here are some current scams you can protect yourself from this upcoming Cyber Week.

1. Fake Shipping Notification Emails and Text Messages

The holiday season provides the types of distractions scammers need to carry out their defrauding attempts. The FTC has urged consumers to heighten their awareness of potential fake shipping notification emails and text messages, whereby scammers capitalize on common emails or texts you might expect to see after a spree of online shopping. You might receive an email or text message saying you missed a delivery attempt, or need to update shipping preferences so that your item can be shipped to you. The email or text message will often claim to be coming from a large retailer, such as Amazon, or a courier such as USPS. However, once you click the link within the message, it will either collect the personal and financial information you enter or install harmful malware on your device.

Here are some tips for protecting yourself against fake shipping notification emails and texts:

  • If you are not expecting a package delivery: Do not click on the link or further interact with the message.
  • If you are expecting a package delivery: Contact the retailer or shipping company using a phone number or website that you know is real—never use the information contained within the message. Additionally, you can go to the site you ordered the item to check the shipping and delivery status.

2. Counterfeit Products

Although the saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” is regarded as cliché—it does have some truth to it. Picture this: an item you have been eyeing has finally slashed its price on Black Friday, but it is sold out on numerous reputable platforms. You navigate over to Amazon in hopes of finding it, and you find that not only is it in stock, but at a cheaper price point, too! There are two red flags present here, both the fact that such a sought-after item is in stock through such a high-traffic retailer and it is selling for cheaper than other reputable websites have it listed for. If you click the “Add to Cart” button and go through with purchasing the item, you’ll find that it is often counterfeit or made with low quality materials — the chief reason it was heavily discounted to begin with, and that is if you receive the item at all.

If you didn’t catch those red flags, here are some tips to prevent yourself from purchasing a counterfeit or low-quality item:

  • Remain Wary of Low-Priced Items from Unknown Brands: If a seller has an unknown name, or one that is not associated with the product, do your due diligence.
  • Read Verified Product and Seller Reviews: If a seller doesn’t have reviews or their products have few, if any, ratings and verified reviews – steer clear. The same goes the opposite way — stay away from products or sellers that have an unusual number of 5-star ratings without detailed comments.

3. Website Spoofing

When you look up your go-to online shop, you expect that it will be one of the first few results due to its popularity, and how often you visit it (no shame there)! When you add items to your cart and provide your personal and financial information during checkout, you probably don’t think twice when you click “Place Order.” Maybe it was after the fact that you thought something seemed a little off, such as an outdated user interface or incorrect grammar. You might have fallen victim to website spoofing, where a scammer creates a fraudulent website that mimics the real website you intended to visit, stealing the information you entered or downloading malicious software onto your device.

Here are some ways to spot website spoofing before your personal and financial information falls right into the lap of a scammer:

  • Incorrect Spelling and Grammar: Businesses often hire entire teams dedicated to webpage design to ensure that so much as a comma is not out of place. If you are noticing even a few incorrect spelling or grammar choices, the website you are visiting is likely not the intended one.
  • Marketing is Inconsistent: Strong and consistent branding is key to successful marketing, and professional organizations will ensure that the business name is spelled correctly, slogans and taglines are always consistent, and brand colors are never a hue off.
  • Unsecure Site: Ensure the site you are visiting has a “lock” or green icon next to the URL, as well as https:// in the URL. This is often a solid piece of evidence indicating that the website is legitimate, since it means the link is encrypted and your sensitive information is protected. However, browsers can be deceived as well — so consider this factor in addition to others when determining if a website is legitimate.

While scams can come in all shapes and sizes, here are some general tips that can help protect you from many scams this upcoming Cyber Week:

  • Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi Whenever Possible: Whether while making purchases, or entering your personal or financial information online.
  • Credit Cards > Debit Cards: Credit cards generally offer more fraud protection than a debit card, and credit card purchases aren’t deducted right from your checking account.
  • Strong Passwords Make All the Difference: Avoid using the same password for any two accounts, and make sure it is a password that would be hard for a scammer to crack.
  • Ensure Your Software is Up to Date: Device, app, and software updates often push out the latest and greatest protections, minimizing vulnerabilities that scammers can try to take advantage of.

First Financial is here to help if you believe your personal or financial information, or one of your First Financial accounts has been compromised. Don’t hesitate to contact us at 732.312.1500 or visit one of our local branches. Stay safe when shopping this holiday season!

Yes – People are Still Falling Victim to eBay Scams

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In a day and age where consumers report at least $10 billion of fraud related losses per year, it is more important now than ever to equip yourself with the tools to detect potential fraud before it happens to you. The FTC revealed that not only did consumers report a 14% increase in fraud related losses, but that online shopping issues were the second most reported category of fraud in 2023. With that in mind, an online shopping and auction platform such as eBay is no stranger to the prevalence of fraud occurring in their online space. Even though it may not be as popular as it once was, surprisingly individuals are still falling victim to eBay scams. If you weren’t aware, eBay is an online marketplace that brings buyers and sellers together to conduct online transactions. With 132 million active buyers worldwide – shopping 2.1 billion seller listings, it comes as no shock that scammers find eBay a lucrative environment to find victims. Look out for these common eBay scams, as well as red flags that can alert you to potential scams, to protect yourself and your wallet if you buy or sell on the platform.

Common eBay Scams

While this is not an all-inclusive list of scams you can expect to see on eBay, these are some of the most common to watch out for.

  • You Send Payment and the Seller Takes Your Money: This one is exactly what it sounds like; you pay for an item on eBay, and never receive the item from the seller. eBay has a Money Back Guarantee program in the case of an unresponsive seller shipping you the incorrect item, or no item at all. However, there are certain eligibility requirements that must be met to take advantage of this guarantee. For example, you must have used approved payment methods and paid via eBay checkout in the transaction, must have attempted to contact the seller, and must have given three business days for the seller to resolve the issue. Additionally, certain items are not eligible for the Money Back Guarantee, which can be found
  • The Seller Ships with an Incorrect Name: This scam involves the fraudster preying on your “good Samaritan” mentality. In this scenario, the seller would ship the package to the correct address, but intentionally use the wrong name to make you believe you received the incorrect package. The fraudster is hoping you return the package to the post office or shipping company, as this voids eBay’s Money back Guarantee since it is considered a refused or returned package. The fraudster gets to keep your payment, and you can’t leave feedback – since it would be considered resolved.
  • Misleading/Counterfeit Listings: A misleading listing is one that entices you to believe you are receiving one thing, but you end up receiving something else – or maybe even nothing at all. The problem with misleading listings is that oftentimes the seller does include the details somewhere in the listing, but it might not be clear to buyers. A counterfeit listing is one that includes a counterfeit item that is advertised as being the real deal. Making purchases online has its downside, such as being unable to verify the authenticity of goods prior to purchase. These “knock-offs” are usually advertised at very attractive prices, so it is good practice to be wary of items that are heavily marked down when they have a much higher market value.
  • Overpayment Scams: We’ve written about overpayment scams in the past, and they’re prevalent on eBay too. In this situation you’re selling an item, and a buyer contacts you and offers you more than you are asking for the item and only if you would take a personal check. In turn, you’re only getting a giant headache in the form of a phony check that will never clear. In addition, you’ve already shipped the buyer your item which they’ll of course keep, and you’ll most likely be responsible for the bounced check or incurred fees from your bank besides.

Red Flags to Look Out For

Unfortunately, the tactics scammers employ to defraud unsuspecting people is constantly evolving. However, keeping some of these red flags top of mind – can help you detect a scam before it happens to you.

  • Short Duration Listings: eBay says to be wary of items that have only been listed for one day. While eBay says there are exceptions to this, such as tickets for an event happening that same day, fraudsters know their luck will run out the longer their item is listed for. The short duration of these listings is often paired with the fraudster expressing a sense of urgency to close the deal.
  • Heavily Discounted/Sold-Out Items: The saying, “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is,” applies on eBay, too. Be cautious of listings showing heavily discounted items, such a luxury handbag, or a popular item that has been sold out, such as the latest gaming console.
  • Sellers Wanting to Conduct Business Off eBay: Whether it’s attempting to personally contact you or enticing you to make a payment off eBay’s online platform, fraudsters know off-eBay communications get them closer to their ill-gotten gains. eBay notes that once communication is taken off their platform, your purchase will not be protected by the Money Back Guarantee. It is always a best practice to utilize eBay messages to communicate with sellers, and use approved payment methods during eBay checkout to complete your transaction.
  • Unsafe Payment Methods: eBay has been in the game a long time, making them an expert in knowing which payment methods are safe. eBay says to take caution with sellers who request payment into overseas accounts, prepaid or gift cards, or cryptocurrency – because oftentimes these transactions cannot be traced. It is always a best practice to go by the list of payment methods offered at eBay checkout. Unsafe payment methods also include personal checks or person-to-person digital payments (Venmo, Zelle, Cash app).

While this list of red flags is a good start in learning to recognize fraud, go with your gut too. Just because something isn’t online or on this list, doesn’t mean it’s not a scam. The more you educate yourself on the actions and tactics of scammers, the more you will be able to tell when something just isn’t right.

What to Do if You Believe You Fell Victim to an eBay Scam

eBay is aware of the scammers infiltrating their platform and has procedures in place to assist customers that believe they have been defrauded.

eBay has a Security Center that is dedicated to providing customers with tips and resources for protecting their information, staying safe from scammers, reporting concerns, and even reporting fraud or stolen goods to law enforcement. There is a great deal of information dedicated to staying safe from scammers, including tips on how to recognize fake emails, web pages, and scams, as well as procedures buyers and sellers should follow in conducting transactions. If you’re looking for a quick way to report a fraudulent seller directly to eBay, click here.

At First Financial, we’re always thinking first about how to best protect the personal and financial information of our valued members. If you ever come across anything suspicious on any of your First Financial accounts, or want assistance in determining if an offer, website, or service is legitimate – give us a buzz. Don’t hesitate to contact our member services department at 732-312-1500 or visit one of our local branches.

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this November 2024

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Although your Thanksgiving feast is around the corner, we want you to feast your eyes on these free or inexpensive activities to enjoy with your family and friends this November. We hope this list gives you some ways to spice up the month amidst all the holiday preparation!

November 1

Legends & Lore Boat Tour (Tuckerton) – If you haven’t quite been spooked this Halloween, you have another chance by visiting Tuckerton Seaport for a Halloween-themed, family-friendly boat ride along Tuckerton Creek starting at 4pm. Admission is $16 per person, and includes a narrated boat tour of hauntings and legends of the Jersey Shore and Pinelands, admission to the museum buildings (including climbing the lighthouse), crafts in the Folklife Center, a pumpkin decoration station, and more. With all these activities, you won’t want to miss it—and you have opportunities all weekend long through November 3rd at 5pm. For an all-inclusive list of available times and purchasing tickets, click here.

November 2

Fall Fest & Fishing Tournament (Manahawkin) – Join the Maximilian Foundation at Manahawkin Elks Lodge #2340 from 12pm-6pm for their 8th annual Fall Fest & Fishing Tournament. Enjoy the crisp autumn air with your loved ones by checking out craft vendors, local bands, a magician act, a bouncy house for little ones, and more! Admission is free for all ages, and you can learn more here.

Hoofy’s Fall Fest (Barnegat) will be held in the field adjacent to the Barnegat Volunteer Fire Company Station 11 from 11am-7pm, with a rain date of Sunday, November 3rd. There are countless family friendly activities to enjoy – such as a cornhole tournament, children’s inflatables, live music, food trucks, and more. Admission is $10 per person. Additional information can be found here.

Jersey Devil Show (Waretown) – To celebrate New Jersey’s favorite urban legend, Albert Music Hall is hosting a night of haunting music, with doors opening at 5pm and performers taking the stage at 6pm. Five different bands and performers headline the evening, and the venue is selling dinner, desserts, and beverages to enjoy between sets. Admission is $6 per person, and $1 for children 12 and under. Parking is free, and the venue is cash only. Stay tuned for more details and updates here.

Soup and Sip (Colts Neck) – Join 4JG Orchards & Vineyards from 12pm-5pm for their 4th annual Soup and Sip, where guests (ages 21+) are treated to soup and wine pairings. You can enjoy your soup and wine by the fireplace, so be sure to bring a sweater to keep warm! Tickets are $25 per person and include the soup and wine. Find more details here.

November 8

First Responders’ Teddy Bear Clinic (Hazlet) – Local first responders are hosting a Teddy Bear Clinic from 4:30pm-5:30pm at the James J. Cullen Center, giving your little one the chance to bring their teddy bear in for a check-up and become comfortable with first responders should an emergency ever occur. Attendees will learn about different local first responders and basic first aid procedures, as your child’s teddy bear undergoes them! Click here to learn more.

Jersey Shore Restaurant Week runs from Friday, November 8th through Sunday, November 17th, and features more Jersey Shore fan-favorites than ever before. For $32.24 or $42.24, you can get a 3-course meal consisting of an appetizer, dinner, and dessert at participating restaurants. You can find an all-inclusive list of restaurants and their menus here.

November 9

Fall Craft Show (Tinton Falls) – Head over to the Fort Monmouth Recreation Center from 9am-2pm to check out specialty items, such as jewelry, crocheted/knitted items, and glassware – from over 40 unique vendors. Admission is free, so bring the whole family along to find unique gifts or get gift-giving inspiration just in time for the holidays! You can find additional information here.

Holiday Craft & Vendor Show (Wall) – The Historic Village at Allaire is hosting over 140 crafters, artisans, exhibits, and demonstrations from 10am-3pm to bring the holiday spirit to town! You will get a chance to see the work of local artists, as well as watch demonstrations from the carpenter, blacksmith, and tinsmith shops—to name a few. Admission is $5 for those 6 years old and up. You can learn more and purchase tickets here.

November 10

Family Candy Bingo (Hazlet) will take place from 2pm-4pm at the James J. Cullen Center. Bring the whole family to maximize your chances of winning Bingo—and the candy prizes that come along with it! If you would like to increase the pot, bring some candy to turn in when you buy your bingo boards. Registration is required, and there is a fee of $3 for those 4 years old and older. For additional information and a link to register, click here.

Hot Rod Harvest Festival and Car & Truck Show (Lacey) – Stop by Murray Grove with your family, friends, and furry friends from 9am-3pm to check out unique cars and fall activities. This event promises to be fun for the whole family with a wide array of cars old and new, a DJ/live music, vendors, and a competition to show off your pets for a chance to win a special award! Admission is free, but registration for your vehicle is $20 if you plan on showing it to attendees. Learn more by visiting this webpage.

November 16

Outrageous Reptiles (Belmar) – The Belmar Public Library is calling all animal lovers to Taylor Pavilion at 11am for a morning of learning about various reptiles, with an opportunity to see some them in person! Knowledgeable keepers will be present to teach you about some of the most fascinating reptiles in the animal kingdom and answer some of your most pressing questions. Admission is free, however, registration is required to attend. It is important to note that attendees will not be able to directly interact with the reptiles for the safety of themselves and the animals. A link to register, as well as additional information, can be found here.

Rock to Fight Alzheimer’s (Neptune City) – Head over to Headliner Oasis from 1:30pm-6pm for an afternoon of rocking out while bringing awareness and raising funds to combat Alzheimer’s. Your $20 ticket includes an opportunity to see all four bands headlining the event. There will also be a 50/50 cash raffle, gift basket raffle, and door prizes. For more information and purchasing tickets, click here.

November 17

5K Turkey Trot & 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk (Howell) – Bring your family and friends down to Oak Glen Park for a morning of walking or running through the crisp autumn air, with race day check-in starting at 8am and the race kicking off at 9am. Pre-registration is required to participate in the 5K or 2 mile fun run/walk and costs $25/participant. The 5K course is trail-style. You can find additional information here.

November 23

Give Thanks Food Truck Festival (New Egypt) – Laurita Winery is welcoming family and friends of all ages to check out their grounds and food trucks on Saturday, November 23rd (11am-9pm) and Sunday, November 24th (11am-7pm). Adults (ages 21+) can pair delicious wines with various food offerings from the food trucks that will be onsite. Those under 21 are welcome to enjoy the food and music, but must be supervised by an adult. Tickets purchased in advance are $13, with tickets being $15 at the gate. Admission for anyone under 21 is free. Laurita Winery invites you to visit their website to learn more and purchase general admission tickets in advance.

Granny’s Attic Craft Show (Middletown) is returning for its 43rd year at Thompson Middle School from 9am-4pm. Boasting as one of the largest craft shows on the East Coast, Granny’s Attic brings together over 250 vendors and crafters selling unique items, right in time for the holidays. By attending, you can also participate in a 50/50 raffle and a $1,000 Visa gift card raffle. General admission is $6, and children under 3 are free—with all proceeds going to support Thompson Middle School. To learn more and purchase tickets, click here.

Harvest Fest (Lacey) will take place at the Lacey United Methodist Church from 9am-2pm, featuring holiday photos with Santa from 10am-1pm. In the spirit of the coziness of fall, there will be baked goods, homemade soups, and chili for sale—along with items from other crafters and vendors! Check out this page for more details.

November 30

Victorian Holiday Open House with Santa & Mrs. Claus (Toms River) – Get in the holiday spirit with your loved ones by meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Ocean County Historical Society from 10am-3pm, with pictures with our friends from the North Pole taking place from 11am-2pm. The Victorian style house will be complete with holiday decorations and music playing within, holiday-themed refreshments, and gifts for the children attending. In the spirit of giving this holiday season, admission is free for all ages. To learn more about this event, click here.

On behalf of the team at First Financial, we want to extend our warmest Thanksgiving wishes to you and your loved ones. We hope you find yourself spending time around the table with family and friends, and find gratitude in the little things this Thanksgiving!

Last Minute Scams Ahead of the Presidential Election

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With the 2024 Presidential Election just days away, you might be hearing a lot of political chatter on the news, online, and among those you socialize with. While this might be an exciting or nerve-wracking time, one thing remains true for all voters alike – scammers are getting more desperate to try and scam you out of your personal information and hard-earned money as their chance to use the election as a disguise withers away.

As we mentioned in our recent blog post covering political scams, advances in technology, and especially in artificial intelligence (AI), can make some of these scams harder to spot. These scams can take place in many forms, and although most will take place online, it’s important to remain vigilant even on the phone or with someone standing right in front of you. While you’re taking the time to learn some last-minute facts about our presidential candidates, take some time to learn about these last-minute attempts that scammers will make to defraud you ahead of the election.

Cybersecurity Election Scams

Technological advancement is good, but like anything else – can also have a downside, especially when malicious actors try to use it to their advantage and to your detriment.

  • AI-Related Scams: As we mentioned a few weeks ago, deepfakes – which are videos or audio recordings that seem realistic but are fabricated, can be deployed to attempt to induce someone to perform a certain action. An example of a deepfake in action is receiving an AI-generated robocall that is impersonating a presidential candidate with the intent of spreading misinformation. This robocall might attempt to influence or sway the person on the receiving end of the call to cast their vote in a different manner based on misinformation. The Federal Communications Commission has outlawed robocalls featuring AI-generated voices, citing the exploitation of the technology and how it can mislead and deceive voters. Despite these calls now being illegal, voters should remain wary and skeptical of any calls depicting the voice of a presidential candidate since scammers are continually pushing the limits of what this technology can do.
  • Voter Registration Scams: If you are reading this post, it’s most likely too late to register to vote in the 2024 Presidential Election based on state voter registration deadlines. Additionally, you can only register to vote online, by mail, or in person at a local election office or motor vehicle services office – never over the phone or on-the-spot. Keep this in mind should a scammer approach you over the phone or in person claiming that they can register you to vote last-minute, just days before the 2024 Presidential Election. The scam plays out like this: a scammer reaches out with links to fake voter registration forms or asks you to download an app to register to vote. The fake voter registration forms would steal your personal information, and the malicious app could steal your payment information or log-in credentials. It is always best practice to go in-person or mail your voter registration in yourself.

Other Election Scams

  • Scam PACs: A scammer might also attempt to inspire you to donate to the cause as a “last-ditch effort” to get your presidential pick elected. Political Action Committees (commonly referred to as PACs) pool contributions from donors to support a common cause, whether that is a certain policy initiative or to support the election of a particular candidate running for office. The FBI urges voters to research candidates and their causes before donating, or you could be donating to a fake PAC. Fraudsters can reach out to you via any medium, asking you to donate to support a candidate or cause, when the money is truly for their own personal gain. Additionally, the scammer might display a sense of urgency persuading you to donate, citing that this is your “last chance” to help your candidate get elected. The FBI encourages voters to reference the Federal Election Commission to confirm if a PAC you would like to donate to is registered, to check what their expenditures are on, and to see how long they have been established. You can also go directly to a candidate’s website to learn how to donate and support their campaign if you are skeptical. In the case of protecting your hard-earned money or personal information, it is always worth going the extra mile and doing the research to ensure you are really donating to the political candidate or cause.
  • Fake Surveys and Polls: Election surveys and opinion polls are commonplace during election season. However – be wary of who contacts you, how they contact you, and what type of information they are requesting from you. You can be contacted over phone, email, or text by a person claiming to be administering a survey and collecting the needed information. Although being asked certain demographic information is common, you should never be asked to provide personally identifiable information, such as your Social Security Number or birthdate. Scammers administering these fake surveys and polls may also display a sense of urgency, so always be vigilant as to whether that common red flag is present. Additionally, never click on links in unsolicited emails or text messages, as you could be downloading malicious software or providing your personal information to a bad actor. Lastly, scammers administering fake surveys and polls have been known to promise a reward for completing the survey or requesting credit card numbers prior to sending your prize. Most organizations administering opinion polls do not provide a reward for participation, and no legitimate organization will ask for your credit card number.

With the Presidential Election nearly here, we know it could be easy to get caught up with information overload and miss out on red flags where a scammer is trying to defraud you. By following the above tips, you can help to prevent any fraud or identity theft from happening to you this election season. Keep Thinking First!

Think You’ve Been Scammed?

At First Financial, our number one priority is helping you protect your important personal and financial information. To stay on top of critical alerts and common scams, be sure to subscribe to our First Scoop Blog! If you believe your personal or financial information has been compromised by a scammer, please contact us at 732.312.1500 or visit one of our branches.

Spice Up Your Home This Fall with These Money-Saving Redecorating Tips

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We get it – giving your home a complete “makeover” can seem like an expensive task, which often puts it on the backburner in place of seemingly more important items on the to-do list. However, we often fail to consider the impact of our surroundings on our day-to-day lives and mental and emotional well-being. Janet Sloan of Home Decor Wise says that a home decorated to resonate with your personality and identity can have profound psychological benefits, such as reducing stress and anxiety, promoting emotional well-being, and enhancing productivity. Thanks to DIY (“Do-It-Yourself”) enthusiasts who share their creative ideas on Pinterest, TikTok, and the like, there are plenty of sources of inspiration when it comes to redecorating – and for finding cheap alternatives, too. Whether it’s finding an affordable alternative to an otherwise expensive piece of décor, or getting your hands dirty and “DIY-ing it,” there are plenty of ways to redecorate without breaking the bank, especially if you’re redecorating every time the seasons change. Give these money-saving redecorating tips a whirl when giving your home a “refresh” this fall.

1. One Person’s “Trash” is Another Person’s Treasure: Estate sales, flea markets, and garage sales can all be a great place to start when you are in search of inspiration for your next redecoration or DIY project. Someone could be tossing a piece of furniture or a fixture that no longer serves a purpose in their home, only for you to discover that you can recycle and repurpose it into something you’ll love seeing in your home every day. When you’re roaming around, keep an open mind — you never know just how many creative spins you can put on an item you see!

2. Mount Wooden Crates: Wooden crates can easily be turned into wall-mounted shelves or displays! You can find wooden crates with a certain finish, such as those with a rustic feel, or unfinished if you’d like to paint or stain them yourself. Try using them as a makeshift bookshelf or display for your pumpkins and gourds. You can even lay some fall garland across the tops of the wooden crates to give them more of a festive fall feel!

3. New Uses for an Old Dresser: Among the many things you can find at a local sale will likely be a dresser that someone is letting go of. Dressers are a common piece of furniture that can be repurposed into supply storage. Simply swap out the drawers for fabric bins, sand and repaint the outside as needed or desired, and now you have a wealth of newly discovered storage space! If you’d rather leave the compartments open, you can display your items on the wood as opposed to putting fabric bins within.

4. Repurpose Your Pumpkin: A pumpkin is a common fall gift that keeps on giving! If you have one pumpkin too many and you’re looking to repurpose it, try hallowing it out and making a pumpkin planter or pumpkin vase. To make a pumpkin planter, simply drill or carve a hole at the bottom for drainage, fill it with soil, and plant the fall flowers of your choice. If you are going the pumpkin vase route, you can fill the hallowed-out pumpkin with fake flowers or hide a vase bearing water and real flowers. Now you have a beautiful table arrangement, and can use the insides of the pumpkin for a pumpkin dessert or bake the seeds in the oven for a snack, too.

To take your pumpkin planter to the next level, make it a hanging planter! We recommend swapping out the real pumpkin for a lightweight craft pumpkin such as this one, because they are typically too heavy to hang. Here’s some instructions on turning your faux pumpkin into a hanging planter.

5. Potpourri Can Double as a Simmer Pot: You might commonly hear people reference “pumpkin spice” during this season, and it’s not just because of the lattes! Aside from the countless decorative items fall is associated with, fall is also commonly associated with scents, such as pumpkin spice, apples, and cinnamon. Potpourri opens the door to an abundance of creativity, as there is no right or wrong way to combine natural plant materials to make a fall scent. A simple way to make a fall-inspired potpourri is by combining dried apples, cinnamon sticks, and fall leaves in a decorative bowl, and applying the same essential oils to magnify the scents. After you are done displaying this potpourri as décor, use it as a simmer pot to give your home that warm, cozy fall feel.

6. Reuse Old Throw Pillows: Whether you find throw pillows at a sale, or have a few laying around the house, reusing old throw pillows can be an inexpensive way to transform a room. There’s a couple of ways to repurpose old throw pillows that don’t require expertise in art – like trying out embroidery or fabric paint. Embroidery involves decorating fabric and other materials using a needle to stitch thread or yarn. You can order fall embroidery patterns and kits online, or find a tutorial online if you have the materials you need. If breaking out the needle and thread isn’t quite up your alley, you can use fabric paint to paint a design right onto the throw pillows. You can trace a design you find online, or use free-hand.

7. A Ladder is Not Just a Ladder: One of our favorite creative, and surprisingly functional spins on a common household item – is turning a ladder into a shelf or storage. Some of these functional spins include turning your ladder into a bookshelf, shelving space, or a clothing rack. DIY Enthusiasts details a few of these creative ways to reuse an old ladder at home, many of which include materials you likely already have. Give it a read and try to envision how one of these ladder shelf ideas can change the feel of a room in your home.

Not only are these inexpensive alternatives to traditional interior design, but they will leave you with a fun project and a great story to tell guests if you are hosting in your home this autumn.

We know that some redecorating ideas require more than just traipsing around a local garage sale until you stumble upon a piece of furniture or a fixture that inspires you. First Financial’s Home Improvement Loan is a great option for those looking to chase some of those bigger home improvement dreams, such as redesigning your kitchen. Our Home Improvement Loan features great rates, flexible terms up to 10 years, a fixed monthly payment, and more.* If you’re ready to get started, you can apply online 24/7. If you have any questions or inquiries, don’t hesitate to stop by your local branch or call our Loan Department at 732.312.1500 Option 4.

*Available on primary residence only. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Home Improvement Loan and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See credit union for details. Rate will vary based off of applicant’s credit rating. Not all applicants who apply will be approved, subject to underwriting guidelines and credit approval. Visit firstffcu.com for additional information.