Author Archives: Business Development Rep Samantha

Your Utility Company or a Utility Scam?

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There isn’t a single person who wants to receive the dreaded notification that due to missing a payment, their service—whether it be electric, gas, or even cell phone, is about to be shut off. Whether you are the most organized person in the world or have a tendency to miss payments here and there, this notification would likely send you searching through your bank account statements or bills to confirm if it’s really true. However, if you have someone claiming to be employed by your utility company on the other end of the line, you may not think you have the time to sift through your own records and feel compelled to make the situation “right” then and there. With utility scams on the rise, take a moment to consider these scenarios and red flags that can alert you to a scammer pretending to be your utility company.

What a Utility Scam Looks Like

You may or may not be expecting a phone call from your utility company. If you know you missed a payment to one of your utility providers, it is that scammer’s lucky day and they have you right where they want you. On the other hand – if you haven’t recently missed a payment, it might be a little trickier for the scammer to convince you. The person on the other end of the line would typically begin by telling you that you have missed a payment, which will cause your service to be shut off if you do not render payment immediately. The person is impersonating your utility company and would have no way of knowing this, but you likely don’t know that yet. As you begin to ask for more information, they become increasingly unprofessional and agitated. They take this tone with you in an effort to scare you into paying before you can ask questions. The scammer knows that the less time you have to doubt their intentions, the better. It is common for the scammer to impose a “time limit” on receiving payment before your service is shut off, with victims of utility scams frequently reporting that scammers give them 45-minutes to one hour. They are hoping you will be eager to make a payment before your service is turned off. Once the scammer receives payment, they will send you on your way – and it could be hours, days, or weeks before you realize you have been scammed.

Red Flags

  • Uncommon Payment Methods: A common red flag associated with utility scams is the use of payment methods that are hard to track, such as reloadable cards, gift cards, wires, or cryptocurrency. Scammers want to receive money through these payment methods because they have fewer protections for buyers in place, making it hard for you to get your money back and easy for the scammers to avoid detection. It is common for scammers to demand that you go to a specific store and buy a specific gift card, so be sure to listen for this request structure if you have a potential scammer on the line. They might request that you stay on the phone with them the entire time you are making the payment to ensure you don’t call anyone for help. Always follow the status quo and second guess anyone who wants to receive payment in non-conventional ways. If your utility company has only accepted payment through card, check, or online bill pay in the past—why would they change now? Furthermore, question why a large service provider would accept a gift card or cryptocurrency as payment.
  • Sense of Urgency: The scammer will display a sense of urgency since they know that their chances of receiving payment dwindle to 0% if you get off the line. They do not want you to call back, knowing that when you hang up you might confide in someone or contact the utility company they are impersonating. If you are truly behind on paying your utility company, they are more likely to work with you in establishing a payment plan to get you back on track as opposed to threatening to immediately terminate your service.
  • Unusual Method of Communication: In the day and age where every facet of our communication is becoming increasingly digital, receiving a text from your utility provider might not sound the alarm. You might be used to receiving a text reminding you of an upcoming bill, or a text confirming your bill was paid. However, be weary of someone claiming to be a representative that is tasked with collecting payment from you. Initiating payment over text is not safe, and a real utility company would not expect you to authorize a payment over text. When in doubt, call the number that you know belongs to the utility company and ask if they have recently initiated communication with you.

What to Do if You Encounter a Utility Scam

  • If You’ve Sent Payment to a Scammer: Unfortunately, scammers often have you make payments in ways that are nearly impossible to get refunded. Even if the situation feels hopeless, there are resources to help those who have sent payment to a scammer. The FTC’s page If You Paid a Scammer is dedicated to showing you the steps to take to get your money back, depending on the method you used to pay.
  • If You Want to Report Contact with a Fake Utility Company: You should first reach out to your utility company to alert them to the fact that a person or group is impersonating them. Obtain the contact method you use to reach them, such as a customer service phone number or email address, from a trusted source. You should then report it to the FTC at ftc.gov and to your state attorney general. Lastly, spread the word—if it happened to you, it could easily happen to someone you know.

First Financial wants to help you safeguard your personal and financial information. If you have any concerns or have reason to suspect that your sensitive information has been compromised, don’t hesitate to contact us at 732.312.1500 or visit us at your local branch.

The Digital Economy and the Reinvention of Side Hustles

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Side hustles existed long before the COVID-19 pandemic, typically born out of a need to supplement income as opposed to pursue a passion that previously felt out of reach. Before the emergence of rideshare or grocery delivery platforms, one might have supplemented their income by reselling used items at a garage sale or offering their lawnmowing or pool cleaning services to a small circle of friends or neighbors. The pandemic, coinciding with the growth of platform-centered businesses, created the perfect storm needed to not only propel side hustles back into the spotlight – but shine them in a new light. Not only could you pursue something you are genuinely passionate about, you could also make some money doing it. Although the pandemic is thankfully behind us, one thing remains certain — side hustles are here to stay, and they look much different than ever before.

What is a Side Hustle?

A side hustle is generally viewed as a means of generating extra income outside of your primary job. However, a more modern definition suggests that in addition to that – a side hustle provides flexibility and the pursuit of personal passions. For some, flexibility and pursuit of passion might be immeasurable in comparison to supplementary income — causing side hustles to be pursued out of choice rather than necessity.

And Why are They so Popular?

Many factors have come into play to increase the popularity of side hustles among the general population, such as:

  • Digital Economy and Technological Growth: The definition of digital economy is constantly evolving, but generally refers to humans and technology working together to generate business. For example, ridesharing apps like Uber or Lyft have created a market of people willing to provide an on-demand car service to consumers and becoming connected via an app.
  • Generational and Attitude Shifts: Young workers such as those in Gen Z, are one of the few generations that have increasingly experienced an entirely remote or hybrid school and work environment. Additionally, due to recent economic conditions – many young workers have been faced with a difficult introduction to the job market and have been turning to dynamic workplaces to meet their needs. Lastly, younger generations especially tend to put a greater emphasis on well-being and mental health, which might be better afforded by a side hustle if done the right way.
  • Cost of Living: Let’s face it — living is more expensive than ever before. Especially for those living paycheck to paycheck, a side hustle might be an attractive option to bridge the gap between saving for what you need and saving for what you really want.
  • Identity Builder: Side hustles can act like a tattoo of sorts — offering onlookers an insight into one’s interests and passions. It’s a great conversation starter, too.

2025’s Most Popular Side Hustles

The rapidly growing and advancing of technology and digitization has created many opportunities for individuals looking to bring their passions to the right market. Here are some popular side hustles worth considering if you have skills or passions you’re looking to capitalize on in the new year:

  • Freelancing: Freelancing refers to offering your work or services on a per-job or per-task basis, allowing you to potentially work on multiple projects for multiple clients. Whether you have a knack for writing or a passion for computer code, there could be someone out there requiring your services. Some popular platforms to connect freelancers with clients are Freelancer and Upwork.
  • Platform-Based: There has been a rise in platforms that connect consumers with people offering on-demand services, such as Uber or Lyft for ride sharing, DoorDash or GrubHub for food delivery, and Instacart for grocery transport. There’s even a platform called Rover for those animal-lovers who want to pet sit or walk for fun, and earn a little money while doing it. These platforms afford you flexibility when you work by allowing you to create your own schedule. If providing goods to people is more your thing — Etsy and eBay are platforms that allow you to sell various new, used, or handcrafted items to people around the globe.
  • Content Creation: Many individuals have created a side hustle out of posting relatable content on various digital platforms. You have to find your niche — what type of content you would like to provide your potential audience with. Whether you would like to post relatable content about your family or relationship, or tell the world all the fun facts you have up your sleeve, someone might want to watch your content and certain platforms will pay you to post it. Creating content can help you form partnerships with your favorite brands, too — if they want you to represent their product or service.
  • Affiliate Marketing: Affiliate marketing typically refers to content creators and brands working together to promote products or services. These brands gain access to a representative who promotes their product or service to an audience of people willing to listen. An individual can get paid for affiliate marketing in various ways, one of which is when you refer a member of your audience to the brand you are promoting and it leads to a sale. There are many affiliate programs out there — you just have to do your research and make sure it’s right for you!

First Financial is here to help if you are looking to take your passion-project turned side hustle to the next level. Whether you’re looking to start with the basics, or your business has become more established over the years and you’d like to learn more about financing with a Business Loan – we’re here to support your business every step of the way. If you’re ready to take the next step, don’t hesitate to contact business@firstffcu.com, visit us at a local branch, or call 732.312.1500.

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this January 2025

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On behalf of the team at First Financial, we want to wish you and your loved ones a Happy New Year. We hope you take some time to unwind and reward yourself for making it through another busy holiday season with these free or inexpensive activities happening throughout Monmouth and Ocean Counties this January.

January 3

LuminoCity Holiday Lights Festival (Freehold) – If you’re looking for a last-minute way to enjoy the end of the holiday season, LuminoCity’s Holiday Lights Festival will be at Freehold Raceway Mall from 4:30pm-10:30pm through January 5th. As the sun sets, you can walk through a whimsical holiday light display inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Ticket prices vary by date and time slot, along with age group of the participant. For more information and to reserve your tickets, click here and scroll down to “Winter Festival New Jersey.”

January 5

Fun Bags Cornhole Goes Country (Toms River) – Bring your friends and family down to Fun Bags Cornhole Lounge for a night of cornhole and line dancing from 6pm-9pm. Beginners are welcome, with beginner line dancing lessons starting at 6pm. Tickets are $12 per person in advance of the event, and $13 per person at the door. The event is BYOB for anyone ages 21 or older. Click here to read more information and reserve your tickets.

Winter Hootenanny in the Pines (Waretown) – Albert Music Hall will be welcoming the new year in a musical fashion beginning at 2pm. The lineup features six bands that are set to perform over the course of the afternoon. There will also be a food booth, gift shop, 50/50 drawing, and more. Tickets are $10 for adults and $1 for children under age 12. Please be advised that Albert Music Hall is a cash only venue. You can find more information here.

January 12

Parlor Games for Wintry Weather (Holmdel) – Learn how to elevate your next game night with some oldie-but-goodie games, including backgammon, checkers, and dominoes—and some 19th century favorites, too—at Historic Longstreet Farm from 12pm-2:30pm. The event is free for all to attend. For more information, click here and scroll to the ‘Upcoming Free Events’ section.

January 13

Pine Barren Bonfires (Freehold) – Break out your winter coat and enjoy a night under the stars at Turkey Swamp Park from 6pm-8pm. The full moon will light up the park as you sit around the bonfire playing games and making s’mores. The cost is $15 per family of four, and it is kindly requested that payment is made with cash or check. More information can be found here.

January 16

Monmouth Park Corporate Center Pop-Up (West Long Branch) – Whether you’re looking to get out of the office or explore what local vendors have to offer, Building A at the Monmouth Park Corporate Center transforms into a bustling market the third Thursday of every month from 11am-4pm. With a variety of vendors selling everything from sweet treats to housewarming gifts, and free admission – you can’t go wrong. You can find more information here.

January 18

Ladacin Plunge (Manasquan) – If you missed an opportunity to welcome in the new year by plunging into frigid waters, you have another chance at Ladacin’s Plunge – beginning at 10:30am. Starting at Leggett’s Sand Bar & Restaurant, there will be a procession to Manasquan Main Beach and a plunge into the icy cold waters of the Atlantic, followed by a buffet at Leggett’s. Registration is $25 and can be done before or the day-of the event. You can learn more here.

Penguin Awareness Day at Jenkinson’s Aquarium (Point Pleasant Beach) is a day dedicated to celebrating the world’s penguins. Between 11am-4pm, your general admission ticket includes crafts, activities, and keeper chats that will teach you about all the 18 species of penguins. Tickets are $12 for children ages 3-12 and $18 for those ages 12 and older, while children under 2 are free. Click here for more information.

January 24

Friday Night Oldies (New Egypt) – If you’re looking to get groovy on a Friday night, look no further than Oldies Night at Laurita Winery from 7pm-10pm. The Strictly 60s Band will take you on a trip down memory lane with sounds of the 60s, and you can enjoy the tunes over dinner and wine (for those over 21 years of age). Tickets are $15 for those looking to enjoy the music, and there are appetizers, dinner, and dessert that can be purchased for an additional charge. To view the menu and purchase tickets, click here.

January 25

Showcase @ The Hotel: Dance Party (Freehold) – Bring the dancer in your life to the American Hotel for a night of dancing from 7:30pm-10:30pm. This fundraiser benefits Downtown Freehold directly to keep the town beautiful and bring members of the community together through free events. Pre-sale standard tickets are $25 per person with a two-item purchase, and pre-sale VIP tickets are $35 per person with a two-item purchase. You can learn more about this dance party that’s sure to get you up on your feet here.

January 26

Hot Cocoa Tours (Holmdel) – If you and your plus-one can brave the crisp winter air, head down to Historic Longstreet Farm from 10am-11:30am for a look into 19th-century farm life. Your morning will begin with a guided tour of the farm and end with hot cocoa and a winter treat in the kitchen. The cost is $10 per person, and children ages 3 and under are free to come along. For more information, click here and scroll to the ‘Upcoming Free Events’ section.

The beginning of January signals that the days start getting longer, the sun starts shining longer, and a new year full of opportunities is here. We hope you, your friends, and your family find ways to enjoy the best parts of January. Happy new year!

It’s a Scammer’s Wonderland: Holiday Charity Scams

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With everything that has happened over the course of the year, there are no shortage of causes that will ask for your help this holiday season. Unfortunately, scammers are not concerned about getting on Santa’s “Nice List,” and are instead taking advantage of people looking to spread holiday cheer to those who need it the most. Let’s break down some common charity scams and red flags to look out for – to ensure scammers don’t dull your holiday spirit this year.

Common Holiday Charity Scams

  1. Back to the Basics—Phone Calls and Texts: Holiday charity scams often begin with an unsolicited phone call or text message, where the individual on the other end of the conversation claims to be from a charity. Don’t throw caution to the wind—while they may claim to come from a real and reputable organization, there are many words that, when strung together (like ‘project’ and ‘love,’ for example), sound like the name of a real charity aiming to do good. The scammer will typically make vague and sentimental claims but cannot seem to elaborate on the charity’s mission or how your donation will be used. They might even begin the conversation by trying to convince you that you’ve donated to them before by sending you a “Thank You” text or email, which might encourage you to donate to them “again.” The caller ID might even appear to be from your local area code or a specific charity, but this is something a scammer can easily spoof. Once they convince you to divulge your information, they will use your funds for anything but the cause they claim you will be supporting. Be wary of interacting with supposed “charities” over phone call or text message, especially if you have never heard of them before.
  2. Crowdfunding, Social Media, and Fundraising Platforms: Crowdfunding involves raising funds online person-to-person, and there are many platforms that allow just about anyone to create campaigns to benefit a specific cause—think GoFundMe. Crowdfunding campaigns are often set up by an organizer to benefit an intended party, whether that is an individual, family, those impacted by a specific event, or even a business. Once people donate to a crowdfunding campaign, it is up to the organizer to disburse the funds to the intended recipient or cause. However, an organizer who is looking to scam others – might use stolen stories or images they found on the internet to corroborate the purpose of the campaign, or not have any intentions of forwarding the funds to the intended party. Make sure to research the organizer of the campaign, the purpose of the campaign, and the intended use of the funds before giving up your personal and financial information. You can also search the images or stories used to ensure they haven’t popped up on crowdfunding platforms in the past.

Tips to Spot Holiday Charity Scams

Although you can’t entirely prevent unsolicited contact from scammers, there are many red flags to be aware of that can signal you’re being taken for a ride.

  1. Sense of Urgency: Fraudsters may convey a sense of urgency to rush you into making a donation or pressure you into falling for their scam. This can sound like a false deadline to donate that is quickly approaching or attempting to guilt you into donating to the cause. A real charity would let their purpose and digital footprint do the talking and not feel compelled to pressure you or rush you to donate.
  2. Think Before You Pay: As with many other scams, the use of unconventional payment methods are red flags for potentially fraudulent activity. A legitimate charity would likely collect donations via check or credit card—not cryptocurrency, a gift card, or by wiring money. A good practice is double checking your bank statements after you donate to a charity to ensure you are only charged for the amount and frequency you authorized.
  3. Spelling and Grammar Mistakes: While this pertains to text messages, emails, and crowdfunding platforms, it is important to note—be mindful of spelling errors or grammatical errors in communications from the charity or crowdfunding campaign organizer. A real charity or organization likely does a twice-over on all communications, as this is foundational to their reputation and how they are perceived by the public. Although it’s easy to brush off as a mistake, these are not the mistakes legitimate charities or organizations typically make.

Want to Donate to a Real Charity this Holiday Season?

It’s worth going the extra mile to ensure you are donating to the cause you care about, especially since donating often involves divulging your personal and financial information. The FTC’s page Donating Safely and Avoiding Scams is a great hub of information and resources that can help you research charities and steer clear of charity scams. Although it might feel awkward asking for a few minutes to research before you donate to a cause, especially if you have someone on the other end of the line – a real charity will allow you to take all the time you need to leave you feeling empowered and confident in donating to their cause. Using research tools like BBB Wise Giving Alliance or Charity Navigator can save you the headache of being left wondering if you donated to a fraudulent person or scheme. Additionally, if anything about your interaction seems off-putting, don’t hesitate to start from scratch and contact the organization or charity directly from contact information found through a trusted source.

First Financial is here to help you make sure your donations end up in the hands of those who need it the most. If you are worried your personal or financial information has gotten into the hands of ill-intended parties, don’t hesitate to contact us at 732.312.1500 or visit us at your local branch.

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!