Monthly Archives: June 2020

computer

Online Safety Tips for Retirees

Online safety is a much bigger problem than most people realize. It’s estimated that seniors lose a total of about $30 billion every year because of online scams. We want to prevent that from happening, and we bet you do, too. We’ve put together some of the easiest ways for seniors to be safe online.

Be careful when making online purchases. Hackers and scammers can make their websites look pretty realistic and trustworthy on the outside. Here are some ways to know when not to enter your personal information. 

  • Look for reviews if buying a product. 
  • Make sure the website is secure. 
  • If possible, only shop on websites you or others have used in the past. 

Keep tabs on all of your accounts. Be sure not to let your accounts, on social media or elsewhere, go left unvisited for too long. The following points will help you know how to keep your personal accounts protected. 

  • Use strong and secure passwords, as well as different passwords for each account. 
  • Give a trusted family member or friend access to your accounts in case of emergency. 

Think about what you’re posting. Just because your account is private doesn’t mean everything you post in there is safe from the world’s eyes. There are still ways for hackers to access your account or for others to copy and share your posts. 

  • Don’t post pictures or information you wouldn’t want the public to know about. 
  • If you need to share important but private information, consider doing so in person or over a phone call if possible. 

Don’t trust all emails and messages. Although many email providers have an automatic spam filter, some make it to your inbox. When it comes to social media, messages from strangers can be dangerous. 

  • Ignore the “You’re a winner!” or “Free prize!” messages. 
  • Verify with friends before sending any money in case their account was hacked. 
  • Don’t trust direct messages unless you can verify who the person is and why they’d be reaching out to you. 

Be careful what you choose to download. Hackers will often create free downloadable documents that are actually viruses. Here are some steps to make sure your device doesn’t get hacked. 

  • Know and trust your source before downloading anything. 
  • Have a protective security software installed on your device. 
  • Verify with a professional that it’s a trusted source. 

Technology is a wonderful thing, but it definitely comes with dangers. Be sure to follow these practical online safety tips and continue protecting your personal information! 

local

Why You Should Bank Local

You’ve heard big banks advertise their services all over the world, but most consumers don’t realize all of the benefits that come with banking local. When it comes to customer service, banking fees and ethical choices, banking local is the smart choice, and we’ll tell you why. 

Great Customer Service 

Because local banks have less customers than your average megabank, the employees have the chance to form deeper relationships with the people they serve. 

Tailored Programs 

Community banks have the ability to create unique and personal programs for their customers based on their needs. Big banks suggest they have more choices and services, but most local banks offer those exact services, too. 

Ethical Standards 

Because of the direct effect the employees’ behavior has on the community, local banks hold their employees to a very high standard. Local banks understand the policies of where they work, and they also invest in other small, local businesses. 

Lower Fees 

Fees, like the ones at ATMs, are becoming more common among megabanks and the prices are rising as time goes on. Research shows that local banks offer more free accounts to their customers as well as charge fewer fees compared to big banks. 

Convenience 

Megabanks, just like any big business, have lots of customers to help. You might find yourself with a question or concern but end up waiting on hold for hours. Local banks are dedicated to providing their customers with convenience and satisfaction. 

Involvement in the Community 

When it comes to giving back and charity involvement, local banks are there. Customers feel a sense of satisfaction knowing the business they support gives back and cares about others. Community banks love supporting charity events like races or fundraisers, which is why their logos are commonly advertised throughout the community. 

These often-unknown benefits of banking local are important for consumers to hear about. Community banks want what’s best for YOU. Contact Milledgeville State Bank with any questions, and take a step in the right direction by banking local today!