While government checks are not normally eligible for mobile deposit, a temporary exception has been made to ensure customers are able to deposit stimulus checks without needing to visit a branch. Please note the following when depositing checks from your mobile device:All check payees must be listed on the account where the check is being deposited Proper […]
Retirement Plan Related Provisions of the CARES Act and SECURE Act
The Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act contains many retirement plan related options designed to assist the millions of Americans affected by the pandemic. While we advise that you consult with your tax advisor to review all the details of the CARES Act and how it applies to your specific situation, there are some […]
Health-Related Provisions of the CARES Act
Many people are aware that the date for filing your taxes and making IRA contributions for the 2019 tax year has been moved to July 15, 2020. We wanted to be sure that our customers were aware that the same is true for the 2019 tax year for Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions. There are some […]
Beware of COVID-19 Fraud Schemes
During these difficult times, fraudsters are relentless with their attempts to defraud individuals and organizations. In fact, the FTC has reported that Americans have lost nearly $12 million on coronavirus-related scams to date. The surge of teleworking has also increased vulnerabilities to corporate networks by hackers. Common schemes you should be aware of are:Fake emails that appear to […]
Avoid Fake Flash Pop-Up Scams
We have seen an increase in instances for fake flash pop-ups such as the “Fake Flash Player Update”, which tricks people into downloading software, only to wreak havoc on their systems and networks. This scam is distributed through deceptive and unofficial websites that imitate real products. With an uptick in people working from home, we advise that […]
Sister Banks Among First Banks to Donate to NH Nonprofit Response Fund
Sister banks, Meredith Village Savings Bank (MVSB), Merrimack County Savings Bank (The Merrimack) and Savings Bank of Walpole are the first three banks to contribute to the New Hampshire Nonprofit Response Fund with a combined tax credit purchase of $150,000. The NH Response Fund is providing nonprofit organizations with resources of up to $100,000 for […]
Beware of “Zoom-Bombing” and Malicious Attacks on Video Conferencing Software
Our Risk Management Department have received reports of an increase in malicious attacks on video conferencing software such Zoom and WebEx. The use of video conferencing has increased significantly in recent weeks, as the COVID-19 health crisis has forced many of us to work from home. The convenience of video-conferencing has proven invaluable at this time, as […]
Stimulus Check Related Fraud Reported
As you likely know, many Americans will be receiving checks as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Unfortunately, this has already generated criminal activity. Please remember:The U.S. government has indicated that they will not call or email any American citizen to gather your social security number, bank information or debit card information. Requests […]
CFPB Offers Guide to Coronavirus Mortgage Relief
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has outlined financial relief options for mortgage borrowers who may be facing hardship as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. The CFPB advises that borrowers who are able to make their mortgage payments should continue to do so. For borrowers unable able to make regular mortgage payments, the CFPB recommends they […]
Beware of Fraudulent Emails About Insurance Coverage for COVID-19
The cybersecurity company Phishlabs has alerted us to a COVID-19 related fake insurance scam. Criminals are sending emails that claim to be from an insurance company and indicate the recent purchase of COVID-19 related insurance coverage. The email recipient is prompted to click on a link to access a billing statement. That link brings the victim to a […]