Imposter Scams: Know the Signs and Protect Yourself
Many companies, including Hawaii State FCU, are seeing an uptick in imposter scams. An imposter scam uses “spoofing,” posing as a legitimate individual or business, to convince a target that they are communicating with a trusted source. Upon gaining the victim’s trust, they attempt to obtain sensitive information. Spoofing legitimate businesses can occur via email, […]
Deposit, Transfer and Pay Your Way with Our Mobile App
Managing your money can take a lot of time. Tracking deposits, monitoring expenses, remembering when to make payments – it can be enough to overwhelm even the savviest budgeter! Fortunately, the Hawaii State FCU Mobile App1 gives you the power and flexibility to move your money anytime and from virtually anywhere right from your smartphone. […]
The Ins and Outs of Adjustable Rate Mortgages
In today’s high interest rate environment, mortgage payments for new home purchases and refinances are substantially higher than even a few years ago. One way that potential homeowners may be able to combat these higher rates is by considering an Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM). With an ARM, your initial interest rate and payments are typically […]
Keep Your Money Safe in a Federally Insured Credit Union
When uncertainty arises, it’s natural to worry about the security of your money. Some people may consider the drastic step of withdrawing their funds from banks and credit unions, with the belief that their money is safer stashed away at home. But you may want to think twice before emptying your accounts. Your money is […]
Fraud Takes Many Forms – Avoid Becoming a Victim
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that Americans lost nearly $10 billion to fraud in 2023, with a median loss of $500. In Hawaii alone, residents reported $43.8 million in fraud losses in 2023.* Scammers have become increasingly savvy — a concerning trend for both consumers and businesses. Fraud can occur in many different ways […]
Don’t Be “Phished In” by Identity Thieves
Phishing continues to be a leading issue and threat for many companies and consumers. Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated with deceptive texts, emails and messages posing as legitimate businesses and trusted organizations. What may seem like an innocent phone call, text message or email, can result in a scammer obtaining personal information used to steal […]
How to Manage Money as a Couple
Finance may not be the most romantic conversation topic, but it’s inarguably an important one. Building up emergency savings, paying off debt, and saving for milestone events (like college or a new home) top the list of concerns keeping partners awake at night. So, what’s the best way to foster financial unity on the home […]
7 Tips to Model Healthy Money Management
As adults, how we handle finances sends a powerful message to children. That’s why it’s important to model the healthy money management behaviors that we want the kids in our lives to adopt. Noted below are seven ideas to help shape children’s attitudes and behaviors around finances. These everyday lessons provide opportunities to intentionally model good […]
Preventing Fraud – How to Avoid Fake Check Scams
Have you ever received a check in the mail with a request to send some money back? “Check” scams are a type of fraud that has been around for many years, but made a resurgence during the pandemic. While the actual scam may vary, the general premise is the same. Scammers will connect with victims […]
Payday Loans: What They Are and Why They’re Problematic
Life certainly has its ups and downs and most people will at some time find themselves very short of cash. If this happens and you’re without a financial cushion, every mistake, unexpected problem or minor life change can quickly turn into a financial disaster. That’s when many people may fall for the lure of a […]