Protect Your Identity, Protect Your Money

Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the United States. Last year alone, 12.6 million people – or 1 out of every 20 consumers – were victims of identity fraud. Keeping your information safe is vital in our technology driven society, and there are certain steps that you can take to help keep your identity, and your money, safe. 

Don’t share your secrets. 
Don’t provide your Social Security number or account information to anyone who contacts you online or over the phone. Protect your PINs and passwords and do not share them with anyone. Use a combination of letters and numbers for your passwords and change them periodically. Do not reveal sensitive or personal information on social networking sites.

Shred sensitive papers. 
Shred receipts, banks statements and unused credit card offers before throwing them away.

Monitor your credit report.
Order a free copy of your credit report every four months from one of the three credit reporting agencies at annualcreditreport.com.

Protect your computer.
Make sure the virus protection software on your computer is active and up to date. When conducting business online, make sure your browser’s padlock or key icon is active. Also look for an “s” after the “http” to be sure the website is secure.

Protect your mobile device. Use the passcode lock on your smartphone and other devices. This will make it more difficult for thieves to access your information if your device is lost or stolen. Before you donate, sell or trade your mobile device, be sure to wipe it using specialized software or using the manufacturer’s recommended technique. Some software allows you to wipe your device remotely if it is lost or stolen.

Following these tips will give you more security in knowing that your information is safe and secure.  Be safe and take care of your personal information. 

Tips For Buying Your New Home

Spring is traditionally the time of year when families looking to buy a new home start the process.  It’s an exciting time, yet many homeowners get frustrated with the process as it can be a bit tedious.  So to help you navigate your way through buying your dream home, Magyar Bank will be posting helpful tips throughout the month on our Facebook and Google+ pages.  Our topics will include keeping an eye on your credit score, making sure you have enough for a down payment, and what type of documents you will need to include as part of your loan application.

Doing your homework before you contact a Realtor can speed the process up as well.  Take a look at your credit report and make sure there is no fraudulent activity before you start home shopping and apply for a mortgage.  You can obtain a free credit report as required by Federal Law at www.annualcreditreport.com. 

One question many people ask is whether they should rent or buy.  While there are a number of factors involved in making this decision, one key element to consider is how long you will stay in the home.  Generally, the longer you plan to live somewhere, the more it makes sense to buy.  Over time, you can build equity in your home.  Of course, renters have more flexibility to move so it’s important to review your current situation and think about how long you’ll want to stay in your new home.

Most of all, try to make the process enjoyable.  Moving can be stressful, but once all the boxes are unpacked and the walls are the colors you want, there is really no place like home.

Magyar Bank Launches New Blog

Welcome to Magyar Bank’s blog!  

As a community bank, we’re committed to maintaining an open line of communication with our customers, and in today’s high-tech world, a blog is just one of the many ways we can keep you informed of community events Magyar Bank is involved in, and provide expertise on various financial topics.

Our new blog is part of a revamped social media program that Magyar is embarking on that includes a revamped Facebook page and new channels on Google+, LinkedIn and YouTube.  

These sites have been a great tool for us to showcase our community involvement, and communicate special events and messages quickly to our customers.  Just this past winter, our Facebook page became an integral part of our communication program to let customers know about early closings or delayed openings that resulted from the numerous snow storms we had to deal with.

If you have not found us yet, be sure to like us on Facebook, follow us on LinkedIn and Google+, and check out our YouTube channel which features our video on Magyar Bank’s recent “Outstanding” rating from the FDIC for community service.

While technology will change the ways we communicate over time, one thing it will never change is the one on one attention you get from Magyar Bank.  We value your relationship; whether you stop in a branch, call on the phone, send us an email or follow us on social media, you will receive the personalized service you expect from Magyar Bank.  It’s what makes Magyar Bank simply MAGnificent.