New way to an old scam "Smishing"

There is a new scam that is targeting your bank accounts and using your cell phone to access them.  They send you text messages that claim your account is frozen and they give you a number to call to correct the problem.  Don't call the number and don't keep private financial information on your phone.  Here is a link to the article.
http://austin.bbb.org/article/avoid-being-smished-by-scammers-30634 .  Just like your email, don't respond to messages claiming to be your bank.  If you think the message might be real, contact the bank by their PUBLISHED phone number.  Remember, your bank won't contact you in this manner.  Don't be a victim.

Beware! Fake iPads for sale online

With the Christmas season fast approaching, this is a good reminder.  I saw a news story today about fake iPads being sold on the internet.  These iPads have the Apple logo on them and they look legitimate.  The only way to tell is when you get them home and try to access iTunes or other Apple  aps, they will not connect and you won't have a warranty.  These were being sold for about 30% off of the regular price for an iPad.

You can follow this link http://www.wxyz.com/dpp/news/buyers-beware!-fake-ipads-for-sale-online. to see the whole story.

This will serve as a reminder when buying online that you should always follow a few simple rules.

1. Only buy from sites that you know and trust such as Amazon.com, Target.com, Walmart.com or something similar.
2. If the price seems too good to be true, It probably is!!
3. If you are not sure about a site, try "Googling" the name and see if there are any complaints.
4. Compare prices at a few sites, if most have about the same price and one is much lower, see #2 above.

Everyone loves to save a few bucks but remember Buyer Beware!!