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Protecting Seniors from Financial and Cyber Scams
Protecting Seniors from Financial and Cyber Scams Author: Primis | Published: Monday, August 18, 2025 Every year, scammers steal millions of dollars from older adults by preying on trust, routine, and the desire to help others. Senior Citizens Day, observed on August 21, is a reminder to honor the wisdom and contributions of older generations—and to protect them from those who would take advantage.Popular Scams Targeting Seniors Right NowTech Support ScamsA caller or pop-up claims your computer has a virus and offers to “fix” it for a fee. In reality, they’re after your credit card number or remote access to your device.Imposter ScamsFraudsters pretend to be government officials, bank representatives, or even family members. The message is always urgent: send money now or face serious consequences.Fake SweepstakesVictims are told they’ve won a prize—but must first pay taxes or fees to claim it. The winnings never arrive.Romance ScamsOnline scammers build relationships through dating sites or social media, then ask for money to cover emergencies or travel.Medicare and Health ScamsFraudsters pose as Medicare representatives, asking for personal or payment information under the guise of providing benefits.How to Stay SafeSlow down. Scammers thrive on urgency. Pause before giving out information or sending money.Verify the source. Call the company, government agency, or family member directly using a number you know is legitimate.Guard your information. Never share Social Security, Medicare, or bank account numbers over the phone, email, or text.Use strong passwords. Add extra protection with multifactor authentication whenever possible.Talk openly. Families can help by discussing common scams and encouraging loved ones to check in before making financial decisions.Looking Out for Loved OnesSeniors aren’t alone in facing these threats. Family members, friends, and caregivers all play a role in keeping them safe. Check in often, talk about the latest scams, and make sure they feel comfortable asking questions before taking action.Bring Financial Safety Education to Your CommunityWant to help protect seniors in your community from scams and financial abuse? Our team partners with local organizations to host educational seminars that equip older adults with the tools to spot fraud and stay secure.👉 Request a speaker for your organization The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Related Tags Security Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
Your Checks Should Check Out
Your Checks Should Check Out Author: Primis | Published: Monday, August 18, 2025 From cyber scams to money scams, it’s important to stay informed about what actions to avoid and how to recognize malicious attempts. But what about less-talked-about scams like fake checks? With check writing scams, someone you don’t know will offer to send you a check, commonly disguised as a gift or refund. Then the check you receive will be for more than they promised you. Once you’ve cashed the check, they’ll ask you to send back the difference. But it’s not until after you send the extra money that you and the bank realize the check is fake. For example, if you were expecting a $600 check but received an $800 check, you’d be asked to send back $200. However, since it’s a counterfeit check, you’d be without the $200, and you wouldn’t have the “remaining” $600 either. Taking extra precautions is essential to avoid financial loss or injury. Here are some tips to help you avoid fake checks and keep your money in your pocket (or the bank). Never use money from a suspicious check to send funds back Scammers often ask you to use money from a check to send gift cards, money orders, or wire money back to them. Don’t fall for it! Once you send them these funds, you’ve basically given them cash, and it can be very hard to get it back. If they require you to pay for a prize, just say no If something is actually free, you wouldn’t be asked to pay for it. Scammers will try to reel you in with the idea of a ‘free’ prize/gift, but then say you have to pay to get it. Make sure checks are for the discussed amount If a check you receive is over the amount you were expecting, don’t accept it. Scammers will ask for that extra money back and leave you to deal with the fake check at your bank. Don’t accept money from people you don’t know If a person or company you don’t know is trying to send you money, it’s likely a scam. There’s usually a premeditated reason for sending checks, so if someone unexpectedly wants to send you money, it’s best to say no and save yourself the trouble later on. The moral of the story here is that if you’re unsure about it, don’t send anything. Scammers often try to make the situation seem too good to be true, which should be your first red flag. Plus, it’s better to turn down these potential funds than lose your own money. If you have any questions or are considering starting your homebuying journey, find a loan officer near you today! The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Related Tags Security Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
The Fall Advantage: Three Reasons to Buy Now
The Fall Advantage: Three Reasons to Buy Now Author: Primis Mortgage | Published: Tuesday, August 18, 2026 If you’re stuck wondering when is the ‘right’ time to buy a new home, this is your sign to kick-start your journey. With less competition and a motivated market, fall can be an ideal time to secure your new place. Not convinced? Here are three reasons fall is the great time for you and your family! 1. Less competition With summer usually being the busiest time for homebuying, once fall rolls around, you’ll have fewer buyers to contend with. This allows you more time to find your dream home and negotiate a better price, all without the added pressure of competing offers. 2. Motivated sellers Since this season falls so close to the holidays and end-of-year festivities, many sellers are eager to sell their property. Their willingness to close the deal quickly may help you secure a lower price or a better contract, keeping things smooth and efficient. 3. Insight into maintenance One of the best times to assess a home’s heating and insulation is when the temperature starts to decrease. Take advantage of open houses and walkthroughs to check for drafts or unusual indoor temperatures. Also, be on the lookout for any other repairs that need to be done throughout the home—inside and out. Fall in love with your new home Hoping to avoid the extra pressure of competing bids? Find your new place with less competition and favorable terms this fall and be home for the holidays! If you’re ready to start your homeownership journey, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Related Tags Mortgages Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
How to Make a Mobile Deposit in the Primis App
How to Make a Mobile Deposit in the Primis App Author: Primis | Published: Tuesday, August 26, 2025 Depositing a check with your phone is quick, secure, and available anytime. Before you get started, keep these tips in mind:Mobile deposit only works for standard checks (not foreign checks, traveler's checks or U.S. savings bonds).The "payable to" name on the check must match a name on your account.The check date can't be more than 180 days old.Checks must be endorsed on the bank with: For Mobile Deposit at PrimisFor the best photo quality, place the check on a flat surface with a dark background.Steps to Deposit Your CheckOpen the Primis app.Tap the account you'd like to deposit money into.Select Mobile Deposit.If this if your first time, you'll see a short checklist. Review the items, then tap Start Deposit.When prompted, allow the app to use your camera so you can snap photos of your check.Take a clear photo of the front and back of your check.Enter the deposit amount (double check it matches the amount on the check!) and confirm your deposit.That's it—your check is submitted!💡 Tip: Hold on to your check for at least a week, until you see the deposit has cleared in your account. Related Tags Financial Tips Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
Summer's Hot. Scams Are, Too.
Summer's Hot. Scams Are, Too. Author: Primis | Published: Tuesday, July 1, 2025 Summer is a great time to relax, explore, and soak up some sunshine. Scams? Not so much. Unfortunately, as temperatures rise, so do reports of fraud, cyberattacks and identity theft—many of them tied to travel and vacation-related schemes. Whether you’re booking a last-minute getaway or just spending more time online, staying alert can help keep your summer carefree. Here’s what to know (and avoid) when it comes to summer scams. 1. Fake Vacation Rentals That beachside bungalow or cabin in the mountains may look perfect online—but is it real? Scammers often steal photos from legitimate listings to create fake ones on popular platforms or social media. They’ll ask for payment upfront, sometimes through wire transfers or peer-to-peer apps, then disappear. Red flags to watch for: The price seems too good to be true The host rushes you to book outside of a reputable platform Payment is requested via cash apps or gift cards Tip: Always book through trusted sites, verify reviews, and avoid off-platform communication. 2. Phony Travel Deals Fraudulent travel agencies or pop-up websites may promise huge discounts on airfare, cruises or all-inclusive packages—then take your money and vanish. Others might “book” your trip but never actually confirm anything. Stay safe by: Researching the travel company’s name and checking for complaints Avoiding pressure tactics like “limited time offers” with no verification Using a credit card when booking for better fraud protection3. Wi-Fi Risks on the Road Public Wi-Fi at airports, hotels and cafés is convenient—but also a hotspot for cybercriminals. Hackers can intercept your data, steal passwords, or install malware when you connect to unsecured networks. If you’re traveling: Avoid logging into bank accounts or shopping online over public Wi-Fi Use a VPN (virtual private network) if you must access sensitive info Turn off automatic Wi-Fi connections in your device settings 4. Package Delivery Text Scams Ordering more online while you're on the go? So are scammers. Fake “delivery failed” text messages and emails spike during busy travel months, tricking you into clicking malicious links or entering personal info. Here’s how to tell it’s a scam: You didn’t order anything, or the carrier name is vague The link is shortened or suspicious-looking The message contains typos or urgent language What to do: Never click links from unknown senders. Go directly to the shipping company’s website to track packages. 5. Social Media Sweepstakes Summer giveaways are everywhere online—but some are just bait. Scammers create fake social accounts and run phony contests to collect personal data or install malware. Be cautious of: Promises of extravagant prizes with minimal effortRequests to “verify your identity” with a credit card or Social Security number Pages with no history, few followers or generic usernames When in doubt: Stick with verified accounts and never give out sensitive info for a “free” prize. Primis Protects You Year-Round At Primis, your security is our priority. Our accounts come with built-in fraud monitoring, and our team is always here to help if something doesn’t look right. Think you’ve been scammed? Report it immediately to your bank and credit card providers, change your passwords, and monitor your accounts closely. It’s also a good idea to place a fraud alert with the credit bureaus. And don’t forget—education is one of your best defenses. Share this blog with friends and family so everyone can enjoy a safer summer. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations to any individual. Related Tags Security Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
4 Smart Ways to Save on Summer Cookouts
4 Smart Ways to Save on Summer Cookouts Author: Primis | Published: Wednesday, July 2, 2025 Summer and grilling go hand in hand. Whether you're flipping burgers for the neighborhood or slow-smoking ribs for your family, backyard barbecues are a staple of the season. But between the rising costs of groceries, gas for the grill, and all the extras that come with hosting, those casual cookouts can heat up your wallet, too.At Primis, we believe summer fun shouldn’t break the bank. That’s why we’ve pulled together four easy, practical ways to keep more money in your pocket—without putting out the flame.1. Shop Sales and Buy in BulkMeat prices can really stack up, especially when you’re feeding a crowd. Keep an eye out for weekly grocery store deals, especially on grill-ready favorites like chicken thighs, hot dogs, or hamburger patties. Bulk stores can also be your best friend—purchasing larger quantities of buns, condiments, or drinks means fewer last-minute trips and a better price per serving.Tip: Freeze extra meat or buns for your next cookout and stretch your dollars even further.2. Go Potluck StyleYou don’t have to do it all. Invite friends or neighbors to bring their favorite sides or desserts. Not only does this ease the financial (and time) burden, but it also adds a fun variety to the table. Someone’s famous pasta salad might just steal the show.3. Go for Budget-Friendly FuelIf you’re a charcoal griller, you know the price of briquettes adds up. Look for off-brand or store-brand charcoal when it goes on sale—and stock up early in the season. If you’re using propane, keep tabs on local refill stations, which often charge less than swapping tanks at big-box stores.Tip: Chimney starters for charcoal are more efficient, and don’t require lighter fluid. Just some scrap paper can get your grill going with ease and also makes for a more consistent cook.4. Use a Primis Perks Checking AccountHere’s where the savings really heat up. With a Primis Perks Checking Account, you earn cash back rewards on your everyday debit card purchases. That’s right—every bag of ice, every burger bun, every last-minute run to grab more ketchup pays you back. And with no overdraft fees, no monthly fees, and just $1 to open, it’s an account that works as hard as you do.👉 Learn more about Primis Perks CheckingSummer should be about making memories—not stressing over money. With a few smart choices and the right bank behind you, your backyard can be the hottest (and most budget-friendly) spot in town. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations to any individual. Related Tags Financial Tips Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
Wire Wisely, Close Safely
Wire Wisely, Close Safely Author: Primis Mortgage | Published: Monday, July 21, 2025 Buying a home? There’s a lot to juggle—emails, phone calls, paperwork—and unfortunately, scammers know that too. Mortgage wire fraud happens when criminals pose as trusted professionals, like your loan officer or closing attorney, and trick buyers into sending closing funds to a fake account. These scams often start with a hacked email or spoofed message and end with your money in the wrong hands. But don’t worry—we’re here to help you protect what’s yours. Here are some smart steps to keep your information secure and your closing on track. Establish clear payment protocolsBefore you get too far in the process, talk with your loan officer and real estate agent to understand how payments will be handled. Ask questions so you know exactly what to expect, including how and when you’ll receive wire instructions. Confirm before you send If you ever receive a message with updated wiring instructions, don’t act on it immediately. Reach out to your loan officer or agent directly—using a phone number you trust—to verify it’s legitimate. Never rely on email alone for confirming important details. Secure your online accounts Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication on your email and financial accounts. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to add an extra layer of protection. Watch for red flags Scammers can mimic legitimate email addresses and phone numbers. Avoid clicking links or downloading attachments unless you’ve confirmed the source. And remember: never send sensitive financial information over email. Stay smart and stay in touch Buying a home should be exciting—not stressful. By staying alert and keeping the lines of communication open with your trusted contacts, you can close with confidence and celebrate your new place worry-free. Have questions or want to connect with a loan officer? We’re here to help—reach out to us today. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations to any individual. Related Tags Security Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
5 Hot Summer Homebuying Tips
5 Hot Summer Homebuying Tips Author: Primis Mortgage | Published: Monday, July 21, 2025 Summer is a popular time for homebuying. With the warmer weather, longer days, and time to make moves, many people are shopping for a new home. But possible summer competition doesn’t mean you can’t find your dream home. Planning ahead, submitting a strong offer, and securing a solid team behind you can help make your summer goals a reality. Here are five tips to get you started: 1. Don’t skip older listings Just because some homes are only on the market for a day or two, doesn’t mean the houses left aren’t right for you. When a house has been on the market for a little while or has been re-listed, that doesn’t automatically mean there is something wrong with it. Buyer and seller’s situations can change, so it’s worth adding them to your search list. 2. Look for a diamond in the rough If you’re not finding a home with all the bells and whistles, and you don’t mind rolling up your sleeves, a fixer-upper might be right for you. Also consider the full picture; maybe there’s an older, more affordable home in your ideal location that just needs a little extra work. Putting in a little elbow grease (or hiring some help) could help you secure your dream home at a more affordable price. 3. Plan ahead for house hunting Summertime can get a little hectic, we get it. A little forethought can make all the difference in preparation for the hunt. For example, instead of that typical long family vacation, you might want to shift your dates around to prioritize your home search. 4. Get a buyer’s agent early Having to navigate your home search and negotiate by yourself can be stressful. That’s why it’s essential to lock in a real estate agent early in the process. You’ll get professional market insight, negotiation skills, and local knowledge to help you find the right home. Be sure to also find a lender you trust; this dynamic duo can make the homebuying process a lot smoother. 5. Don’t forget, seasons change Summer can be a great time to look at homes, with picturesque landscaping and great weather. But it’s important to remember that you’ll be in this house all year long. So, if you’re not in love with the foliage or temporary noisy surroundings, remember elements can change with the seasons. You can always ask your real estate agent for insight, too, in these situations! If you think summer’s the right time to find your new home or if you have any homebuying questions, just reach out to your loan officer or connect with one today! The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Related Tags Mortgages Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
Smart Questions, Safer Loans
Smart Questions, Safer Loans Author: Primis Mortgage | Published: Monday, June 23, 2025 Buying a new home can come with a lot of questions and decisions, so it’s important to make the right choices. With a variety of mortgage scams out there, here are four questions to ask yourself before locking down a loan—keeping you and your new place safe leading up to closing day. Are the interest rates too good to be true? It’s typically a red flag when the mortgage rates being offered seem noticeably lower than market interest rates. This could mean there are various hidden fees. The lender might come back later, saying you no longer qualify for that rate or even tack on extra fees after locking in the original rate. Are they saying my credit score doesn’t matter? Even though some loan programs don’t require a high credit score, that doesn’t mean your credit score doesn’t matter. If you’re told your credit score won’t affect your mortgage, don’t fall for it! That could spell out undesirable terms, and it’s sometimes used to prey on low-income borrowers. Does my lender know my budget? No, it’s not really your mortgage company’s job to come up with your household budget, but your lender should still know about your financial situation. If they don’t ask any questions about your finances or even your monthly income, then it’s probably not someone you want handling your home purchase. Will I be penalized for paying off my loan early? For some loans, your lender can charge a penalty if you pay off your loan “too soon.” These are called prepayment penalties, and although they can offer lower overall interest rates, you’ll want to make sure they aren’t hidden in the fine print. Be sure to ask your lender about the prepayment stipulations before agreeing to a loan. With an important process like buying a new home, it’s worth taking extra caution when picking your lender. Asking yourself these questions ahead of time can help save you from mortgage headaches later on. If you have questions or are ready to talk with a trusted loan officer, connect with one near you today! The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Related Tags Mortgages Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
Home Sweet (First) Home: My Tips for First-Time Buyers
Home Sweet (First) Home: My Tips for First-Time Buyers Author: Erin Pike | Published: Monday, June 30, 2025 Homeownership wasn’t something I thought much about for much of my life. At times I considered buying a “fixer upper,” or even something new, but then came the fears. Can I really afford a mortgage? What if the water heater breaks? Do I really care about paying into my own equity instead of my landlord’s? Is it really that inconvenient to ask the property manager’s permission when I want to get a pet or make cosmetic changes? Isn’t it easier to have someone else in charge of home maintenance, etc? Then there were the occasional flashes of inspiration, and I would take a step or two in the direction of homeownership.Without knowing it, these hesitant steps forward and back were the beginning of my first home purchase process. Now that the closing documents are signed, and I’m settling in, here a few helpful tips I picked up along the way.Check Your Credit ReportIt’s important to get a clear picture of your credit score, as well as the details on the report. I had a couple of items I needed to take care of, and in the time it took to address them, I also continued to practice care in using credit. By the time I was serious about applying for a mortgage I had a healthy credit score and wasn’t caught by surprise by unexpected issues. Work with a Realtor and Lender You TrustBuying a home is a big deal, and it made a difference that I had a realtor I was comfortable with who also advocated for my best interest in areas I didn’t know to consider. Trusting my lender and also getting a second opinion when I received the loan offer were critical to my ability to take the next steps with confidence.Know What You Want but Also Be FlexibleI always wanted something with “character,” but when the opportunity for a brand new townhouse presented itself I realized the beauty of not having to worry about the age of the roof or whether the appliances would give out after move-in. Also, considering the immediate surroundings and how much work I wanted to do on lawncare, and exterior maintenance drove my decision about the size and location of the home.Have a Discerning EyeBuying a new build meant I got to watch construction from the concrete pad to the roof and landscaping. I took many trips to check on the progress, and then for the final walk through I made sure to slow down and really look at the details. Many new construction homes have a warranty to cover things you don’t catch on that last visit before settling on the purchase. But I had a chance to put “blue tape” on areas where I saw imperfections – think paint smudges, water pressure issues, and making sure all electrical outlets and switches are working properly.Don't Forget About FidoIf you’re moving with a pet, like I did, be sure to have as many items that smell and feel like “home” as you make the transition. I got rid of a lot of things but happened to buy a new dog bed a couple weeks before the big move, and that gave my pup a sense of stability as everything else was in limbo.Register Your AppliancesIf you move into a new home or you purchase new appliances, be sure to take advantage of product warranties by registering the equipment within the allotted time.Say Hello to the Jones'True story: my neighbor brought me a warm loaf of pineapple banana bread soon after I moved in. I gave her a thank you gift, too, and slowly got to know all my immediate neighbors. It’s important to become a part of the community soon – you’re going to be there for a long while.So far buying and owning a home has been a true adventure. I’ve learned a lot about things like temporary paper blinds, weighing the pros and cons of keeping/buying furniture, and even how to pack a moving storage unit (another tip: enlist the help of experienced friends, if you don’t have the track record yourself). And here’s my last takeaway: if you’re on the fence and opportunity knocks, I’d say go for it! I also happen to know a great lender… primismortgage.com 😊 The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations to any individual. Related Tags Mortgages Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel