January 30th, 2017 4:00 PM by Dale DiGennaro
You've heard of identitiy theft in the news and probably even know of someone who's been affected by it. But are you doing everything you can not to avoid becoming a victim yourself?
Identity theft is the “fastest growing Internet crime,” according to the Federal Trade Commission. Using illegally obtained personal information, criminals steal your good name, credit history, money, and precious time as you are left to clean up the mess they have left behind.
There are several things you can do to protect yourself from identity theft. The first is to shred any paper you no longer need that includes sensitive and identifying information. Secure the remaining documents behind lock and key, away from roommates, or any workers that may have access to your home. Also, avoid mailing payments from your unsecured home mailbox.
Carry only necessary items -- never carry your ATM or debit card together with a written PIN. Keep your Social Security card and passport locked away at home when you can. Protect your PIN when you are entering it into a machine, making sure the numbers can’t be detected by anyone near you.
To double-check that you are the only one using your accounts, closely monitor your bills and statements as they come in. Then, once a year, review your credit reports to make sure they don’t hold any surprises.
You must also be careful on your computer, especially when you are online. Always update software when you are prompted. In addition, be careful when creating passwords. Use letters, numbers, and punctuation if possible. Never use just a word that can be found in a dictionary, or a loved-one’s name. It’s best to use a different password for each online account.
When checking your e-mail, do not click a link or open an attachment from unfamiliar sources. Also, be suspicious of any link or attachment from anyone (even trusted friends) if you aren’t expecting it.
If you are careful to protect your personal information in these ways, identity thieves will find it difficult to target you. However, if you do suspect you are a victim of identity theft, immediately contact your creditors and file a report with the police.
We'd love to help! Are you ready to fill out a loan application today? Just curious about rates? Regardless, I'd be glad to help you go over your options. Give me a call at (707) 252-2700 or visit me online.
Remove adhesive left behind by stickers and labels: Use a mix of baking soda and water (mix into a paste). Rub gently into the adhesive residue, and then wipe off with a warm, wet cloth.
To clean your kitchen sink, try this recipe: Pour coarse kosher salt into the sink, and then add baking soda, then vinegar. Rinse well, and voila, you have a fresh-smelling sink.
Hawkish Comments
Early in the week, weaker than expected economic data helped mortgage rates improve. Later in the week, however, hawkish comments from the U.S. Fed and the European Central Bank (ECB) had the opposite effect, and mortgage rates ended the week a little higher.
A key indicator of economic activity released on Tuesday fell far short of expectations. The ISM national services index declined sharply to 51.5, far below the consensus forecast, and the lowest level since February 2010. Readings above 50 indicate an expansion in the sector and below 50 a contraction.
The service sector represents about 70% of the economy, and it has been a key source of economic growth in recent years. Since slower growth reduces the outlook for future inflation, this data was positive for mortgage rates.
Loose monetary policy around the world, particularly bond buying programs, have significantly contributed to the current low level of mortgage rates. Not surprisingly, comments which support tighter monetary policy have been negative for mortgage rates. This week, investors received a damaging combination of unexpected news from both the ECB and the Fed. Some investors have been hoping for an extension in the ECB's bond purchase program or new stimulus measures from the ECB. At Thursday's meeting, however, these investors were disappointed, as the ECB appeared to be resistant to providing additional stimulus at this time.
On Friday, the Fed's Rosengren, who has long supported loose monetary policy, seemed to be open to a tightening by the Fed. He said that "a reasonable case can be made" for raising the federal funds rate. Investor expectations for a rate hike at the next Fed meeting on September 21 jumped to 30% from 18% the prior day.
Looking ahead, Retail Sales will be released on Thursday. Consumer spending accounts for about 70% of economic output in the U.S., and the retail sales data is a key indicator. Industrial Production, another important indicator of economic activity, also will come out on Thursday. The Consumer Price Index (CPI), a widely followed monthly inflation report, will be released on Friday. CPI looks at the price change for goods and services which are sold to consumers. In addition, there will be Treasury auctions on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
Everyone changes routines for the winter, even your trees. As the temperature and light hitting the leaves change, your tree begins a complicated process of preparing for winter. Contrary to popular belief, the tree does not completely stop its activity but merely slows its metabolism. There are a few simple steps you can take to increase your tree's overall well being and happiness during the winter.
PruningRemoving dead or diseased limbs in the fall will let you control the tree's shape and give it strength in the spring. Limbs that hang low or even touch the ground should be removed as well. These branches may break or allow bugs easy access to your tree.
MulchingThe most obvious enemy of your tree during the winter is the temperature. Extreme cold combined with fluctuations in the temperature can cause unwanted damage. Mulch can keep your tree protected from extremes and swings in the temperature at the base of the tree. The best way to determine how much mulch you need is to look at the branches. As far as they spread is as far as you should apply mulch in a thin layer.
Fertilizing and wateringUse a balanced fertilizer that's made for your climate, but avoid using too much nitrogen as this can cause a burst of growth even in late fall. Watering your tree in the dead of winter may not be something you consider doing. However, droughts in the winter are just as bad for your trees as they are in the summer. When the ground is not frozen it's okay to water your tree. Just be careful not to apply too much water as it's easy to overwater your tree in the winter.
Dormant SpraysDeciduous trees, ornamental trees and fruit trees may require a dormant spray. Spray your tree after you've pruned it to avoid throwing away limbs that you've treated. Talk to your favorite nursery to determine the correct chemicals or oils that are best for your tree.
Give us a call at (707) 252-2700 or send us an email at dale@clgroup.net. We're glad to answer questions — no obligation, of course. NMLS Lic#298353/845079 CalBRE Lic#966782/944064