Avoid these 5 mistakes to prevent financial fraud

Avoid these 5 mistakes to prevent financial fraud

Financial scams are a common phenomenon in the country; according to data released by the Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported losing more than $3.8 billion due to investment scams in 2022. So, it is important to remain vigilant and practice caution before initiating any online interaction or transaction with a business or a stranger. Here is a look at some common mistakes you should avoid to protect yourself from financial fraud: Using one password for multiple accounts You should frequently change passwords for your sensitive accounts, like those on banking apps and other platforms that have access to your confidential information. So, your accounts investment portals and digital wallets should have unique and strong passwords that are not easy to crack. It is also important to note that using one password for all your accounts increases the risk of fraud. When one account is hacked, others with the same password can also be hacked. Falling for shopping scams Online shopping has made it extremely convenient for customers to order anything from anywhere. While this has helped businesses grow, it has made room for all kinds of scams. You should ensure that the business you are buying from is legitimate. Not only that, you should use a secure Wi-Fi network to carry out all kinds of transactions. Responding to phishing mails This is a common fraud where scammers disguise themselves as bank executives and send emails to the bank’s customers. They will ask to update account information or confirm bank details with you. You should never respond to such emails, as no reliable bank will contact you to re-confirm or demand any personal or financial information that they already have. Discarding confidential documents In case you are disposing of any old bank documents, ensure that nobody can read or access them.
11 ways to keep the indoor air quality clean

11 ways to keep the indoor air quality clean

The air in our homes is not perpetually clean. There are many chemicals, harmful gases, dust, and other airborne allergens that degrade the air quality in your home. These pollutants often stem from external factors and even the appliances you use at home. Furthermore, such pollutants can deteriorate health and trigger several health problems when inhaled. Therefore, here are 11 ways to keep the indoor air quality in your home clean. Open the windows Opening the window will let oxygen in and remove any harmful toxins in the air. It can even help keep the room breezy in the summers. Do not use aerosol sprays Aerosol sprays release harmful chemicals into the air. So you must use non-aerosol versions when it comes to hair sprays, furniture polish, and deodorants. Mop hard floor surfaces Mopping surfaces made from hardwood, vinyl floors, tile, or other toughened materials with a disinfectant will keep your home free of allergens. Inspect the air vents HVAC systems filter out harmful substances from the air to keep the atmosphere inside your room clean. Clean such air vents periodically to ensure they are working properly. Use exhausts Moisture in your home can lead to mildew, bugs, bacteria, and mold. Use the exhaust in the bathroom, kitchen, or use a dehumidifier. It will ensure moisture levels are kept in check. Vacuum the carpets Flooring, especially the ones with carpets and rugs, may collect disease-causing allergens. Vacuuming the carpets regularly can help keep the risk from such allergens at a minimum. Check the furniture Avoid furniture that is treated with formaldehyde and stuck with toxic glue. They contain harmful chemicals that can trigger several health conditions. Use zero-VOC paint Before painting your home, ensure the label reads “zero VOC” or “low COV.” These have a low content of harmful chemicals and leave the air quality of your home unaffected.
6 key things to consider when selling a house

6 key things to consider when selling a house

Selling a house is a significant task that requires careful planning and knowledge of the real estate market. Whether one’s a first-time seller or an experienced one, certain critical factors to consider can influence the speed of the sale, the transaction process, and, ultimately, the selling price. By having the right information and lucrative strategies, one can navigate the complexities of the selling process and maximize the home’s market potential. Market analysis Understanding current market trends is crucial. But one must determine whether it’s a buyer’s or a seller’s market. This knowledge can create the pricing strategy and expectations. Additionally, analyzing the demand around the location of the house can be helpful. Look for factors that buyers search for in a home. Tailoring the home’s appeal to suit buyer preferences can attract more offers. Determining the right price Setting a competitive price is vital. An overpriced home can lead to the property being unsold for an extended time, whereas setting a low price may result in a loss of potential profit. Consider seeking help from professional appraisers to evaluate the right price point. Be prepared to negotiate. Having a clear, lowest acceptable price in mind will help one negotiate confidently. House staging Addressing any necessary repairs and considering modest upgrades can enhance the home’s appeal. Ensure to focus on cost-effective changes that could increase the home’s value, such as painting or fixing fixtures. A clean, decluttered, and well-staged house makes a strong impression, helping potential buyers envision themselves living in the space. Use of marketing strategies High-quality images are essential for making a compelling online listing. Consider hiring a professional photographer to showcase the property best. Don’t forget to list the house on multiple platforms to reach a broader audience. Legal and financial considerations Be honest and upfront about any issues with the property.
Browns NFL single games ticket sales for 2021

Browns NFL single games ticket sales for 2021

Football season is here, and the excitement couldn’t be more! If you’re looking for Cleveland Browns single game tickets for 2021, we’ve got you covered. From ticket prices to venue to timings, you can find all the information below. This Paul Brown-founded football team has a huge fan following, and surely the fans wouldn’t wanna miss out on some outdoor fun after an overwhelming year. Here’s all you need to know about the Browns ticket sales! Cleveland Browns vs. New York Giants Day: Sunday Date: August 22nd, 2021 Time: 1 PM Venue: FirstEnergy Stadium, Home of the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland, OH Ticket price: Ranging from $16 to $999, depending on the section and row. Cleveland Browns vs. Houston Texans Going against Houston Texans in week 2, here’s what you should know: Day: Sunday Date: September 19th, 2021 Time: 1 PM Venue: FirstEnergy Stadium, Home of the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland, OH Tickets: Depending on the row and section, the tickets for one person range from $143 to about $1,000. Cleveland Browns vs. Chicago Bears Day: Sunday Date: September 26th, 2021 Time: 1 PM Venue: FirstEnergy Stadium, Home of the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland, OH Ticket price: Ranging from $169 to $1,200. Cleveland Browns vs. Arizona Cardinals Day: Sunday Date: October 17th, 2021 Time: 4:05PM Venue: FirstEnergy Stadium, Home of the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland, OH Ticket price: Ranging from $96 to approx. $650. Cleveland Browns vs. Denver Broncos Day: Sunday Date: October 21st, 2021 Time: 8:20PM Venue: FirstEnergy Stadium, Home of the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland, OH Ticket price: Ranging from $126 to approx. $1,400. Cleveland Browns vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Day: Sunday Date: October 31st, 2021 Time: 1 PM Venue: FirstEnergy Stadium, Home of the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland, OH Ticket price: Ranging from $148 to approx. $1,075. Cleveland Browns vs. Detroit Lions Day: Sunday Date:
Top 5 retirement investment funds for your portfolio

Top 5 retirement investment funds for your portfolio

Most people work for decades so that they can make investments and collect sufficient funds for their retirement years. Having enough savings for the golden years is ideally the most significant goal for you as an investor, but the volatile market may make it difficult to understand which retirement funds are suitable for you. To help you out, here are the best retirement investments that you can include in your portfolio: Vanguard Target Retirement 2035 Fund This retirement fund is created for investors who want to retire early so that they can enjoy the benefits of their investment within 15 years. However, even if you don’t want to retire that early, this fund has various offerings that make it one of the best retirement investments available in the market. As of now, this retirement fund offers a current yield of over 2%, and the expense ratio is 0.14%. Plus, Vanguard is quite a trusted name for keeping your money safe. Northern Global Tactical Asset Allocation Fund This fund offers one of the best diversifications and a lot more protection in case the fund underperforms. So, it invests in mutual funds and exchange-traded funds and aims to provide long-term capital appreciation at an expense ratio of 0.58%. It is an ideal option for you if you’re interested in long-term investment and want to diversify your investment among stocks, commodities, and bonds, both domestic and foreign. Baird Aggregate Bond Fund Although the interest rates in the market are low, we recommend retirees to diversify their investments. It is wise to have flexible income to offset the volatile equity markets, which means it’s better not to put all your money into a single company. This fund works best for people who wish to attain investment discipline and risk control, and the best thing about it is that it invests in government and public sector entities.
Top 5 Oakley sunglasses to buy

Top 5 Oakley sunglasses to buy

Oakley has always been famous for its wide range of stylish sunglasses. From sturdy outdoor glasses to fabulous pool party shades, Oakley has sunglasses for everybody. However, with a zillion options out there, it can get difficult to pick the right sunglasses. Therefore, to help one make a choice, we have put together a list of the top five best Oakley glasses of all time. Oakley Flak ® 2.0 XL The Oakley Flak® 2.0 XL is a lightweight, simple design that provides all-around eye protection. It provides wide coverage, making it a great choice for sportspersons. It is available in a variety of lens types such as Photochromic, Standard, and Prizm™ Polarized. One can also customize the sunglasses with different colored lenses. These Oakley Flak 2.0 polarized lenses cost $214 on Oakley’s official website. Oakley Crosshair ™ These fashionable sunglasses are a great pick for those with round and oval faces. Made from C-5™ alloy, it is lightweight yet durable and comfortable, even when one is sweating or during vigorous activity. You can also get a pair of Oakley glasses with prescription lenses. The Oakley Crosshair™ costs $184 and can be returned within 100 days for no extra cost. Oakley Sylas The Oakley Sylas makes for a perfect everyday pair of sunglasses. One can get a variety of customization options on the lenses, including prescription lenses. It is built using a special technique called Three-point Fit that enables a secure fit. These sunglasses are lightweight yet durable and stylish. Be it golfing, an outdoor party, or driving, these sunglasses make a comfortable choice for every occasion. They cost $172. Oakley Latch ™ The Oakley Latch™ sunglasses are crafted using durable materials making them a fantastic choice for outdoor enthusiasts. They are lightweight, super-flexible, and come with a clip-hinge mechanism, so one can take them off and clip them securely on their T-shirt, and put them on seamlessly.
8 simple yet effective ways to protect online privacy

8 simple yet effective ways to protect online privacy

The internet plays an indispensable role in one’s daily life. The digital realm offers unparalleled convenience, from enabling communication and education to shopping and entertainment. But the more the online world is embraced, the more people are exposed to potential privacy breaches in increasingly innovative ways. Protecting one’s privacy online has become an essential skill to master, and fortunately, there are several effective strategies one can employ to do this. 8 Simple Ways to Protect One’s Privacy Online Create Strong and Unique Passwords Passwords are one’s access to all personal information, so one is advised to opt for long and complex passwords. They can include a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Use Two-factor Authentication (2FA) Two-factor authentication is often used by businesses and banks. This secondary verification step adds an additional layer of protection and may include a text message, an email, or a specialized authentication app. So, even if an unauthorized individual gains access to one’s password, they would be unable to infiltrate one’s accounts without the next step. Update the Software The updates often prompted by operating systems, web browsers, and apps contain security patches aimed at rectifying vulnerabilities that hackers could potentially exploit. So, updating them ensures that one’s software is the latest, most fortified version. Limit Third-Party App Permissions Many phone apps and websites request access to various aspects of one’s digital life. So, it’s best to review the permissions one has granted to apps and revoke those that don’t require access to sensitive information. Clear Digital Footprint Browsing history, cookies, and cached data can accumulate over time and reveal one’s online activities. So, regularly clearing these traces from one’s devices can help maintain one’s privacy. Do Not Click on Phishing Emails Phishing attacks involve tricking users into revealing personal information through fake websites or emails.
Top 8 deep cleaning products every home must have

Top 8 deep cleaning products every home must have

A clean and tidy home contributes to the general well-being and overall health of its occupants. While hiring professional services is an option, many individuals prefer to try deep cleaning tasks themselves. To achieve professional-level results, one must have the right tools and products. Some commonly suggested products for cleaning home spaces are listed below. These products are widely recognized for their effectiveness in managing cleaning challenges and achieving a sparkling clean home. Baking soda Baking soda is a versatile and affordable cleaning agent that most professionals suggest. Its mild abrasive properties make it ideal for scrubbing tough stains, eliminating odors, and deodorizing carpets. Glass cleaners Having glass cleaners handy can help achieve streak-free, crystal-clear windows and mirrors and instant riddance from spills on glass table tops. Specially formulated to remove smudges, fingerprints, and dirt, glass cleaners leave surfaces sparkling without any residue. Paired with lint-free cloths or microfiber towels, they bring shine and clarity to glass surfaces. Rubber gloves Rubber gloves protect hands from harsh chemicals and provide a better grip while scrubbing and handling cleaning agents. One can opt for durable, high-quality rubber gloves that offer comfort and protection during deep cleaning. Extendable duster A versatile extendable duster can be used to reach high and difficult-to-access areas in the house, especially while removing dust and cobwebs from ceilings, ceiling fans, light fixtures, and tall furniture. Its extendable feature allows for adjustable lengths to suit different cleaning requirements. Scrub brush Scrub brushes are specially designed to clean tiles and the grout lines between tiles. They are small, stiff-bristled brushes that effectively remove dirt, grime, and mildew buildup and restore the appearance of tile floors, showers, and backsplashes. Stainless steel cleaner Stainless steel surfaces require special care to maintain their shine and resist fingerprints. Investing in good quality stainless steel cleaners can help effectively remove smudges, fingerprints, and water stains while providing a protective barrier against future damage.
Top 6 home plants that can save pets from pests

Top 6 home plants that can save pets from pests

As the warmer months approach, many pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for more time spent outdoors. However, with the great outdoors come unwanted pests like fleas and ticks, which can be a nuisance for humans and their furry companions. While chemical-based repellents are commonly used, there are natural alternatives that can help keep these pests at bay. One such alternative is using plants that naturally repel fleas and ticks. 1. Lavender Lavender is a natural flea and tick repellent. These insects are repelled by the strong fragrance of lavender, making them an excellent choice for gardens or indoor pots. Planting lavender in one’s garden or outdoor sitting areas can deter fleas and ticks from bothering inhabitants and their pets. 2. Rosemary This versatile herb acts as a natural pest repellent; its aromatic scent acts as a deterrent to fleas and ticks. One can plant rosemary in their garden or create a natural spray by boiling rosemary leaves and using the infused water as a pet-friendly flea and tick repellent. 3. Mint Like peppermint and spearmint, mint plants emit a strong scent that fleas and ticks find unpleasant. Planting mint around one’s garden or patio can help keep these pesky insects away. 4. Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemums contain a natural insect repellent called pyrethrin, commonly used in commercial flea and tick products. Planting chrysanthemums in one’s garden can help keep these pests away from outdoor spaces. 5. Lemongrass Lemongrass is another natural plant that repels fleas and ticks effectively. Its lemony scent is pleasant for humans but not for these insects. Planting lemongrass around the yard or patio can create a natural barrier against fleas and ticks. 6. Eucalyptus Eucalyptus trees and plants contain essential oils known to repel fleas and ticks. One can plant eucalyptus trees or shrubs in one’s yard to help keep these pests away.
5 Cyber Monday mistakes to avoid this shopping season

5 Cyber Monday mistakes to avoid this shopping season

As you know, Cyber Monday is the second biggest day to shop, and the biggest online shopping day in the country. Since the day is meant for sales and exciting deals, many people log in early, much before Cyber Monday, to check for price drops and exclusive products. To make the most of Cyber Monday, here is a list of mistakes that you should avoid to make the most of the discounts. Cyber Monday mistakes to avoid this year Do not only rely on Cyber Monday discounts for necessary purchases It is often seen that some retailers do not wait until Cyber Monday to offer discounts on their products. To reduce the online rush, there are discounts on several items on the previous and following days of Cyber Monday. That is why you should not consider the day to be the holy grail of discounts and spend on things that you may not need at the time. Being aware of when a retailer makes discount available is important to purchase things. Do not be unprepared You should not make the mistake of being unprepared for online shopping. It is important because often you’ll find the same product priced differently at different stores, which may put you at a loss. Thus, planning is essential. In this regard, you have to keep your eyes and ears open. It would also be helpful if you downloaded the apps of some of the retailers, as they often give special discounts to app users. Do not act on impulses As you browse online stores, you are going to find several products that are not on your wishlist at discounts. It may be tempting, but do not make impulsive decisions. Buying things you do not need will only bring regret and make a hole in your pocket even if it is at a discount.
5 mistakes to avoid when buying tickets for live concerts or shows

5 mistakes to avoid when buying tickets for live concerts or shows

Concerts in large stadiums provide a truly unique experience. But finding tickets for the best rows before they sell out can be time-consuming. Tickets can be purchased in different ways, including online, at the venue, or through a middleman. Regardless of the method you choose, it is essential to confirm the tickets’ validity to prevent becoming a victim of fraud. Here are some things to avoid when buying live concert and show tickets. Visiting fake links Scammers often use phishing to obtain financial and personal information from people booking tickets online. Once they have this information, they access the victim’s bank and credit card accounts. They mainly trick buyers by sending emails or text messages that appear to be from legitimate banks, credit card companies, or event organizers. These emails include a link to a different page that asks for personal data like birthdate, social security number, and bank account details. As a result, the con artist gains direct access to the victim’s account. To avoid fraud, ensure the links you visit are valid and come from reliable sources. Last-minute bookings Tickets to shows featuring popular performers sell out shortly after the dates are made public. So, booking tickets just a few days before the show or concert can be risky. To ensure you get the passes, purchase tickets as soon as you learn that your favorite artist is performing. Doing so also gives you time to look for discounts or special offers and pick the best seats inside the stadium. If necessary, set a reminder for when the tickets go on sale. Ignoring the terms and conditions Before buying live concert or show tickets, carefully read the fine print. Check for any stated age restrictions to avoid wasting money and being denied entry at the gate. Also, read the terms and conditions to understand what is permitted in the stadium or ballroom and what should be left behind to avoid confusion later.
3 common mistakes to avoid while installing rain gutters

3 common mistakes to avoid while installing rain gutters

Rain gutters are systems that safeguard a home from various water-related damages. They collect the rainwater and channel it to the ground away from the walls, garden, and overall foundation of a given property. Installing a gutter generally demands professional assistance. Nevertheless, many homeowners insist on taking the DIY route, which may lead to problems like wrong positioning and damage. To avoid such issues, here are certain mistakes to avoid while installing rain gutters. Choosing the wrong type of gutter Rain gutters are available in various sizes, prices, and materials and for multiple kinds of specific requirements. Choosing the wrong type of gutter can mean homeowners can’t make the most out of them. Ideally, one must choose a gutter made of aluminum, one with a thick gauge such as 0.032, a gutter that has at least 0.019 thickness for all elbows and downspouts, a system that comes with strong and hidden hangers, a gutter that matches the color of one’s home, and a gutter that is adequately sized for the amount of water flow for a specific kind of home. Overlooking improper hanger spacing Gutter hangers connect it to one’s house. The spacing between these hangers is critical to the functioning of a gutter. Even when the gutter is installed at a proper slope, is made from the suitable material for a given house, and is made by a reputed manufacturer, improper hanger spacing can undermine all those positive elements of gutters. Improper spacing causes the gutters to sag, leading to water pooling in specific areas around one’s house. It can cause the gutters to detach from the space. Ideally, hangers must be spaced no more than 2 feet apart. In colder climates, the space can be kept at less than 2 feet apart to counter the weight of snow and ice, which puts extra strain on the gutters.