XMWare

2025-06-17T15:15:00

(BPT) – Relocating from a Northern region to a Southern U.S. state can provide a mild respite from frigid winters. However, if problems exist within your new home’s energy infrastructure, moving to a warmer climate zone could potentially be followed by your energy bills heating up. Still, there are steps homeowners can take to keep their cool and keep their budget on track — even in Southern climate zones. According to the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, even modest weatherization measures like air sealing and increasing the quality and thickness of attic insulation can reliably reduce energy usage by 12%-18%.^1*

Consider Climate and Location

IECC residential construction energy codes for different climate zones take temperature and humidity into consideration. These codes primarily aim to improve energy efficiency and reduce building energy consumption, which in turn, with proper levels of materials like attic insulation, also help support comfort. For example, the recommended level of insulation for homes in west Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California (climate zones 1A-3A) is a minimum of 13-14 inches — sufficient for an R-Value of 38.² The R-Value is a measure of insulation’s ability to resist heat traveling through it. Inside a home’s attic, insulation helps keep warm air from passing into cooler parts of the home. In cool weather, insulation works to keep warm indoor air from moving to the cooler outside.

Beyond supporting comfort inside a home’s living spaces, an adequate amount of insulation in the home’s attic can help keep energy bills in check. Energy Star estimates that a home with low insulation levels could have utility bills that are 10% higher than a home that is well sealed and insulated.²

In addition to adding insulation, other steps to support energy efficiency include repairing or retrofitting ducts and ensuring that a home’s attic is inspected by a contractor who brings a whole home approach to caring for a home’s air.

Considering a move to a warmer climate zone? Follow these tips to help reduce your home’s energy use, potentially leading to lower utility bills and better comfort in every season.

Assess Attic Insulation: If a home’s attic floor joists are not buried in insulation, that’s a good sign that more insulation is needed. Measuring attic insulation is the first step in getting the insulation level right. An Owens Corning AirCare^® Professional will measure the thickness of attic insulation and provide a recommendation on the appropriate level to support comfort, improve energy efficiency and care for the air throughout the whole home. How much can installing sufficient attic insulation reduce energy bills? Savings may vary depending on the project, but Energy Star estimates that the average savings may be up to 15%.³

Check out the Ductwork: An efficient duct system is a prerequisite for a comfortable and energy-efficient home. A home’s ducts — known collectively as the air distribution system — carry air from the central air conditioner (or furnace in the winter) to each part of the home and back again. Energy Star reports that in a typical house, about 20% of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts.² Even the most energy-efficient HVAC equipment will not deliver its full value if the ducts that deliver air are compromised. Additionally, holes and loose connections can allow dust and particulates in attic air to infiltrate into other parts of the home, affecting indoor air quality. An Owens Corning AirCare^® Professional is trained to look for ductwork issues and may use special tools, such as thermal imaging, to identify where air is exiting ductwork, plus provide strategies for mitigating duct issues.

Look for Signs of an Issue: When shopping for a home, stay alert to signs that may indicate an issue in the attic. Are some rooms warmer than others? Do some rooms smell musty or have an unusual odor? Can you feel warm air infiltrating from attic access doors? Is condensation, which can support mold formation, visible in the attic? Any of these indicators may be a sign of issues in the attic.

Bring a Whole Home Approach to AirCare: Reviewing a home’s energy bills and records of maintenance performed on the heating and cooling system may provide an indication of monthly utility bills and how well equipment is functioning. And when you move into your new home, choose a contractor who is trained to care for air in the whole home. To find an Owens Corning AirCare^® professional, visit the Owens Corning online contractor locator.

¹ https://www.aceee.org/blog-post/2023/06/weatherization-key-effective-low-cost-building-electrification

² https://www.energystar.gov/products/ask-the-experts/how-check-your-homes-attic-insulation-level#:~:text=If%20you%20live%20in%20the,13%2D14%20inches%20of%20insulation

₃ Rule Your Attic! For Comfort and Savings | ENERGY STAR

*This is not a guarantee of savings. Savings may vary depending on project.

2025-06-17T08:57:00

(BPT) – We’ve all heard of random acts of kindness — those spontaneous moments of generosity that warm hearts and spark smiles. Especially deserving of kindness are our military service members whose courage and resilience protect our freedom.

Companies like all-American snack cake brand MoonPie have been supporting U.S. troops for over 100 years through acts of patriotism. When America’s brave servicemen and women leave home, MoonPie goes with them. From the frontlines to the home front, MoonPie has been a comfort food soldiers have counted on since the heroic days of World War II.

Care packages lift spirits

Sending unexpected treats to troops not only boosts morale, it validates their service and reminds soldiers they are not forgotten. Something as simple as a snack cake can provide a meaningful connection to life before deployment. It’s a tangible reminder that service members who are away from home are appreciated and championed.

Patriotic Pies is a fundraiser that helps provide MoonPies to service members and veterans as a heartfelt way to thank them for their sacrifice. Schools and nonprofit organizations play a key role, promoting the program as they raise funds for their own goals, earning money from each Patriotic Pie purchased. Patriotic Pies has delivered half a million Mini MoonPies to troops since its inception in 2022.

MoonPies are available in red, white and blue — strawberry, vanilla and blueberry — in addition to classic chocolate, banana and salted caramel plus newer flavors like mint and birthday cake. Chattanooga Bakery has been making MoonPies for five generations, now over one million a day, with the goal of distributing one million Patriotic Pies to service members in 2025.

Volunteerism is a form of patriotism

The ultimate way to demonstrate appreciation is by donating time. Service-member support organizations like the USO, Friends of the Troops and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) offer ample opportunities for volunteerism. With more than 250 USO locations, volunteers can provide hospitality and assist with a variety of programs and activities. Through Friends of the Troops, volunteers can adopt a service member on deployment by sending care packages.

MoonPie works with the USO, Friends of the Troops and the VFW to distribute Patriotic Pies to active-duty troops on military bases stateside and overseas, as well as to veterans. Veteran-owned Averitt transports them for free to U.S. bases. MoonPies are also gifted to service members during deployment flight departures and arrivals and have even been shipped to Greenland for Space Force troops to enjoy a taste of home.

Whether it’s supporting efforts like Patriotic Pies in its mission to deliver a taste of home to soldiers, taking a few minutes to write a note of encouragement or volunteering to help military members and their families, gestures like these show our troops how valued they truly are for their service to our country.

2025-06-17T09:15:00

(BPT) – Macaroni and cheese is a quintessential comfort food everyone loves. It’s homey, cheesy and tasty, evoking comfort like no other dish. National Mac and Cheese Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in this beloved comfort food, experiment with fun twists or simply enjoy it just the way you like it. From customizable toppings to easy recipes, there are plenty of ways to make this cheesy favorite the star of your day.

Make it customizable

Get creative and make mealtime fun by setting up a mac and cheese bar with a variety of tasty toppings. Mix and match different textures and flavors to take your dish to the next level — think crunchy bacon bits or toasted breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch, sliced cherry tomatoes and chives for pops of color or chopped broccoli and mushrooms for added freshness. The best part? You can customize it however you want!

Keep it simple

Hosting a get-together this summer? Macaroni and cheese is an easy crowd-pleaser for any occasion — from backyard barbecues to weeknight family dinners. You don’t have to be a chef to serve up something satisfying. Bob Evans Macaroni & Cheese takes the hassle out of mealtime by cutting down on prep and cleanup so you can spend more moments with friends and family and less time worrying about the meal.

Make it the main course

Bob Evans rich and creamy Macaroni & Cheese varieties are delicious on their own but can also be used in a range of recipes for added flavor and variety. Whether you’re mixing in protein, layering it into a casserole or reinventing a classic dish, it’s the perfect base to build your next mealtime favorite.

Here are some tasty recipes to inspire your next meal.

Macaroni and Cheese with Veggies

This simple macaroni and cheese pasta salad is quick and easy to throw together and perfect for any summer gathering.

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook time: 20 minutes; Servings: 5

Ingredients

• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 20-ounce package Bob Evans Macaroni & Cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In large skillet over medium heat, add zucchini and stir in macaroni and cheese, tomatoes and spinach. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Pour into 2-quart baking dish. Bake 20-25 minutes or until hot.

Pulled Pork Macaroni and Cheese Sliders

Pulled pork, a touch of barbecue flavor and extra cheese will transform your favorite mac and cheese into fun-to-eat sliders your whole family will love.

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 10 minutes; Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 1 pound cooked pulled pork in sauce
• 12 slider rolls
• 1 20-ounce package Bob Evans Macaroni & Cheese
• 2-3 tablespoons barbecue sauce
• 6 slices cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon barbecue dry rub
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Warm pulled pork in microwave as directed on package.
3. Slice rolls in half. Place bottom halves of rolls in 9×13-inch baking dish and top each half with pulled pork.
4. Microwave macaroni and cheese according to package directions and spoon evenly over the pork on each sandwich roll.
5. Drizzle barbecue sauce over sandwiches. Lay cheese in 2 rows of 3 over sliders to cover each sandwich. Top with top halves of the slider rolls.
6. Stir dry rub into melted butter. Spoon evenly over tops of sandwiches. Sprinkle with parsley.
7. Bake uncovered 10 minutes. Serve immediately.

Queso Macaroni and Cheese Tacos

Add a fun twist to this mealtime favorite with Bob Evans Queso Macaroni & Cheese, which brings Tex-Mex flavor and just the right amount of spice.

Prep time: 15 minutes; Cook time: 10 minutes; Servings: 12 tacos

Ingredients

• 14 ounces Mexican chorizo
• 1 15-ounce can of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 20-ounce package Bob Evans Queso Macaroni & Cheese
• 12 soft taco flour tortillas, warmed
• 1 cup pico de gallo
• Cilantro leaves to garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook chorizo in large skillet over medium heat until browned and crumbly; drain and stir in beans. Cook until beans are thoroughly heated. Meanwhile, heat macaroni and cheese according to package directions.
2. Spoon macaroni and cheese into warm tortillas. Top with chorizo mixture and pico de gallo. Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.

Celebrate the cheddar way

In celebration of National Mac and Cheese Day, now through July 14, Bob Evans, America’s No. 1 refrigerated mac and cheese brand, is giving 14 consumers the chance to win a one-year supply of Bob Evans Macaroni & Cheese, along with mac-and-cheese-themed items to help make the most of the summer season. To enter to win, visit the Bob Evans (@bobevansgrocery) Instagram or Facebook page and follow the details listed in the giveaway post.

Visit BobEvansGrocery.com to discover more recipe inspiration for the summer entertaining season.

2025-06-16T11:05:00

(BPT) – If you’ve ever wondered what a committed group of people could accomplish in one month, wonder no more: During T-Mobile’s third annual Magenta Giving Month, employees dedicated themselves to giving back to the causes they care most about — making a bigger impact than ever before. Many employees also rolled up their sleeves throughout the month, donating blood, packing meals for local foodbanks, planting trees and/or volunteering together at coast-to-coast events.

In four short weeks, T-Mobile and its employees rallied together to support local communities across the country, with:

• $3.3 million donated to causes that matter — through employee giving, T-Mobile Foundation matches, in-kind support and more.
• 27,327 volunteer hours given by over 4,000 passionate employees nationwide.
• 875 units of blood donated — helping potentially more than 2,000 lives.
• 10,000 meals packed for Harvesters and 28,000 pounds of food sorted for Atlanta Community Food Bank and Food Lifeline.
• 11,760 STEM kits assembled for Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
• 150 trees planted in partnership with The Arbor Day Foundation.
• 79 Volun-T Grants awarded totaling $393,000 to support employees’ chosen causes including education, healthcare initiatives and environmental conservation.

Magenta Giving Month also kicked off with every T-Mobile employee receiving a $30 donation credit from the T-Mobile Foundation to support a nonprofit of their choice. The total donation dollars collected was $1,082,472 and shared amongst 9,867 nonprofits.

“Every year, this moment is about more than just volunteering,” said Mike Katz, president of Marketing, Strategy and Products at T-Mobile and this year’s Magenta Giving Month executive co-sponsor. “It’s about coming together as One Team, Together to make a real impact in our communities.”

Combined with previous years, T-Mobile’s annual giving campaign has become a force for good, raising over $8 million to support communities across the country and making an impact through volunteering.

Saving lives

T-Mobile once again teamed up with the American Red Cross and seven other blood collection organizations by hosting 33 blood drives.

“In the U.S., someone needs blood every two seconds,” said Mario Brown, national partnerships manager at American Red Cross. “Last year, T-Mobile collected 454 units with us — potentially helping 1,362 people.”

This year was even more impactful, with T-Mobile collecting 693 units of blood, potentially saving up to 2,079 lives. Combined with other blood drive partners, the company helped collect 875 total units.

Fighting hunger

At a time when rising prices affect families across the country, multiple volunteer efforts worked to provide food for communities. For example, employee volunteers sorted nearly 17,000 pounds of food — enough to serve over 14,000 meals — for the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

“Roughly one in nine Georgians are food insecure, and one in six children in our 29-county area,” said Ben Burgess, corporate relations manager for the Atlanta Community Food Bank. “We’ve seen the need grow almost 60% in the last three years.”

Another event held at T-Mobile’s Overland Park, Kansas, headquarters packed 10,000 sack lunches for Harvesters, a regional food bank serving Northeast Kansas and Northwest Missouri.

“The Give Lunch bags that T-Mobile is providing help tremendously,” said Paula Pratt, director of Community Engagement for Harvesters. “Many are distributed through our Food+ Program, at libraries, bus stops, healthcare facilities and other places people go to find help, like pantries and summer feeding programs.”

Inspiring kids

T-Mobile employees also partnered with Boys & Girls Clubs to build thousands of STEM kits nationwide. In Overland Park, employees packed 4,480 STEM kits, while Bellevue, Washington, added another 4,200 kits. In Frisco, Texas, employees packed 2,240 kits, plus another 840 kits packed in Herndon, Virginia.

“These kits provide hands-on learning experiences that help kids build problem-solving skills and spark interest in STEM,” said Jules Pollack, director of development for Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue. “The energy during these events has been incredible.”

The T-Mobile Foundation also provided each partner organization with cash from a 2:1 match on volunteer hours, adding up to $601K. For just one example, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City received almost $13K in addition to the STEM kits.

The joy of giving

The response from employees and organizations alike reflected the company culture of giving back and belonging — one where everyone feels part of something bigger and inspired to make a difference. It also helped that some events were sheer fun — like meeting the pack of irresistibly adoptable pups visiting T-Mobile employees for an event with P.A.W.S. Progressive Animal Welfare Society for a chance to take home new furry family members.

“I was honored to host PAWS at our Bellevue HQ for our second annual adoption event,” said Janice Kapner, chief communications and corporate responsibility officer and executive vice president, T-Mobile U.S. “This year, we saw all 11 dogs get adopted within three days.”

Magenta Giving Month made one thing clear: T-Mobile’s commitment to using its network, scale and resources for good is unwavering — empowering employees to come together and make a meaningful difference in communities across the country. Learn more about Magenta Giving Month at T-Mobile.com.

2025-06-16T11:49:00

(BPT) – It’s no surprise that more Americans are prioritizing whole and minimally processed foods, considering the growing data surrounding ultra-processed foods’ impact on health span and longevity. Ultra-processed foods have been linked to an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and dementia. With such evidence, many consumers are opting to fuel their bodies with less-processed foods that can enable them to lead longer, healthier lives — foods like olive oil.

One of the few naturally extracted oils, olive oil is known for wide-ranging benefits, from enhancing cardiovascular health to supporting brain health. With Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month underway, it’s a perfect opportunity to reiterate and emphasize how olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), can easily be incorporated into everyday eating to potentially boost the brain and help combat Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases. By making one simple ingredient swap, consumers can experience positive health benefits, distinctive flavors and a range of delicious dishes perfect for summer entertainment.

Backed by science

Inflammation and cellular damage are often at the root of chronic diseases, and olive oil’s nutritive properties may reinforce the body’s defenses. Olive oil naturally contains polyphenols and antioxidants, which are thought to help manage inflammation and protect cells at risk of oxidative damage. Higher concentrations of polyphenols and antioxidants are found in EVOO, making it an efficient and flavorful way to support good health, including brain health.

Studies show that EVOO consumption is associated with cognitive benefits and a lower risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia. One study found that participants with mild cognitive impairments experienced enhanced cognition, brain function and brain connectivity when ingesting EVOO daily for six months.

Additionally, a comprehensive review of studies analyzing EVOO and Alzheimer’s noted, “EVOO and its phenolic compounds hold promising potential for the prevention and treatment of [Alzheimer’s disease], representing a significant shift toward more effective strategies against this complex neurodegenerative disorder.”

Choosing the right foods to support your health

Prioritizing health doesn’t have to be a huge lift — in fact, simple changes in the kitchen can make a big difference. Olive oil, especially the mild or extra light tasting varietals, can be used in place of other cooking oils and fats, like vegetable or seed oils, in any preparation because olive oils retain all beneficial properties at temperatures used in sauteing, frying, roasting, grilling and baking.

Cooking oils with higher smoke points, like vegetable and seed oils, tend to be more refined or processed. Some of the more refined oils also have a higher saturated fat content than olive oil, which is conversely rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. For these reasons, many health care professionals recommend olive oil over other vegetable or seed oils when used in cooking applications.

High-quality olive oil is within reach

High-quality olive oils are readily available in stores nationwide and online. Filippo Berio offers a full range of regular, light-tasting olive oils and EVOO — including organic, sustainable and distinctive varietals. This breadth of flavor profiles coupled with versatility means endless ways to incorporate the health benefits of olive oil into everyday diets.

The relationship between olive oil and brain health is further highlighted through Filippo Berio’s partnership with the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation. A major goal of this collaboration is to better educate the public on the benefits of proactive lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet, that can positively impact brain health, empowering consumers to make informed choices.

Start off your summer right by incorporating olive oil into your recipe rotation. Easy recipes to honor Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month and work into your summertime rotation include:

Charred Eggplant Yogurt Dip with Fresh Mint

Caprese Avocado on Toast with Balsamic Glaze

Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Tomatoes

Grilled Salmon with Red Onions

Grilled Banana Sundaes

Lemon Madeleines

2025-06-16T12:01:00

(BPT) – According to a 2025 AARP survey, 73% of adults said that they were worried about rising prices, which was unchanged from the findings over the past two years of the survey. The current economic climate indeed has consumers feeling the impact of high prices, making everyday savings strategies more important than ever.

Consumers who are feeling the pinch of rising prices, but are still hoping to get in some summer travel and outings, can look within their own wallet for deals and ways to save, starting with discounts offered through AARP member benefits.

“The summer is a great time to take a break from your normal routine, but sometimes that additional fun and excitement can take a toll on your wallet,” says Trae Bodge, a finance and smart shopping expert. “Make sure you stay on budget by taking advantage of benefits and discounts that come with an AARP membership.”

Vacations, Adventures, and Passports, Oh My!

If you need a change of scenery this summer, save money by booking vacation packages through the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia. AARP members get a $50 gift card of their choice when they book any flight package, exclusively through the AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia.

Looking to get a head start on your 2026 planning? Lock in the best prices of the season and save 10% on select 2026 departures with Grand European Travel. Plan ahead and save on the perfect trip with destinations including Europe, North America, and beyond. Plus, AARP members who book with GET save up to $100 per person. This limited time offer ends July 31.

And, if you need to renew your passport, AARP members and their families can save 15% on expedited U.S. passport and travel visa services with RushMyPassport. RushMyPassport offers expedited options for all passport types and customer support to simplify the process of obtaining travel documents.

Get Road Trip Ready

One thing you don’t want to worry about in the summer heat is running into car trouble. AARP members save up to 20% on annual membership fees for Allstate Roadside plans, including Roadside Advantage, Roadside Assist, and Roadside Elite, including access to assistance for towing, jump-starts, tire changes, lockout assistance, fuel delivery and more.

And whether you’re hopping to the next city over for a fun summer concert or traveling with the family to watch your grandkid’s soccer tournament, setting up your overnight lodging is important. AARP members save 10% off the best available rate and can request a late checkout until 2 p.m. at any of the 1,500 Motel 6 or Studio 6 locations.

Shop Sensibly for At-Home Entertainment

Make your home the go-to destination for summer porch hangs and backyard gatherings with deals on everyday purchases like electronics, groceries, and other household essentials at Walmart+. AARP members save $40 off every year of a Walmart+ annual membership, which also includes free delivery from the store, free shipping with no order minimum, and so much more.

Knocking Ticket Prices Out of the Park

Watch your favorite teams in-person this year and catch a break on ticket prices with FEVO. AARP members save 15% on tickets for select live events and Major and Minor League events across the MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL, MLS, NCAA, WNBA and NWSL. FEVO gives AARP members the chance to save big on tickets for their favorite teams including the Cincinnati Reds, Minnesota Twins, DC United, Philadelphia Union, Detroit Tigers, Seattle Mariners, New York Mets, and Tampa Bay Rays.

Savory Deals for Tasty Meals

Are you looking for a weekend brunch spot without breaking the bank? Head to the nearest Denny’s, where AARP members save 15% on everything from diner classics to breakfast items every day; maximum discount not to exceed $10. Restrictions apply.

Regardless of what you have planned this summer, AARP member benefits can help you save on all the things you love to do every day.

To learn more about the benefits and discounts for AARP members to help you prepare for the summer, please visit aarp.org/save.

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AARP member benefits are provided by third parties. AARP receives a royalty fee for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions.

2025-06-16T12:45:00

(BPT) – No one wants to believe they would fall for a scam, but it can happen to anyone, no matter your age. Older adults can be especially vulnerable as they are commonly targeted by scammers. In fact, according to the FBI’s 2024 Internet Crime Report, individuals 60 and over filed claims totaling over $4.9 billion in losses to scams in 2024.

Impersonation scams, in which scammers pose as a familiar company or person, romance scams, and tech support were among the most commonly reported scams and those that resulted in the most losses among adults over 60. “Grandparent scams,” where scammers use AI technology to clone the voices of loved ones to dupe people out of money and personal information, are also an emerging threat.

With some knowledge and a healthy amount of caution, you can avoid scams and safeguard your personal information. To help you stay informed and protect yourself from scams, Chase offers the following six best practices.

1. Avoid answering calls or texts from unknown numbers

Avoid answering calls or responding to texts from unknown numbers, even if you think you may know them. Scammers can spoof phone numbers to appear as local or similar to a familiar person or business. If it’s a fraud or scam attempt and you answer, you could be asked to provide sensitive information. Friends, family and other people you know will likely leave a message if they’re trying to reach you.

In addition to not answering unknown numbers, don’t rely on caller ID alone. Consider adding a call protector app to your phone to flag calls that are likely scams.

2. Never share personal information over the internet

Scammers frequently impersonate legitimate companies, organizations or even law enforcement agencies to trick you into sharing sensitive information and money. Never share personal information over the phone, even with someone claiming to be a representative from your bank or a government agency, like the IRS.

Remember, your bank will never ask you to share personal information when they call you but may need you to verify information if you call them. Government agencies, like the IRS, will not call you to demand urgent action or threaten you. In most instances, they communicate via mail.

When in doubt, hang up and call the company directly. If the scammer says they represent your bank, call your institution directly using the number on the back of your card to ask if there is a problem.

3. Don’t fall for threats, urgency or sob stories

Scammers will often try to fool victims by creating a sense of urgency or using emotional manipulation, like a sob story. For example, receiving a call from a utility provider threatening to turn off your power unless you provide bank information.

Remember, no legitimate institution will threaten to disconnect services or urge you to send money to prevent fraud or gain access to your accounts. If you’re concerned that this communication is legitimate, you can look up the institution’s number and call them back directly.

Adults 60 and older reported nearly $390 million in losses to romance scams according to 2024 FBI data. Similarly, if you meet someone online, be cautious if they’re moving too quickly or asking you to provide personal information. It’s possible they are attempting to manipulate you emotionally and financially.

Scammers may try to exploit your kindness by sharing a dramatic or urgent story, asking for immediate financial help. Common tactics include claiming a family crisis, like a medical emergency, or needing money for a plane ticket. These stories are designed to tug at your heartstrings and prompt you to act quickly without thinking it through.

4. Don’t send money

Avoid sending money to anyone you’ve only spoken to online or by phone. This includes traditional methods, like bank transfers and person-to-person (P2P) payments, as well as wire transfers, cryptocurrency or gift cards. Scammers request these forms of payment because they often cannot be traced or recovered.

5. Report it

If you suspect that you’ve been scammed, contact your bank to discuss how to best protect your banking information. Also, verify recent transactions to ensure there is no fraudulent activity on your account and report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.FTC.gov.

6. Use free resources available to you

Protecting yourself from scammers doesn’t have to cost you money. There are many free resources available that can help you monitor and protect your identity and other personal information.

For example, Chase Credit Journey offers free credit and identity monitoring. This includes alerts that let you know if your personal information is exposed in a data breach or on the dark web. You don’t have to be a Chase customer to use it.

Scammers may be sophisticated, but you have the power to stay ahead of them. To learn more about scams and to access tools and educational resources to help you safeguard your money and personal information, visit chase.com/security.

For informational/educational purposes only: Views and strategies described in this article or provided via links may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any business. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions and consult the appropriate professional(s). Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. JPMorgan Chase & Co. and its affiliates are not responsible for, and do not provide or endorse third party products, services, or other content.

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