August Newsletter
KIM’S KORNER
One of the heart-wrenching stories that we hear all too often is the anguish of being hacked financially. Along with the financial loss, there is the regret of otherwise smart, educated, professional individuals realizing they were swindled. That’s why I thought it important to repeat this crucial information to help protect you from scammers:
· Slow down. Urgency is a scamming tactic and they often induce a panic such as “your account is being hacked” sometimes in a popup on your computer or phone. Do not respond right away and never respond to a pop-up message like that.
· A good confirmation is to independently access your bank account, your PayPal, your Venmo or whatever is being referenced. If you log in directly (without using any provided link) you can quickly determine if any funds are missing, etc.
· Reach out to a trusted advisor, friend or family member if you are ever skeptical of a request. Pause and get an independent assessment before you take any action.
· Be aware of unusual payment schemes. Often scammers like to use bitcoin, gift cards, wire transfers or cash. Requests to transfer money into those payment methods are big red flags.
Some advice I really like is to set a personal limit (let’s say $10,000) and make it a rule that you never move any amount above your limit (unless it involves the purchase of a tangible good such as a car or home) without contacting an advisor first. We are always available during working hours for your phone call to help you determine the best way to respond.
Unfortunately, scammers are seemingly everywhere, and we all can benefit from these reminders to help protect us and our retirement savings.
Warmly,
Kim
Upcoming Dates:
September 7: Labor Day (NYSE and our offices will be closed)
September 10: Kim’s Birthday
September 22: First day of Autumn
October 3: Dignum Dog Day event
Dignum Travels
We received an email that included a beautiful photo of Budapest, which Susie Bell graciously allowed us to share with you. This beautifully illustrates one of the tenants of our mission: enjoying the journey.
We love hearing about your travels and appreciate your kind words of thanks that we receive.
This statement is a testimonial from a current client, as of 9/9/2026, and may no longer be applicable or a current client. No compensation was paid in exchange for the testimonial, it was not solicited by the advisor, and the client consents to use this testimonial in the advisor’s advertisements. The testimonial is not representative of all clients experience with the advisor, not based on performance, and not a guarantee of future performance or success. Investing involves risk and isn’t always profitable.