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Getting a data breach notice can make your mind jump straight to the worst-case scenario. Before you panic, remember that exposed information does not always mean someone has stolen your identity. If your information is exposed in a data breach, confirm what happened, secure affected accounts, check your credit, and consider a credit freeze if sensitive personal information was involved. How Do You Confirm a Data Breach? Do not click links in an unexpected email or text. Inst

Most BBQs start with good intentions: keep it simple, feed everyone, stay within budget. Then the grocery list gets longer, someone has a food allergy, and the host ends up trying to make five different meals at once. A better plan is to build the menu around a few flexible recipes that can handle different appetites without making the day harder. BBQ Chicken Thighs Coat bone-in or boneless chicken thighs with barbecue sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. G

Digital wallet scams are increasing rapidly in 2026 as consumers rely more on apps like Zelle®, Venmo®, and Cash App® for everyday transactions. While these platforms offer convenience and speed, fraud losses tied to peer-to-peer payment apps continue to rise. Cybercriminals are using AI-powered scams, fake banking alerts, and online shopping scams to steal money from unsuspecting users. Why P2P Payment Apps Are High Risk One reason Zelle® scams 2026 are becoming more common

Memorial Day weekend is expected to be one of the busiest travel periods of 2026. AAA projects that roughly 45 million Americans will travel during the holiday weekend, with most expected to drive instead of fly. For many families across Long Beach, Torrance, Gardena, Carson, Downey, El Segundo, Pomona, and surrounding South Bay neighborhoods, that means finding affordable road trips that avoid expensive airfare and crowded airports. The good news is that Southern California

Sustainability at home is shifting. It is no longer about doing everything perfectly or buying into every “eco” trend. The focus now is on realistic habits that reduce waste, save money, and fit naturally into daily routines. In many cases, these choices also act as a financial buffer, helping households cut unnecessary costs while building more stable spending habits. Start with Energy Awareness, Not Just Efficiency Saving energy is not only about what you use, but how oft

If you have ever been denied a loan, you may have come across the term “subprime.” But what does it really mean for your financial options? A subprime lender offers loans to people with lower credit scores or limited credit history. That can open the door when traditional options are out of reach. But what comes with that access? In most cases, higher costs. Interest rates tend to be higher, fees can add up, and repayment terms may be less flexible. So while the loan might be

Sometimes life just starts to feel cluttered. Not just your kitchen counter or closet, but your phone, your inbox, your to do list. Taking time to declutter is really about hitting that reset button. When your space feels lighter and your digital world is organized, you feel it too. Things run smoother, decisions feel easier, and you can focus on what actually matters. Home: Clear Your Physical Space Start by decluttering rooms one at a time. Avoid trying to overhaul your en

Budgeting doesn’t have to feel old school or complicated. These days, it’s easier to keep an eye on your money using apps and online tools that track what you spend, help you adjust when needed, and even move money automatically for you. A modern budget is more about understanding your cash flow and staying in control than trying to balance numbers by hand. Step 1: Get Clear on Your Numbers Before building a plan, understand your full financial picture. Review recent transact

Subscriptions can be sneaky little money-stealers, popping up every month without you even noticing. Some make life easier, like meal kits or music apps, while others promise convenience but rarely get used. First step to taming sneaky subscriptions? You need to know exactly what you’re paying for. Our Checking Accounts powered by BaZing include Bill Shark, which helps members identify and cancel unwanted subscriptions automatically, making it easier to stay on top of recurr

ATMs offer quick and convenient access to your money, but it’s important to stay alert while using them. A few basic safety habits can help protect both you and your account. Always choose ATMs in well lit, public locations and pay close attention to your surroundings. Be cautious of anyone nearby, especially strangers offering help. If something feels unusual or the machine looks tampered with, leave and find another ATM. Protect your PIN by shielding the keypad and memorizi

From banking to staying in touch, our devices play a big role in everyday life. But the more connected we are, the more important it is to protect our personal information. A few smart digital habits can make a big difference. System Updates : One of the easiest ways to stay secure is keeping your devices up to date. System and app updates help protect against new threats, while older devices that no longer receive updates may be more at risk. Passwords : Strong passwords add

As the end of the year approaches, it's common to reflect on everything we hoped to accomplish, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, there is still time to regroup and make meaningful progress. The final weeks of the year present a valuable opportunity to assess what worked, what didn’t, and what small steps can help you move forward. With a clearer plan and a realistic mindset, you can head into the New Year with steady momentum and a sense of direction. Reflect o

There is something magical about wrapping your hands around a warm mug when the holidays roll in. If you want to treat yourself to something fun, festive, and totally sip worthy, these five cozy favorites are stealing the spotlight. Gingerbread Latte This one tastes like holiday spirit in a cup. The warm spices, molasses sweetness, and creamy finish make it feel like your favorite gingerbread cookie came alive and decided to become a drink. Try THIS recipe! Peppermint Whit

Long hours at a desk can leave you feeling stiff, tired, and low on energy, but small changes can make your workdays and weekends feel healthier. The goal is not perfection. It is building habits that fit naturally into the rhythm of your week. With a little structure and some simple routines, you can support your body and mind both on and off the clock. Set Up Your Workspace for Comfort A comfortable workspace reduces strain on your neck, back, and wrists. Keep your screen a

Are you worried about overspending this year? Do you want to give thoughtful gifts without emptying your bank account? Planning ahead can help you enjoy the holidays while staying on budget. With the right strategies, you can make smart choices, reduce stress, and still make your loved ones feel special. Tips for Budget-Friendly Holiday Shopping: Create a budget: Decide how much you want to spend overall and break it down by recipient. Make a gift list: Keep track of everyo

Have you ever used an app to animate an old photo? Or tried one of those AI filters that brings vintage pictures to life? It’s amazing how technology can revive memories and let anyone experiment with creative tools once reserved for professionals. But while AI can make ordinary moments extraordinary, there’s a darker side growing fast: AI deepfake scams. A deepfake is audio, video, or image content created or altered by AI to make someone appear to say or do something they n

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When there’s a drought, water becomes even more precious, and wasting it just isn’t an option. The good news? You don’t need to make huge...

Those glowing flashes that once lit up summer nights? They're vanishing, and fast. In backyards, forests, and fields where fireflies once...