Beware of Scams Connected to the Coronavirus Crisis

By: Amber Monks

In a time of uncertainty, there is a heightened risk of falling victim to scams concocted by those with ill intent. For cybercriminals and scammers, the coronavirus crisis creates an attentive audience who may be willing to accept false information to protect themselves.

Arm yourself not only against the virus, but against other threats, by learning how to detect them first with tips from the Army Criminal Investigation Command (CID).

Knowing how legitimate organizations do business can give you a leg up on anyone who attempts to pull the wool over your eyes.

As always, follow good practices online and don’t open or click on links from unsolicited emails. These links or emails could contain malware. Never give away personal or financial information about yourself or others online without first verifying the source.

Most scams include messaging that require immediate action. No matter how urgent it sounds, if something doesn’t sound quite right, it probably isn’t, and you can always contact an organization you know and trust for confirmation. Legitimate organizations can verify their information and will not pressure you into taking an action that you are uncomfortable with.

Seeking information from trusted sources can also help you steer clear of scams. MOAA has links to these organizations, as well as links for recent news updates, at MOAA.org/coronavirus. You can also contact your state, county, or city health department, your local hospital, your primary care physician, local medical clinics, or other locations where you receive medical services.

National Cemetery Administration Suspends Military Funeral Honors

By: Cory Titus

 

The National Cemetery Administration is suspending military funeral honors – whether by military personnel or volunteer organizations – at its 142 national cemeteries.

The move comes as a precaution to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Cemeteries will remain open and continue to provide interments for veterans and eligible individuals. Immediate family members – limited to 10 people – will be able to witness from a distance.

The NCA is asking families who wish to postpone a scheduled interment to contact the national cemetery where the interment is scheduled as soon as possible. Those who choose to continue with the interment can work with the NCA to schedule a committal or memorial services at a later date. The National Cemetery Scheduling Office in St. Louis will continue to provide scheduling services for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency. To schedule a burial, call (800) 535-1117, option 1.

Arlington National Cemetery (ANC) closed to the public as of March 13. Funerals will continue, per the ANC website, and family members can visit during restricted hours after obtaining a family pass. Family members can call (877) 907-8585 for information about visitation, ceremonies, or scheduling. Updates will be posted on ANC’s Facebook page.

Healthy Finances, Healthy You

By: Vera Wilson

A recent study reveals 90% of Americans say finances are a major source of frustration and anxiety, with most of us calling it our top stressor. To get out of your financial rut, the study suggests taking “microsteps,” actions that are too-small-to-fail and promote healthy financial habits. Here are the highlights: 

·        Troublesome thoughts are more stressful if you try to avoid them. Writing down the fact that you’re two months late on your car payment — especially if it’s keeping you up at night — allows you to park it for now but makes it real and therefore actionable.

·        Most people who are able to improve their financial situation turned to others for support and feedback. Identify someone you can talk to about your finances. Find a good listener who will sympathize with your challenges and offer guidance but won’t be judgmental.

·        Break down a big financial goal into smaller, less intimidating steps so that you can celebrate achievements and track your progress.

·        Review your finances at least monthly (with your partner, if you combine your money with theirs). Pinpoint any concerns and make course corrections if necessary.

·        How many times have you missed a payment due date by just a day? Set calendar reminders on your phone or computer so a missed $25 payment doesn’t turn into a $39 late fee alongside a healthy dose of regret.