In previous Dear FineMark conversations, we’ve talked about inheritance, beneficiary designations, and how family dynamics can complicate even the most thoughtful estate plans. Today’s question reminds us that sometimes, it’s not the paperwork that creates uncertainty, it’s the lack of paperwork.
Sextortion Explained: The Scam That Thrives on Fear
Video: Sextortion Explained: The Scam That Thrives on Fear Recorded On: April 27, 2026 It often starts with a message that feels personal. A stranger claims they’ve been watching you, recorded something compromising, and will make it public unless you pay. Even if it sounds unlikely, the reaction is immediate and panic sets in. This …
Beware of a Government‑Impersonation Scam
It starts with a call that feels legitimate and urgent. Someone claiming to be from a government agency warning your bank account may be at risk. What happens next is something we’re seeing more often, and once the money has been handed over, it is difficult, if not impossible, to get back.
Dear FineMark… We’re Getting No Answers About Our Father’s Estate
In previous Dear FineMark conversations, we’ve talked about inheritance, beneficiary designations, and how family dynamics can complicate even the most thoughtful estate plans. Today’s question reminds us that sometimes, it’s not the paperwork that creates uncertainty, it’s the lack of paperwork.
Dear FineMark…Inheritances Often Come With Both Opportunity And Questions.
What happens when love and long-term planning intersect with a meaningful inheritance? In today’s Dear FineMark, Trust Administrator Read Sawczyn explains how to protect inherited assets, avoid commingling, and plan confidently for the future.
Tax Scams
The Federal Trade Commission also has a warning out regarding calls from scammers claiming they are from the IRS. They use official sounding language and threaten to take immediate action if you don’t comply with their demands.
2025 Fourth Quarter Review & Commentary
In this quarter’s investment commentary, Chief Investment Strategist Chris Battifarano reflects on the importance of disciplined risk management amid heightened policy changes, political uncertainty, and evolving global dynamics. Drawing upon lessons from market history and the late Peter Bernstein, we encourage diversification, and long-term perspective over emotional, short-term oriented decisions. Chris reviews key market developments from 2025 and outlines potential risks and opportunities for the year ahead, including fiscal policy, monetary leadership changes, valuation concerns, and the accelerating trend toward deglobalization.
Check Fraud
Despite the rise of digital payments, checks are still utilized by businesses and individuals alike. Check fraud has evolved and is a payment method highly associated with fraud. Criminals are now using advanced tools and methods to conduct check fraud scams. Here’s a closer look at how these scams work and what you can do …
The Importance of Beneficiary Designations
An article in the Wall Street Journal serves as a good reminder of the importance of creating and also revisiting your beneficiary designations. Typically, when you buy life insurance, sign up for employer-paid life insurance or open a retirement account, you’re asked to designate either a person or entity to receive the proceeds after you …
Phone Number Spoofing Scams
Have you ever encountered a call from a seemingly familiar number, possibly even displaying your own area code? These calls may appear harmless initially, but they could be instances of spoofing, where scammers manipulate caller IDs to deceive you. Sometimes, the number may look local, or it might mimic a known company or government agency, …
Dear FineMark: Should I add a struggling daughter to my home’s title for security?
Today’s Dear FineMark is about add a child to your home’s title. Here’s the question… “I’m a widowed mother with two adult daughters—one financially stable in New York and the other, divorced and struggling, in Florida. I own a nice home in Florida and want to ensure my struggling daughter always has a place to …
Staying Safe Online and Shielding Your Accounts
A Slick Scam and an Empty Bank Account Emily was having a typical busy Tuesday. She grabbed her morning coffee, glanced at her phone, and noticed a text from her bank: “Did you make this transaction? Reply YES or NO.” She frowned. She hadn’t made any purchases yet that day. Maybe it was just a …
