Federal Court Upholds New York's Limits on Unauthorized Practice of Law

A recent federal court decision in New York has reinforced longstanding restrictions on the unauthorized practice of law, highlighting the balance between access to justice and protecting the public from unqualified legal advice. The case, Upsolve Inc. v. James, centered on a nonprofit organization's effort to use non-lawyers to provide free legal guidance in debt-collection lawsuits. The program trained non-lawyers, called Justice Advocates, to help low-income individuals complete a standard one-page answer form in response to debt-collection suits, where default judgments occur in up to 90% of cases.

The litigation began in January 2022 when Upsolve filed suit against New York Attorney General Letitia James in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Upsolve, along with the Rev. John Udo-Okon, challenged New York's unauthorized practice of law rules, arguing they violated First Amendment rights by limiting their American Justice Movement program. In May 2022, U.S. District Judge Paul Crotty granted a preliminary injunction, finding the rules likely unconstitutional as content-based restrictions on speech, subject to strict scrutiny.

The judge noted the program's safeguards, including training, ethical guidelines and referrals for complex matters, and concluded the rules were overbroad.

The state appealed, and in September 2025, the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals vacated the injunction. The appeals court ruled the unauthorized practice rules were content-neutral and should be reviewed under intermediate scrutiny, a less stringent standard. The case was sent back to the district court for further review. On March 5, 2026, U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan dismissed the complaint, upholding the rules. Kaplan found the restrictions advanced important government interests without unduly burdening speech.

This outcome underscores key public policy reasons for maintaining limits on unauthorized legal practice. New York's rules, enforced through civil, criminal and contempt proceedings, require legal practitioners to meet rigorous standards: a law degree, passage of the bar exam and demonstration of good character. These measures protect consumers from incompetent, inexperienced or unethical advice, particularly in individualized cases like debt disputes, where poor guidance can lead to severe financial harm. The rules also safeguard the integrity of the justice system by ensuring ethical behavior and independence among those providing legal services. Court have long recognized that unregulated advice poses risks, especially in organized programs where non-lawyers might face conflicts or lack accountability.

While programs like Upsolve's aim to improve access to justice, the decision emphasizes that such goals must not compromise public protection.

For those needing legal help, options abound beyond unauthorized sources. Individuals should contact the New York State Bar Association's lawyer referral service, a local indigent legal services provider or a competent local attorney of their own choosing.

Schuyler County Attorney warns residents to beware of Valentine’s Day scams, including “sweetheart” romance frauds

With Valentine’s Day approaching, Schuyler County Attorney Steven J. Getman today urged residents to stay vigilant against “sweetheart” scams and other common holiday-related frauds that exploit emotions and generosity.

“Scammers prey on people’s desire for connection and love during this romantic season,” Getman said. “These criminals build fake relationships online or create phony websites to steal money, personal information or gift card funds. Protecting your heart and your wallet means recognizing red flags and never sending money to someone you’ve never met in person.”

Sweetheart scams, also known as romance scams, are among the most prevalent. Fraudsters create fake profiles on dating apps, social media or messaging platforms, quickly profess affection and build trust through frequent communication. They then invent urgent stories—such as medical emergencies, travel issues, military deployments or business problems—to request money. Common payment methods include gift cards (Amazon, Google Play, iTunes or Steam), wire transfers, cryptocurrency or money transfer apps, which are difficult or impossible to reverse.

Other Valentine’s Day scams include:

• Fake online florists or gift delivery sites that take payment but never deliver, or deliver substandard items.
• Impostor websites mimicking legitimate jewelers or retailers with unrealistically low prices to steal credit card details.
• Unsolicited e-cards or messages containing phishing links or malware.
• “Wrong number” text messages that initiate conversations leading to requests for personal information or payments.

The Federal Trade Commission and FBI report that romance scams alone cost victims hundreds of millions annually, with thousands of cases nationwide each year. Gift cards remain a favorite tool for scammers because they are hard to trace and often irreversible.

To avoid falling victim, Getman recommended:

• Never send money, gift cards or personal information to someone you have not met face-to-face.
• Be skeptical of quick professions of love, avoidance of video calls or in-person meetings, and stories involving overseas work, military service or sudden emergencies.
• Research online sellers thoroughly—check reviews on trusted sites like BBB.org and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
• Use reverse image searches on profile photos and be cautious about moving conversations off dating platforms.
• Protect your devices with up-to-date security software and avoid clicking suspicious links.

If you suspect you have been targeted or victimized, act quickly:

• Stop all contact and block the individual.
• Contact your bank, credit card company or gift card issuer immediately to report fraud and seek recovery options.
• Report the incident to local law enforcement by calling the Schuyler County Sheriff’s Office at (607) 535-8222 (or 911 if urgent).
• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov.
• New York residents may also report to the New York State Attorney General’s Office via ag.ny.gov/file-complaint/consumer.

For more information on fraud prevention, visit consumer.ftc.gov or ic3.gov.

Schuyler County Attorney Warns Seniors About Nationwide “Gold Bar” Scam

Watkins Glen, NY — Schuyler County Attorney Steven J. Getman is urging senior residents and their families to be aware of a growing nationwide fraud scheme commonly referred to as the “gold bar scam,” which has led to significant financial losses for older adults in other parts of New York and across the country.

According to federal and state authorities, scammers typically contact victims by phone, email, or text, falsely claiming to be representatives of the federal government, law enforcement, or a financial institution. Victims are told their bank accounts or assets are at risk and are instructed to withdraw large sums of money to purchase gold bars or other precious metals to “protect” their savings. In some cases, victims are directed to deliver the gold to couriers or arrange shipments to the scammers.

Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the Federal Trade Commission, report that losses from gold bar scams reached hundreds of millions of dollars nationwide in 2024 alone, with seniors being the primary targets.

“At this time, there have been no public reports of Schuyler County residents falling victim to this scam,” said County Attorney Getman. “However, given the rapid spread of these schemes throughout New York State and neighboring regions, it is critical that our senior community be informed and vigilant.”

Key warning signs of a gold bar scam include:

• Claims that you must act immediately to protect your money

• Requests to buy gold, silver, or other valuables as a safeguard

• Instructions to keep the transaction secret from family or bank staff

• Anyone claiming to be a government agent asking for money, gold, or financial transfers

Important reminders:

• Legitimate government agencies and law enforcement will never ask you to buy or deliver gold or other valuables.

• Banks, the IRS, Social Security Administration, and law enforcement do not request payments by precious metals, wire transfer, or courier pickup.

What Schuyler County residents should do if they suspect a scam:

• Stop all contact with the individual immediately

• Do not send money, purchase gold, or share personal or financial information

Residents who believe they may have been targeted or victimized are encouraged to report the incident to:

• Schuyler County Sheriff’s Office

• New York State Attorney General’s Consumer Frauds Bureau

• The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) via the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

“Reporting suspected scams helps protect not only the individual involved, but also our entire community,” County Attorney Getman added. “If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and reach out for help.”

Schuyler County officials encourage family members, caregivers, and neighbors to discuss these scams with seniors and to help them recognize the warning signs before harm occurs.

For more information on avoiding scams, residents may also consult resources provided by the Federal Trade Commission and the FBI. 

Schuyler County Attorney Highlights Key New York State Laws Taking Effect in 2026

As New Yorkers prepare to ring in the new year, several significant laws are set to take effect in 2026 that will impact residents across the state, including those in Schuyler County. Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman today outlined some of the most important changes, emphasizing their potential effects on workers, businesses, consumers and public safety.

"These new laws reflect ongoing efforts to address economic pressures, enhance transparency and protect vulnerable populations," Getman said. "While many apply statewide, their implications will be felt locally in Schuyler County, from our rural workforce to small businesses and families."
Among the key changes:

• Minimum wage increase: Effective Jan. 1, the state's minimum wage will rise to $17 per hour in New York City, Long Island and Westchester County, and $16 per hour in the rest of the state, including Schuyler County. This adjustment aims to help workers cope with rising living costs, potentially boosting local economies through increased spending. However, small businesses and employers in rural areas like Schuyler County may face higher operational expenses, which could lead to adjustments in pricing or staffing.
• LLC Transparency Act: Starting Jan. 1, most limited liability companies must disclose their beneficial owners to the state, targeting anonymous shell companies used for financial crimes. This will promote accountability in business dealings, particularly in real estate, helping tenants and residents identify true property owners and aiding law enforcement in investigations. In Schuyler County, where agriculture and small enterprises are prominent, this could reduce fraud and enhance trust in local transactions.
• Stricter driver points system: Effective February 2026, the threshold for driver's license suspension drops to 10 points within 24 months, with increased points for common violations like speeding, cell phone use and reckless driving. Designed to improve road safety, this change may lead to more suspensions statewide, encouraging safer driving habits. Schuyler County residents, who rely heavily on personal vehicles in rural areas, should review their driving records to avoid penalties that could disrupt daily commutes and work.
• Subscription cancellation protections: As of Jan. 1, companies must make canceling subscriptions as straightforward as signing up, banning hidden or complicated processes. This consumer safeguard will empower New Yorkers to manage their finances better, reducing unwanted charges. In Schuyler County, where residents may subscribe to services like streaming or farm supplies, this could save time and money for households.
• Expanded unemployment benefits and worker protections: In 2026, wage theft will be treated as larceny, unemployment benefits will increase with broader coverage for striking workers and temporary layoffs, and freelance protections will extend statewide. These measures strengthen labor rights, providing greater financial security for workers. In Schuyler County, with its mix of seasonal tourism, agriculture and small businesses, this could support employees during economic fluctuations.
• Medical Aid in Dying Act: Expected to take effect mid-2026, terminally ill adults meeting strict criteria may request life-ending medication under medical supervision. This controversial law expands end-of-life options, impacting healthcare providers and families statewide. Schuyler County residents facing terminal illnesses may gain more autonomy, though it raises ethical considerations for local medical professionals.

Getman noted that while these laws aim to benefit New Yorkers, their full effects will depend on implementation and individual circumstances. He encouraged residents to stay informed through official state resources.
Anyone with questions about these or other laws is urged to contact a qualified attorney of their own choosing.  
As County Attorney, Getman is the chief legal advisor for county government and is responsible for the prosecution and defense of civil actions brought by and against the county,

Schuyler County Attorney Warns Residents of Rising Text and Phone Scams

Schuyler County Attorney Steven J. Getman is alerting residents to a surge in fraudulent text messages, phone calls, and websites targeting New Yorkers.

“Scammers are impersonating government agencies, such as the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and E-Z Pass, or posing as law enforcement to demand payment for fake traffic tickets, E-ZPass fees, or alleged jury service delinquencies,” Getman said.

“These scams aim to steal money and personal information for identity theft and account takeovers.”

According to Getman, scammers use fake texts, calls, and websites designed to appear official, pressuring victims to pay quickly to avoid penalties like driver's license suspension or arrest. These fraudulent communications often include poor spelling, bad grammar, or threatening language. The DMV and E-ZPass do not send texts demanding payment for outstanding balances.

State officials, including the DMV, Thruway Authority, and Department of State, issued warnings on Thursday (August 14) about these deceptive tactics. A recent case in nearby Steuben County involved a resident receiving a call from someone claiming to be a police officer, demanding payment via text voucher to avoid arrest for alleged jury service delinquency.

Schuyler County residents can protect themselves by following these recommendations from state officials:

• Be Cautious: Do not click links in texts or emails claiming to be from trusted sources if you have any doubts.
• Verify Websites: Legitimate communications only direct to official DMV (dmv.ny.gov) or E-ZPass (e-zpassny.com) websites. Check URLs carefully.
• Spot Red Flags: Look for poor spelling, grammar, or urgent threats in messages.
• Protect Personal Information: Legitimate agencies do not request sensitive information via email or text.

The Department of State's Division of Consumer Protection also advises:

• Use unique, complex passwords for each account.
• Enable extra security like fingerprint or facial recognition.
• Avoid saving passwords on devices or clicking free download links from pop-up ads. dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection

If you suspect your account has been compromised:

• Update passwords for all affected accounts and contact your email provider if necessary.
• Report unauthorized charges to your bank or credit card provider.
• Warn friends and family about suspicious messages from your compromised accounts.
• Contact Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion to place a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit report.
• File reports with the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov and identity theft cases at identitytheft.gov.

Getman urges residents to stay vigilant, verify communications, and report suspicious activity promptly to protect themselves and their community.

Schuyler County urges those who believe they are victims of a scam to contact the Schuyler County Sheriff’s Office at 607-535-8222 or in an emergency dial 911. Outside of Schuyler County, complaints can be filed with any local law enforcement agency or to the New York State Consumer Frauds Bureau by calling 1-800-771-7755.

Tips for New Yorkers to Protect Themselves from Predatory Debt Collectors

New York State officials have released a guide to help New Yorkers use the state’s Exempt Income Protection Act (EIPA) to protect their money from debt collectors:

The EIPA is a state law that prevents debt collectors from draining consumers’ bank accounts, leaving them unable to cover the costs of basic needs. The law automatically protects a certain amount of money in people’s bank accounts

from being frozen or seized, and also protects vital government benefits like Social Security, disability benefits, and veteran’s benefits.

****

The EIPA automatically exempts a certain amount of money in people’s bank accounts from being frozen or seized. This protected amount is based on the minimum wage and is $3,960 for those in New York City, Long Island, or Westchester, and $3,720 for those anywhere else in New York as of January 2025. The EIPA also protects 90% of wages or salary earned in the 60 days before a debt collector attempts to seize funds.

Crucially, EIPA also protects government benefits and retirement funds from being frozen or seized, ensuring New Yorkers have enough money to pay their bills. These funds include:

• Social Security;
• Supplemental security income;
• Disability benefits;
• Unemployment insurance;
• Workers compensation;
• Veterans benefits;
• Spousal support, alimony, or child support; and
• Payments from public or private pensions and retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s or individual retirement accounts (IRAs).

For a copy of the guide, click here.

New Yorkers warned: be cautious in charitable giving for hurricane relief

New York State officials are reminding New Yorkers seeking to provide support to victims of Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton to look Out for Sham Charities and make sure to give to trustworthy organizations. New Yorkers seeking to donate to disaster relief efforts should consider the following tips and guidelines:

• Solicited by Email? Find Out Who Is Soliciting.
• Be Careful When Giving Through Social Media or Other Fundraising Sites. Before giving through social media or fundraising sites, research the identity of the organizer of the fundraising efforts and ask the same questions you would of a charity.
• Check Before Giving. Donate to charities you are familiar with and carefully review information about the charity before you give.

• Ask How Your Donation Will Be Used. Find out how the charity plans to use your donation, including the services and individuals your donation will support.
• Look Into Newly Formed Organizations Carefully. While most of these organizations are well-intentioned, and some may provide innovative forms of assistance, some may not have the experience or infrastructure to follow through on their promises, and some may turn out to be scams.
• Exercise Caution Before You Text A Contribution. Check the charity’s website or call the charity to confirm it has authorized contributions to be made via text message.
• Don't Give Cash. Give directly to the charity either by check made payable to the organization or through the charity's website.
• Be Careful About Personal Information. Be cautious before giving credit card or personal information over the phone, by text message, or via the internet.

Residents who suspect an organization is misrepresenting its work, or that a fundraising or charitable scam is taking place, can file a complaint with the Charities Bureau, or call 212-416-8401.

For more information on avoiding charity scams and how to better determine if a charity is legitimate, click here.

Schuyler County officials unveil consumer pamphlets and information as part of National Consumer Protection Week

Watkins Glen, NY—Schuyler County officials are joining government agencies nationwide to commemorate National Consumer Protection Week.

The Schuyler County legislature has proclaimed the week of March 3 through March 9 as National Consumer Protection Week to provide information of interest to county consumers. In addition, the Schuyler County Office for the Aging and Schuyler County Attorney will be providing tips and resources relating to consumer protection information to protect Schuyler County residents from falling prey to scams, fraud, and identity theft.

This annual event marks a time when government agencies work together to promote consumer rights and educate the public on how to spot, report, and avoid becoming a victim of consumer fraud.

“Scams and frauds, including identity theft and phishing are a massive problem in society today,” Schuyler County Attorney Steven Getman said. “If consumers learn about the best practices to keep their finances secure, they have a less likelihood of becoming a statistic. Every year Americans lose billions of dollars in losses and hardship.”

According to Office for the Aging Director Tammy Waite, seniors are an especially vulnerable target for scammers.

“Almost anyone under the right circumstances can fall for a phony offer or promotion, however, older Americans are usually more susceptible than others,” Waite said. “Scammers use promises of large financial gains or sometimes even romantic relationships to lure victims in, only to manipulate them into giving their life savings away. They prey on our older citizens who are trusting, vulnerable and can sometimes unknowingly fall for a scam.”

The Federal Trade Commission received 5.2 million victim reports describing more than $8.8 billion in losses to fraud in 2022 compared to $6.1 billion in losses the year prior. In that same time frame, investment scam losses more than doubled from $1.8 billion in 2021 to $3.8 billion last year.

To help combat scams, during Consumer Protection Week the County will distribute free pamphlets with website links and consumer protection information. The materials will be available at the County Office for the Aging, in Montour Falls, and the County Attorney’s Office in Watkins Glen. Information is also online at the county attorney website.

The Schuyler County Office for the Aging’s mission statement is to advocate for, educate and assist the senior and disabled populations of Schuyler County to live in the most independent and integrated setting through community collaboration providing for well-being/health, security, dignity, autonomy and choice through innovative home and community-based services. As director, Waite Supervises and conducts social, educational, recreational, and health programs for senior citizens under the direction of the New York State Office for the Aging and the federal Administration for Community Living.

As County Attorney, Getman is the chief legal advisor for county government and responsible for the prosecution and defense of civil actions brought by and against the county, including civil adult protective cases.

A copy of the legislature’s resolution is available here:

RECOGNIZE NATIONAL CONSUMER... by Steven Getman

County Officials Warn: Be aware of unsolicited property offers. “Know your rights before you sign.”

Schuyler County Clerk Theresa Philbin and County Attorney Steven Getman are warning property owners to be aware of unsolicited offers to buy land in Schuyler County, often at a deep discount from the actual value.

 “Reports have surfaced this month of a company soliciting  property owners in the area offering to buy vacant land for cash,” Philbin said.  “The offers include a Purchase and Sale Agreement, asking the owner to sign and send back within a short period of time.  The quick cash offer they make is always below the assessed value, and sometimes by as much as 15 to 25 percent. That could cost you thousands of dollars, depending the price and your property’s actual value.”

 “Many of these buyers are, basically, throwing out nets to see if they can find an owner who doesn't understand the real value of their property or an owner that wants to sell quickly at (almost) any cost. They may be senior citizens, facing a personal situation that is forcing them to consider selling their real estate. These buyers are often hoping to find sellers willing to sell at 85% or less of the true market value.”

County Attorney Steven Getman,
County Clerk Theresa Philbin

While the offer may be perfectly legal, signing and sending back the agreement, Getman pointed out, would create a binding contract.  That contract, Getman said, may obligate the owners to conditions or expenses they did not understand before signing. 

“For example, the offer may state the buyer will pay all closing costs, but also require the seller to clear up any liens or encumbrances on the property at the seller’s own expense before the sale,” Getman explained.  “That could include mortgages, property taxes or even electric, water and sewer bills.  If the sale price does not cover those expenses, the sellers could be left paying out more than they are getting for the property.”

In another case, Getman noted, the offer required to seller to convey to the buyer all personal property located on the land.

 “That could include items such as expensive appliances, motor vehicles or even items of sentimental value,” Getman said.

 Therefore, property owners should review any documents very carefully and consult an experienced attorney before signing any type of agreement, Getman said.

Philbin and Getman offered several tips to property owners who receive unsolicited offers to buy their land:

• Never sign anything until you are sure you want to move forward
• Have your own attorney review the document before your sign them. If you do not have an attorney, the New York State Bar Association may be able to refer you to an appropriate attorney via the NYSBA Lawyer Referral and Information Service: https://www.findalawyernys.org.
• Check out the would-be buyer online. If someone is legitimately interested in buying your home, you should be able to retrieve information about them. Look for any red flags such as bad reviews or lawsuits.
• Ask for references. If the buyer will not offer any, something is wrong. If their references are sketchy and cannot be verified, you need to rethink doing business with that person. 
• Find out the fair market value of your home before you agree to a price.
• Consider bringing in a real estate professional to represent you and give you a fair opinion of your land’s value. If the buyer is legitimate they should be willing to discuss terms with your agent.
• If selling your property seems like a good idea, do not jump at the first offer made (especially if it represents just a small fraction of the land’s worth).

Finally, if you receive anything in the mail about your property that seems questionable, Philbin and Getman said that you can contact the County Clerk or, in the event of possible criminal activity, local law enforcement.

 

“Keep in mind that this is often totally legitimate,” Getman said. “The goal here is to understand what you may sacrifice for convenience.”

“Know your rights before you sign,” Philbin said.

The Schuyler County Clerk is responsible for all books, files and other necessary equipment for the filing, recording and depositing of deeds, maps, papers in actions and special proceedings of both civil and criminal nature, judgment and lien dockets and books for the indexing of the same as directed or authorized by law.

The Schuyler County Attorney is the legal advisor for county government and its various officials. The County Attorney prosecutes and defends civil actions on behalf of the county and county employees acting pursuant to their official duties.

Second Amendment Legal Update: April, 2021

A monthly update, prepared for the Schuyler County Chapter of S.C.O.P.E. NY, a statewide 501(c)4 organization dedicated to preserving the 2nd Amendment rights for the residents of New York State.

For a complete PDF copy of this month's update, click here.

The top consumer scams perpetrated against New Yorkers in 2020

New York State officials have released a list of the top consumer scams perpetrated against New Yorkers in 2020, many of which had to do with the COVID-19 public health crisis, in addition to a variety of tips on how New Yorkers can avoid COVID-19 scams in the future.

After analyzing consumer complaints received statewide throughout 2020, the following were found to be the top 10 consumer complaints by category:

• Internet-Related (internet services and service providers, data privacy and security, digital media, data breaches, frauds through internet manipulation)
• COVID-19 Price Gouging (online and brick and mortar gouging of prices for items such as hand sanitizer, masks, gloves, bathroom tissue, food)

• Landlord/Tenant Disputes (security deposit releases, tenant-harassment)
• Health Clubs (continuous charging of fees while clubs were closed, inability to cancel memberships, refunds not provided, no response from clubs)
• Automobile (sales, service, financing, repairs)
• Consumer Services (security systems, tech repairs, immigration services, employment training)
• Retail Sales (any sale of goods: food, clothing, rent-to-own, online orders)
• Credit (debt collection, credit card billing, debt settlement and debt relief, payday loans, credit repair, credit reporting agencies, identity theft)
• Utilities (wireless and residential phones, energy servicers and suppliers, cable and satellite)
• Travel (inability to cancel or lack of refunds for cancellations required by COVID-19 travel restrictions)

Consumers can learn more about COVID-19 resources and consumer scams here.

Fraud victims should report instances of fraud to the New York State Consumer Frauds and Protection Bureau or by calling local law enforcement officials.

Holiday Shopping Season: Beware these "Black Friday" and "Cyber Monday" scams.

With Thanksgiving only a few days away, the public should look out for the oncoming influx of scams tied to holiday shopping.

Business Insider asked experts for the warning signs that shoppers should be aware of when it comes to Black Friday deals. They include:

• Don't fall for early temptations — the deals could be better on the actual day of Black Friday. Don't fall for early temptations; the deals could be better on the actual day of Black Friday.
• Watch out for deceptive store hours.
• Be careful with handing out sensitive information when you're calling stores to put items on hold.
• Examine all delivery-related emails and texts closely — some of them may not be legitimate.
• Beware of fake offers from non-trusted and third-party sites.
• Don't fall for unusually high discounts or sales.
• Watch out for stores suspending their price-matching policies, or else you could end up stuck with a bad purchase.
• Read the fine print on coupons and promotions — your favorite products might be excluded.
• Be wary of freebies. • Beware of door-buster deals.
• You'd be wise to ignore deals on certain products that will get even cheaper at other times of the year — even as early as December.

Meanwhile, the Detroit Free Press offers other tips to stay safe on Black Friday and Cyber Monday:

• Beware of pitches for hot toys you can't find.
• React fast if your password doesn't work.
• Take the extra steps for ID verification.
• Examine that gift card before you buy it.
• Don't fall for text from the bank — it's a scam.
• Be aware of e-skimming.
• Be wary of attachments in any email that you receive.
• Use a credit card, instead of a debit card online, for more consumer protection.