FINANCIALLY FOCUSED

February 2024 Newsletter

OPTIMUM INSIGHTS for February 2024

This months topic is something we have shared before and is an area of constant change that is worth revisiting and sharing some tips and advice. While this is extremely important we also find this to be getting more and more complicated since we last talked about this, think of how many steps such as 2 factors/test or email codes/puzzles and related that are being implemented to protect Your privacy. While we are not in the “security or IT business” we all need to be extremely careful out there to keep safe our personal information from prying eyes. Here are a few things that we employ that may be helpful for You:

Do not send emails that have ANY personal information that could be stolen or used against you. Examples are Social Security numbers, Account numbers, sharing of attachments with personal information, Etc.

If You have to or do send an email use a Secure or Encrypted option and keep that email secure when replying or forwarding. If you are not familiar with how to do this take a few minutes to look up how to do this online, it is fairly simple and there are lots of resources out there to explain how to use and resources you could use.

Keep a security password on ALL Electronics that may have personal information. From Your Mobile Phone, Your tablet and/or Your Computer this adds an extra level of security access to those devices.

Be aware of whether you are using a home or work vs public network when you are online and set your Electronics privacy settings appropriately.

Do NOT “save” or use “automatic” passwords. While this is very convenient, it is VERY convenient for those prying eyes as you have left the electronic “door” open for them.

2 Factor Authentication or other levels of verification: again, not a convenience for You, but is another level of a “locked door” to go thru to verify who is logging in to those websites that have private information on You.

This is just a short list to share and some common sense points of security in our digital world which is constantly changing. Since Technology moves forward at an extremely fast pace we always recommend that you find and work with a reputable “IT” company that can help and guide you with Your privacy and Security.

We hope that this is helpful for You, Thank you.

Duane, Donna, Jessica, Cameron

How 2023 Will Affect Your 2024

There were several financial developments in 2023 that may have positive impacts on your 2024 financial strategy.

U.S. News and World Report article, 7 Things Retirees Should Be Thankful for This Year nicely describes some of 2023’s positive financial news.

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Scotland’s National Animal is the Unicorn

Unicorns have been linked to Scotland for centuries. In Celtic mythology the unicorn was a symbol of purity and innocence, as well as masculinity and power. Tales of dominance and chivalry associated with the unicorn may be why it was chosen as Scotland’s national animal. While the animal is mythological, unlike our Bald Eagle, the ideals it represents are what make it a similarly great national animal because like this proud beast – Scots would fight to remain unconquered.

Do You Have These Key Estate Planning Documents?

Estate planning is the process of managing and preserving your assets while you are alive, and conserving and controlling their distribution after your death. There are four key estate planning documents almost everyone should have regardless of age, health, or wealth. They are: a durable power of attorney, advance medical directive(s), a will, and a letter of instruction.

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Basil-Butter Steaks with Roasted Potatoes

A few ingredients and 30 minutes are all you’ll need for this incredibly satisfying meal. A simple basil butter gives these steaks a very special taste.

Get Cooking!

https://www.visitscotland.com/inspiration/culture/national-animal unicorn#:~:text=The%20unicorn%20in%20the%20history,chosen%20as%20Scotland's%20national%20animal