As a business owner, you’re no stranger to the countless decisions and challenges that come with running a company. However, there’s a growing threat that every entrepreneur needs to be aware of: mail scams targeting businesses. These scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often disguising themselves as official correspondence or urgent legal requirements. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect your business from unnecessary fees and potential legal troubles.
The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) requires many businesses to report their beneficial ownership information (BOI) to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). Scammers are exploiting this legitimate requirement by sending official-looking letters demanding immediate payment for BOI registration.
The Truth: While BOI reporting is a real requirement, it’s free to file with FinCEN. Any letter demanding payment for this service is likely a scam.
Similar to BOI scams, some fraudsters are sending letters claiming to be from government agencies, insisting that businesses must pay fees to comply with the CTA.
The Truth: The CTA is indeed real, but compliance doesn’t require paying fees to third-party companies. Official information and filing are done through FinCEN at no cost.
3. Other Common Scams
Business License Renewal Scams: Letters demanding payment for renewing various business licenses, often at inflated prices.
Directory Listing Scams: Invoices for listings in business directories you never agreed to join.
Labor Law Poster Scams: Offers to sell government-mandated workplace posters at excessive prices, when many are available for free from official sources.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be on alert for these common tactics used by scammers:
Official-looking seals or logos that mimic government agencies
Urgent deadlines creating pressure to act quickly
Threats of penalties, fines, or legal action for non-compliance
Requests for sensitive business or financial information
Demands for payment by wire transfer or gift cards
Use of vague or misleading language about services offered
How to Protect Your Business
Verify all requests: Before paying any fee or providing information, verify the request with the appropriate government agency directly through their official website or phone number. Ask EGBI staff. EGBI is willing to help if you receive any letter.
Educate employees: Ensure that all staff members who handle mail and finances are aware of these scams and know how to identify them
Stay informed: Regularly check official government websites and reputable business associations for updates on actual requirements and known scams.
Use official sources: For any government filings or renewals, always use the official government websites or offices directly.
Be skeptical: If something seems off or too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and do your due diligence.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a business mail scam:
Contact your bank immediately if you’ve shared financial information or made a payment.
Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ftc.gov/complaint.
File a report with your local police department.
Alert your state’s Attorney General’s office.
Inform industry associations and nearby businesses to help prevent others from falling victim.
Conclusion
In today’s fast-paced business world, scammers are constantly devising new ways to exploit hardworking entrepreneurs. By staying informed about common scams, recognizing red flags, and implementing protective measures, you can safeguard your business against these fraudulent schemes. Remember, legitimate government agencies won’t pressure you for immediate payment through the mail. When in doubt, verify, verify, verify. Your business’s financial health and reputation are worth the extra effort to ensure you’re dealing with legitimate requirements and not falling prey to sophisticated scams.
Stay vigilant, stay informed, and keep your business safe from mail scams.
In today’s digital age, securing your social media accounts is more important than ever. One of the best ways to protect your Facebook account is by using an authenticator app. This adds an extra layer of security and makes it harder for hackers to gain access.
Follow these steps to secure your Facebook account using an authenticator app:
Step 1: Install an Authenticator App
First, you’ll need to download an authenticator app on your smartphone. Some popular options include:
Google Authenticator
Authy
Microsoft Authenticator
You can find these apps on the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play Store (for Android).
Step 2: Log into Your Facebook Account
Open your web browser and log into your Facebook account. Make sure you’re using a secure network connection.
Step 3: Go to Security Settings
Click on the downward arrow in the top-right corner of Facebook to open the drop-down menu.
Select Settings & Privacy, then click on Settings.
In the left-hand menu, click on Security and Login.
Step 4: Set Up Two-Factor Authentication
In the Two-Factor Authentication section, click on Edit next to Use two-factor authentication.
Facebook will prompt you to enter your password again for security purposes.
Step 5: Choose Your Security Method
You’ll see several options for two-factor authentication. Select Authentication App.
Facebook will display a QR code.
Step 6: Link Your Authenticator App
Open the authenticator app on your smartphone.
Tap on the + icon or Add Account (the process may vary slightly depending on the app).
Choose Scan a QR code and use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code displayed on Facebook.
The authenticator app will automatically add your Facebook account and generate a six-digit code.
Step 7: Enter the Code
Enter the six-digit code from the authenticator app into the Facebook prompt.
Click Continue.
Step 8: Save Your Backup Codes
Facebook will provide you with a set of backup codes. These can be used if you lose access to your authenticator app.
Save these codes in a secure place. You can either download the codes, write them down, or save them in a password manager.
Step 9: Confirm and Finish
Once you’ve entered the code and saved your backup codes, click Finish.
You’ll receive a confirmation that two-factor authentication is now enabled.
Additional Tips for Keeping Your Account Secure
Enable Login Alerts: Under the Security and Login settings, enable alerts for unrecognized logins. This will notify you if someone tries to access your account from an unknown device or location.
Regularly Review Your Security Settings: Periodically check your security settings to ensure everything is up to date.
Be Cautious with Third-Party Apps: Only connect third-party apps to your Facebook account that you trust.
By following these steps, you can add a significant layer of security to your Facebook account.
In today’s unpredictable business landscape, having a financial contingency plan is not just prudent; it’s essential. Eduardo Miramontes, Member Success Manager at A+ Federal Credit Union, shares his insights on the importance of financial preparedness for businesses. With his rich background and dedication to helping others, Eduardo offers valuable advice that every business owner should consider.
Eduardo Miramontes’ story begins in Mexico, where he spent the first half of his life working for major banks. His career took a significant turn when he moved to the United States in 2009, choosing to work exclusively with credit unions. Starting as a member service counselor, he has held various roles, including branch manager positions. Today, as a Member Success Administrator, Eduardo focuses on developing strategies to better serve the Hispanic community, bringing his passion for helping others to the forefront.
Eduardo’s professional journey is deeply intertwined with his personal values. He believes that the true purpose of life is to assist and support those around us. Every day, he finds joy in making a positive impact on people’s lives through his role at A+ Federal Credit Union. Unlike traditional banks, credit unions operate as not-for-profit organizations owned by their members. This member-centric approach ensures that the primary focus remains on serving the members rather than generating profits. Each member has a vote in electing the board of directors, who serve voluntarily. This structure allows employees like Eduardo to prioritize helping members without the pressure of meeting sales targets, aligning perfectly with his personal values and professional mission.
Eduardo frequently encounters business owners who lack a contingency plan or savings for unforeseen events. He emphasizes the importance of defining what constitutes a “rainy day” and differentiating it from regular, predictable expenses. For instance, regular vehicle maintenance should be planned for, whereas something as unpredictable as the COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies a true rainy day scenario.
While many potential challenges in business can be anticipated and planned for, truly unforeseeable events require a dedicated rainy day fund. This fund should be distinct from regular savings and specifically earmarked for emergencies. During the pandemic, businesses with such savings were better able to retain employees and maintain operations while awaiting government assistance.
For entrepreneurs and small business owners, Eduardo’s primary advice is to start saving immediately, regardless of the amount. Developing the habit of setting aside a portion of income regularly is crucial. He suggests treating savings as an expense within your budget to ensure it becomes a consistent practice. Whether it’s a percentage of income or a fixed amount, the key is to begin without delay and maintain the discipline to continue saving over time.
Eduardo Miramontes’ insights highlight the critical role of financial preparedness in business success. By understanding the unique advantages of credit unions, recognizing the importance of a rainy day fund, and starting to save immediately, business owners can build a more resilient and sustainable future.
When choosing between Zoho, Swoogo, and Eventbrite, it is important to understand what platform suits your needs most. All of these softwares support in person and virtual meetings so that is not a major factor to take into account. For people who are already using Zoho tools like the Zoho campaign, Zoho projects, or Zoho mail, it is best to use Zoho since it is easy to use alongside other Zoho applications. If you are a complete beginner in the event management field, it is best to use Swoogo due to its beginner friendly interface. It is simple to use and has the smallest learning curve of the 3 applications, making it a great start for new users. Lastly, Eventbrite is the biggest of the 3 platforms, meaning more people use it and more people will have access to your events. This means that although a smaller percent of the platform might see your event, due to the greater size of the platform, this might still mean more people will see your event then in the other 2 softwares.
Pros and Cons of all the Softwares
Pros
They are all in one platform, meaning they have access to a large amount of tools.
They are each heavily customizable, meaning they can each suit your events uniquely.
They have mobile apps which make it easier to check in people and look at data from your phone.
Cons
They cost money when doing paid tickets and sometimes have costs to use the software in general. Do your research on the fees to see which one fits your budget.
Managing large events on these types of platforms can be complicated due to data overloads and coordinating large amounts of speakers or workshops.
Each of these platforms takes time to be comfortable with, meaning all staff who work using need practice before being properly equipped.
Be sure to research before getting started to be sure you are using the platform that best meet your needs.
Zoho Event Management is a comprehensive platform that simplifies the process of organizing, promoting, and managing events. This guide will walk you through each step, from setting up your account to hosting a successful event.
Step 1: Create an Account
To get started, visit the Zoho Event Management website and click on the “Sign Up” button. Enter your personal details, such as your name, email address, and create a password. Complete the registration by verifying your email if prompted. This will set up your Zoho account and give you access to the event management dashboard.
Step 2: Log In
Once you have an account, navigate to the Zoho Event Management homepage and click on the “Log In” button at the top right corner. Enter your registered email and password, then click “Log In” to access your dashboard. This will be your central hub for managing all aspects of your events.
Step 3: Create a New Event
To create a new event, click on the “Create Event” button on your dashboard. You’ll need to enter essential details such as the event name, date, time, and location. Also, specify whether the event will be in-person or virtual. These foundational details set the stage for your event and are critical for attendees to know.
Step 4: Add Event Description
In the description section, provide a detailed overview of your event. Explain what attendees can expect, including any special features, speakers, or activities. A comprehensive description helps potential attendees understand the value of your event and encourages them to register.
Step 5: Design Your Event Page
Zoho offers various design tools to help you customize your event page. Add images, videos, and custom branding elements to make the page visually appealing. A well-designed event page can enhance the overall attendee experience and make your event stand out.
Step 6: Set Up Ticketing
Navigate to the “Tickets” tab and choose the types of tickets you want to offer, such as free, paid, or donation-based. Set the price, quantity, and availability dates for each ticket type. Additionally, you can create discount codes or special offers to encourage early registrations. Proper ticketing setup ensures a smooth registration process for your attendees.
Step 7: Configure Registration Form
Customize the registration form to collect the necessary information from attendees. You can add custom fields, set mandatory questions, and tailor the form to suit your event’s needs. This step is crucial for gathering all the information you need from participants to facilitate a well-organized event.
Step 8: Set Up Payment Processing
If you are selling tickets, configure your payment processing options by linking your account to a payment gateway like Stripe or PayPal. This setup is crucial for processing ticket sales smoothly and securely, ensuring that both you and your attendees have a seamless transaction experience.
Step 9: Preview Your Event
Before publishing, preview your event page to ensure all details are correct and there are no errors. This step helps catch any mistakes that could impact attendee experience. Make any necessary adjustments before moving forward. A final review is essential for presenting a professional and error-free event page.
Step 10: Publish Your Event
Once everything is reviewed and accurate, click the “Publish” button to make your event live. Your event page will now be accessible to the public, allowing potential attendees to register. This officially launches your event on Zoho, opening the doors for registrations.
Step 11: Promote Your Event
Share your event link on social media platforms, your website, and through email newsletters. Utilize Zoho’s built-in promotional tools to increase your event’s reach.
OR
Consider using paid advertising options offered by Zoho to boost visibility. Effective promotion is key to attracting attendees and ensuring a successful event.
Step 12: Monitor Ticket Sales
Regularly check the “Manage Attendees” section to monitor ticket sales and registrations. Keeping track of these metrics helps you gauge interest and make necessary adjustments. Monitoring sales data allows you to identify trends and plan accordingly, ensuring your event’s success.
Step 13: Communicate with Attendees
Use Zoho’s email tools to send important updates, reminders, and information to your attendees. Effective communication ensures that attendees are well-informed and engaged, which can lead to higher satisfaction and fewer no-shows. Keeping in touch with attendees helps maintain a strong connection and encourages a positive event experience.
Step 14: Check-In Attendees
On the day of the event, use Zoho’s check-in tools to efficiently manage attendee arrivals. The platform allows you to scan tickets quickly, maintaining an accurate count of participants. This helps streamline the entry process and improves attendee experience by reducing wait times and ensuring a smooth check-in process.
Using Zoho Event Management can streamline the complex process of event planning. By following these steps, you can create professional-looking event pages, reach a wider audience, and manage your event smoothly from start to finish. With Zoho, you can enhance the efficiency of your event management, ensuring a successful and memorable event.
Hashtags have become an integral part of social media and are a powerful tool for categorizing content, increasing visibility, and engaging with a broader audience. This article will help you navigate hashtags on different social media to maximize your social media presence.
How to Use Hashtags Effectively
1. Do Your Research:
Trending Hashtags: Check platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn for trending hashtags related to your content.
Industry-Specific Hashtags: Use hashtags that are popular within your industry to reach a targeted audience.
2. Use a Mix of Popular and Niche Hashtags:
– Popular hashtags (#Travel, #Food) have a broad reach but high competition.
– Niche hashtags (#MinimalistLifestyle, #VeganRecipes) target a specific audience with less competition, increasing the likelihood of engagement.
3. Create Branded Hashtags:
– Unique to your brand or campaign, these hashtags can help build a community and encourage user-generated content.
4. Limit the Number of Hashtags:
– Instagram allows up to 30 hashtags per post, but engagement drops after 5-10 hashtags.
– Twitter’s character limit suggests 1-2 hashtags per tweet for optimal engagement.
– LinkedIn and Facebook are effective with 3-5 hashtags per post.
5. Place Hashtags Strategically:
– On Instagram, hashtags can go in the caption or the first comment.
– On Twitter, integrate hashtags naturally within your tweet.
– On LinkedIn, place hashtags at the end of your post for better readability.
