Holiday Travel: Safety Precautions Before You Leave

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As the holiday season approaches, many are preparing for Thanksgiving and Christmas travels. Whether you’re driving across the state or flying across the country, it’s important to secure your home and belongings before you leave. Boyd & Associates has gathered some key safety tips to help you travel with peace of mind.

Secure Your Home

Before leaving, lock all doors, windows, and entry points, including your garage and gates. Activate your home security system, and if you don’t have one, consider installing one. Make sure outdoor security lights, especially motion sensors, are working to deter intruders.

Notify a Neighbor or Friend

Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your home. They can collect your mail, packages, or newspapers to prevent the appearance that no one is home. If you’re away for a longer period, arrange for yard maintenance to keep your home looking occupied.

Use Timers for Lights and Electronics

A home that looks lived-in is less likely to be targeted. Set timers for lights, TVs, or radios to give the appearance of activity. Consider using smart lighting systems and automating blinds to add another layer of security.

Plan Your Road Trip

If you’re driving, ensure your vehicle is ready by checking tire pressure, oil, and brakes. Set up your GPS in advance and use hands-free devices to avoid distractions. With holiday traffic, stay alert and give yourself extra time to reach your destination safely.

Holiday travel can be stress-free with a bit of preparation. Boyd & Associates is here to help you protect your home while you enjoy the season. Follow these tips to keep your home secure and travel with peace of mind.

Earthquake Preparedness: Essential Steps for Safety and Comfort

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At Boyd & Associates, we know how important it is to be prepared for emergencies, especially in earthquake-prone areas like Southern California. While it’s crucial to know what to do during an earthquake, it’s just as important to be ready for the challenges that follow. Here are four essential steps to ensure both safety and comfort in the aftermath.

Build a Comprehensive Emergency Kit

Your emergency kit should cover more than just the basics. While essentials like water, food, and first aid supplies are necessary, don’t overlook comfort items. Include cozy clothing, blankets, and hygiene products to help you and your family feel refreshed. Simple entertainment like books or cards can also help pass the time while waiting for services to be restored.

Plan for Power Outages

Power outages are likely after an earthquake. Be prepared with battery-powered fans and heaters to regulate temperature, as well as rechargeable power banks to keep your devices charged. Solar-powered lights or lanterns can provide reliable lighting without the need for batteries, helping you stay safe and informed.

Ensure Access to Clean Water

Access to clean water is critical. Store enough bottled water for at least three days—about one gallon per person per day. Adding water purification tablets or a portable filtration system to your kit ensures you’ll have access to safe drinking water in case regular supplies are disrupted.

Stay Connected with Communication Tools 

Staying connected with loved ones and staying informed about emergency updates is key. A battery-powered or hand-crank radio can help you receive updates even if power and internet are down. Pre-arrange communication plans with your family, and consider walkie-talkies or satellite phones for reliable communication if traditional systems fail.

At Boyd & Associates, we believe that earthquake preparedness means more than just surviving the event—it’s about ensuring comfort and security in the days that follow. By planning ahead with these essentials, you can protect yourself and your loved ones during one of nature’s most unpredictable events. Stay prepared, stay safe.

Protecting Your Personal Information on Social Media

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In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives. It’s where we connect with friends and family, share our experiences, and stay updated on current events. However, the convenience of social media comes with significant risks to our personal information. Here’s how you can protect your privacy and keep your data safe while enjoying social media.

Adjust Your Privacy Settings

Each social media platform offers privacy settings to control who can see your posts and personal information. Regularly review these settings and customize them to limit visibility to only trusted friends or connections. Make your profile visible only to your friends or connections. Avoid making your profile public, which can expose your personal information to anyone on the internet. Use features that allow you to choose who can see specific posts. Share sensitive information only with a select group of trusted individuals.

Be Cautious with Personal Information

Refrain from sharing sensitive information such as your home address, phone number, or financial details. Oversharing can make you a target for identity theft and other malicious activities. Consider the long-term implications of what you share. Once posted, information can be difficult to remove and may be accessible to others indefinitely. For additional privacy, consider using a nickname or alias, especially on platforms where your real identity isn’t necessary.

Beware of Phishing and Scams

Be wary of messages or friend requests from unknown individuals. Phishing scams often use messages that appear to be from trusted sources to steal your information. Avoid clicking on links from unverified sources. Phishing scams frequently use malicious links to trick you into revealing personal information. Use the platform’s reporting features to report suspicious messages or accounts. This helps maintain a safer online environment for everyone.

Secure Your Account

Create strong, unique passwords for each social media account. A strong password typically includes a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Add an extra layer of security by enabling 2FA. This requires a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your password. Change your passwords periodically to enhance security. Ensure your account recovery information, like email addresses and phone numbers, is up-to-date.

Monitor Your Digital Footprint

Regularly search for your name online to see what information is publicly available. This helps you identify and address any privacy concerns. If you find personal information that you don’t want to be public, take steps to remove or secure it. Keep up-to-date with the latest social media privacy practices and updates. Platforms frequently update their settings and policies, so staying informed helps you maintain optimal security. 

Protecting Your Children Online: Tips for Parents

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In an increasingly digital world, children are exposed to the internet from a very young age. While the internet offers a wealth of knowledge and opportunities, it also poses significant risks. As a parent, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect your children online. Here are some essential tips to ensure their safety.

Set Up Parental Controls

Many devices and apps come with built-in parental controls that allow you to restrict content and monitor usage. Consider using third-party parental control software that offers more comprehensive features, such as content filtering, screen time management, and activity monitoring.

Educate Your Children

Teach your children about the basics of internet safety, including not sharing personal information, recognizing suspicious links, and understanding the importance of privacy. Explain the importance of respectful online behavior and the potential consequences of cyberbullying, both for the victim and the perpetrator.

Monitor Online Activity

Regularly check your children’s online activity, including the websites they visit, the apps they use, and their social media interactions. Keep an eye on your children’s friend lists on social media and gaming platforms. Ensure they are only connecting with people they know in real life.

Use Safe Search Engines

Use child-friendly browsers and search engines designed to filter out inappropriate content. Examples include Kiddle, KidzSearch, and SafeSearch Kids. Enable safe search settings on regular search engines like Google to help filter explicit content.

Create a Safe Online Environment

Set clear rules about internet usage, including what sites they can visit, how much time they can spend online, and appropriate online behavior. Foster an environment of open communication where your children feel comfortable discussing their online experiences with you.

Stay Informed

Stay updated on the latest technology trends and potential risks. This will help you better understand the online landscape your children are navigating. Join online parenting groups or forums where you can share experiences and get advice on managing your children’s internet usage.

Encourage Positive Online Activities

Encourage your children to use the internet for educational purposes, such as online courses, educational games, and research for school projects. Support your children in using the internet for creative expression, such as blogging, digital art, or video creation, within a safe and supervised environment.

Conclusion

Protecting your children online is an ongoing process that requires vigilance, communication, and the right tools. By setting up parental controls, educating your children about internet safety, monitoring their activity, and staying informed, you can create a safer online environment for them. Remember, the goal is not to restrict their internet use but to ensure they can explore the digital world safely and responsibly.

Best Security Practices for Home Gun Safety

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As a security provider committed to safeguarding homes and promoting the well-being of families, we understand the importance of responsible gun ownership. While firearms can be valuable tools for self-defense, it is crucial to prioritize gun safety within the home environment, especially whenever children are present.

An unsettling statistic is that firearms are now the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States. And in 2022, there were over 20,000 deaths related to gun violence. We share these statistics not to be alarmist but to raise the awareness of gun safety. With guns in approximately 42% of households, gun safety is paramount for a secure home.

Below, we will explore the best home practices for gun safety, focusing on proactive measures that enhance security and prevent accidents. By implementing these guidelines, you can maintain a secure and protected living space for you and your loved ones.

Safe Gun Storage Options

First and foremost, all firearms within a household should be properly stored in a secure location to prevent unauthorized access or theft. It’s a tragic and far too common occurrence of children accidently finding firearms and causing injuries to themselves or others.

Implementing secure storage solutions not only ensures the safety of your household members but also reduces the risk of firearms falling into the wrong hands. Consider the following options for safe gun storage:

  • Gun Safes: A high-quality gun safe is an ideal choice for storing firearms. Look for a safe that meets industry standards and offers features such as fire resistance, thick steel plating, and secure locking mechanisms. Biometric or digital locks provide quick access while maintaining security. Additionally, opt for a safe with adjustable shelving to accommodate different firearms and accessories. Lastly, please remember to always be cautious about sharing your safe combination. The less people who know it, the better.
  • Lockboxes: You can strategically place smaller lockboxes in bedrooms or other accessible areas for quick access during emergencies. Ensure these lockboxes are hidden from view. Combination or key-operated lockboxes provide an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized access, which we recommend utilizing.
  • Trigger Locks: Utilize trigger locks to immobilize firearms when they are not in use. These locks act as an extra precautionary measure, preventing accidental discharge and unauthorized handling. Trigger locks are widely available and inexpensive, making them an essential accessory for gun owners.
  • Ammunition Storage: Store ammunition separately from firearms. Keeping them apart decreases the likelihood of unintentional discharge and makes it more challenging for unauthorized individuals to access both firearms and ammunition. Designate separate locked storage areas for each.

Gun Safety and Training

Education and training are vital components of responsible gun ownership. Every gun owner should be knowledgeable about firearm safety. By promoting a culture of responsible gun handling, you can minimize accidents and ensure a secure environment. Consider the following steps to better promote gun safety:

  • Firearms Training: Enroll in certified courses that focus on safe handling, storage, and operation of firearms. You should also seek out qualified instructors who can teach essential skills such as proper grip, stance, and aiming techniques, enhancing your knowledge and confidence while handling firearms.
  • Responsible Firearm Handling: Educate family members about the importance of treating every firearm as if it were loaded, even when it’s not. Stress the significance of never pointing a firearm at anyone unintentionally and keeping fingers off the trigger until ready to shoot. Reinforce safe practices such as maintaining muzzle discipline and using the appropriate safety mechanisms.
  • Gun Safety for Kids: Children are naturally curious, making it crucial to educate them about the dangers of firearms. Teach them to never touch firearms without adult supervision and to inform an adult immediately if they come across a firearm. Establish clear guidelines, such as not playing with toy guns that resemble real firearms, and ensure firearms are securely stored out of children’s reach. Consider training from organizations specializing in child firearm safety education.

Protect Your Home and Keep Your Firearms Secure with a Home Security System

A comprehensive home security system goes beyond protecting your property from external threats. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the security of your firearms and preventing them from falling into unauthorized hands. By integrating your gun security measures with a reliable home security system, you can enjoy an added layer of protection and peace of mind.

Here’s how a home security system can contribute to the security of your firearms:

  • Intrusion Detection: By installing motion sensors, you can create a perimeter of defense around your property. In the event of an unauthorized entry attempt, the system will immediately trigger an alarm, alerting you and the monitoring service. The swift response helps prevent burglars from accessing your firearms and other valuables.
  • Remote Access and Alerts: Modern home security systems offer convenient features such as remote access and alerts through mobile applications or web interfaces. These tools enable you to monitor your property in real-time, receive notifications about any unusual activities, and even control your security system remotely.
  • Video Surveillance: Placing cameras strategically throughout your property, including near the areas where you store firearms, provides an additional layer of visual deterrence and monitoring. Video footage can serve as valuable evidence in case of a security breach or theft, aiding law enforcement in their investigations and increasing the chances of recovering stolen firearms.

Remember, a home security system is not a substitute for responsible gun ownership and proper storage practices. However, it serves as a powerful complement to your efforts, ensuring that your firearms remain secure and out of unauthorized hands.

When partnering with a security provider like Boyd & Associates, we will work with you to ensure all your firearm locations are carefully monitored and covered. With our integrated security systems, we will create a comprehensive defense strategy to deter burglars and help prevent your firearms from falling into the wrong hands. For more information about our security services, feel free to contact us today.

7 Essential Summer Safety Tips for All Ages

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Summer brings longer days and endless opportunities for outdoor fun. However, it’s also a time to be extra vigilant about safety. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a trip to the beach, or simply spending more time outdoors, Boyd & Associates is here to ensure you have a safe summer. Here are seven crucial safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Check the Weather and Prepare Accordingly
Before heading outdoors, check the weather forecast. This will help you dress appropriately and pack necessary items such as sunscreen, extra water, and protective clothing. Keeping an eye on the UV index is also crucial; a high UV index means you need to take extra precautions to protect against sunburn and overexposure, which can lead to skin damage.

2. Sun Protection is a Must
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating. Choose water-resistant types if you’re planning water activities. Don’t forget to wear protective clothing, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses to shield skin and eyes from harmful rays.

3. Dress Smartly
Wear light-colored, lightweight, and loose-fitting clothing to reflect heat and sunlight. Clothes with a UPF rating offer additional protection. Always wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with high UV protection to guard against the sun’s rays.

4. Hydration and First Aid
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in hot weather. Carry a refillable water bottle and drink regularly, not just when you feel thirsty. Pack a personalized first aid kit equipped with essentials like gauze, tape, antibiotic ointment, sunscreen, bug spray, aloe vera, and hydrocortisone cream.

5. Water Safety
Always supervise children closely near water, whether it’s a pool, beach, or backyard fountain. Use “touch supervision” for toddlers and non-swimmers, keeping them within arm’s reach. Ensure everyone wears coast-guard approved life jackets when boating or swimming in deep water.

6. Understand and React to Heat-Related Illnesses
Recognize the signs of heat exhaustion, which include dizziness, muscle cramps, and nausea. If someone shows signs of heat stress, move them to a cooler place, encourage them to hydrate, and cool them down with damp cloths.

7. Never Leave Children or Pets in Cars
The temperature inside a parked car can escalate to dangerous levels within minutes, even with a window cracked open. Always check the back seat when exiting your vehicle to ensure no child or pet is left behind. Store your essentials in the back seat as a reminder.

Following these tips can help ensure your summer activities are safe and enjoyable. At Boyd & Associates, we’re committed to helping you protect what matters most, whether you’re at home or on the go.

Essential Camping Safety Tips from Boyd & Associates

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Embarking on a camping trip can be one of the most rewarding ways to explore nature and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, venturing into the wilderness requires preparation and awareness to ensure that your outdoor experience is not only enjoyable but also safe. Boyd & Associates is committed to helping you enjoy your camping adventures worry-free with these essential safety tips.

Plan Your Route Carefully

Before heading out, it’s important to map your route and familiarize yourself with the area. In regions where cell service is unreliable or non-existent, a well-planned route is your lifeline. Carry detailed maps and a GPS device, and make sure to inform someone at home of your itinerary and expected return time. This simple step can be crucial in case of an emergency.

Pack a Reliable Emergency Kit

A well-stocked emergency kit is essential for any outdoor adventure. Your kit should include items such as a first aid kit, a multi-tool, a flashlight, extra batteries, and waterproof matches. Depending on the nature of your trip, you might also want to include a whistle, a signal mirror, and a portable weather radio. Remember, it’s better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it.

Store Food and Waste Securely

Encounters with wildlife are one of the risks of camping in natural settings. To minimize this risk, store all food, toiletries, and trash in bear-proof containers or locked inside your vehicle. This practice helps prevent attracting animals to your campsite and keeps both you and the wildlife safe. Be sure to clean up your site thoroughly before you leave to reduce your impact on the environment.

Stay Informed About Local Regulations

Camping regulations can vary significantly from one place to another and may change based on weather conditions, wildlife activity, and other factors. Before setting up camp, check with local authorities or visit the campsite’s website for the most up-to-date information on fire regulations, wildlife precautions, and other important guidelines.

With the right preparations, camping can be a delightful way to connect with nature. By planning your route, packing an emergency kit, storing food and waste properly, and staying informed about local regulations, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Boyd & Associates reminds you to embrace the spirit of adventure with safety in mind.

9 Personal Safety Tips for Everyday Security

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In today’s world, staying safe is essential, whether you’re at home or on the move. Boyd and Associates emphasizes the importance of preparedness and awareness for enhancing personal security across various environments. Here’s a concise overview:

Stay Alert: Minimize distractions and be vigilant about your surroundings, particularly in quieter areas.

Choose Safe Spaces: Favor well-lit, busy paths and avoid secluded spots. Seek company if you must travel through less secure areas at night.

Check Your Car: Inspect your vehicle before entering and keep valuables out of sight to prevent thefts.

Walk Confidently: Display confidence in your demeanor to ward off potential threats.

Trust Your Gut: Listen to your instincts and withdraw from situations that feel unsafe without hesitation.

Home Security: Boost your home’s safety with technology like security cameras and motion sensors for peace of mind.

Mix Up Your Routine: Vary your daily paths and schedules to become less predictable.

Use a Buddy System: Share your whereabouts with trusted contacts, especially when traveling or in unfamiliar settings.

Embrace Safety Tech: Don’t hesitate to use safety apps and devices, and know when to record or call for help if you’re being followed.

Safety is a collective endeavor. By adopting these strategies, you’re not just reacting to dangers but actively working to prevent them. Let’s prioritize safety together, maintaining vigilance and supporting each other in staying secure.

Stay Safe on Your Strolls: Essential Tips for Walking & Wallet Protection

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Walking, for many, is more than just physical exercise; it’s a part of their daily routine or an adventure into new vistas. At Boy’d and Associates, we prioritize your safety in every step you take, whether through quiet mornings or vibrant city streets. Here’s a brief on how to enhance your walking safety and protect your valuables.

Walk Smart, Stay Safe

Before you head out, planning your route can make all the difference. Walking with friends or pets after dark boosts safety, while varying your paths can keep potential threats guessing. Choosing well-lit streets over shadowy shortcuts and carrying a noise-making device like a whistle are simple yet effective strategies. Always stay aware of your surroundings, and if you find yourself in a potentially dangerous situation, remember that seeking help and avoiding confrontation are paramount. Limiting the display of valuables also reduces the risk of attracting unwanted attention.

Protecting Your Belongings

When it comes to what you carry, less is often more. Consider whether you really need to take a purse, or if the essentials can fit in your pockets. If you do carry a purse, wearing it securely across your body can deter thieves. Be selective about what you take with you, carrying only necessary cash and credit cards, and ensure you have a record of card numbers stored safely at home. These precautions help keep your valuables safe, allowing you to focus on enjoying your walk.

Walking is an enriching activity with countless benefits, but safety should never be compromised. These tips ensure you enjoy your strolls without worry, combining preparedness with smart habits. Stay alert, stay safe, and keep walking with joy!

How To Tell If A Rental Listing Is Legitimate

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Con artists are capitalizing on the competitive real estate market by running rental scams designed to drain money from both prospective renters and trusting landlords.

Within the last year, both the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) have issued warnings about this fraud type.

How much are Americans losing to real estate and rental scams? According to the FBI, losses have been steadily increasing. In 2021, the amount lost was more than $350 million — up 64 percent from the previous year.

If you have a move on the horizon, we’ve got you covered with tips to avoid rental scams. Or, if you’re a landlord or homeowner advertising a rental, learn how to tell if a potential renter is actually a scammer.

How rental scams work

Imagine finding a perfect apartment or house in your price range. Then, you hear that dozens of other people are interested too. Not wanting to miss your chance, you quickly fill out the application even if you can’t see the property in person.

It’s typical for rental applications to ask for personally identifiable information (PII), such as your Social Security number and payment information for the security deposit, so you share your details.

But then, you never hear back from the landlord. Unfortunately, this is how it often goes for victims of rental scams.

These bogus listings can be hard to spot. Scammers often steal photos and descriptions from legitimate real estate sites.

But there are a few tells you can look out for.

Scammers often rely on urgency (“You need to send us a wire transfer right now to secure this home”) or lies (“I’m in the hospital so I can’t show you the property”) to manipulate the victim into acting quickly — before they’ve had time to think it through.

Rental scams may affect landlords, too 

Landlords are also frequently targeted by rental scams.

This can happen when a scammer responds to a legitimate listing, pretending to be a prospective tenant eager to secure a lease. Often without touring the property, the scammer agrees to fill out an application and pay the security deposit via check.

In some cases, the scammer will write that check for more than the necessary amount, then ask the landlord to return the surplus to them via a peer-to-peer payment app, prepaid credit card, or wire transfer.

In other cases, the fraudster sends a check, then claims to have to back out of the lease due to an emergency, and asks the landlord to pay the money back.

The trouble is, the fraudulent check they sent will bounce a few days later, and the landlord will be out any money they “returned.”

How to avoid rental scams

Now that you’re alert to this type of fraud, you can better avoid falling victim.

Our identity specialists help our members identify and fight back against fraud, so they’ve seen all kinds of scams play out, including rental scams.

To stay safe, try these rental scam safety tips:

If you’re a prospector renter: 

  • Avoid renting a property sight unseen. Wondering how to tell if a rental is legitimate? See it for yourself. Even if the landlord or agent gives a believable excuse as to why they can’t take you on a tour, always err on the side of caution. If you are searching for a rental from a different city or state, consider finding a trusted friend or a licensed real estate agent to tour a property on your behalf in order to confirm its legitimacy.
  • Research current rental rates in the area. If it seems too good to be true, it most likely is. When a listing is priced way cheaper — or for far less than you’d expect after seeing the photos — it could be a sign of a scam. 
  • Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics. If you’re feeling rushed or pressured to share personal or financial information, just walk away — there’s a good chance you’re dealing with a scammer.
  • Work with a professional. “Use a legitimate real estate website or real estate agent to find your rental,” advises Krentz. Keep in mind that anyone can post on classified sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace, so there are fewer guard rails on those sites. 
  • Look up the address, description, and images of a listing online. “Many scammers take photos and listings from legitimate real estate sites and post them as their own, but with a lower rent price,” says Krentz. If you notice a rental is listed in multiple places, and one of those listings has spelling errors, wrong capitalization, or bad grammar, it may be a sign of fraud.
  • Never pay a deposit via wire transfer, prepaid gift card, or peer-to-peer payment app. These forms of payment do not typically have the same fraud protections credit cards have and, in the case of a scam, the money usually can’t be returned to the victim.

If you’re a landlord:

  • Try to avoid renting to someone willing to lease a property sight unseen. This may be a red flag that you’re working with a scammer. 
  • Never accept a check from a new renter that’s made out for more than they owe. Don’t deposit the check; instead, return it to the sender. If someone sends you a check but then asks for that money back, be sure the check clears the bank before you return the payment. If it doesn’t, you’ll know you were working with a scammer. 

Other real estate scams to watch out for 

Real estate scammers also use a variety of other tactics to steal your money and personal information.

For example, in a foreclosure scam, a fraudster may promise to lower a homeowner’s mortgage or “save” their home from foreclosure for an upfront fee (then don’t deliver).

If you’re ever having trouble covering your mortgage, steer clear of companies that charge a fee to help consolidate or cover your loan. Instead, seek help from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

According to the BBB, moving scams also cost Americans hundreds of thousands of dollars in 2021 — a 216 percent uptick from 2020.

In this scam, moving companies underquote then overcharge victims in the middle of a move (sometimes holding their belongings hostage until they pay an exorbitant fee). Or, they may demand payment upfront and then never follow through with their services.

One of the best ways to ensure you’re working with a credible moving company is to ask friends and family for referrals. Or, opt for a company that is open to sharing proof of registration and insurance, has positive online reviews, and completes an on-site inspection prior to moving day to provide an accurate quote. 

How to report a rental scam

If you’re a Boyd Identity Protection member and you think you’ve fallen victim to a rental scam, give us a call right away.

Our customer care team is here to walk you through the next steps to try to recover any stolen assets. 

If you’re not a member, we recommend reporting the scam to your local law enforcement, as well as the Federal Trade Commission, BBB, and FBI.