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  • Here I Am!

    Dear Readers,

    Yes, I know I haven’t been around, that’s because I haven’t been around! I was in Omaha freezing, then sweating to death, as temps went from 48° to 100° in one week… but I was able to speak to many about Identity Theft…

    I have also been working with a publisher! Welcome to the Storm Publishing took on my children’s Christmas book “10 Nights Before Christmas.” It will launch on Nov. 4, 2025 on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Ingram Sparks.

    I am also arranging for narration on Bard through my Talking Book and Braille Library!

    Kebra Moore, of Welcome to the Storm, is an amazing woman, with the patience of a  saint!

    This new author has little experience with a publisher. My first book, “Identity Theft: A  Victim’s Search For Justice” was self published on Amazon. My friend Alix Erenberg edited and formatted it with me. It was a  nightmare!!!

    Hopefully I will have some time to blog, once Kebra gets my new website up and running.

    I told you she is amazing! Anyone out there who has thoughts of publishing a book, might want to contact her. Manuscripts should be a finished product, and already in Word or similar format.

    Good Luck!
    Deb J.

     

    Deborah Joyce

  • ACH Fraud

         As you know, I just returned from the ACB convention in Dallas. It was great to meet so many people from all over the country!

    One group I spoke with was the Business Enterprise Affiliate. I co-presented with Chris Peterson of Penny Forward.

    We spoke about the need for small businesses to be more vigilant with accounting. Here’s my experience…

    In my book, “Identity Theft: A  Victim’s Search For Justice, I recount how my bank account was raided. He got in using an ACH, which is an Authorized Clearinghouse Check. When I 

    told police, they never heard of this and assumed I gave him all my money, because he said so. When the police questioned him, he stated I was mentally incapable of handling my

    money because I was losing my eyesight, so they let him go.

         While this article states to contact the FBI, when I did so, they told me they wouldn’t get involved until the DA arrested the suspect.

    Please read the embedded article, and keep it for your records. I copied in its entirety for validation purposes.

    You may need to show this to law enforcement one day, and educate them.

    Be safe!
    Deborah E  Joyce
    Author of “Identity Theft: A  Victim’s Search For Justice – DB 103152, also on BARD.

    After you read my book, please give a  review!

    Podcasts:

      1.  The Tactile Traveler, #61, with Nick Isenberg.
      2.  Radio Talk Nebraska, with Cami Cavanaugh.
      3.  ACB 2024  podcast with Dan Sipple,on scams.
      4.  ACB 2025  podcast, with Chris Peterson of Penny Forward.
      5.  ACB 2025 podcast with Chris Prentice, Dallas Prosecutor.
      6.  Consumer Vision Mag “The Identity Vault” monthly column, with Bob Branco.

    ID Theft ACH fraud article:

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    Feb 13, 2025
    ACH Fraud is on the Rise – Keep Your Business One Step Ahead
    [cid:image006.png@01DBFEDC.C2F94D60]
    ACH fraud is a type of cybercrime that involves unauthorized transactions using the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network. While ACH transfers are convenient and cost-effective for businesses, that same efficiency makes them a target for scammers.
    All a scammer needs is your account number and routing number to initiate ACH transactions — transfers, withdrawals, and payments — as if they were their own account, all without your knowledge. It’s alarmingly simple for scammers to gain unauthorized access to your account. It could begin with a stolen check, a breach of your business’s network, or the installation of malware.
    Frequently, criminals begin ACH fraud with a phishing scam. They may target the accounting department or senior executives to trick them into sharing bank account information. It could be a fake email asking to verify account information for a vendor or a phishing website that imitates an online banking portal. If you provide your bank account or login credentials, the fraudster has what they need to funnel money from your account.
    Another common method fraudsters use for ACH fraud is Business Email Compromise<https://www.bankofcolorado.com/articles/2024/business-email-compromise>. They hack into a company’s email network to monitor communication patterns. Once they have enough information, they impersonate<https://www.bankofcolorado.com/articles/2024/imposter-scams> the company and contact their clients to provide a new (fraudulent) bank account for payments. If the client follows through, they unknowingly send funds to the scammer instead of the legitimate vendor. This often isn’t discovered until the real vendor follows up on a past-due invoice, and by that time the money cannot be recovered.
    Preventing ACH fraud can be challenging. Since businesses have legitimate reasons to share their account information with vendors and others, they need to take precautions to reduce their risk of ACH fraud.
    Here are some ways to reduce your organization’s risk:

      *   Check Your Accounts. Regularly review transactions and set up alerts for ACH activity.
      *   Enroll in Positive Pay<https://www.bankofcolorado.com/business-cash-management/positive-pay>, our automated tool to help spot unauthorized checks<https://www.bankofcolorado.com/articles/2024/check-fraud> and ACH transactions before they impact your account. It works by verifying checks presented for payout against a list of authorized transactions.
      *   Keep up with cybersecurity<https://www.bankofcolorado.com/personal-banking/cybersecurity-for-consumers>. Keep your antivirus protection up to date on all computers and networks. Regularly update all software with the latest patches. Use strong passwords for all your accounts. Avoid using public or unsecured Wi-Fi.
      *   Enable multifactor authentication. Require additional verification beyond just username and password for all your organization’s sensitive accounts. This can reduce the risk of fraud even if login credentials are compromised.
      *   Be cautious of unsolicited emails, phone calls, or texts asking for sensitive information, as it may be an imposter scam<https://www.bankofcolorado.com/articles/2022/is-the-bank-calling>. Always verify the source using known contact details and avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments.
      *   Create protocols for verifying payment changes. Before providing payment information or sending money with new payment details, you should always verify the legitimacy of the request. Train your staff to contact the requester directly using known contact details—preferably with a phone call to a verified contact.
      *   Train your employees to always follow security procedures.
    What to do if you are targeted by ACH fraud?
    If you believe you were the victim of ACH fraud, take action immediately.

      *   Report all unauthorized transactions to the bank. If your checks or debit card are missing or stolen, alert the bank right away.
      *   Call the police or local law enforcement to report the incident.
      *   Change all account login credentials and monitor future transactions closely.
      *   You can also report these crimes to the FBI ic3.gov<https://www.ic3.gov/>.
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  • I’ve Been Busy!

    Hello Everyone!

    I have been extremely busy! First of all, my time has been monopolized by Apple, for the last month or so trying to get my iPhone  fixed, it’s not pretty, they assure me it’s fixed now…ad nauseum.
    Also, I was gearing up for my first Senior Expo where I was promoting my book, and it just finished. For the past two days, 6:00 am to 5:00 pm including travel…
    BTW, the booth is not free, so when you go to events see if the product is cheaper online. I had to raise the book price to cover the cost of the event, and all I did was break even…

    It’s a learning experience, but I did make all kinds of connections and sold many books! People are also excited about my next books; a children’s Christmas book, currently in editing phase, and a book about animals I have lived with. It’s funny, sad, and poignant all in one.

    The best thing was that in person, I was able to speak to many people about identity theft. Unfortunately, there were many sad, frustrating, and compassionate stories.
    We commiserated together, and that’s the point. We are not alone. Shared experiences bring hope and empowerment.

    I was thinking, maybe my middle initial stands for Empowerment, Education, or Enlightenment, what do you think?

    Feel free to share your stories and comments. 

    Stay safe.

    Debora E. Joyce,
    Author of “Identity Theft: A Victim’s Search For Justice DB – 103152

  • Experion’s free Dark Web scan.

    Hi Readers,

    Thanks for coming to my blog. I  will be out of town for a  while on tour, thought I’d share some info for you. I always mention that you have to do the work in order to keep safe.

    It’s not as difficult as you think. The following is a  great example, and, it’s free!!!

    Free is one of my fav words, along with safety and security. We have heard about Experian, Equifax, and Trans Union, the three major  companies that monitor our credit history. They  know more about us than we do, however here is one benefit:

    A free dark web scan from Experian. Yes, that Dark Web that continually lurks in the background, trying to get our money.

    So call the companies and find out what they know and how they can help you.

    Additionally, use the link below to get that free Dark Web scan from Experian. There’s a  ton of information for everyone to peruse.

    Grab some coffee, and click the link.

    *        Experian: 1-800-493-1058
    *        TransUnion: 1-800-916-8800
    *        Equifax: 1-888-548-7878

    Free dark web scan:  Experian.com/scan

     

    As always, be safe, especially while traveling this summer!
    PS  you can scan many times, not just once. I  scan on a  regular basis.

    Deborah E. Joyce,
    Author of  “Identity Theft: A  Victim’s Search For Justice, 2nd edition, on Amazon, Bard, Kindle.
    Please review my book!

    Follow my blog:
    https://abdullahbusaina.site/blog/

    Listen to podcasts on The Tactile Traveler, Silver Summit Nebraska, Radio Talk Nebraska, Nebraska Silver Summit, and upcoming ACB Dallas convention for Lawyers, and Business Enterprise!

    Also, watch for my Christmas book for kids of all ages!!!
    I have been busy, and really appreciate zoom!

     

     

  • A Reader’s Review

     

     

    Hello!

    I recently received a very nice review on my book: “Identity Theft: A Victim’s Search for Justice,” that I want to share with my readers. Thank you Teresa, for permission to use your review.

    Deborah E. Joyce

     

     

    Dear Ms. Joyce,

    I enjoyed your presentation on ACB about identity theft. I read your book a couple years ago. It was an excellent, book. The book was particularly helpful, because you are also blind.

    It is very admirable that you keep pushing forward to help others, and wrote a book about your experiences. As blind people we face many roadblocks. You don’t let any of this stop you.

    I learned a lot from your book, and encouraged me. Thank you so much. It would be great if you would consider writing a book on the challenges you face as a blind person, and still accomplish so much, in spite of setbacks. Some people certainly do take advantage of vulnerable people, and you didn’t let this keep you from helping others.

    Much appreciation,

    Teresa Stallings

     

  • This is for Subscribers

     

     

    Hello Everyone,

    I am pleased to add another subscriber to our mailing list, from Australia! Welcome! He had some questions, so I thought it would be good to get the info out there for everyone.

    If you live outside the U.S. and wish to obtain my books, you do have choices.

      1.  Purchase hard copy/soft cover from Amazon.
      2.  Download from Bard or Kindle
      3.  Ask your local talking book and braille library to purchase a copy, and record it for their library system.
      4.  I am told there is a way to get books through international library loan.
      5.  Let me know how it works for you!

    I will continue to do my best to keep information current, but, whew! things change quickly!

    Keep safe!
    Deborah Joyce

     

     

  • I’m baaack! Been on my first book tour!

     

     

    I  know it’s been awhile, but a  lot has been going on! I just recently returned from a three and a half  week long book tour, my first ever!

    My first stop was Omaha, NE! I met with the Commissioner for the Blind, the American Council for the Blind, the students of various groups from American Council for the Blind, NFB people as well! If that wasn’t enough, when that was all over, I left for South Dakota!

    South Dakota was Ski For Light, a skiing winter sports event for people that are blind or low vision. Minus 20 degrees stopped all outdoor events one day.

    I was able to speak with almost 100 people, from teenagers to seniors. Commissioners for the Blind and the heads of different departments were very welcoming. I even did a live interview on radio with Talking Book Service  of Nebraska – it will be aired on their website, and you can listen to it in full.

    My podcast on the Tactile Traveler with Nick Isenberg will air in the beginning of March, episode #61.  My radio interview will be available on Radio Talking Book Service  on February 28, and you can listen to it on the Internet.

    I will be speaking on Zoom at the Silver Seniors summit for Nebraska on March 22.  I will also be on Zoom for the Nebraska State Convention in May.

    I am grateful to be able to speak to many people about identity theft. Oh! I even spoke on something called “The Bus Across Nebraska,” which went from Omaha to South  Dakota for  the Ski For Light trip. After hearing my story, many people asked for the microphone and told their story as well. It was kind of sad to hear how many people were victimized by identity theft, and or knew someone who was a victim of identity theft, but they all told me that they felt better hearing my story because it made them feel less like a victim and that they weren’t alone.

    What I learned from the entire trip was that we need to share our stories. We need to go to the police, go to the Commissions for the Blind, talk to the State and let them know that we need protection from scammers. We need to go to the bank and let them know that we want a flag put on our account so that our account can be safe One of the listeners said she is a  blind vendor, and was going to go to the bank when she went home.  The banks think that they don’t have to watch out for our money, that it’s our responsibility. However my money is in their bank, therefore they should be watching out for it!

    I’m glad to be back, I will be writing again as soon as I recover! Please feel free to pitch in and give your feedback on my blog. Don’t be afraid, we all need to hear and share our stories so that we can stand stronger and be empowered together

    As always, stay safe, Deb Joyce

  • National Consumer Protection Week

     

     

     

    Hello  Everyone,

    It’s National Consumer  Protection Week, and the FTC is holding a seminar this Wednesday.
    I hope you will take advantage of these great resources.

    Its up to us,

    Deborah E  Joyce
    Author of Identity Theft: A Victim’s Search For Justice

    The FCC will host a webinar in recognition of National Consumer Protection Week on Wednesday, March 5 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET.  March 2 – 8, 2025 is National Consumer Protection Week, also known as NCPW.  Each year during NCPW, government and nonprofit partners highlight information and resources that empower consumers to avoid scams and decrease their chances of becoming victims of fraud.
    During the webinar, the FCC’s Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau will be highlighting unwanted call protection resources and information about common phone-based scams.
    Please register for the webinar using the link:
    https://fccgov.webex.com/weblink/register/r05fac2a7ccc00852fc604a3ebdfdff24
    After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
    During the webinar, attendees will be provided with information about:
    1.            Stopping or reducing illegal calls and texts
    2.            Spoofing
    3.            The FCC’s top phone scams of 2024
    4.            The FCC’s Consumer Help Center, which features a Scam glossary
    5.            The FCC’s  Consumer Complaint process
    The presentation slide deck will be shared after the webinar.

    Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities are available upon request. Requesters of such accommodations may contact the Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau at fcc504@fcc.gov , or (202) 418-0530. Such requests should include a detailed description of the accommodation needed and how the requester can be contacted. Requests should be made as early as possible.
    Throughout the week, the FCC will also post resources daily on its Consumer Help Center: fcc.gov/consumers. The list of topics that will be covered include:
    6.            Monday, March 3: Unwanted Calls and Texts
    7.            Tuesday, March 4: Insurance & Healthcare Scam
    8.            Wednesday, March 5: Grandparent Scam
    9.            Thursday, March 6: Port Out Fraud
    10.         Friday, March 7: How to File a Complaint
    Questions about the webinar or to schedule a meeting to discuss how to collaborate with the FCC on providing information to your community can be emailed to outreach@fcc.gov.   Individuals who use videophones and are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) may call the FCC’s ASL Consumer Support Line at (844) 432-2275 (videophone).

    Debora Joyce

     

  • Cybersecurity…Who Is Responsible?

                           

     

          

                  

    Another breach from Lifelock, showing Omni Hotels information. A data breach leaked names, addresses and emails from patrons. The hotel said sensitive financial data wasn’t leaked, so all is well.  Not really. If you read this column, then you know that emails can be hacked. Personal info such as a valid address or spelling of name is all that is necessary for a hacker to “prove” it’s you.

     

    AT&T finally admitted two weeks ago that it was on their watch when millions of emails and sensitive data was hacked from their customers. Another opening for thieves include all those emails that we send out to unknown people. Not to mention the information that our friends have access to – here’s a case in point :

     

     

           When Japanese interpreter Ippei Mizuhara lost bets, he paid a bookmaker with money allegedly stolen from Shohei Ohtani, a staggering total of more
    than $16 million nearly four times what previously had been reported.

         The affidavit alleges that more than $325,000 was transferred from the account to eBay and Whatnot between January and March 2024 to purchase about 1,000 baseball cards. Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter Ippei Mizuhara was charged with felony bank fraud for allegedly stealing more than $16 million.

    Los Angeles Times

    https://www.latimes.com/sports/story/2024-04-11/…

     

     

    While I can say that I am responsible for who I send emails to, I don’t believe I should be responsible for a breach caused by a large corporation such as AT&T.  It is also my opinion that Mr. Ohtani should feel that his money is protected in a safe place. Are they saying that his bank didn’t notice $325,000 moved from his bank to eBay in two months? Not to mention the other millions.

     

    I keep referring to responsibility and I won’t back down on that one.

     

    We have the technology in place to safeguard banks, power grids and sensitive data.
    I for one, wish to hold these institutions to task, safeguarding my money, my electric grid and my country. How about joining me in contacting legislators, asking them to address this issue?

     

    After all, my money and yours made these corporations rich. It’s payback time.

     

    Be safe…Debora Joyce

     

    Author of ”Identity Theft – A Victims Search For Justice”  DB 103152

    Follow my blog:  abdullahbusaina.site/blog 

    Comments? Feel free to email me at  deborahejoyce@outlook.com