Risky Places to Use Your Debit Card (and What to Use Instead)

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Your debit card is convenient, easy to use, and connected directly to your checking account. But that convenience can also mean direct access to your money is on the line if something goes wrong. Unlike credit cards, debit cards pull funds directly from your bank account. If fraud occurs, the money may disappear immediately and can take time to recover while the financial institution investigates.

That’s why it’s important to know where using a debit card may put you at greater risk and when a different payment method might be a safer option. Below are some of the most common places where debit card fraud can occur and what you can do to protect yourself.

Gas Station Pumps

Paying at the pump is one of the most common places criminals target. Gas pumps can be vulnerable to card skimming devices, which secretly capture card information when you insert or swipe your card. These devices can be difficult to detect and may transmit your data to thieves instantly.

Safer options:

  • Use a credit card (or cash), instead of a debit card when at a gas station.
  • When traveling outside of NJ, pay inside instead of directly at the pump.

Outdoor ATMs

ATMs located outside convenience stores, gas stations, or other high-traffic areas can present a risk. As these ATMs may be less monitored, criminals sometimes attach skimming devices or hidden cameras to capture card numbers and PINs here too.

Safer options:

  • Use ATMs directly inside a financial institution or in well-lit locations.
  • Shield your PIN when entering it.
  • Regularly monitor your account for any suspicious activity.

Online Shopping

This method of shopping is convenient, but entering your debit card information online can expose your bank account if the retailer experiences a breach or if the site is fraudulent. With debit cards, fraudulent transactions may immediately withdraw the funds from your account – even while the investigation is underway.

Safer options:

  • Use a credit card for online purchases.
  • Shop only on secure websites (look for “https” at the beginning of the URL).
  • Consider using digital wallets (PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.) or virtual card numbers when available.

Bars, Restaurants, and Busy Retail Environments

Any situation where your card leaves your sight, even briefly – can increase the risk of unauthorized use. In busy environments like bars or restaurants, it can be easier for card information to be copied or mishandled.

Safer options:

  • Use a credit card.
  • Use contactless or mobile payments when available.
  • Review your receipts and account transactions regularly.

Why Credit Cards Often Offer More Protection

Both debit and credit cards have fraud protections, but they work differently. If fraud occurs on a credit card, the funds are not tied to your checking account – and you can dispute transactions without immediately losing funds. With debit cards, the money comes directly from your bank account and may take time to be restored. This is why many financial experts recommend using credit cards for certain transactions – especially online purchases, travel, and higher-risk environments.

Smart Habits to Protect Your Cards

No matter where you use your card (or which kind of card), a few simple habits can help protect your finances:

  • Set up transaction alerts.
  • Review your account regularly for unfamiliar charges.
  • Report lost cards or suspicious activity immediately.
  • Use contactless payments or digital wallets when possible.

Learn More: When to Use Credit vs. Debit

Both debit and credit cards have a place within your financial toolkit. Understanding when to use each can help you protect your money and manage your spending more effectively.

Learn more in our guide: Credit vs. Debit: Which Should You Use?

Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this March 2026

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The additional six weeks of winter predicted on Groundhog Day are finally coming to an end and spring is around the corner. Luckily, we’ve found a pot of gold – which includes countless budget and family-friendly happenings in Monmouth & Ocean Counties that are perfect for welcoming the new season.

March 7

Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Seaside Heights) – Join the Annual Ocean County St. Patrick’s Day Parade, beginning at 12pm on the Boulevard. Various local businesses, teams, and community organizations will march and celebrate Irish heritage in the parade. There’s a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow too, a post-parade party at the Hershey Motel with a live performance by the Drunken Clams. There is no fee to attend the festivities. Learn more about the parade here. To add to the fun, Casino Pier is hosting their St. Patrick’s Day Parade Party from 11am-6pm – selling $30 Arcade Cards for $15 and offering various food and drink specials.

March 8

Belmar Dine and Discover will help you sample what local eateries have to offer – one trolley stop at a time, from 11:30am-2:30pm. Starting at the Belmar Municipal Building, you will hop on and off at participating Belmar restaurants – where you will be greeted with unique chef-crafted bites at every turn. Wristbands are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets – don’t forget to bring your appetite with you, too!

March 11

Irish Week Flavor of Freehold – Transport your tastebuds to Ireland without leaving Downtown Freehold from 5:30pm-8pm. Your $25 Shamrock Pass is packed with the luck of the Irish – it gives you special access to signature samples from some of Freehold’s most beloved establishments. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

March 12

Irish Week Pub Crawl (Freehold) – If a bar crawl is more your speed and you’re over 21, the Downtown Freehold Irish Week celebrations continue with a Pub Crawl from 8pm-10pm. Whether a frothy pint or a glass of smooth Scotch is your beverage of choice – there is a festive adventure through Freehold’s beloved pubs in store for everyone. The Beer Crawl Pass is $25 and the Scotch Crawl Pass is $50. You may only participate if you are age 21 and up. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

March 14

Opening Day at Allaire Village (Wall) – Head over to the Historic Village at Allaire for their opening day festivities from 8am-4pm. Take a stroll through the flea market in search of unique items. For history lovers – there will be special house tours, craft demonstrations, and guided excursions of the village’s newly developed interpretive sites – giving you a taste of 19th century life. There will also be hands-on activities for the whole family, such as children’s games and storytelling. Admission is $5.95 for those ages 4 and up, and there is no cost for children 3 and under. Learn more and purchase tickets here.

Irish Festival (Toms River) – Celebrate Irish culture with friends, neighbors, and local businesses from 12pm-6pm on Washington Street. There will be live entertainment, Irish fare, and local vendors and businesses lined up along Downtown – making it a one-stop-shop to grab goodies. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

Maple Syrup Festival (Manalapan) – Happy Day Farm is giving visitors a glimpse into the maple sugaring season in one, sap-packed day on select dates and times  throughout the month (tours begin at 10am and the last session of the day starts at 1:45pm). This outdoor experience is filled with demonstrations that display how sap becomes pancake-ready maple syrup and how you can identify maple trees to tap on your own. Admission is $18 per person for those ages 2 and up, and can only be purchased at the door. Learn more here.

March 15

Easter Bunny Pictures (Brick) – Hop on over to Icarus Brewing to welcome spring by taking family photos with the Easter Bunny from 12:30pm-2:30pm. A photographer will snap your picture, and digital copies will be emailed directly to you. The proceeds benefit Pitties and Pals Rescue, who will also have some of their adoptable dogs on site. There is a $20 donation to have your photos taken. Learn more here.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade (Freehold) – Downtown Freehold’s Irish Week concludes with the Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, kicking off at 12:30pm. Get a seat along the parade route from Main Street to Freehold Elks Lodge 1454 for a front row view and live entertainment, such as a Pipes & Drums performance. The Irish spirit and tradition don’t stop there – head over to a participating establishment to enjoy an afternoon of live music, food, and beverages. There is no fee to attend the parade, but there will be items and experiences available for purchase. Click here to learn more.

March 21

Easter in the Park (Howell) – Join in on the Easter season fun at Oak Glen Park from 11am-2pm. There will be lots for the kids to do including egg hunts (see the town website for age groups and times), music, games, rides, face painting, a petting zoo, an appearance by the Easter Bunny, refreshments and more! There is no cost to attend. Get all the details here and don’t forget to bring your Easter basket.

All About Kids Fair (Toms River) – Head over to St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church for the 10th Annual Fair from 11am-2pm. From pre-schools and summer camps to after school sports and activities – countless local organizations will join together for parents to explore. While the adults are kept busy, there will be countless activities for children to enjoy such as face painting, crafts, character appearances, and more. There is no entry fee to attend. More information can be found here.

March 28

Easter Celebration (Wall) – Celebrate Easter like it’s the 19th century at the Historic Village of Allaire from 11am to 4pm. You’ll see similarities to today’s Easter celebrations with live chicks and bunnies in the village, an egg hunt, egg dying, and a visit from the Easter Bunny. You can also enjoy activities unique to the 19th century such as historical egg dying methods and bonnet decorating. Admission is $13.58 for those ages 4 and up, and there is no cost for children 3 and under. Learn more and purchase tickets here.

Monmouth County Spring Craft Show (Tinton Falls) – Spring is finally here and with Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and graduation season around the corner – a one-stop-shop like the Monmouth County Spring Craft Show can make your list a piece of cake. Visit the Fort Monmouth Recreation Center from 9am-2pm to check gift giving for multiple celebrations off your list. With over 40 local artists, artisans, and vendors, you’re sure to find a thoughtful gift – and maybe something for yourself, too. There is no entry fee to attend but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

Pancake Breakfast with the Easter Bunny (Toms River) – The Easter Bunny is hopping to the Manchester Volunteer Fire Co. for a pancake breakfast before continuing on his way to hide Easter eggs – catch him from 9am-12pm. After breakfast, kids can enjoy various games and chances to win prizes while parents partake in a 50/50 raffle. Tickets can be purchased in advance and are $10 for those ages 10 and up, $8 for children ages 3 to 9, and children 3 and under are free of charge. Click here to learn more.

Protect Your Kids’ Devices from Scammers: A Parent’s Guide to Online Safety

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Phones, tablets, gaming systems, and laptops are part of everyday life for today’s kids. These devices are used for schoolwork, entertainment, and staying connected with friends and family. However, with increased access comes increased risk. Online scammers have been known to target young users through fake apps, phishing messages, gaming platforms, and social media.

At First Financial, we believe protecting your finances also includes protecting your family’s digital life. Here are practical steps parents, guardians, and caregivers can take to help keep children safe online and reduce the risk of scams.

1. Turn On Automatic Updates

Software updates often fix security vulnerabilities that scammers and hackers exploit. If devices aren’t updated regularly, they may be exposed to preventable threats. Make sure automatic updates are enabled for:

  • Operating systems (phones, tablets, computers)
  • Apps and games
  • Web browsers
  • Security software

Setting updates to install automatically ensures devices stay protected without relying on yourself or your kids to have to remember to click “update.”

2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Weak or reused passwords are one of the most common ways scammers gain access to accounts. Teaching kids how to create strong passwords is a critical life skill. Strong passwords should:

  • Be at least 12 characters long.
  • Include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
  • Avoid personal details like birthdays, school names, or pet names.
  • Be different for each account.

For older children and teens, consider using a password manager to generate and store secure passwords safely.

3. Secure Your Home’s Wi-Fi Network

Your home’s Wi-Fi network connects every device in your household. If not properly secured, outsiders may be able to access it and intercept sensitive information. To strengthen your home’s network:

  • Change the default router name and password.
  • Use strong encryption settings (WPA2 or WPA3).
  • Create a strong, unique Wi-Fi password.
  • Disable remote management features if not needed.
  • Set-up a separate guest network for visitors.

Taking these steps reduces the risk of unauthorized access to your family’s devices.

4. Set Up Parental Controls

Parental controls are valuable tools for managing screen time, blocking inappropriate content, and preventing unauthorized purchases. Most devices and operating systems include built-in parental control features. These tools can help you:

  • Limit access to certain websites or apps.
  • Require approval for app downloads.
  • Set screen time limits.
  • Restrict in-app purchases.
  • Monitor activity where appropriate.

The goal here isn’t surveillance, it’s setting boundaries and building safe digital habits.

5. Teach Good Online Habits

Technology tools are important, but conversations are just as critical. Open communication helps children recognize risks and make smart decisions online. Teach kids to:

  • Be cautious about clicking on unfamiliar links.
  • Ignore messages asking for personal information.
  • Avoid sharing passwords, addresses, or financial details.
  • Be skeptical of “too good to be true” offers.
  • Tell a trusted adult if something feels suspicious.

Encourage your kids to pause before responding to messages that create urgency or fear, which are common tactics used by scammers.

6. Review App Permissions

Many apps request access to cameras, microphones, contacts, or location data. Not all of these permissions are necessary. Before installing apps:

  • Review what permissions various apps request.
  • Disable unnecessary access to location or contacts.
  • Download apps only from official app stores.
  • Periodically review and remove unused apps.

Reducing app permissions helps limit how much personal information is shared.

7. Monitor Financial Activity

Even children’s gaming accounts and app stores can be tied to family payment methods. Regularly review your account statements and transaction history to catch unauthorized charges early. Consider:

  • Setting spending limits.
  • Requiring approval for purchases.
  • Using alerts for account activity.
  • Monitoring bank and credit card statements closely.

Catching suspicious transactions quickly can help prevent larger financial losses down the road.

Protecting What Matters Most

Online safety isn’t a one-time setup. Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics, especially on platforms that are popular with kids and teens. Protecting your child’s devices requires ongoing attention. By combining strong technical protections with honest conversations and proactive monitoring, you can significantly reduce your family’s exposure to online threats.

First Financial is committed to helping families stay informed and protected, both digitally and financially. If you ever have concerns about suspicious activity or fraud affecting your accounts with us, our team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about safeguarding your financial information and keeping your family safe from scams. Be sure to also subscribe to our First Scoop blog to get the latest in scams and important alerts delivered right to your inbox.

How to Choose a Financial Institution if You’re Growing a Family

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If you have a growing family, you’re probably used to making big decisions – some of which might be related to family finances. The financial institution you choose to bank with might not always be top of mind, but it is an important aspect of your family’s financial well-being. Ultimately, where you choose to bank is the place you’ll trust with handling both day-to-day financial needs and future milestones. Consider the following criteria when choosing a financial institution that will grow with and support your family both now and in the future.

Your Short, Medium, and Long-Term Needs & Goals

Financial institutions are not one-size-fits-all. Similarly, your financial needs and goals aren’t either. Your co-worker might swear by a particular online-only bank, but you might prefer a local bank or credit union with a nearby branch. It’s important to consider the day-to-day ways your family currently uses money, as well as how they plan to use money in the future when deciding if a financial institution is a good fit. Identify some of your family’s financial needs and goals so you can consider them as you read through this article.

Here are some financial goals that first-time parents or those with changing family dynamics might consider:

  • Purchasing a family vehicle.
  • Saving for a down payment on a home, or preparing to purchase a home.
  • Establishing or adjusting an emergency fund and budget.
  • Introducing children to saving from a young age.

Product and Service Offerings

Your needs might be limited to certain accounts or services now, but they may change as your family evolves.

Let’s say you need a checking and savings account now, but you and your partner would like to become homeowners in the next 5 years. Does your financial institution have a special offer for first-time homebuyers? Would you like a dedicated representative who can assist you through the mortgage process from application to closing? Or, let’s say you would like to introduce your child to saving at a young age. Does your financial institution have accounts for children? If so, do the accounts have the capabilities and protections you would like in place?

Determining now if a particular financial institution has the offerings needed to support your financial goals, can save you time and effort down the road and also help you develop a long-term relationship with your institution.

Convenience and Accessibility

Convenience and accessibility look different for everyone based on preferences, but make sure your financial institution meets your definition of the two. Your financial institution should make your money management easier, not more stressful. Is your family busy managing hectic schedules, making it difficult to make trips to a branch? Would you prefer a financial institution with local branches to make transactions in person? Would you like a financial institution that has easy-to-use online and mobile banking? Can you view and manage all your accounts online or in the mobile app? Consider what convenience and accessibility mean for you and your family.

The Differences Between Financial Institutions

There are a few broad types of financial institutions you can pick from, and figuring out which might be best for you and your family can help narrow down your search.

  • National Banks: Typically offer a broad range of financial products and services suited for various life stages. They may have many branches and ATMs, offering more accessibility, but potentially less personalized customer service. At a bank there are typically higher account fees and borrowing rates, and lower interest rates on deposits.
  • Community or Regional Banks: Typically have a higher-level of personalized service and local expertise due to their presence in the community in which they operate. They might however, have limited financial products and services, branches, and ATMs compared to larger, national banks.
  • Credit Unions: Not-for-profit financial cooperatives that cater to specific members, such as those in certain counties or states, or who work for certain employers. Since they are member-owned, credit unions typically have lower service fees and loan rates, and higher interest rates on deposits compared to other institutions. Depending on the size, a credit union might have fewer branch locations, but typically will participate in an ATM network so their members can access services in various locations. Credit unions are known for delivering personalized service due to their presence in the community in which they operate.
  • Online-Only Banks: These banks operate exclusively through digital platforms such as online and mobile banking, without any physical branches. Without brick and mortar locations, these banks can typically minimize costs and remain competitive with traditional banks – offering the same products and services with comparable or better loan and savings rates, and fees.

If the search for a financial institution for you and your family leads you to First Financial – visit a local branch, call 732.312.1500, or check out our website to find out how you can become a member today.*

*A First Financial membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account. Other terms & conditions may apply, see credit union for details.

How to Save Money on Maternity Items

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Welcoming a baby is an exciting, and often expensive, life milestone. One area that can quietly add up is maternity clothing. Because changes take place quickly and pieces may be worn for only a short period of time, it can feel difficult to justify spending money on a temporary wardrobe. The good news? With a few thoughtful strategies – you can stay comfortable, confident, and financially mindful throughout your pregnancy.

Here are a few ways to save money on maternity clothes and other pregnancy essentials.

1. Start With What You Already Own

Before purchasing new maternity items, take inventory of your current wardrobe. Many non-maternity pieces can work beautifully during pregnancy – flowy tops, oversized sweaters, stretchy leggings, maxi dresses, and open cardigans. You may be surprised at how long you can make your existing wardrobe work with just a little creativity. Stretchy fabrics and layered looks can carry you through multiple trimesters without requiring a full wardrobe overhaul.

2. Wait Before Buying Everything at Once

It can be tempting to shop right away, but your body will continue to change over several months. Instead of buying a large maternity wardrobe early on, consider waiting until you truly need specific pieces. This helps you avoid purchasing items that may not fit comfortably later and keeps you focused on essentials rather than impulse buys. Buying gradually allows you to better assess what you actually wear and need.

3. Explore Secondhand Options

One of the most effective ways to save is through gently used maternity clothes. Consider:

  • Local thrift or consignment stores
  • Online resale platforms
  • Neighborhood and community social media groups

Maternity clothes are often lightly worn, making secondhand options both affordable and practical. Many parents are often happy to pass along items they no longer need.

4. Say Yes to Hand-Me-Downs

Hand-me-downs aren’t just for baby clothes. Friends, family members, or coworkers who have recently been pregnant may still have maternity clothing stored away. Accepting these items can significantly reduce your expenses and you can always pay it forward when you’re finished with them. Some communities even create informal swaps among expecting parents.

5. Shop Sales and Clearance Strategically

If you do purchase new maternity clothes, timing matters. Look for:

  • Seasonal clearance sections
  • End-of-season sales
  • Outlet pricing
  • Promotional discounts

Focus on versatile basics such as one or two comfortable pairs of maternity leggings, a few tops, and a neutral dress that can be mixed and matched into multiple outfits. A small “capsule wardrobe” often works better than buying many single-use pieces.

6. Use Simple Tools to Extend What You Have

Small accessories can make a big difference. Waistband extenders, belly bands, and layering pieces can help your pre-pregnancy pants and tops last longer. These inexpensive items may allow you to delay purchasing maternity-specific clothing altogether.

7. Keep the Big Picture in Mind

Maternity clothing is temporary. While it’s important to feel comfortable during pregnancy, it’s equally important to prioritize long-term financial goals as you prepare for your growing family. Being intentional with maternity purchases frees up room in your budget for future needs – such as baby essentials, childcare planning, and building savings.

First Financial is Here to Help

Preparing for a new baby brings joy, along with new financial considerations. Saving on maternity items is one way to stay mindful of your budget as you prepare for this next chapter. At First Financial, we’re proud to support families during every life stage. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your savings, build an emergency fund, or create a financial plan for your growing household – our team is here to help you make confident, informed financial decisions.

Explore our savings options, budgeting tools, and resources or connect with a team member today to start planning for your family’s financial future. We’re happy to help!

*A First Financial membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account/loan. Contact the Credit Union for more information.

Budget Check Up: Tax Time Is the Right Time

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Every year, about 140 million households file their federal tax returns. For many, the process involves digging through shoe boxes or manila folders full of receipts; gathering mortgage, retirement, and investment account statements; and relying on computer software to take advantage of every tax break the code permits.1

It seems a shame not to make the most of all that effort.

Tax preparation may be the only time of year when many households gather all their financial information in one place. That makes it a perfect time to take a critical look at how much money is coming in and where it’s all going. In other words, this is a great time to give the household budget a checkup.

Six Step Process

A thorough budget checkup involves six steps.

  1. Creating Some Categories. Start by dividing expenses into useful categories. Some possibilities: home, auto, food, household, debt, clothes, pets, entertainment, and charity. Don’t forget savings and investments. It may also be helpful to create subcategories. Housing, for example, can be divided into mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance.
  2. Following the Money. Go through all the receipts and statements gathered to prepare your taxes and get a better understanding of where the money went last year. Track everything. Be as specific as possible, and don’t forget to account for the cost of any lattes on the way to the office each day.
  3. Projecting Expenses Forward. Knowing how much was spent per budget category can provide a useful template for projecting future expenses. Go through each category. Are expenses likely to rise in the coming year? If so, by how much? The results of this projection will form the basis of a budget for the coming year.
  4. Determining Expected Income. Add together all sources of income. Make sure to use net income.
  5. Doing the Math. It’s time for the moment of truth. Subtract projected expenses from expected income. If expenses exceed income, it may be necessary to consider changes. Prioritize categories and look to reduce those with the lowest importance until the budget is balanced.
  6. Sticking to It. If it’s not in the budget, don’t spend it. If it’s an emergency, make adjustments elsewhere.

Tax time can provide you with an excellent opportunity. You have a chance to give your household budget a thorough checkup. In taking control of your money, you may find you are able to devote more of it to the pursuit of your financial goals.

Need some help with preparing your future financial plan? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534.  You can also email mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

  1. IRS.gov, 2025

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.