MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

How to Steer Away from Scammers this Yuletide Season

I got scammed! I must admit, I recently fell victim to a scam. In my quest to purchase a luxury item for my mother as a Christmas gift to reward her hard work, I opted for a seemingly reputable online seller complete with video reviews and customer proof. Little did I know, everything was just a facade. After stumbling upon a Reddit thread, I discovered that the owner had successfully victimized numerous people this year, and they are collectively exploring legal avenues for recourse.

As we embrace the festive spirit of the Yuletide season, it is crucial to remain vigilant against potential scammers seeking to exploit the joyous atmosphere. With the heightened hustle and bustle during this time of year, individuals like the online shop scammer may become more prevalent.

This article aims to provide you with valuable insights on how to steer clear of scammers and safeguard yourself and your loved ones.

STAY INFORMED

Knowledge is your first line of defense against scammers. Stay informed about common scams circulating during this time. Scammers often adapt their tactics to match current events or holiday trends.

Be wary of phishing emails, fake charity solicitations, and fraudulent online shopping websites. Familiarize yourself with the latest scams to better recognize and avoid potential threats.

SECURE YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE

Online shopping has become increasingly popular, making it a prime target for scammers. Ensure your online accounts are secure by using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication when available.

Verify the legitimacy of websites before making purchases, and only provide personal information on encrypted and trusted platforms.

MONITOR YOUR BANK STATEMENTS

Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements. You can also review your transactions via your banking app. Regularly review transactions to detect any unauthorized or suspicious activities promptly.

Report any discrepancies to your financial institution immediately to minimize potential losses and prevent further unauthorized access.

VERIFY CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS

The Yuletide season often inspires charitable giving, but scammers may exploit this generosity. Before making any donations, research the legitimacy of the charity or organization

Use reputable platforms to contribute and be cautious of unsolicited donation requests. Legitimate charities will provide transparency about their mission and purpose, use of funds, and contact information.

IN A NUTSHELL

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Learn from my mistake. As you embrace the joy of the Yuletide season, prioritize your safety and security. Safeguarding yourself from scams ensures that the season remains a time of celebration, generosity, and peace.

3 highly-rated live bands in Singapore for your wedding because live music is life

So everything’s more or less set for the wedding?

Wait, what about the music? Live music is an essential part of any wedding celebration if you believe that music is life.

Here are three of Singapore’s finest live bands that will help ensure your big day is full of joy and the right notes.

Merry Bees

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Merry Bees (@merrybees)

Website: merry-bees.business.site

Facebook reviews: 5 stars (180+ reviews)

Merry Bees have been perfecting their art for over 8 years, earning hundreds of 5-star reviews and thousands of happy customers along the way.

Their multilingual singers are expert entertainers who bring joy and merriment to every event with their lively performances. One customer even remarked that Merry Bees is “the best in the market for a very very reasonable price”.

Merry Bees can craft a setlist to suit your tastes and get your guests singing and dancing along in no time. Their energetic performances are guaranteed to make any wedding occasion truly one to remember.

A Little Dream Live Music

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by A Little Dream Live Music (@alittledreamlivemusic)

Website: alittledream.com.sg

Facebook reviews: 5 stars (80+ reviews)

For over 20 years, A Little Dream has been a pioneer in bringing live music to life at weddings and corporate events in Singapore.

With a repertoire spanning classical, contemporary pop, rock, jazz, and more, their talented musicians and singers led by founder Bevlyn Khoo never fail to delight audiences. Bevlyn, a trilingual singer-songwriter with four albums under her belt, continues to charm crowds with her soulful voice and passion for music.

The band’s dedication to their craft and flair for transforming any event into an unforgettable celebration have earned them a loyal following as well as clients that include international brands.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large-scale soiree, A Little Dream Live Music will make it a day/night to remember with their one-of-a-kind performances that are sure to have guests on their feet. Book them today and experience the magic of live music brought to you by the professionals at A Little Dream.

Musical Touch

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Musical Touch (@musicaltouchlivemusic)

Website: musicaltouch.sg

Facebook reviews: 4.9 stars (420+ reviews)

Liven up your special day with a performance by Musical Touch.

For over a decade, their experienced wedding singers and emcees have been serenading brides, grooms, and guests on their big day. Whether you’re dreaming of a duet, full band, or orchestra to set the mood during your first dance, Musical Touch has a variety of options to suit your style.

Their professionally trained sound crews and musicians will ensure the music is flawless from start to finish while their emcees guide you through the program with grace and humor. Guests can even request their favorite songs and dedicate them to you, the happy couple.

As a guarantee of their quality, Musical Touch offers a full refund if their live band performance fails to meet your expectations on your wedding day. Book Musical Touch to make your wedding reception truly memorable with music that has your love story written all over it.

Booking a live band for your wedding in Singapore isn’t just about great tunes, it’s about creating buzzing energy with those musical notes. After all, there’s no better way to celebrate love than with live music that touches the soul. So, as you embark on this exciting journey of planning your nuptials, remember that the right live band can make your celebration truly come alive. Because live music, after all, is life!

Latest WFH internships posted from 20 to 23 November 2023

Believe it or not, today’s the last Friday of November 2023!

And that means we’re just days away from the last month of this year.

If you haven’t got an internship opportunity signed, it’s time to get those resumes sent. And to ease your search, here are the latest WFH internships posted this week.

#1: Tribe – Finance & Accounting Intern

Website: tribex.co

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 monthly

Job Qualifications

You are available for at least 4 months full-time starting from December 2023. 6 months commitment preferred.
Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree majoring in Accountancy or related disciplines
Equipped with an understanding of the basic accounting principles
Proficient in Microsoft Office and G Suite products
Effective communication skills to build interpersonal relationships
Strong time management skills with the ability to work without distraction
Attention to high quality, details, and accuracy.
Strong interpersonal, and team working skills.
Willingness to learn and develop professionally in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Maintain daily operations of the accounting functions including accounts payable (AP), and accounts receivable (AR), and perform bank reconciliation
Prepare and process the bi-weekly vendor payment
Assist in the implementation and migration of the accounting system
Prepare supporting documents for any audit submission
Perform general administration tasks and other ad-hoc projects as assigned

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send your application to yanning@tribex.co.

#2: Aunty Pte Ltd – Marketing Intern

Website: aunty.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $800 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications

Ability to come up with creative ideas to attract target audiences through different aspects of marketing
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with experience in graphic design and video production will be advantageous
Self-motivated, dedicated, hands-on, and willing to go the extra mile
Superb communication and influencing skills to work with different users and stakeholders
Proactive, innovative, flexible, and willing to take on new challenges and responsibilities
Able to work independently

Key Responsibilities

Drive market growth through the acquisition and management of partnership leads
Grow user base on various social media platforms and increase awareness of Aunty
Frequent collaboration and involvement in campaigns
Understand consumer insights quickly to drive acquisition and growth metrics
Manage strategy, development, budget, and optimization of paid social and digital campaigns.
Collaborate across teams to amplify content and develop ideas, copy, content, and strategy for brands and programs on social media.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and send your application to hello@aunty.sg.

#3: Style State (Australian Fashion Brand Launching In Asia) – Digital And Content Marketing Intern

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Style State Wholesale (@stylestate)

Website: stylestate.com.au

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,000 – 1,200 monthly

Job Qualifications

Demonstrated expertise in Social Media, Communications, or Brand Marketing roles will be a plus
Strong multi-tasking and project management skills
Desire to understand and apply social media best practices and trends
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Able to adapt and adjust on the fly, as fashion is affected by weekly changes in trends, weather, or current events
Adept in Google Suite (Words, Slides, Sheets) and Adobe CC Suite

Key Responsibilities

Brainstorm, manage, and develop content schedules, briefs, and assets for social channels
Write compelling and creative copy and storyline to generate traffic and calls to action
Run paid marketing campaigns across different segments to test which audiences are most engaged
Influencer outreach to identify potential brand ambassadors who can represent Style State in Asia
Ad-hoc content creation for social media channels – amplify content and build your brand by using your own channel!

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Tim via this link.

#4: Studio Realize Pte Ltd – Graphic Designer Intern

Website: studio-realize.com

Allowance / Remuneration: $1,400 – 1,700 monthly

Job Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Graphic Design or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
Strong understanding of design principles and concepts.
Excellent creativity and attention to detail.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Motion design and Illustration skills are a plus

Key Responsibilities

Create visually appealing designs for print and digital materials, including brand identity, brochures, websites, social media, and more for a variety of clients (cultural Institutions, tech startups, cosmetic brands, and more.)
Collaborate with the team to brainstorm creative ideas and solutions for client projects.
Contribute to the development and promotion of the studio by creating creative marketing assets for the website and social media platforms. Design engaging visuals that represent Studio Realize’s identity.
Assist with client meetings and presentations to ensure design concepts align with client expectations.
Develop illustrations and/or graphic art for the online store. Create unique and eye-catching visuals that resonate with the target audience.
Contribute to maintaining a high standard of quality and design consistency across all projects.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Alizee Sire via this link.

#5: Privilege Motors Pte Ltd – Social Media Marketing Executive (Internship)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ＶＩＮＳ (@speedylover_)

Website: privilegemotors.com.sg

Allowance / Remuneration: $900 – 1,500 monthly

Job Qualifications

Cheerful with innovative ideas
Familiarity with basic web design principles and content management.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Key Responsibilities

Assist to manage and curate social media content across various platforms.
Keep abreast of the latest social media trends, technologies, and best practices.
Work closely with the Marketing, Sales, and Product Development teams to ensure cohesive brand messaging.
Assist in team development and provide feedback for continuous improvement.

How to apply?

View the job post in full here and write to Sammy via this link.

Editor’s note: These internships are selected based on the “remote” tag, but some positions are hybrid ones and you may need to report physically to the office. For more deets, do contact the employer directly.

Smart Money Hacks for 2024

As we step into the final weeks of 2023, it’s time to break free from old financial habits and embrace money-saving strategies that can boost your income and savings.

ALWAYS HAVE A SHOPPING LIST

Heading into a grocery store without a plan can be a recipe for overspending. We’ve all been there, wandering aimlessly and ending up with a cart full of things we didn’t really need. Avoid this by always carrying a shopping list with you. Having a clear plan in place will help you stick to your budget and make wiser purchasing decisions.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

SEPARATE YOUR SAVINGS ACCOUNT

If impulse shopping has been an issue for you in the past, it’s essential to protect your savings from unnecessary spending. Keep your savings in a separate account, entirely distinct from your day-to-day spending. By creating this barrier, you make it more difficult to dip into your savings impulsively, promoting a healthier financial discipline.

MONITOR YOUR EXPENSES

Stay in control of your finances by cultivating a habit of tracking your expenses. Whenever you receive a paycheck, record it in your budget’s income category. Likewise, make sure to log every expenditure, whether it’s filling up your gas tank or treating yourself to a delightful charcuterie night. By keeping a close eye on your spending, you’ll be able to identify areas where you can save and make necessary adjustments to stay on track.

DELETE SHOPPING APPS

Did you know that 4 out of 5 Singaporeans give in to impulse purchases? With 54% of consumers admitting that shopping on mobile devices has led to increased spending, it’s time to take control. Cut down on impulsive buying by removing those shopping apps from your phone. Instead, opt for online shopping from your laptop or desktop where you can be more intentional with your purchases.

PRACTICE MINDFUL BUYING

Before you hit that “buy” button, take a moment to reflect. Ask yourself, “Is this the right time to make this purchase?” Give yourself some space between the desire to buy and actually making the purchase. Set a specific timeframe for consideration; for instance, commit to not checking out for 24 hours or even a few days after adding items to your cart. This simple money hack can be truly game-changing.

REGULAR BUDGET CHECK-INS

Whether you have ambitious financial goals as a family or just want to stay on top of your finances, communication is key. Schedule regular budget check-ins, either on a weekly or monthly basis, and involve everyone responsible for the family’s finances. By doing so, you can make informed decisions, track your progress, and work together towards achieving your financial objectives. Effective communication about family finances is vital, regardless of your specific goals.

CREATE A MINI-BUDGET FOR UNEXPECTED EXPENSES

No matter how well you manage your finances, there will inevitably be times when unexpected expenses arise. Rather than panicking and derailing your entire budget, it’s best to have a plan in place to handle these situations.

Consider creating a microbudget specifically for handling short-term unexpected expenses. Set aside a portion of your savings to serve as an emergency fund. This way, when unexpected costs arise, you can dip into this fund without disrupting your regular budget or long-term financial goals.

AVOID FREQUENT PHONE UPGRADES

Resist the temptation to constantly upgrade your mobile phone just to keep up with others. Telecommunication companies may entice you with appealing upgrade offers, but remember that you’ll end up paying for that phone through your monthly contract. Instead, focus on choosing a phone that meets your needs and holds its value over time, allowing you to save money in the long run.

REMOVE STORED CREDIT CARD INFORMATION

Increase your mindfulness and avoid impulsive online shopping by refraining from storing your credit card details on websites. When you have to enter your credit card information each time you make a purchase, it provides an essential pause to consider if the expense is necessary.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Additionally, by not saving your details, you reduce the risk of potential hacking and unauthorized access to your accounts. Keep your online shopping experiences deliberate and secure.

Sources: 1,2 , 3, & 4

3 accommodations with superb views under $60/night in Penang, Malaysia

Welcome again to another episode of our ‘Travel Thursday’ series.

I’m taking a break from next week so this ‘Travel Thursday’ series will likely resume in 2024.

TMI, but just so you know.

Anyway, got a flight booked for Penang soon?

If you’re looking to spend your time in Penang relaxing in comfort with superb views, here are 3 affordable accommodation options I have for you this week.

1-bedroom serviced apartment with city views in Jelutong

Price: $41/night (for 4 persons)

Take in the cityscape of George Town from the comfort of this one-bedroom serviced apartment.

Situated in the neighborhood of Jelutong, you will be steps away from shops, restaurants, and a 24-hour convenience mart.

The comfortably furnished space features a well-equipped kitchen, a spacious bedroom with a queen bed, and a living room with a sofa bed—perfect for a small family or group of up to four guests. But the true star is the view of the city skyline from your bedroom.

After a day of exploring George Town’s attractions, retreat to your oasis high above the hustle and bustle. Park your vehicle in the free residential carpark and relax, secure in the knowledge that you have an urban vacation sanctuary to call home away from home.

Modern apartment part of Straits Garden Suite with partial sea views

Price: $46/night (for 2 persons)

Live like a local in this stylish Straits Garden Suite apartment. Nestled just kilometers from the city center yet offering partial sea views, this modern one-bedroom retreat provides everything you need for a relaxing stay.

Wake up to sunlight filtering through blackout curtains in the queen-sized bed before making coffee in the full kitchen equipped with an electric stove, microwave, fridge, and all the essential cookware and dinnerware. Unwind with a movie on the smart TV or catch up on laundry using the in-unit washer and dryer. When you’re ready for a change of scenery, stroll over to the shared gym and swimming pool right on-site.

With over 260 glowing reviews and a 4.8-star rating, this apartment suite offers a home rental in a prime location just steps from the area’s best pasar malam and shopping.

Clean & bright rental unit with a balcony attached to the bedroom

Price: $59/night (for 4 persons)

Soak up the city and sea views from this light-filled apartment with a white-washed design.

The chic 1-bedroom suite features a spacious balcony attached to the master bedroom where you can lounge with a cuppa and book in hand. The double and single beds in the bedroom provide ample space while the sofa bed in the living room offers flexibility for up to 4 guests.

Smart conveniences like a flat-screen TV with gaming options and high-speed Wi-Fi keep you connected. Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the space with natural light while modern and stylish accents give the unit a refreshed feel. Beyond the apartment, the shared condo facilities provide added value for your stay.

Wonderful for short or extended visits alike, this rental allows you to enjoy all the city has to offer from the comfort of a clean and comfortable home base.

And that’s all for this post. Hope the abovementioned will help give you some accommodation options to consider during your upcoming Malaysia trip! I’m sure you will have a lovely time with your friends and loved ones in Penang. Have an awesome trip to end 2023 on a good note!