DEAR SUN SPOTS: It’s reassuring to know the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. still guarantees bank deposits, but what about fraudulent transactions over the internet? What do banks do if this occurs? What requirements do customers need to adhere to for reimbursements if there has been fraudulent activity?

It’s comforting to have access to your column and your wisdom. — No name, Lewiston

ANSWER: Contact your financial institution and tell them what has happened. The bank will reverse the transaction and conduct an investigation. It may be backed out of your account immediately or take three to 10 business days, depending on the situation. Your account may have to be closed and your funds transferred to a new account, and depending on what has happened, you may be issued a new credit and/or debit card.

Financial institutions often have preventative measures in place to protect you. For example, the place where I do my banking has a maximum daily limit that can be withdrawn or debited. If I want to make a purchase or withdraw more than the amount of the maximum, I have to contact the bank, share my identifying password and personal information and let them know.

If any suspicious activity is found, I get an automated call and I speak with a bank representative. I once attempted to make a purchase in New Hampshire and I got a call from the bank asking me if I was traveling out of state!

I encourage you to contact your financial institution and ask them exactly how they handle situations of this nature and what precautions and notifications they have in place for their customers. Be sure you understand any requirements there are and take advantage of any extra protections. You will be reassured and feel better knowing they have your back. And if you still don’t feel comfortable, you may want to investigate what other banks can offer.

Lastly, if you experience a scam — or have even spotted one, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or call the commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP or 1-877-382-4357.

If you are the victim of a scam or know someone who has been, you can always share it in Sun Spots. It’s important to get the word out to others. And keep your ear to the ground about scams. Two good resources are AARP (https://www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/) and another SeniorsPlus (https://www.seniorsplus.org/scam-alerts) in Lewiston.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Why was moussaka omitted from the Greek Festival menu last fall? — No name, no town

ANSWER: I spoke with Melissa Landry, chairperson of the festival, who said when reintroducing the festival after COVID-19, planners decided to streamline the menu to keep it smaller and more manageable. They went with pastitsio (Greek lasagna) this past fall instead of moussaka and the change went over well.

Melissa isn’t sure about the menu for the upcoming festival in the fall, but I can assure you that all the choices are absolutely delicious and if you’ve never enjoyed any of this special festival food, make this your year to try it!

Did you know that this event is the only Greek festival in the state?

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