A growing number of teens are being tricked into sharing private photos online, only to have those images used against them. Scammers often pose as friendly strangers or even pretend to be someone the victim’s age. They build trust through casual conversation, then pressure the teen into sending personal pictures. Once the images are shared, the scammer threatens to post them publicly or send them to friends and family unless money or more photos are provided. These schemes can feel overwhelming and isolating, but it’s important to remember that the person behind the screen is the one committing a crime. The threats […]
Archives for 2025
Digital Danger : A Rise in Online Blackmail Aimed at Teens
MVSB Announces 2026 Community Calendar Photo Contest Winners
We are excited to announce the winners of our annual community photo contest. Photos representing the greater Lakes Region, Mount Washington Valley and Seacoast areas were selected through an anonymous review process by a committee of MVSB employees, Corporators and Board Members. Complimentary wall and tent-style calendars will be available at all MVSB offices in mid-October. All community members are invited to stop by any MVSB branch to receive one while supplies last. MVSB offices are located in Alton, Ashland, Center Harbor, Exeter, Gilford, Laconia, Melvin Village, Meredith, Moultonborough, North Conway, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Rochester and Wolfeboro. “We received an incredible […]
Resources and Guidance on the Government Shutdown
The American Bankers Association has shared resources to help individuals and families manage personal finances during the government shutdown, including budgeting guidance and tips for working with lenders. Click here for a list of resources and answers to frequently asked questions. As your local banking partner, we’re here to help you navigate financial changes and challenges. If you are impacted, please contact us to discuss any concerns and how we can support you during this time.
MVSB Offices to Close Early Oct. 8 for Employee Celebration
MVSB offices will be closing early Wednesday, Oct. 8 to celebrate our employees at an appreciation event. Exeter and Portsmouth offices will close at 4 pm, Alton and Rochester at 3:30 pm, North Conway at 2:30 pm and all other offices will close at 3 pm. ATMs, online, mobile, telephone banking and night deposit boxes are available 24/7. Thank you for understanding.
Lights, Camera, Save! Teen Video Contest Underway at MVSB
We are accepting submissions for our Lights, Camera, Save! video contest. The competition, organized by the American Bankers Association Foundation, encourages teens to use video to communicate the value of sound money management and set their peers on a sound financial path. “Lights, Camera, Save! gives students an opportunity to harness their creativity, learn about using money wisely and communicate those lessons with their peers,” said Marcus Weeks, MVSB President. “A strong financial education is critical to a successful future, and we are thrilled to participate in a contest that reinforces that message.” To participate, students ages 13–18 must create […]
Mutual Benefits Sweet Savings Flash Sale
Mutual Benefits is bringing a sweet start to October with its “Sugar & Spice, Everything Nice” flash sale on Wednesday, October 1st at 12:00 EST. For one day only, members can enjoy 25%* off $25 eGift cards from Dunkin’ Donuts and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, making it the perfect chance to save on coffee runs, morning treats, or surprise gifts. This exclusive offer goes live at noon sharp, so be ready to grab the deal before it’s gone. *Limit a total of 2 eGift cards per membership. No rainchecks. 25% discount available only through this promotion while supplies last. Not yet […]
All Federal Payments Moving to Direct Deposit
The U.S. Treasury Department announced the phase out of paper checks beginning September 30, 2025. All federal payments, including payments for Social Security benefits, Veterans benefits, and tax refunds, will be issued electronically. This change aims to reduce costs, expedite payment, and lower the risk of fraud from lost or stolen checks. What should you do now? To avoid any disruptions, please set up your federal payments for direct deposit as soon as possible:Instructions and agency contact information: Click here for details on updating your payment method for each agency. Tax refunds only: If a tax refund is the only […]
Get Ready for the FAFSA – and Don’t Forget the CSS – College and Career Planning Guidance by Granite Edvance
The 2026-27 FAFSA is scheduled to go live by October 1. Getting ready to file is easy! Gather the info you’ll need to fill out the form: Social Security number, federal tax returns, bank statements, and records of other investments (see studentaid.gov for more info). Make a FAFSA filling appointment with us at graniteedvance.org/help! That’s it. You’re ready to file. Some students will also need to file the CSS Profile, the FAFSA’s less well-known (and heftier) counterpart. Used by over 250 colleges and universities, the CSS Profile helps institutions award non-federal aid by providing a more detailed breakdown of your […]
MVSB Supports Harriman Hill Project with NHCDFA Tax Credit Purchase
Lakes Region Community Developers (LRDC) was awarded tax credits through the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) to develop Harriman Hill Phase III, a workforce housing project in Wolfeboro. We are proud to support their efforts with a $25,000 tax credit purchase. The project, expected to be complete in fall 2026, will include 30 units of rental housing with 27 designated as affordable, ensuring access to stable homes for low- to moderate-income individuals and families. Five of these units will be reserved for individuals with developmental disabilities, promoting inclusivity and supportive living environments. “Access to safe and affordable housing is […]