In the past few weeks, there have been multiple cyber thefts targeting individuals who were making expensive purchases. Two of the incidents specifically targeted members making real-estate transactions, during which cyber-criminals impersonated the victims’ business associates, provided wiring instructions and successfully convinced the victims to direct large sums of money into the thieves’ accounts.

Though there does not appear to be any connection between the incidents, and while this may not indicate a criminal trend, we want to help you protect your assets from such a threat. For example, we strongly encourage you to always confirm payment instructions by phone with someone you know on the seller’s team before sending any money. Click here for more protection tips.

At Madison, we offer cyber and identify fraud protection. Contact one of our agents to learn more about the coverage that’s right for you and your business. For more information, go to https://www.madisoninsurance.com/insurance/corporate/cyber-liability/.

Regards,

Glenn Niccolai, Managing Partner
Madison Insurance Group

Identity fraud is a growing problem. Researchers estimate a total of $16 billion was stolen from 15.4 million U.S. consumers in 2016. In fact, in the past six years identity thieves have stolen over $107 billion. Javelin Strategy & Research.

Following the introduction of microchip equipped credit cards in 2015 in the United States, which make the cards difficult to counterfeit, criminals focused on new account fraud. New account fraud occurs when a thief opens a credit card or other financial account using a victim’s name and other stolen personal information.

High net worth individuals face unique risks when it comes to identity fraud crimes. At Madison Insurance, we know that recovering from identity theft can be costly and time consuming. We can help.


Follow Our Identity Fraud Showcase on LinkedIn
http://linkedin.com/company/madison-insurance-id-theft

Reduce and manage the risks to your people, assets, and operations with kidnap and ransom insurance.

Imagine someone could have a grudge against you, your company or your employees, possibly even forcing you to reveal company trade secrets. At Madison Insurance, we want to help you, even in the worst circumstances. Our kidnap and ransom insurance is designed to help you minimize the financial impact of a kidnapping, extortion or illegal detention.


Follow Our Kidnap & Ransom Showcase on LinkedIn
http://linkedin.com/company/madison-insurance-kidnap-ransom

Are You Currently in the New Jersey Assigned Risk Workers’ Compensation Plan?

Have you recently been placed in the NJ High Risk State Pool?

Has your broker presented a cost saving solution to control spiraling costs or explored alternative markets?

Consider These State Plan Disadvantages:

  • Excessive Surcharges – 20% to 35% Higher Premiums
  • Exorbitant Claims Payouts – Increasing Annual Costs
  • Abusive Audits / No Customer Service

If you’re unhappy with your broker’s service, then we are the right fit for you!
Take Control of Your Worker’s Compensation Costs!Call us directly at 973-200-6928 for a Cost Overview Analysis and a Go-Forward Action Plan.

“Cyber Insurance can make the difference between staying in business or shutting your doors after an attack.” Inc. Magazine

Malware. Hacks. Global security data breaches. Cyber-attacks like these are more common than you realize. And, affect businesses both large and small. It’s a fact. If your company uses technology, you are at risk for a cyber-attack.
As businesses of all sizes rely more on electronic communications and cloud-based storage of sensitive materials and personal data such as credit card information, it is crucial to protect against cyber-attack. At Madison we offer Cyber Liability Insurance, designed to safeguard your company’s data against data losses from cyber-attacks, viruses, malware. And should the worst happen, we’ll help you navigate the legal complexities that may follow a data breach.

According to the NAIC (National Association of Insurance Commissioners), more frequent cyber-attacks have prompted businesses to “step up” efforts to protect the personal information they store.

Don’t wait until a cyber breach happens. With Cyber Liability Insurance you can be prepared today.


Follow Our Cyber Liability Showcase on LinkedIn
http://linkedin.com/company/madison-insurance-cyber-liability

 


 

Private jet ownership has its perks. After all, you can fly to your destination without the hassles of typical airline flight. However, this type of asset may not fit into traditional insurance portfolio leaving possible gaps in coverage. At Madison Insurance, we will work with you to build a portfolio that includes jet ownership coverage, customized for you. We offer a comprehensive range of coverage options for personal and corporate aircraft.


Follow Our Private Jet Showcase on LinkedIn
http://linkedin.com/company/madison-insurance-private-jet

 


 

June is National Safety Month
Week 4: Don’t Just Sit There (Focusing on Ergonomics)

Through the month of June, we are focusing on safety topics impacting people in both the occupational and non-occupational environments. The fourth topic in our series focuses on ergonomics.

Did You Know?

About 80% of the U.S. population will experience back pain issues at some point in their lives, and 31 million people will experience lower-back pain at any given time? Most of these causes are not because of serious underlying conditions, but from actions like an improper lifting technique, etc. The National Safety Council has offered several tips to prevent strains, dislocations and muscle tears.

When lifting:

  • Stretch and warm up before you perform any lifting.
  • Keep your back straight and bend your knees – NEVER twist or bend your back.
  • Stand on solid ground with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  • Keep the box or object close to your body.
  • Lift with your legs, not your back.
  • Limit the amount of weight you carry – separate boxes or make two trips instead of carrying more than you can handle.
  • Ask for help to carry heavy, bulky or large loads.
  • Keep pathways clear of tripping hazards.

Ergonomics for the home office worker
Telecommuting is an increasingly popular option to help employees maintain a better work-life balance. Convenience and flexibility are great, but don’t leave ergonomics at the office.

Make sure:

  • Chairs have proper lumbar and arm support, and can be adjusted for height.
  • Feet are flat on the ground or a footrest.
  • The viewing distance from your eyes to the monitor is at least 18 inches.
  • Your keyboard and mouse are at approximately elbow height.
  • Lighting is sufficient enough that you don’t have to strain, but not too bright where glare is an issue.
  • To take short breaks. Look away from your screen every 15 minutes, take microbreaks in between bursts of heavy typing and don’t forget to take a rest break every 30 to 60 minutes. Get out of your chair, stretch and move around. 

By making ergonomics part of your routine at work and at home, you can keep your body free of strain and pain.  We hope you enjoyed these helpful tips throughout the month.

Thank you and stay safe!
Greg, Glenn, and Your Team at Madison Insurance

June is National Safety Month

Week 3: Prepare for Active Shooters

Through the month of June, we are focusing on safety topics impacting people in both the occupational and non-occupational environments. The third topic in our series focuses on how to respond to an active shooter situation.

Did You Know?

No one wants to think about being involved in a situation with an active shooter – it can be scary, unpredictable and unfold quickly. Because active shooters often behave erratically, they have no pattern and their victims are usually random. Being prepared can be your best defense.  The National Safety Council has offered several tips to respond to an active shooter situation:

  • Active shooters can appear in public places such as movie theaters and shopping malls or in private workplaces. No matter where you are, remain as calm as possible.
  • Be aware of any possible danger in your environment.
  • Identify the two nearest exits.
  • If you can flee, do so immediately – leave belongings behind.
  • If you cannot flee, hide in an area where the shooter can’t see you.
  • If you are behind a door, try to lock or block entry to it.
  • Silence electronic devices.
  • As a last resort, try to incapacitate the shooter. Keep moving and be distracting. In close range situations, fighting increases your chance of survival.
  • Call 911 as soon as you can do so safely.

 

Wait for law enforcement to arrive Law enforcement will usually be required to end the situation. Help them by complying with them so that they can resolve the situation as quickly as possible. There are several ways you can assist:

  • To the best of your ability, be prepared to provide 911 and law enforcement with your location, the number of shooters, physical description of the shooter(s), the number and type of weapons used by the shooter(s) and the number of potential victims.
  • When law enforcement arrives, remain calm and follow all instructions.
  • Don’t scream or yell.
  • Keep your hands raised, visible and free of any objects.
  • Evacuate the area quickly – do not stop law enforcement to ask questions or for help.

Facing an active shooter can be unimaginable, but being prepared might save your life. Remember to stay alert and as calm as possible. Try to run first, hide if you cannot flee safely and fight only when you have no other choice Stay tuned! Next week we’ll be talking about Ergonomics. Thank you and Stay Safe!

Greg, Glenn, and Your Team at Madison Insurance