This Week's 5 Hot Links

1. An ATM scam story has made small ripples across some places in California, where a “skimmer” is attached to ATM machines and can steal your card info. It’s doesn’t appear to be all that serious, but Cali readers should be on guard.

2. If you haven’t noticed, those much-publicized economic stimulus checks are already arriving in bank accounts electronically for those of you who received tax refunds via direct deposit.

3. And already, (as we mentioned before) tourist locations and stores are offering deal, after deal, after deal to make sure you don’t hold on to it too long.

4. If the economic slowdown is really hurting your budget, The Street suggests stocking up on non-perishables. If you’re single, it might not make much difference, but hey it depends on you.

5. And the blogger over at the highly recommended Free Money Finance gives some high-school based tips for shopping smarter.

Enjoy your week guys. Spring is finally arriving here in New York.