Credit Card Processing, Security and PCI Compliance

Transaction Security for the Holiday Season

Brian Penny
by Brian Penny

It’s a huge opportunity to beat sales forecasts, but fraud can quickly eat into the revenues generated. Data breaches are on the rise, and, while you see the increased holiday traffic as a way to be nice to customers, hackers see it as an opportunity to be naughty. Protecting customer information and securing financial transactions…

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The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes an increase in customer traffic and purchases. More than 164 million consumers planned to shop on Thanksgiving weekend alone, according to the National Retail Federation, while a Deloitte survey found 51% of that spending will be done online.

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Credit Card Processing

Square Cash for Bitcoin

Jane Meggitt
by Jane Meggitt

Jack Dorsey, the founder of Twitter, is also the founder of Square Cash and serves as CEO of both companies. It was on Twitter that these customers announced the existence of the new feature, bringing it to public attention. Bitcoin prices soared after the Square Cash project came to light. For the year, Bitcoin is…

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Bitcoin is booming, and other companies want to capitalize on the cryptocurrency’s appeal. One such company is Square Cash, which recently began allowing certain customers to buy and sell the alternative currency.

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Credit Card Processing

Free POS System – What’s the Catch?

Ellen Cunningham
by Ellen Cunningham

In some cases, it’s simply that there’s a limited feature “free” version, while in other cases, you’ll be required to use additional services such as signing up with a particular credit card processor. POS Software vs. System Free POS Options Credit Card Processing with a POS System Proprietary POS Systems How do “free” POS companies…

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You know the saying: there’s no such thing as a free lunch. Yet some companies promote “free” POS software or systems, so what’s the catch?

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Credit Card Processing, ecommerce

WordPress, Woocommerce, and Wix – What Should You Use?

Paul Maplesden
by Paul Maplesden

There’s also an abundance of online website building services that provide eCommerce options. Services like SquareSpace, Weebly, and Wix provide sophisticated templates, an easy-to-use interface, and integrations that make setting up an online store quick and easy. Finally, you have the ubiquitous WordPress. As the most popular website publishing and content management platform in the…

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When it comes to selling products online, eCommerce entrepreneurs have never had more choices —  from specialized eCommerce services like Shopify or Volusion through to bespoke eCommerce websites, there are plenty of options for online retailers.

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Credit Card Processing

What is the NACHA API standardization?

Jane Meggitt
by Jane Meggitt

Now the governing body NACHA – formerly known as the National Automated Clearing House Association – aims to change that by launching the API Standardization Industry Group (ASIG) to develop an “API Playbook.” Let’s take a look at what API standardization would mean and how it would function. What is an API? Using APIs What…

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While application programming (APIs) have long been basic components of communication between different apps, there is not yet standardization for them.

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Credit Card Processing, Legal

American Express Anti-Steering Supreme Court Case

Ellen Cunningham
by Ellen Cunningham

The court heard arguments in early 2018 and ruled in late June. Let’s look at the arguments on both sides and the results of the case. Ohio v. American Express The States’ Argument American Express’ Argument History of the Case – Lower Court Rulings How Ohio v. American Express Could Affect Your Business Results of…

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You may have heard that a case involving American Express went to the Supreme Court. The case, Ohio v. American Express, determined whether businesses are allowed to suggest customers use lower cost credit cards when paying for purchases.

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Business, Credit Card Processing

Venmo for Business

Ellen Cunningham
by Ellen Cunningham

In this article, we’ll take a look at what Venmo is, current acceptance options, and the company’s plans for expanded business acceptance to answer the question, “Can I take Venmo at my business?” What is Venmo? Venmo and Business Business Limitations Venmo Through PayPal Issues with Venmo for Commercial Transactions Competitors: Symple What is Venmo?…

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With bill splitting apps like Venmo rising in popularity, especially among younger demographics, many businesses are wondering about accepting those payment methods directly. While Venmo does allow for business use, there are limitations – as well as some concerns – to be aware of.

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Credit Card Processing

High Risk Merchant Accounts

Ellen Cunningham
by Ellen Cunningham

In this article, we’ll talk about industries that are considered high risk and how you can find the best high risk merchant account. What is a “high-risk” merchant account? Offshore Merchant Accounts High Risk Definition Other High Risk Designations Terminated Merchant File High-Risk MCCs Visa Mastercard American Express and Discover Costs for High Risk Merchant…

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In credit card processing, certain businesses are considered “high risk” and will need a processor that specifically supports those business types. But there’s some confusion about what exactly “high risk” means.

high risk merchant account

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