Merchant Credit Card Terminals
By Kent Pinkerton
Merchant credit card terminals are electronic devices offering fast, low-cost means to authorize and process credit card transactions. They are very commonly used in retail stores and restaurants. Most merchant credit card terminals accept all major credit, debit, and private-label cards offering low-cost credit card authorization, check guarantee, and data capture for a range of retail applications.
A terminal to process credit cards is a great investment to your business. Most merchant credit card terminals support Internet-based services such as e-mail, electronic signature, interactive electronic coupons, onscreen advertising, cash management reporting, and e-commerce. They make transactions more convenient, faster, and accurate for both customers and merchants.
At first, merchant credit card processing terminals verify your customer's card information. Then they withdraw money for the purchase from the customer?s account and deposit it directly into your merchant account. The most important units of merchant credit card terminals are card readers with a small keypad and display. They require power supply and can communicate through a telephone line. Modern terminals are powered by batteries and can communicate wireless or over the Internet. They come in several sizes and prices.
There are many types of merchant credit card terminals: traditional terminals (with or without printers), wireless terminals, and virtual or software-based terminals. Merchants with a permanent place of business need a basic card reader terminal. In this case, the terminal is placed right on the counter where all transactions take place. For businesses that constantly change locations, a wireless credit card processing terminal is a good choice. It is suitable for merchants who are always on the go.
Millions of merchant credit card terminals ship annually and the majority have the same basic functions and features. It can only be used in combination with a merchant account that processes credit card transactions. Businesses already using credit card terminals need to buy extra equipments to maintain additional services such as debit card transactions and issuing and accepting gift cards. A number of terminals also support additional forms of payment such as electronic bank transfers and phone cards.
Credit Card Terminals provides detailed information on Credit Card Terminals, Credit Card Terminal Systems, Wireless Credit Card Terminals, Credit Card Processing Terminals and more. Credit Card Terminals is affiliated with Credit Card Processing Software.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Pinkerton
http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Credit-Card-Terminals&id=353177
Monday, May 14, 2007
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Credit Card Machines 802 Web
Get Credit Card Processing for Your Internet Business
By Jeremy Zongker
One of the best features of owning an online-based business is the amount of money you save on start up costs, and ongoing overhead in comparison to businesses with physical locations. Not only do you not have to pay high rental or mortgage payments for the space, but you save on utilities, business insurance, and even credit card processing accounts!
As an Internet business, you almost have a requirement to accept credit card payments for your products or services. Have you ever been to a website that doesn’t accept credit cards as payment? Consider how you would feel if you wanted to purchase something online but you couldn’t enter your payment details in the site- would you take the time to write a check, put it in an envelope and mail to the company or would you just find the next website offering the same products that DOES accept credit cards? Web sites that accept credit card payments have sales that are 50-400% higher than web sites that do not accept credit payments. It is so easy to get set up to accept credit card payments that there really is no excuse for an Internet business not to accept them!
As a web business, you have a choice. You can apply for a traditional merchant account at any of the local banks and hope to get accepted (and likely pay a set up fee and sometimes an ongoing monthly fee for having the service), or you can use one of the numerous card processing companies that operate online and are geared toward online businesses just like yours. Many of the card processing providers you can use online allow you to set up your website for accepting credit cards with no set up fees!
Merchants Providing Credit Card Processing
When you are just starting out as an online business, or you are a small business- you are probably not going to want any credit card processing provider that requires you process a minimum number of transactions each month. It is hard to predict what your minimum will be for a new business, and it might be better to pay a slightly higher per-transaction fee than to pay a higher monthly fee in exchange for a lower per-transaction fee based on a minimum number of cards processed each month.
Paynet Systems: Offers a variety of merchant accounts, with a few focused on Internet based businesses. You can get your account set up to accept credit card payments (ATM, and Debit also) for no set up fee. You pay a small monthly fee for the account ($8-10) and fees per transaction processed.
Merchant Express: Offers a merchant account for Internet businesses that can accept credit card payments in real-time. Your account with Merchant Express will also give you access to a free “virtual terminal”, which will allow you to accept credit card payments by phone or mail as well as online.
Charge.com: Similar to Merchant Express in that it provides both a real time processor for web site orders, and a virtual terminal in case your customers provide their payment information via telephone, fax or mail. The software will automatically send you an email to help you fill the customer’s order once the card has been successfully processed.
There are many other providers that allow internet merchant account providers that can set your internet business up with the ability to accept credit card payments at no set up fee. Researching each company before signing up will help you compare the features and make sure you sign with a company that can provide you with the necessary options for your business and at the lowest fees.
This article has been provided by Creditor Web. Creditor Web has the articles and other credit card processing resources to help you choose the right provider.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeremy_Zongker
http://EzineArticles.com/?Get-Credit-Card-Processing-for-Your-Internet-Business&id=450368
One of the best features of owning an online-based business is the amount of money you save on start up costs, and ongoing overhead in comparison to businesses with physical locations. Not only do you not have to pay high rental or mortgage payments for the space, but you save on utilities, business insurance, and even credit card processing accounts!
By Jeremy Zongker
One of the best features of owning an online-based business is the amount of money you save on start up costs, and ongoing overhead in comparison to businesses with physical locations. Not only do you not have to pay high rental or mortgage payments for the space, but you save on utilities, business insurance, and even credit card processing accounts!
As an Internet business, you almost have a requirement to accept credit card payments for your products or services. Have you ever been to a website that doesn’t accept credit cards as payment? Consider how you would feel if you wanted to purchase something online but you couldn’t enter your payment details in the site- would you take the time to write a check, put it in an envelope and mail to the company or would you just find the next website offering the same products that DOES accept credit cards? Web sites that accept credit card payments have sales that are 50-400% higher than web sites that do not accept credit payments. It is so easy to get set up to accept credit card payments that there really is no excuse for an Internet business not to accept them!
As a web business, you have a choice. You can apply for a traditional merchant account at any of the local banks and hope to get accepted (and likely pay a set up fee and sometimes an ongoing monthly fee for having the service), or you can use one of the numerous card processing companies that operate online and are geared toward online businesses just like yours. Many of the card processing providers you can use online allow you to set up your website for accepting credit cards with no set up fees!
Merchants Providing Credit Card Processing
When you are just starting out as an online business, or you are a small business- you are probably not going to want any credit card processing provider that requires you process a minimum number of transactions each month. It is hard to predict what your minimum will be for a new business, and it might be better to pay a slightly higher per-transaction fee than to pay a higher monthly fee in exchange for a lower per-transaction fee based on a minimum number of cards processed each month.
Paynet Systems: Offers a variety of merchant accounts, with a few focused on Internet based businesses. You can get your account set up to accept credit card payments (ATM, and Debit also) for no set up fee. You pay a small monthly fee for the account ($8-10) and fees per transaction processed.
Merchant Express: Offers a merchant account for Internet businesses that can accept credit card payments in real-time. Your account with Merchant Express will also give you access to a free “virtual terminal”, which will allow you to accept credit card payments by phone or mail as well as online.
Charge.com: Similar to Merchant Express in that it provides both a real time processor for web site orders, and a virtual terminal in case your customers provide their payment information via telephone, fax or mail. The software will automatically send you an email to help you fill the customer’s order once the card has been successfully processed.
There are many other providers that allow internet merchant account providers that can set your internet business up with the ability to accept credit card payments at no set up fee. Researching each company before signing up will help you compare the features and make sure you sign with a company that can provide you with the necessary options for your business and at the lowest fees.
This article has been provided by Creditor Web. Creditor Web has the articles and other credit card processing resources to help you choose the right provider.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeremy_Zongker
http://EzineArticles.com/?Get-Credit-Card-Processing-for-Your-Internet-Business&id=450368
One of the best features of owning an online-based business is the amount of money you save on start up costs, and ongoing overhead in comparison to businesses with physical locations. Not only do you not have to pay high rental or mortgage payments for the space, but you save on utilities, business insurance, and even credit card processing accounts!
Friday, May 11, 2007
Credit Card Machines 802 Web
Types of Telecom Products
By John Hampton
Welcome to the Internet Revolution, the Age of Technology, and the Era of Telecommunications. Telecommunications (tele-translated from the Greek to mean “distant” and Latin communicare- to participate) is defined as the transmission of information over a line of communication, like that of a telephone, which is carried over a long distance. It may or may not use a modem. The information may be communicated through voice, text, images, or even video via any product that will work, like a fax machine. Any product that enables telecommunication is classified as a Telecom Product.
Since Alexander Graham Bell invented his “electrical speech machine” (now known as the telephone) back in 1876, the telecommunications industry has evolved to include a wide array of products for both business and personal use. Below you will find several different types of telecom products and brief explanations of their different usage.
We’ll begin our mission with the originator- the telephone. Since it’s invention, the device has gotten smaller, portable, and even wireless. Accessories such as answering machines can attach to your phone or phone line for friends, family and/or clients and customers to leave you an important message when you’re unavailable to take a call. All-in-one answering machine/telephone contraptions have gained substantial popularity in recent years as the price dropped with the advancement of technology. Multi-line telephones for busy offices are also becoming more affordable for those who didn’t have the extra funding for such a telecommunications device.
Facsimile machines, also known as “fax” machines for short, take text or images from a piece of paper and transfer the data to another fax machine anywhere in the world via telephone lines. Much like the recent popularity of answering machine/telephone combinations and other telecommunication devices, technology has advanced to bring the price and size down and the convenience of all-in-one equipment for the average consumer. Phone/fax/copy/printer combinations are in a growing number of households across the country and around the globe.
If you have your own business that requires a combination of telecom products, it might be in your best interest to invest in a Voice/Data Line Sharing Device. This port-switching mechanism will allow you to run telephones, fax machines, modems, answering machines, climate control, security monitoring, credit card terminals and poll cash registers without needing a separate line for each.
Finally two-way radios, commonly referred to as “Walkie-Talkies”, are yet another device that falls into the category of telecom products. And yes, just like all of the other products we’ve covered, the price and size have dropped while the technology expanded. In fact, there are two-way radios that can communicate with each other from as far away as 6 miles depending on the area and terrain. Multiple units that run on the same frequency work quite well for large fleets after they are cloned for synchronization. LCD screens make for some easy programming by all.
John Hampton recommends that you visit http://www.sjtelecommunications.com/ for more information on Telecom Products.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Hampton
http://EzineArticles.com/?Types-of-Telecom-Products&id=398755
Welcome to the Internet Revolution, the Age of Technology, and the Era of Telecommunications. Telecommunications (tele - translated from the Greek to mean "distant" and Latin communicare - to participate).
By John Hampton
Welcome to the Internet Revolution, the Age of Technology, and the Era of Telecommunications. Telecommunications (tele-translated from the Greek to mean “distant” and Latin communicare- to participate) is defined as the transmission of information over a line of communication, like that of a telephone, which is carried over a long distance. It may or may not use a modem. The information may be communicated through voice, text, images, or even video via any product that will work, like a fax machine. Any product that enables telecommunication is classified as a Telecom Product.
Since Alexander Graham Bell invented his “electrical speech machine” (now known as the telephone) back in 1876, the telecommunications industry has evolved to include a wide array of products for both business and personal use. Below you will find several different types of telecom products and brief explanations of their different usage.
We’ll begin our mission with the originator- the telephone. Since it’s invention, the device has gotten smaller, portable, and even wireless. Accessories such as answering machines can attach to your phone or phone line for friends, family and/or clients and customers to leave you an important message when you’re unavailable to take a call. All-in-one answering machine/telephone contraptions have gained substantial popularity in recent years as the price dropped with the advancement of technology. Multi-line telephones for busy offices are also becoming more affordable for those who didn’t have the extra funding for such a telecommunications device.
Facsimile machines, also known as “fax” machines for short, take text or images from a piece of paper and transfer the data to another fax machine anywhere in the world via telephone lines. Much like the recent popularity of answering machine/telephone combinations and other telecommunication devices, technology has advanced to bring the price and size down and the convenience of all-in-one equipment for the average consumer. Phone/fax/copy/printer combinations are in a growing number of households across the country and around the globe.
If you have your own business that requires a combination of telecom products, it might be in your best interest to invest in a Voice/Data Line Sharing Device. This port-switching mechanism will allow you to run telephones, fax machines, modems, answering machines, climate control, security monitoring, credit card terminals and poll cash registers without needing a separate line for each.
Finally two-way radios, commonly referred to as “Walkie-Talkies”, are yet another device that falls into the category of telecom products. And yes, just like all of the other products we’ve covered, the price and size have dropped while the technology expanded. In fact, there are two-way radios that can communicate with each other from as far away as 6 miles depending on the area and terrain. Multiple units that run on the same frequency work quite well for large fleets after they are cloned for synchronization. LCD screens make for some easy programming by all.
John Hampton recommends that you visit http://www.sjtelecommunications.com/ for more information on Telecom Products.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Hampton
http://EzineArticles.com/?Types-of-Telecom-Products&id=398755
Welcome to the Internet Revolution, the Age of Technology, and the Era of Telecommunications. Telecommunications (tele - translated from the Greek to mean "distant" and Latin communicare - to participate).
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Credit Card Machines 802 Web
Credit Card Processing
By Thomas Morva
Nowadays, almost all establishments accept credit card payments. This is because many consumers make their purchases using their credit cards, and establishments who do not accept credit card payments risks losing potential sales. Given this, it is then essential for any company that intends to sell products in the market to make sure that their stores can accept credit payments. There’s good news, though! Today, accepting credit cards is usually a fairly easy process because companies can gain access to the tools that they need to be able to process credit card payments from a number of sources.
Setting up a merchant account
The first step in accepting credit cards is setting up a merchant account. This will involve locating the right merchant account provider or credit card processor. Many businesses do this through the banks where they do their business banking. However, not all banks provide credit card processing services.
A good source of information is any trade associations that a business belongs to, which may have negotiated rates with a certain credit card processor that the business could contact. Another good source of leads is from other businesses that already accept credit card payments. On the other hand, given that most processors aggressively pursue clients especially start up companies, it is most likely that these processors will contact new business owners and offer them their services.
In deciding on which credit card processor to use, it is a good idea to employ canvassing strategies, which includes interviewing each credit processor and asking them questions that can help business owners pick the right processor. Some of these questions include asking them about their fees, their rates, and other services that they provide their clients. After which, business owners then should analyze which processor can give them the best deal for the credit card processing services that they are offering.
Nowadays, no business establishment should be without credit card processing capabilities. This is because given that most people make many of their purchases using their credit cards, establishments that do not accept credit card payments risk losing a significant number of sales. The good news is that today, the tools that businesses need to be able to accept credit card payments, which includes merchant accounts, are easily accessible, as there are a large number of companies that provide credit card processing services.
Credit Card Processing provides detailed information on Credit Card Processing, Online Credit Card Processing, Credit Card Processing Software, Wireless Credit Card Processing and more. Credit Card Processing is affiliated with Wireless Credit Card Terminals.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Morva
http://EzineArticles.com/?Credit-Card-Processing&id=255743
Nowadays, almost all establishments accept credit card payments. This is because many consumers make their purchases using their credit cards, and establishments who do not accept credit card payments risks losing potential sales. Given this, it is then essential for any company that intends to sell products in the market to make sure that their stores can accept credit payments. There’s good news, though! Today, accepting credit cards is usually a fairly easy process because companies can gain access to the tools that they need to be able to process credit card payments from a number of sources.
By Thomas Morva
Nowadays, almost all establishments accept credit card payments. This is because many consumers make their purchases using their credit cards, and establishments who do not accept credit card payments risks losing potential sales. Given this, it is then essential for any company that intends to sell products in the market to make sure that their stores can accept credit payments. There’s good news, though! Today, accepting credit cards is usually a fairly easy process because companies can gain access to the tools that they need to be able to process credit card payments from a number of sources.
Setting up a merchant account
The first step in accepting credit cards is setting up a merchant account. This will involve locating the right merchant account provider or credit card processor. Many businesses do this through the banks where they do their business banking. However, not all banks provide credit card processing services.
A good source of information is any trade associations that a business belongs to, which may have negotiated rates with a certain credit card processor that the business could contact. Another good source of leads is from other businesses that already accept credit card payments. On the other hand, given that most processors aggressively pursue clients especially start up companies, it is most likely that these processors will contact new business owners and offer them their services.
In deciding on which credit card processor to use, it is a good idea to employ canvassing strategies, which includes interviewing each credit processor and asking them questions that can help business owners pick the right processor. Some of these questions include asking them about their fees, their rates, and other services that they provide their clients. After which, business owners then should analyze which processor can give them the best deal for the credit card processing services that they are offering.
Nowadays, no business establishment should be without credit card processing capabilities. This is because given that most people make many of their purchases using their credit cards, establishments that do not accept credit card payments risk losing a significant number of sales. The good news is that today, the tools that businesses need to be able to accept credit card payments, which includes merchant accounts, are easily accessible, as there are a large number of companies that provide credit card processing services.
Credit Card Processing provides detailed information on Credit Card Processing, Online Credit Card Processing, Credit Card Processing Software, Wireless Credit Card Processing and more. Credit Card Processing is affiliated with Wireless Credit Card Terminals.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Morva
http://EzineArticles.com/?Credit-Card-Processing&id=255743
Nowadays, almost all establishments accept credit card payments. This is because many consumers make their purchases using their credit cards, and establishments who do not accept credit card payments risks losing potential sales. Given this, it is then essential for any company that intends to sell products in the market to make sure that their stores can accept credit payments. There’s good news, though! Today, accepting credit cards is usually a fairly easy process because companies can gain access to the tools that they need to be able to process credit card payments from a number of sources.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Credit Card Machines 802 Web
Credit Card FAQ - Credit Card Security and Authentication
By Joseph Kenny
With the ever rising reports of credit card fraud, fraudulent use, internet phishing and identity theft, people are rightly concerned about credit card security. Fraudulent credit card use can be an annoyance at best, and seriously damage your credit at worst. It's only reasonable that people have questions about credit card security and authentication methods. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about credit card security.
1. How does the ATM or store terminal know my PIN number?
PIN (personal identification numbers) are the most often used way to authenticate your identity when you use your credit or ATM card. When you first choose your PIN number, it is 'encrypted' - stored in a secret code of letters and symbols - and either stored in a database or on the magnetic stripe on the back of your card.
2. If my PIN number is stored in a database, doesn't that mean that bank or credit card employees have access to it?
The encryption method that's used by ATM and credit cards is called 'one-way encryption'. It makes it easy for the bank's computer to verify the PIN given the bank's key and the PIN, but nearly impossible to extract the PIN in text form from the encrypted database.
3. How does the machine 'read' my card?
The stripe on the back of your credit or ATM card is called a magnetic stripe. It's actually made up of thousands of tiny magnetic iron-based particles. The card can be 'written to' much the same way that the hard drive on your computer can be written - by means of magnetic interaction changing the charge. Written into the stripe are your account number and identifying data. When you swipe the card, that information is read and sent via modem to an 'acquirer' - a company that 'acquires' a payment guarantee from the credit card company based on the information stored on your card's magnetic stripe.
4. Isn't buying on the internet dangerous and insecure?
Honestly? Your credit card information is in less danger being transmitted over the internet than it is when you hand your card to a store clerk at the counter. The real danger to your credit card information isn't from hackers hitting online merchants, or stealing your credit card information via modem or phone lines. The real internet security dangers come from two different directions:
a. Hackers using back doors to get into the records of banks, credit card companies and data repositories.
This is the biggest danger. It's also a danger for stores and companies that have records 'online' for billing purposes. There's a great deal being done to improve security of data repositories, which are far more vulnerable than any data transmission stream.
b. The second big credit card security danger is the practice that's sometimes called 'phishing'.
In this case, the credit card thieves trick you into giving them your identification and credit card data. They may do this with an email purporting to be from an official of your internet service provider or email, your credit card issuer or anyone else. They also may build sites that are identical to sites like Paypal, American Express and others for the express purpose of capturing your information so that they can use it.
5. How do I protect myself from phishers?
First, never provide your social security number or other identifying data to anyone without first verifying that they are exactly who they say they are. Experts recommend that you never use the link provided in an email to go to the site of someone you do business with. Instead, open a new browser window and type in the known address by hand
You may freely reprint this article provided that the author bio and live links are left intact.
Joseph Kenny writes for the credit card comparison site http://www.creditcards121.com/ and visit credit card advice for more information on credit card security.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Kenny
http://EzineArticles.com/?Credit-Card-FAQ---Credit-Card-Security-and-Authentication&id=168150
By Joseph Kenny
With the ever rising reports of credit card fraud, fraudulent use, internet phishing and identity theft, people are rightly concerned about credit card security. Fraudulent credit card use can be an annoyance at best, and seriously damage your credit at worst. It's only reasonable that people have questions about credit card security and authentication methods. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about credit card security.
1. How does the ATM or store terminal know my PIN number?
PIN (personal identification numbers) are the most often used way to authenticate your identity when you use your credit or ATM card. When you first choose your PIN number, it is 'encrypted' - stored in a secret code of letters and symbols - and either stored in a database or on the magnetic stripe on the back of your card.
2. If my PIN number is stored in a database, doesn't that mean that bank or credit card employees have access to it?
The encryption method that's used by ATM and credit cards is called 'one-way encryption'. It makes it easy for the bank's computer to verify the PIN given the bank's key and the PIN, but nearly impossible to extract the PIN in text form from the encrypted database.
3. How does the machine 'read' my card?
The stripe on the back of your credit or ATM card is called a magnetic stripe. It's actually made up of thousands of tiny magnetic iron-based particles. The card can be 'written to' much the same way that the hard drive on your computer can be written - by means of magnetic interaction changing the charge. Written into the stripe are your account number and identifying data. When you swipe the card, that information is read and sent via modem to an 'acquirer' - a company that 'acquires' a payment guarantee from the credit card company based on the information stored on your card's magnetic stripe.
4. Isn't buying on the internet dangerous and insecure?
Honestly? Your credit card information is in less danger being transmitted over the internet than it is when you hand your card to a store clerk at the counter. The real danger to your credit card information isn't from hackers hitting online merchants, or stealing your credit card information via modem or phone lines. The real internet security dangers come from two different directions:
a. Hackers using back doors to get into the records of banks, credit card companies and data repositories.
This is the biggest danger. It's also a danger for stores and companies that have records 'online' for billing purposes. There's a great deal being done to improve security of data repositories, which are far more vulnerable than any data transmission stream.
b. The second big credit card security danger is the practice that's sometimes called 'phishing'.
In this case, the credit card thieves trick you into giving them your identification and credit card data. They may do this with an email purporting to be from an official of your internet service provider or email, your credit card issuer or anyone else. They also may build sites that are identical to sites like Paypal, American Express and others for the express purpose of capturing your information so that they can use it.
5. How do I protect myself from phishers?
First, never provide your social security number or other identifying data to anyone without first verifying that they are exactly who they say they are. Experts recommend that you never use the link provided in an email to go to the site of someone you do business with. Instead, open a new browser window and type in the known address by hand
You may freely reprint this article provided that the author bio and live links are left intact.
Joseph Kenny writes for the credit card comparison site http://www.creditcards121.com/ and visit credit card advice for more information on credit card security.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Kenny
http://EzineArticles.com/?Credit-Card-FAQ---Credit-Card-Security-and-Authentication&id=168150
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Credit Card Machines 802 Web
Online Ordering Tips – Considerations for Providing Sensitive Information over the Internet
By Keith D Commiskey
Online vs. In Person
The risk of credit theft is viable no matter how you purchase, be it online or in person. However, in my experience as a retailer for 5 years and a consumer for 20+ years, and as it seems now, it is more likely that your credit card information will be found in the wrong hands from an in-person purchase than from an online purchase. Consider that when using a credit card in person, such as when you are at a restaurant and your credit card disappears to a back room somewhere. Is someone writing down your number, expiration date, and CCV somewhere? Who would know? I have heard of one account where that happened, and I have heard of another where a copy of the card was made. Then there was another incident at a well-known department store where copies of carbons were pocketed and used for employee-to-employee purchases. Another consideration for in-person credit card use is that signatures are rarely verified, and even when they are, they are typically not scrutinized adequately. The same goes for photo identification. Moreover, as just mentioned, these incidents are not limited to hole-in-the-wall diners and shops either. Employees of well-known dining and shopping establishments are committing this type of theft.
Now suppose you do not give your card to a stranger for processing in some back room where you cannot see, but instead you swipe your card through a machine (otherwise known as a terminal). Guess what? You just made an online purchase. All of your credit card information just went through an electronic processing gateway, which is the same thing that happens when your credit card is processed over the Net. As you can see, Internet processing is nearly the same as in-person processing in that sometimes your card information goes directly into an electronic gateway, and sometimes it resides with an employee who then processes the information (for online purchases, the information is temporarily stored on a secure server until an employee processes the information).
You can now see that there are two ways for processing credit cards: online and in person. The first way (automatic processing) is identical for both online and in-person transactions in that no employee ever sees your information. The second way (manual processing) requires an employee or storeowner (or sole proprietor) to process your transaction manually.
Why is online more secure than in person? There are at least a couple of reasons. If the process goes directly through a processing gateway (automatic processing), then there is very little if no difference between online and in-person transactions. If the process is done through an employee (manual processing), then typically the online store only has one person or small department who is allowed access (or exposure) to your information, whereas when you are processing a card at a restaurant, almost any employee is allowed and able to handle your credit information. Also, consider that unless you are dealing with a well-known, nationwide store, most online stores are fairly small and owned by sole proprietors or an LLC. These owners put a lot of time, energy, and cost into establishing their store. To become the subject matter of credit theft would undermine these efforts. In-person stores, on the other hand, hire employees who have little, if any, stock in the success of the company.
Uninvited Thieves
Online purchases typically avoid most, and sometimes all, of the potential threats from so-called ”trusted” employees. However, online purchases do offer a potential danger zone of their own: hackers. Credit card numbers and other vital information are almost certainly stored in a database somewhere. If that database is compromised, so is the credit card information it contains. Although, from what I have read and heard over the last 5-7 years, this happens far, far less than in-person theft. A lost or stolen purse or wallet is much more likely to result in attempted credit card fraud. Even if a hacker were to break into one of these databases, not only would the investigation be taken to a very high level of investigation (as opposed to a stolen purse or wallet or even identity theft), but there would also be hundreds to millions of others in line with you.
CISP: VISA (et al) is On Your Side
We have learned that automatic transaction processing is just as secure whether it is done online or in person. And based on the points made, manual transaction processing is typically more secure when done online than in person (again, at least at this point in time). There is one consideration, however, that can lower the defenses of a manual transaction done online. Typically, your credit card information is stored on a secure database, and an employee must transfer that information to the secure gateway. However, if the store saves any of your credit information on their local computer, then that leaves your information open to hackers on that computer. Unfortunately, short of asking, or unless it is mentioned in the store’s FAQ, there is no way of knowing whether they do this. Although it is unnecessary for a storeowner to store this information, and it is technically against VISA regulations, it can certainly happen. If you do feel or find that your credit information is being stored by a store owner, be it in person or online, feel free to visit the VISA Cardholder Information Security Program (CISP) page located at http://usa.visa.com/merchants/risk_management/cisp_overview.html
Catching a Card
If a credit card thief tries using a stolen credit card at a store (online or in person) that uses manual processing, there are signs that can flag such an illegal transaction, which humans can catch. In person, there are photo and signature IDs that, when used, can flag the purchase. Online, an incorrect billing address, phone number, or even a returned e-mail can flag the process. With automatic transactions, the card is likely to be accepted without question, even if there are one or two small flags. In such cases, if your credit card or credit information is stolen, you can only hope that the thief will use a store that processes transactions manually.
Online Skeptics Are Still Online
Considering the number of people who are skeptical of making purchases online, it would seem that these folks are either not aware of a law that took effect on October 28, 2004, or do not write personal checks. The Check 21 Act has nearly guaranteed that your personal checks will be scanned into an electronic format, stored, and even transferred as necessary just like credit card information. You can find additional information on the Check 21 Act at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/check21.htm
Security = Encryption
One of the most common precautions for purchasing online is to ensure that the Web page you are providing the information to is secure (encrypted). Depending on the browser you are using, secure pages will typically have a lock somewhere in the status bar. In addition, the URL (Web page address) will begin with HTTPS:// (Notice the "S" after the HTTP. The “S” means that the page is secure.) On a secure page, the information being sent is encrypted, that is, the information is made into a puzzle that is extremely difficult for anyone except the receiving computer to solve. Also, remember that credit cards are only one type of information collected online. Always ensure that Web pages are secure before providing Social Security Numbers and other vital account information, such as bank account information.
Aging is a Good Thing
Consider the number of years a store has been open for business. Check for their Sales and Use or Tax Permit. Even online, they should display one because if they are transacting business over the Internet, then that is their "place of business". Obviously, stores need to start out somewhere, but just take a little extra caution with stores that have been open for only a year or two. Consider calling them before ordering just to verify that there is someone on the other end.
Changing Names – Changing Favorites
When information is collected on every other Web site you visit, the sensitivity level of such information is diluted. Consider changing your favorite pet’s name once in awhile. And the “First street you lived on” does not have to be the first street you lived on. Nor does it have to be the last school you attended. These are simply reminders and are sometimes easier for a stranger (or even a family member) to guess at than your password. Consider not using the real answers to these. They can be used as backdoors into your account.
Use Another Credit Card
Most people nowadays have more than one credit card. Select a card that has the least amount of credit on it to ensure that if something were ever to go wrong, you have the least to lose. You should also consider only using a credit/debit card from your primary bank account for larger and less-often purchases. If this card is swiped and used, it could leave you short for any legitimate transactions that have yet to clear, like your online bills. You could also set up a bank account solely for online purchases. If you use your primary bank, you can transfer money as needed to cover charges before they are made: Or just keep a very small amount (like $100) in that account at all times.
Temporary Credit Cards
Speaking of using another credit card for online purchases, some financial institutions now offer temporary credit cards with a set limit, a set time frame, or both. Contact your financial institution for additional information on temporary credit cards.
Outside the Box (or in another box)
Another idea for making online payments is to always use the same credit card for online purchases and keep an eye on that account on a very regular basis. Also, consider minimizing its use. You can also consider using an online money transfer service such as PayPal or Google Checkout (although these limit your purchases to stores that also use these services).
Information Storage
When purchasing online, you will most likely be asked to come up with a password for an “account” with the online store. At some point, perhaps even today, you already have far too many passwords to remember. In contrast, if you use the same password for everything, and that password is found out, you have even more places where you are vulnerable to theft. As you probably already know, writing passwords down and putting them in your purse or wallet is extremely risky, and you NEVER want to store your PIN numbers in the same location as your ATM/debit cards (that’s like putting your password under your keyboard or a key under the mat). A safe-deposit box or fireproof house safe would be good but considerably less convenient. You might want to consider a password-storage application that can be found by visiting the Sponsored Links at http://www.google.com/search?q=password+storage. Using this method, you remember one password that will allow you access to all of your other passwords (so make it a long and complicated password). And if you store passwords in your cell phone, on a PIM, or on a laptop (although all are very dangerous), be sure to password protect those devices as well.
For additional information about online security and computer safety in general, see my article on “Security and Safeguards -- Virtual and Real-World” at:
http://giftsforyou.biz/tips_security_and_safeguards.shtml
Keith D Commiskey
http://kdcinfo.com
http://giftsforyou.biz - Crystal Figurines - Crystal Gifts
Keith D Commiskey is the owner and sole proprietor of GiftsForYou.Biz, an online store specializing in affordable crystal gifts. Meet the owner of GiftsForYou.Biz at: http://giftsforyou.biz/gfy_meettheowner.shtml
Mr. Commiskey, born and raised in Northern California, has been hard at learning nearly his entire life (yes, only "nearly", we wouldn't quite consider teething learning). After serving nearly 7 years in the military (3 years active, 4 years reserve), he went to work full time for an engineering firm. Full time in this sense meant 7 days per week, an average of 14-16 hours per day, for 6 years. He then branched out into his self-taught profession, 3-D modeling and computer animation. These skills gradually carried him over into the realm of the web (World Wide Web, that is). He successfully integrated his graphic and myriad other abilities into programming web pages.
Always full of ideas and a positive spirit, and welcoming you to a world of sharing.
Keith D Commiskey
http://kdcinfo.com
http://giftsforyou.biz - Crystal Figurines - Crystal Gifts
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_D_Commiskey
http://EzineArticles.com/?Online-Ordering-Tips---Considerations-for-Providing-Sensitive-Information-over-the-Internet&id=513055
By Keith D Commiskey
Online vs. In Person
The risk of credit theft is viable no matter how you purchase, be it online or in person. However, in my experience as a retailer for 5 years and a consumer for 20+ years, and as it seems now, it is more likely that your credit card information will be found in the wrong hands from an in-person purchase than from an online purchase. Consider that when using a credit card in person, such as when you are at a restaurant and your credit card disappears to a back room somewhere. Is someone writing down your number, expiration date, and CCV somewhere? Who would know? I have heard of one account where that happened, and I have heard of another where a copy of the card was made. Then there was another incident at a well-known department store where copies of carbons were pocketed and used for employee-to-employee purchases. Another consideration for in-person credit card use is that signatures are rarely verified, and even when they are, they are typically not scrutinized adequately. The same goes for photo identification. Moreover, as just mentioned, these incidents are not limited to hole-in-the-wall diners and shops either. Employees of well-known dining and shopping establishments are committing this type of theft.
Now suppose you do not give your card to a stranger for processing in some back room where you cannot see, but instead you swipe your card through a machine (otherwise known as a terminal). Guess what? You just made an online purchase. All of your credit card information just went through an electronic processing gateway, which is the same thing that happens when your credit card is processed over the Net. As you can see, Internet processing is nearly the same as in-person processing in that sometimes your card information goes directly into an electronic gateway, and sometimes it resides with an employee who then processes the information (for online purchases, the information is temporarily stored on a secure server until an employee processes the information).
You can now see that there are two ways for processing credit cards: online and in person. The first way (automatic processing) is identical for both online and in-person transactions in that no employee ever sees your information. The second way (manual processing) requires an employee or storeowner (or sole proprietor) to process your transaction manually.
Why is online more secure than in person? There are at least a couple of reasons. If the process goes directly through a processing gateway (automatic processing), then there is very little if no difference between online and in-person transactions. If the process is done through an employee (manual processing), then typically the online store only has one person or small department who is allowed access (or exposure) to your information, whereas when you are processing a card at a restaurant, almost any employee is allowed and able to handle your credit information. Also, consider that unless you are dealing with a well-known, nationwide store, most online stores are fairly small and owned by sole proprietors or an LLC. These owners put a lot of time, energy, and cost into establishing their store. To become the subject matter of credit theft would undermine these efforts. In-person stores, on the other hand, hire employees who have little, if any, stock in the success of the company.
Uninvited Thieves
Online purchases typically avoid most, and sometimes all, of the potential threats from so-called ”trusted” employees. However, online purchases do offer a potential danger zone of their own: hackers. Credit card numbers and other vital information are almost certainly stored in a database somewhere. If that database is compromised, so is the credit card information it contains. Although, from what I have read and heard over the last 5-7 years, this happens far, far less than in-person theft. A lost or stolen purse or wallet is much more likely to result in attempted credit card fraud. Even if a hacker were to break into one of these databases, not only would the investigation be taken to a very high level of investigation (as opposed to a stolen purse or wallet or even identity theft), but there would also be hundreds to millions of others in line with you.
CISP: VISA (et al) is On Your Side
We have learned that automatic transaction processing is just as secure whether it is done online or in person. And based on the points made, manual transaction processing is typically more secure when done online than in person (again, at least at this point in time). There is one consideration, however, that can lower the defenses of a manual transaction done online. Typically, your credit card information is stored on a secure database, and an employee must transfer that information to the secure gateway. However, if the store saves any of your credit information on their local computer, then that leaves your information open to hackers on that computer. Unfortunately, short of asking, or unless it is mentioned in the store’s FAQ, there is no way of knowing whether they do this. Although it is unnecessary for a storeowner to store this information, and it is technically against VISA regulations, it can certainly happen. If you do feel or find that your credit information is being stored by a store owner, be it in person or online, feel free to visit the VISA Cardholder Information Security Program (CISP) page located at http://usa.visa.com/merchants/risk_management/cisp_overview.html
Catching a Card
If a credit card thief tries using a stolen credit card at a store (online or in person) that uses manual processing, there are signs that can flag such an illegal transaction, which humans can catch. In person, there are photo and signature IDs that, when used, can flag the purchase. Online, an incorrect billing address, phone number, or even a returned e-mail can flag the process. With automatic transactions, the card is likely to be accepted without question, even if there are one or two small flags. In such cases, if your credit card or credit information is stolen, you can only hope that the thief will use a store that processes transactions manually.
Online Skeptics Are Still Online
Considering the number of people who are skeptical of making purchases online, it would seem that these folks are either not aware of a law that took effect on October 28, 2004, or do not write personal checks. The Check 21 Act has nearly guaranteed that your personal checks will be scanned into an electronic format, stored, and even transferred as necessary just like credit card information. You can find additional information on the Check 21 Act at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/check21.htm
Security = Encryption
One of the most common precautions for purchasing online is to ensure that the Web page you are providing the information to is secure (encrypted). Depending on the browser you are using, secure pages will typically have a lock somewhere in the status bar. In addition, the URL (Web page address) will begin with HTTPS:// (Notice the "S" after the HTTP. The “S” means that the page is secure.) On a secure page, the information being sent is encrypted, that is, the information is made into a puzzle that is extremely difficult for anyone except the receiving computer to solve. Also, remember that credit cards are only one type of information collected online. Always ensure that Web pages are secure before providing Social Security Numbers and other vital account information, such as bank account information.
Aging is a Good Thing
Consider the number of years a store has been open for business. Check for their Sales and Use or Tax Permit. Even online, they should display one because if they are transacting business over the Internet, then that is their "place of business". Obviously, stores need to start out somewhere, but just take a little extra caution with stores that have been open for only a year or two. Consider calling them before ordering just to verify that there is someone on the other end.
Changing Names – Changing Favorites
When information is collected on every other Web site you visit, the sensitivity level of such information is diluted. Consider changing your favorite pet’s name once in awhile. And the “First street you lived on” does not have to be the first street you lived on. Nor does it have to be the last school you attended. These are simply reminders and are sometimes easier for a stranger (or even a family member) to guess at than your password. Consider not using the real answers to these. They can be used as backdoors into your account.
Use Another Credit Card
Most people nowadays have more than one credit card. Select a card that has the least amount of credit on it to ensure that if something were ever to go wrong, you have the least to lose. You should also consider only using a credit/debit card from your primary bank account for larger and less-often purchases. If this card is swiped and used, it could leave you short for any legitimate transactions that have yet to clear, like your online bills. You could also set up a bank account solely for online purchases. If you use your primary bank, you can transfer money as needed to cover charges before they are made: Or just keep a very small amount (like $100) in that account at all times.
Temporary Credit Cards
Speaking of using another credit card for online purchases, some financial institutions now offer temporary credit cards with a set limit, a set time frame, or both. Contact your financial institution for additional information on temporary credit cards.
Outside the Box (or in another box)
Another idea for making online payments is to always use the same credit card for online purchases and keep an eye on that account on a very regular basis. Also, consider minimizing its use. You can also consider using an online money transfer service such as PayPal or Google Checkout (although these limit your purchases to stores that also use these services).
Information Storage
When purchasing online, you will most likely be asked to come up with a password for an “account” with the online store. At some point, perhaps even today, you already have far too many passwords to remember. In contrast, if you use the same password for everything, and that password is found out, you have even more places where you are vulnerable to theft. As you probably already know, writing passwords down and putting them in your purse or wallet is extremely risky, and you NEVER want to store your PIN numbers in the same location as your ATM/debit cards (that’s like putting your password under your keyboard or a key under the mat). A safe-deposit box or fireproof house safe would be good but considerably less convenient. You might want to consider a password-storage application that can be found by visiting the Sponsored Links at http://www.google.com/search?q=password+storage. Using this method, you remember one password that will allow you access to all of your other passwords (so make it a long and complicated password). And if you store passwords in your cell phone, on a PIM, or on a laptop (although all are very dangerous), be sure to password protect those devices as well.
For additional information about online security and computer safety in general, see my article on “Security and Safeguards -- Virtual and Real-World” at:
http://giftsforyou.biz/tips_security_and_safeguards.shtml
Keith D Commiskey
http://kdcinfo.com
http://giftsforyou.biz - Crystal Figurines - Crystal Gifts
Keith D Commiskey is the owner and sole proprietor of GiftsForYou.Biz, an online store specializing in affordable crystal gifts. Meet the owner of GiftsForYou.Biz at: http://giftsforyou.biz/gfy_meettheowner.shtml
Mr. Commiskey, born and raised in Northern California, has been hard at learning nearly his entire life (yes, only "nearly", we wouldn't quite consider teething learning). After serving nearly 7 years in the military (3 years active, 4 years reserve), he went to work full time for an engineering firm. Full time in this sense meant 7 days per week, an average of 14-16 hours per day, for 6 years. He then branched out into his self-taught profession, 3-D modeling and computer animation. These skills gradually carried him over into the realm of the web (World Wide Web, that is). He successfully integrated his graphic and myriad other abilities into programming web pages.
Always full of ideas and a positive spirit, and welcoming you to a world of sharing.
Keith D Commiskey
http://kdcinfo.com
http://giftsforyou.biz - Crystal Figurines - Crystal Gifts
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_D_Commiskey
http://EzineArticles.com/?Online-Ordering-Tips---Considerations-for-Providing-Sensitive-Information-over-the-Internet&id=513055
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