mCommerce (or M-commerce) is using a mobile phone to make purchases. Like credit card transactions, your card/device can be either present or not present. In other words, “present” might mean your mobile is equipped with an application that you use to make a purchase in person, such as to buy a cup of coffee or…
At this point, everyone knows the Oklahoma City area was slammed by a massive tornado—maybe one of, if not the worst, in history. News reports say dozens of people were killed and hundreds of others injured. The catastrophic event demolished buildings to their foundations. CNN reports, “Insurance claims will likely top $1 billion, Kelly Collins…
It’s springtime. You put an ad on Craigslist to get rid of some things, clean out your garage and make a few bucks while you are at it. Maybe you have an old diamond ring to sell. Or that truck you are driving isn’t what it used to be, so you decide it’s time to…
Major banks and retailers are now pushing very hard to make EMV the new standard in the United States. Visa announced plans “to accelerate the migration to contact chip and contactless EMV chip technology in the U.S. The adoption of dual-interface chip technology will help prepare the U.S. payment infrastructure for the arrival of Near…
Traveling for business or pleasure can be hectic, unnerving, and often draining. It’s not uncommon to hear somebody say, “I need a vacation”, after returning from their vacation. When traveling, the last thing you need to worry about is having your critical possessions ripped off. So here are some things to consider: Airplanes: Always keep…
Cash may be king—but not if you like free coffee and sandwiches from Starbucks. Today, if you want rewards, points, discounts or anything free, mobile payment is the way to go. My dad is a perfect example of how and why this is. Here’s a guy who held out on using a smartphone until 2013.…
Social media is the fifth form of mainstream media. It encompasses all media, making it the king of all media. At this point, most people know how to use social media and how to navigate the various websites. But many employers are still on the fence. Hootsuites’ CEO says, “The world’s top brands—like Pepsi, Virgin, NHL…
The sales industry is fascinating. When it’s done well, you receive great value and both parties leave the transaction feeling happy. But the tactics some merchants use are downright manipulative and often veer into illegal territory. For example, you might see an infomercial on TV for vitamins. The ad targets the elderly and promises something…
Many of us are told that, when we’re attacked, we should let it happen so that the situation doesn’t get any worse. In some cases that may be your only option. But some studies have shown that fighting back is a better option. Showing resistance and making it difficult for your attacker to do their…
Recently I became aware that many if not most home Wi-Fi routers are very easy to hack by cyber criminals. I thought, my mom has Wi-Fi, and so probably does your mom. So here is a letter you can share with your loved ones—be they tech-savvy or not, to protect them from the hidden dangers…
