Learning the friendly way

When making purchases with your debit card, you’re typically asked to provide a security code, also known as a CVV or CVV2 code. This 3-digit (or sometimes 4-digit) number is an important security feature that helps protect your card from unauthorised use. Understanding what this code is, where to find it, and why it's crucial to keep it safe can help prevent financial fraud and give you greater control over your accounts. In this article, we dive into the details.

What is the security code used for?

The debit card security code serves a critical purpose in verifying your identity and protecting against fraudulent activity. When you provide the code during a transaction, it confirms that you physically possess the card, rather than just having access to the card number alone. 

This helps prevent criminals from making unauthorised purchases, especially for online, phone, or mail-order transactions where the physical card is not present. By requiring the security code, merchants and financial institutions can have an additional safeguard against fraud, giving you greater confidence that your hard-earned money stays secure.

Why are debit card security codes important?

The bottom line is that debit card security codes play a vital role in safeguarding your financial information and protecting your hard-earned money. This security code acts as an additional layer of security beyond just your card number and expiration date and without it, criminals would have a much easier time making unauthorised purchases or accessing your accounts. 

Where can I find my debit card security code?

The debit card security code is typically found in one of two places on your card: 

On most standard debit cards, the 3-digit code is printed on the back of the card, often in the signature strip or just to the right of it. 

Some debit cards may have a 4-digit security code that is printed on the front of the card, usually in the top right corner. 

How debit card security codes work with contactless payments

While debit cards with security codes are primarily used for in-person, online, and over-the-phone transactions, the code also plays a role in contactless or "tap-to-pay" payments. 

When you hold your debit card up to a contactless payment terminal, the 3- or 4-digit security code is digitally transmitted along with your card information. This allows the payment system to verify your identity and approve the transaction, just as it would for a contact-based payment that requires manually entering the security code. 

The security code therefore provides an extra layer of protection, even for quick tap-and-go purchases.

CVV vs OTP

The key difference between a debit card's CVV (card verification value) code and an OTP (one-time password) lies in how they function to verify transactions. A CVV is a static 3 or 4-digit code printed on your physical debit card, which you manually enter to confirm your identity. 

In contrast, an OTP is a dynamically generated code, typically sent to your mobile device via SMS from the bank or an authentication app, that changes with each new transaction. While both add an extra security layer, OTPs provide stronger protection, as they cannot be reused like a static CVV. 

Combining the use of your debit card's CVV code and a one-time password (OTP) provides the strongest protection against financial fraud.

CVV vs PIN

Your debit card's PIN (Personal Identification Number) is different from the CVV (card verification value) code.

The PIN is used to verify in-person transactions when you use the physical card, like at a store checkout or ATM.

The CVV code is used instead for remote purchases, like online or over the phone, where the physical card isn't present.

Closing thoughts

In summary, the debit card security code, also found on a credit card, is an essential safeguard against fraud and unauthorised transactions. By understanding what this code is, where to find it, and how it protects your finances, you can take control of your financial security and enjoy greater peace of mind when using your debit card in the wild or online. 

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Crypto recovery scams involve fraudsters claiming they can recover lost or stolen cryptocurrency for a fee. These scammers prey on individuals who have lost access to their digital assets.

As cryptocurrencies grow in popularity, these deceptive schemes are also becoming more and more prevalent. Being able to identify and avoid such scams is crucial. Not only will it help to safeguard your current investments but will also prevent further financial losses. In this article we’re going to guide you through identifying these scams, and what to do from there. 

Signs of a crypto recovery scam

Spotting a crypto recovery scam can be easier if you know the telltale signs:

• Be wary of unsolicited offers to recover your lost or stolen crypto, as legitimate services don't operate that way. 
• Scammers often demand exorbitant upfront fees before providing any services, while legitimate ones typically charge after a successful recovery.
• Unrealistic promises of guaranteed recovery should also raise suspicion, as legitimate services are upfront about risks and limitations.

Another red flag is a lack of transparency about their methods and processes. Scammers tend to be vague, while legitimate services are open about their approach. 

Finally, watch out for high-pressure tactics like creating a false sense of urgency. Scammers may use these to rush you into a decision, whereas legitimate services allow you to make an informed choice. Acknowledging and staying vigilant about these signs can protect you from falling victim to crypto recovery scams.

How scammers typically operate a crypto recovery scam

In a cunning ploy, scammers impersonate representatives from reputable companies, reaching out to unsuspecting individuals with the promise of recovering funds lost in previous scams. These impostors may even possess specific details about the victims, such as the amount of money they had lost, further lending credibility to their claims.

Once they gain the trust of their targets, the scammers instruct the victims to promptly send Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies to a wallet address controlled by the scammers themselves. In some cases, the scammers may suggest that the victims create accounts on cryptocurrency exchanges that allow multiple owners for a single wallet, such as Atomic Wallet. In other instances, the scammers may have already set up these accounts themselves and merely grant the victims access, ensuring complete control over the funds.

To further facilitate the transfer of funds, some victims are coaxed into downloading remote access software like AnyDesk, under the pretense of receiving assistance with setting up bank or exchange accounts. This tactic grants the scammers direct access to the victims' devices, providing yet another avenue for diverting funds to their chosen destinations.

How to protect yourself

To protect yourself from crypto recovery scams, it's essential to do thorough research on any company or service before engaging with it. Be sure to scrutinize their credentials, reviews, and track record, and if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. 

As mentioned above, always be highly sceptical of unsolicited offers or claims, as these are often tactics used by scammers. Instead, do your own homework and find a service that aligns with your needs and sense of comfort. 

Never share your private keys or seed phrases with anyone, as this grants them complete access to your funds. Instead, consider using reputable and trusted crypto recovery services, such as CryptoRecovery.com or CoinRecovered.com, which have established reputations and transparent processes.

While this might sound like scary business, rest assured that by exercising due diligence, maintaining a healthy dose of scepticism, and safeguarding your private information, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these deceptive schemes.

Reporting crypto recovery scams

If you suspect you have been contacted by a crypto recovery scam service or found one online, report it to the appropriate authorities as well as the Tap team immediately. Many countries have dedicated cybercrime units or financial fraud hotlines where you can file a complaint. Additionally, by alerting Tap we can escalate the report and inform other crypto holders before they potentially fall prey to these scammers.

Always remember that raising awareness is crucial in combating these scams. Share your experience on forums, social media, or with your network to warn others. By doing so, you can help prevent more people from falling victim and contribute to the collective effort against crypto-related frauds.

Key takeaways from this article

Key signs of a crypto recovery scam include unsolicited offers, demands for exorbitant upfront fees, lack of transparency about methods, unrealistic promises of guaranteed recovery, and high-pressure tactics. Exercise extreme caution and conduct thorough due diligence before engaging with any service claiming to recover lost or stolen cryptocurrency.

Additionally, spreading awareness is crucial to combating these scams. Share information about the telltale signs and your experiences with Tap, the appropriate authorities, your network and online communities. By raising awareness, you can help others avoid falling victim to these deceptive schemes and contribute to the collective effort against crypto-related fraud.

For more information, here are the top 5 crypto scams people fall victim to.

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Today, TikTok ranks as the fifth largest social media platform globally, used by 31% of social media users and 30% of all internet users worldwide. Taking things one step further, TikTok is also busy revolutionising social media shopping through its TikTok Shop. Looking to dive in?

If you’re unsure how TikTok Shop works or what payment options are available, you’re in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about TikTok Shop payment methods.

What is TikTok Shop?

TikTok Shop is an integrated marketplace where you can purchase products directly through the app. Here you'll find everything from trending fashion items to electronics, all available from both independent sellers and major brands. *It’s worth noting that these are third-party sellers and not from TikTok directly. 

You’ll also need an account to use it. 

Finding TikTok Shop

Getting started is simple:

• Download the TikTok app and create an account if you haven't already
• Look for the Shop icon at the bottom of your screen
• Start browsing products through videos, lives, or the Showcase tab

What payment methods are available on TikTik Shop?

TikTok Shop offers several convenient payment methods to suit your preferences and location:

Card payments

• All major cards accepted (Mastercard, Visa, American Express, Discover - yes, you can also use your Tap card)
• Both credit and debit cards are welcome

Digital wallets

• Apple Pay (iOS users)
• Google Wallet (Android users)
• PayPal

Buy Now, Pay Later

• Klarna: Split larger purchases into four interest-free payments

Making your first purchase

Ready to start shopping? Follow these simple steps:

• Find a product you love
• Click "Add to Cart"
• Hit "Check out" when ready
• Enter your shipping details and billing address
• Select your preferred payment method
• Review your order
• Confirm and place your purchase

Managing your payment methods

To add or change your payment method:

• Visit your TikTok profile
• Select "Your orders"
• Tap "Payments"
• Add new payment methods or set your preferred option

Shopping tips

• Always verify seller ratings and reviews before purchasing
• Check product descriptions and shipping information carefully
• Keep track of your orders through the TikTok app
• Enable notifications to track your order status
• Purchases are eligible for Tap cashback rewards

With these payment options and your Tap card at hand, you're ready to explore everything TikTok Shop has to offer.

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In today's global economy, managing your finances, both crypto and fiat, across borders has never been more important. With this in mind, we’ve created innovative solutions for both personal and business users with the Tap Personal Account and Tap Business Account. 

While both accounts share some core features, they each cater to specific needs. Let's dive into the details to help you choose the right account for your financial journey. 

Shared features: the Tap advantage

Both Tap Personal and Tap Business accounts offer a range of powerful features designed to simplify your financial life:

• Multi-currency capabilities: Hold, send, and receive money in multiple currencies.
• Competitive exchange rates: Enjoy favourable rates when converting between currencies.
• Low-fee international transfers: Send money abroad without breaking the bank.
• Tap card: A versatile debit card for spending in multiple currencies worldwide.
• User-friendly mobile app: Manage your finances on the go with ease.
• Cashback rewards: earn up to 8% Cashback on any card or online transactions.
• Money management on the go: Get real-time notifications on transactions and monthly statements.

Tap Personal Account: personal finance, globalised

The Tap Personal Account is perfect for individuals who:

• Live, work, or travel internationally
• Need to send money to family or friends abroad
• Want to shop online in different currencies
• Seek a hassle-free way to manage personal finances across borders
• Are savvy investors looking to manage multiple currencies in one secure location

Key features of the Tap Personal Account include:

1. Easy account opening: Get started quickly with a simple online process.
2. Free local account details: Receive payments like a local in multiple countries.
3. Instant transfers: Send money to other Tap users in seconds, for free.

Tap Business Account: powering global commerce

The Tap Business Account is tailored for:

• Small to medium-sized businesses
• Companies with international operations
• Startups looking to scale globally

In addition to the features shared with the Tap Personal Account, the Tap Business Account offers:

1. Multi-currency access: Easily set up checkout payment channels for crypto and major national currencies with access to local and international payment rails.
2. Crypto to fiat: Receive and send over 45 cryptocurrencies directly from your account with an institutional-grade OTC desk. 
3. Payment links: Get an individual IBAN and receive and send payments in EUR and GBP with SEPA Instant
4. White card labelling service: Create customisable cards for your business or clients using the integrated service. 
5. Cheaper payroll payments: Avoid bank fees when making multiple payments efficiently, perfect for paying salaries or multiple suppliers.
6. Access to an account manager: each company is assigned a dedicated account manager.

Making the right choice

Choosing between a Tap Personal Account and a Tap Business Account depends on your specific needs:

• If you're an individual looking to simplify your personal international finances, the Tap Personal Account is your go-to solution.
• For businesses of any size aiming to streamline their global financial operations, the Tap Business Account offers the advanced features you need to thrive in the international marketplace.

Both accounts reflect Tap's commitment to providing innovative, user-friendly financial solutions for our increasingly connected world. Whether you're planning your next international adventure or expanding your business across borders, Tap has you covered.

Ready to take control of your global finances? Visit withtap.com to learn more and download the app, and sign up for the account that best suits your needs.

En 2021, un phénomène crypto inattendu a fait fureur : les cryptomonnaies à thème canin, avec en tête de file Shiba Inu, qui a réussi à voler la vedette. Initialement considéré comme un simple "meme token", ce réseau a rapidement révélé des ambitions bien plus vastes que ce que l'on aurait pu imaginer.

Origines et Concept

Shiba Inu tire son nom et son inspiration du même mème internet qui a donné naissance à Dogecoin : un adorable chien Shiba Inu. Créé en 2020 comme une alternative décentralisée à Dogecoin, le projet repose sur le réseau Ethereum. La cryptomonnaie SHIB, basée sur le standard ERC-20, n'est qu'une partie d'un écosystème beaucoup plus riche.

Un Écosystème Innovant

Au-delà d'une simple monnaie numérique, Shiba Inu propose plusieurs fonctionnalités originales :

• ShibaSwap : Une plateforme d'échange décentralisée
• Tokens complémentaires :
  • LEASH : Un token permettant de fournir de la liquidité
  • BONE : Un token de gouvernance offrant des droits de vote
• Shiboshi Game : Un jeu NFT
• Shiba Artist Incubator : Un incubateur pour les artistes NFT

Une Ascension Fulgurante

L'histoire de Shiba Inu est pour le moins spectaculaire. En novembre 2021, la cryptomonnaie a connu une croissance hallucinante de plus de 60 000 000% depuis le début de l'année. Son ajout sur Coinbase a provoqué une hausse de 40% en seulement deux jours.

Le Mystère Derrière le Projet

Comme souvent dans le monde des cryptomonnaies, le créateur de Shiba Inu reste anonyme. Connu sous le pseudonyme de Ryoshi, il a lancé le projet avec une émission totale de 1 quadrillion de tokens. Un élément fascinant de son histoire : 50% des tokens ont été verrouillés sur Uniswap, tandis que les 500 trilliards restants ont été envoyés à Vitalik Buterin, le fondateur d'Ethereum.

Buterin a alors pris une décision surprenante : il a brûlé 90% de sa part et a fait don des 10% restants à un fonds de secours Covid en Inde, ce qui a eu un impact significatif sur le marché.

Une Communauté Passionnée

Fortement relayé sur les réseaux sociaux et dans les médias, Shiba Inu s'est rapidement imposé comme bien plus qu'un simple "meme token". La communauté, influencée par des personnalités comme Elon Musk, a joué un rôle crucial dans sa popularisation.

Bien que Musk ait mentionné SHIB sur Twitter, il a précisé ne pas en posséder lui-même.

À Retenir

Shiba Inu représente plus qu'une simple cryptomonnaie. C'est un projet ambitieux qui illustre parfaitement l'innovation et la créativité de l'écosystème des cryptomonnaies, où l'humour et la technologie se rencontrent de manière inattendue.

Si vous êtes nouveau dans le monde des cryptomonnaies, vous avez probablement entendu l'expression "spot trading" sans vraiment la comprendre. Pas de panique – nous allons démystifier ce concept en quelques mots.

Qu'est-ce que le spot trading? ‍

Le spot trading ou "trading au comptant" est l'une des méthodes les plus basiques et courantes pour acheter et vendre des cryptomonnaies. Le terme "comptant" fait référence au fait que ces transactions se déroulent immédiatement. Quand vous effectuez un trade au comptant, vous achetez ou vendez une cryptomonnaie au prix du marché actuel.

Imaginez le trading au comptant comme l'équivalent digital d'acheter une baguette à la boulangerie locale. Rapide, direct, sans fioritures. Concrètement, c'est la façon la plus simple et direct d'acheter ou de vendre des cryptomonnaies, au prix du moment. C'est exactement ce qu'est le spor trading dans l'univers des cryptomonnaies.

Comment fonctionne le trading au comptant

‍Voici les étapes classiques du trading au comptant :

• Choisir une plateforme d'échange : C'est comme sélectionner son supermarché.
• Créer un compte et vérifier son identité : La plupart des plateformes sérieuses exigent cette étape pour prévenir la fraude.
• Déposer des fonds : Vous devrez transférer de l'argent (généralement en euros) sur votre compte.
• Sélectionner la cryptomonnaie désirée : Par exemple, si vous voulez acheter du Bitcoin, vérifiez son cours.
• Passer un ordre : Entrez la quantité de Bitcoin que vous souhaitez acheter et confirmez la transaction.
• Recevoir votre cryptomonnaie : Le Bitcoin acheté apparaîtra instantanément dans votre portefeuille.

Et voilà ! Vous venez de réaliser un trade au comptant.

Avantages du trading au comptant

‍Le spot trading présente plusieurs atouts, notamment pour les débutants. Son principal avantage est sa simplicité – le processus est direct et facile à comprendre, ce qui en fait un point de départ idéal pour les nouveaux arrivants.

Un autre avantage majeur est la possession immédiate : lors d'un trade au comptant, vous recevez votre cryptomonnaie instantanément, vous donnant un contrôle direct sur vos actifs numériques. Le trading au comptant tend également à avoir des frais plus bas comparé à d'autres méthodes de trading.

Enfin, le trading au comptant offre une transparence des prix optimale. Vous savez toujours exactement combien vous payez pour votre cryptomonnaie, ce qui peut vous aider à prendre des décisions plus éclairées.

Points importants à retenir

‍Bien que le spot trading soit relativement simple, quelques points méritent votre attention :

• Volatilité: Les cours des cryptomonnaies peuvent fluctuer rapidement, ce qui implique des variations potentielles.
• Frais: Vérifiez toujours la structure des frais de la plateforme avant toute transaction.
• Sécurité: Protégez votre compte avec des mots de passe robustes et une authentification à deux facteurs.
• Investissement raisonné: Le marché des cryptomonnaies peut être imprévisible.

Trading au comptant vs autres types de trading

‍Vous entendrez parler d'autres types de trading crypto, comme les futures ou le trading avec effet de levier, mais sachez que ces méthodes sont plus complexes et souvent plus risquées. Le spor trading reste généralement l'option la plus simple et la plus accessible.

Gardez à l'esprit que le marché des cryptos ne dort jamais – il est ouvert 24h/24, 7j/7. Cela signifie que vous pouvez trader à tout moment, mais aussi que les prix peuvent changer à n'importe quel instant.

Conclusion

‍Le trading au comptant est votre porte d'entrée dans l'univers du trading de cryptomonnaies. C'est simple, immédiat et vous donne un contrôle total sur vos actifs numériques. Comme pour tout investissement, informez-vous et comprenez les risques potentiels.