Learning the friendly way

Imagine your favourite social media platform, say 𝕏 or Facebook, but enhanced with crypto tools. The ability to send tokens, post encrypted messages, join decentralized apps (dApps) and interact with NFTs, all without leaving the feed you already know and love. That’s the promise of Mask Network. The project builds a bridge between Web2 (traditional social media) and Web3 (blockchain + crypto) by embedding decentralized functionality directly into familiar platforms, without requiring the end user to understand networking terms like IP address, IPv4, or anything about how a computer network actually routes information.

At its core, Mask Network operates via a browser extension and multi-chain wallet that detect supported social platforms and add a Web3 layer of features. Users can send crypto to friends in a social feed, post content that only certain people can see, and even link across blockchains without leaving their social app. This design resembles how a router or routing protocol quietly manages data packets in the background. The complex technical work stays invisible, while the experience remains simple on the surface.

How Does the Mask Network Work?

When you install the Mask Network extension (for example in Chrome or Firefox), it adds extra buttons or options to supported sites. According to the official site, it currently supports multiple social platforms where the extension overlays crypto tools such as encrypted messaging, self-custody assets, dApp interaction, and identity aggregation. The browser extension works across major operating systems like Microsoft Windows and macOS, behaving like lightweight software that integrates seamlessly into your web browser.

Technically, the platform supports multiple EVM-compatible chains (so you’re not locked into just one). The extension detects posts, token ticker mentions, or chat boxes and injects extra Web3 controls. For example, turning a simple tweet into a point of token tipping or encrypted file sharing. Users don’t have to migrate to a brand-new social network; instead, their existing feed becomes Web3-enabled through a layer that feels like a cross-platform software upgrade rather than an entirely new product.

The process is similar to how an Internet Protocol layer sits on top of computer hardware, managing the flow of data across different environments. Mask does something comparable in the realm of social networking: the legacy platform remains intact, but a new functional layer is added on top.

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What Is the MASK Token Used For?

The native token, MASK, is the fuel and governance key for the ecosystem. With a fixed supply of 100 million tokens, the scarcity is defined from the start. Here’s what it powers:

• Governance. Token holders can vote on project changes or protocol upgrades.
• Participation. Some features, membership or premium tools are unlocked via MASK.
• Utility & on-platform services. Whether it’s encrypted posts, content rights, DeFi interactions inside the social feed, MASK underpins many of those activities.

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Why Traders and Users Might Keep an Eye On It

For anyone paying attention to where crypto meets everyday life, Mask Network offers some genuinely compelling reasons to watch closely. It’s designed to work within the social platforms you're already glued to. Instead of asking people to abandon their favorite social media for some obscure decentralized alternative, Mask plugs directly into those networks. That's a huge deal because it opens the door not just to crypto enthusiasts, but to the billions of people scrolling social media every day. If even a fraction of that audience starts using Web3 features without realizing they've "entered crypto," you're looking at real adoption potential.

Then there's the privacy angle, which feels more relevant than ever. We're living in an era where data breaches make headlines constantly and people are increasingly uncomfortable with how much Big Tech knows about them. Mask’s ability to let you encrypt posts, control exactly who can see your content, and link your activity to a decentralized identity gives users a level of control they simply don't have on traditional platforms. It's not just a technical feature, it's a response to a growing demand for digital autonomy.

From a technical standpoint, Mask isn't putting all its eggs in one basket either. It's built with a multi-chain design and supports modular components like dApplets, identity layers, and wallet integrations. That flexibility means it's not locked into a single blockchain's fate and can evolve as the broader ecosystem shifts. And here's where it gets interesting for traders: MASK token utility is directly tied to the platform's growth. It powers governance decisions, unlocks premium features, and fuels ecosystem participation. The more people actually use Mask Network's features, the more integral the token becomes.

Things to Keep in Mind

Of course, no project exists in a vacuum, and Mask Network comes with its share of risks worth considering. For starters, the whole idea of blending Web3 with social media is still in its early days. While the concept is promising, achieving mainstream adoption is a different beast entirely. It requires not just a great product, but also the kind of viral momentum and user trust that takes time to build. Right now, most people aren’t thinking about decentralized social features when they scroll through 𝕏, and changing that behavior is no small task.

There are also some practical concerns. Browser extensions, by their very nature, create additional security vulnerabilities. They can be targets for phishing attacks or malicious updates, so users need to stay vigilant about what they're installing and keeping up to date. On the financial side, MASK remains a relatively smaller-cap token, which means it's subject to the wild price swings that come with the territory in crypto. Strong technology doesn't automatically insulate a project from market volatility.

Finally, Mask Network's success isn't entirely in its own hands. The project depends heavily on how major social platforms respond to third-party integrations, whether through policy changes, API restrictions, or outright blocks. Add in evolving regulations around crypto and privacy, plus the constant challenge of making these tools user-friendly enough for non-technical audiences, and you've got a complex path forward. It's a fascinating project with real potential, but these external factors will play a huge role in determining how far it can go.

Bottom Line

If you’re curious about projects at the intersection of social media and crypto, Mask Network stands out as a creative play. It’s less about traditional “DeFi only” and more about everyday digital interaction powered by blockchain. The platform’s success will depend on how smoothly it integrates into user habits and how many people adopt the social-crypto combo.

Where to Get MASK

The MASK token is available on the Tap app, making it easy to buy, hold and track right alongside your crypto portfolio.

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Το Badger DAO (BADGER) είναι ένας αποκεντρωμένος αυτόνομος οργανισμός (DAO) που δημιουργήθηκε για να φέρει το Bitcoin στις αποκεντρωμένες χρηματοοικονομικές εφαρμογές (DeFi). Σε ένα οικοσύστημα όπου το Bitcoin και το DeFi συχνά λειτουργούν ξεχωριστά, το Badger ξεχωρίζει δημιουργώντας «γέφυρες» που επιτρέπουν στους κατόχους Bitcoin να αξιοποιούν τα BTC τους στο Ethereum χωρίς να τα ρευστοποιούν.

Ας δούμε πώς η πλατφόρμα αντιμετωπίζει τις προκλήσεις της ενσωμάτωσης Bitcoin στο DeFi, της απόδοσης κερδών και της διαλειτουργικότητας μεταξύ blockchains.

TLDR

• Bitcoin στο DeFi: Το Badger δημιουργεί υποδομές που επιτρέπουν στους κατόχους BTC να τα αξιοποιούν στο DeFi του Ethereum μέσω tokenised μορφών όπως WBTC και renBTC.
• Αποκεντρωμένη διακυβέρνηση: Οι κάτοχοι του token BADGER συμμετέχουν σε ψηφοφορίες για αλλαγές στο πρωτόκολλο και κατανομές του ταμείου.
• Ολοκληρωμένο οικοσύστημα: Περιλαμβάνει το BadgerDAO (διακυβέρνηση), Sett Vaults (στρατηγικές απόδοσης), και DIGG (token με ευέλικτη προσφορά συνδεδεμένο με την τιμή του BTC).

Τι είναι το Badger DAO;

Το Badger DAO ιδρύθηκε το 2020 από τον Chris Spadafora και μια ομάδα λάτρεων του DeFi. Η πλατφόρμα ξεκίνησε χωρίς προπώληση ή VC χρηματοδότηση, διανέμοντας τα πρώτα tokens δίκαια σε χρήστες που είχαν συμμετάσχει σε άλλα DeFi πρωτόκολλα.

Ο στόχος της είναι να επιτρέψει στους κατόχους Bitcoin να αποκτούν απόδοση από τα BTC τους χωρίς να τα μετατρέπουν σε άλλα crypto, ξεπερνώντας τεχνικά εμπόδια και περιορισμούς του παραδοσιακού Bitcoin. Το Badger προσφέρει εργαλεία για να αξιοποιηθεί το Bitcoin στο DeFi με απλό και ασφαλή τρόπο.

Το 2021, η πλατφόρμα παρουσίασε το DIGG, ένα token με ευέλικτη προσφορά που προσπαθεί να παραμένει συνδεδεμένο με την τιμή του Bitcoin. Μέχρι σήμερα, το Badger παραμένει ένα από τα κορυφαία πρωτόκολλα που γεφυρώνουν το Bitcoin με τον κόσμο του DeFi.

Πώς λειτουργεί το Badger;

Η πλατφόρμα βασίζεται σε τρία βασικά στοιχεία:

• BadgerDAO – το σύστημα διακυβέρνησης, όπου οι κάτοχοι του BADGER ψηφίζουν για αποφάσεις του πρωτοκόλλου.
• Sett Vaults – έξυπνα θησαυροφυλάκια που εφαρμόζουν στρατηγικές απόδοσης σε tokenised Bitcoin.
• DIGG – ένα token που προσαρμόζει την προσφορά του για να παρακολουθεί την τιμή του BTC.

Μέσω των Sett Vaults, οι χρήστες καταθέτουν tokenised BTC όπως WBTC ή renBTC και το πρωτόκολλο τα χρησιμοποιεί σε στρατηγικές απόδοσης εντός του DeFi. Όλες οι αλλαγές στη λειτουργία εγκρίνονται από την κοινότητα μέσω του DAO, εξασφαλίζοντας διαφάνεια και συμμετοχή.

Πώς προστατεύει το Badger τα κεφάλαια των χρηστών;

Το Badger χρησιμοποιεί audited smart contracts και timelocks για κάθε αλλαγή στη διακυβέρνηση, δίνοντας στους χρήστες χρόνο να αντιδράσουν. Μετά από μια σοβαρή παραβίαση ασφαλείας το 2021, όπου χάθηκαν $120 εκατομμύρια, το πρωτόκολλο εστίασε στην ενίσχυση της ασφάλειας και την αποκατάσταση της εμπιστοσύνης μέσω ταμείου αποζημιώσεων και νέων ελέγχων.

Ποια είναι τα πλεονεκτήματα του Badger;

Η πλατφόρμα απλοποιεί τη συμμετοχή των κατόχων BTC στο DeFi και βοηθά στη μεγιστοποίηση της απόδοσης χωρίς την ανάγκη τεχνικών γνώσεων ή συνεχούς διαχείρισης. Επιπλέον, λειτουργεί ως ενοποιημένη λύση για διάφορα DeFi πρωτόκολλα και tokenised μορφές BTC.

Το Badger έχει σχεδιαστεί για να είναι προσβάσιμο ακόμη και για όσους δεν έχουν εμπειρία με το DeFi, προσφέροντας μια πιο φιλική και ολοκληρωμένη εμπειρία για εκατομμύρια χρήστες Bitcoin που θέλουν να αξιοποιήσουν τα crypto τους χωρίς να τα αποχωριστούν.

Πού χρησιμοποιείται το BADGER;

Το οικοσύστημα Badger υποστηρίζει:

• Απόδοση σε tokenised BTC μέσω DeFi
• Παροχή ρευστότητας
• Δανεισμό με BTC ως εγγύηση, χωρίς πώληση
• Συμμετοχή στη διακυβέρνηση μέσω ψήφων στο DAO

Οι επιχειρήσεις μπορούν επίσης να αξιοποιήσουν την πλατφόρμα για στρατηγικές απόδοσης στα αποθεματικά τους σε Bitcoin, χωρίς να αναλαμβάνουν περιττό ρίσκο.

Πώς μπορώ να αγοράσω BADGER;

Μπορείτε να αγοράσετε και να πουλήσετε το BADGER εύκολα μέσα από την εφαρμογή Tap, αρκεί να έχετε ολοκληρώσει την εγγραφή και την ταυτοποίησή σας. Κατεβάστε την εφαρμογή για να ξεκινήσετε.

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Cashback is essentially getting paid to shop for things you'd buy anyway. Whether you're a seasoned rewards hunter or just curious about making your money work harder, this guide explores how savvy consumers are earning while spending, without changing their shopping habits. Ready to turn your everyday purchases into extra cash? Let's dive in.

What is cashback? 

Cashback is a rewards program that gives you a percentage of your money back when you make purchases using eligible credit cards, debit cards, or shopping platforms. Think of it as a small rebate on what you spend, typically ranging from 1% to 5% of your purchase amount. 

In recent years, cashback has increased in popularity across financial services and retail, becoming one of the most straightforward and appealing customer incentives (no guesses why).

Unlike complicated points systems or airline miles, cashback offers a simple proposition: spend money and get some of it back. Cashback transforms everyday spending into an opportunity to save, whether through your credit card statement, a bank transfer, or an app balance.

How does cashback work?

At its core, cashback operates on a simple principle: when you spend money, you earn a percentage back. This percentage - known as the cashback rate - determines how much you'll receive. For example, a 2% cashback rate means you'll get $2 back for every $100 you spend.

Here's what happens behind the scenes:

1. You make a purchase with your cashback-enabled card or through a cashback platform.
2. The transaction is processed and qualified against the program's terms.
3. Cashback is calculated based on the purchase amount and applicable rate.
4. The reward is credited to your account (either immediately or after a designated period).

Cashback rewards are typically issued as:

• Statement credits (reducing what you owe on your credit card)
• Direct deposits to your bank account
• Digital wallet credits within an app
• Gift cards or vouchers for specific retailers

Most cashback programs are funded through transaction fees that merchants pay to credit card companies (typically 2-3% of each purchase). The card issuer then shares a portion of these fees with you as cashback. For retailer programs and cashback apps, the incentive is funded through marketing budgets as they benefit from increased customer spending and loyalty.

Different types of cashback programs

Credit card cashback

Credit cards are a common way to earn cashback, generally structured in three main formats:

1. Flat-rate cashback cards 

These cards offer the same cashback rate on all purchases, regardless of category. For example, the Citi® Double Cash Card offers up to 2% on all purchases (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay). Note that rewards are earned as ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for cash back or other options.

2. Tiered/category cashback cards 

These offer higher cashback rates in specific categories and lower rates elsewhere. For instance, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offers 6% back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year), 6% on select U.S. streaming services, 3% on transit and U.S. gas stations, and 1% on everything else.

3. Rotating category cards

These cards offer higher cashback (often 5%) in categories that change each quarter,  such as restaurants, gas stations, or online shopping.
For example, The Chase Freedom Flex℠  and Discover it® cash back programs require users to activate these categories each quarter, from where they can earn up to 5% cashback on purchases. 

Debit card cashback

Differing from the credit card structure above, debit card cashback typically comes in two forms:

1. Bank-offered cashback programs 

Rewards for using your debit card for purchases. These are often tied to premium or business accounts and offer lower rates than credit cards (typically 0.5%-1%) since banks don't earn the same merchant fees that credit card companies do.

Examples include: Discover Cashback Debit offering 1% on up to $3,000 in monthly purchases; while some neobanks or fintechs offer promotional cashback for debit use, but these are often time-limited (Not at Tap).

2. Cash back at checkout 

This feature allows you to withdraw cash alongside your purchase at certain retailers (e.g., Walmart, Walgreens, or pharmacies), essentially getting "cash back" at the point of sale. This isn't a reward but a convenience service.

Retailer-specific programs

Many stores offer their own cashback programs:

1. Store loyalty programs 

These provide rebates on purchases, often tracked through a membership account. Examples include Target Circle, which offers 1% in rewards on qualifying purchases, or Kohl's Cash, which gives you $10 in store credit for every $50 spent during promotional periods.

2. Receipt scanning programs 

Apps like Ibotta and Checkout 51 offer cashback when users upload receipts or link loyalty cards. Offers vary by retailer and product.

Cashback websites and apps

These third-party platforms connect shoppers with retailers and share the commission they receive:

1. Cashback websites 

Websites like Rakuten, TopCashback, and BeFrugal offer rebates when you shop at partner retailers through their portal. These sites earn commissions from retailers for referring customers and share a portion with you.

2. Browser extensions 

Honey (owned by PayPal) and Capital One Shopping apply coupons and may offer cashback (called “Honey Gold” or Capital One Shopping Credits), though amounts and eligibility vary.

However, these platforms often come with caveats:

• Cashback typically pays out quarterly rather than immediately
• Minimum payout thresholds may apply (often $5-$25)
• Some offers are region-specific or limited-time

How much cashback can you earn?

Cashback earnings vary widely across programs:

Typical credit card rates range from 1% to 2% as a baseline, with category bonuses reaching 3% to 6%. Premium cards may offer higher rates but often carry annual fees.

Sign-up bonuses can significantly boost initial earnings, sometimes offering $150-$300 back after spending a certain amount in the first few months.

Cashback apps and websites typically offer higher percentages (often 2%-10%) but on a more limited selection of retailers.

Most programs include some limitations:

• Spending caps that limit cashback on certain categories (e.g., 6% on groceries up to $6,000 yearly)
• Minimum spend requirements before cashback activates
• Redemption thresholds requiring you to accumulate a minimum amount (often $20-$25) before cashing out
• Quarterly or annual payment schedules rather than immediate rewards

How much cashback can you earn with Tap?

Looking for a cashback program that gives you Cashback rewards on your your spendings and not just at specific brands or places? Tap makes it easy. By using your Tap card, you earn Cashback rewards on your spending, from groceries to fuel and even holidays.

How much can you earn? With Tap’s flexible premium tiers, cashback rewards are tailored to fit your lifestyle: earn from 0.5% up to 8% on every eligible purchase made with your Tap card. The more you spend, the more you earn—simple as that.

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Pros and cons of cashback programs

Pros

• Simplicity: Cash rewards are straightforward to understand and use
• Flexibility: Unlike points or miles, cash can be used for anything
• Automatic earnings: Most programs require minimal effort beyond using the right card
• No devaluation: Unlike travel points, a dollar of cashback remains a dollar
• Immediate value: No need to save up for specific redemptions

Cons

• Potential for overspending: The promise of cashback can encourage unnecessary purchases
• Hidden costs: Cards with generous cashback may have higher annual fees or interest rates
• Category restrictions: Many programs limit higher cashback to specific merchant types
• Reward caps: Many programs limit how much you can earn in bonus categories
• Redemption delays: Some programs only pay out quarterly or when you reach certain thresholds

Is Cashback really free money?

Cashback isn't exactly "free", it's better understood as a discount on your spending. The funding comes from several sources:

Debit and Credit card cashback is funded by interchange fees paid by merchants (typically 1.5%-3.5% of each transaction). Card issuers share a portion of these fees with cardholders to encourage more spending.

Retail cashback programs are essentially marketing expenses designed to drive sales and customer loyalty.

Cashback apps and websites earn affiliate commissions from retailers and share a portion with users.

The most important caveat: cashback on credit cards only makes financial sense if you pay your balance in full each month. If you carry a balance, the interest charges (often 15%-25% APR) will quickly exceed any cashback earned.

How to choose the right cashback option

Finding the best cashback program depends on your spending patterns and preferences:

Analyse your spending habits: Review your monthly expenses to identify where you spend the most. If groceries and gas dominate your budget, a card with bonus rewards in those categories makes sense. If your spending is diverse, a flat-rate card might be better.

Consider fees vs rewards: Some cards with higher cashback rates charge annual fees. Calculate whether your typical spending will earn enough extra cashback to offset any fees.

Evaluate redemption options: Consider how and when you can access your cashback. Some programs offer automatic redemption, while others require manual redemption or have minimum thresholds.

For businesses: Business-specific cashback cards often offer higher rewards on categories like office supplies, internet services, and travel. If you're a business owner, these specialised options may provide better value than consumer cards.

Tips to maximise cashback

Strategically use multiple cards: You can use different cards for different categories based on which offers the highest rate for each spending type.

Stack rewards programs: Combine a cashback credit card with a cashback app or website for double dipping. For example, make a purchase through Rakuten using a cashback credit card.

Activate bonus categories: Many cards require quarterly activation of rotating bonus categories - set calendar reminders so you don't miss out.

Pay bills with cashback cards: Set up utilities, subscriptions, and other regular payments on your best cashback card (if there's no processing fee).

Watch for promotional offers: Many programs offer limited-time enhanced cashback rates or bonus categories.

Avoid carrying balances: Always pay your credit card bill in full to avoid interest charges that negate cashback benefits.

In conclusion

Cashback rewards offer a practical way to earn while you spend on everyday purchases. Unlike complicated reward systems, cashback provides straightforward value that anyone can understand and use.

Choose cards and apps that reward your existing spending patterns rather than changing your habits to chase rewards. Also, try maximising cashback benefits by matching the right programs to your spending habits and being disciplined about your purchasing behaviour.

Remember: the best cashback strategy is one that fits naturally into your financial life, providing rewards without encouraging overspending or complicating your finances.

Tired of complicated cashback programs tied to specific brands? Discover our simple Cashback program that rewards you when you spend with your Tap card, learn more here.

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Bitcoin Crashes Below $82K in Brutal Sell-Off

After breaking through several support levels, Bitcoin is trading around $82,000, extending a punishing downtrend that has erased more than 30% of its value since October's peak at $126,000.

The cause? A perfect storm of selloffs in U.S. equity markets, which triggered a wave of risk aversion that swept through global markets. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve's cautious stance on further rate cuts has injected fresh uncertainty into trading floors. Markets still anticipate a 0.25% cut, but with recession fears intensifying, traders are hitting the exits. Crypto found itself directly in the crosshairs of this flight to safety

The damage extended well beyond Bitcoin. Estimates show around $2 billion in crypto positions liquidated, as forced selling and evaporating liquidity accelerated the downturn across digital assets. But here's a twist for you: Bitcoin is now entering territory that has historically preceded major recoveries. Let’s dive in.

Bitcoin Is Officially Oversold… And That Matters

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) has officially moved into oversold territory for the first time in nine months, signaling extreme selling pressure. The last time BTC hit oversold levels was in February, right before a notable rebound. Oversold signals don’t guarantee an immediate reversal, but they often mark the beginning of seller exhaustion.

In the previous oversold event, BTC dropped around an additional 10% before bouncing. If that were to happen again, BTC could briefly dip toward $77,000 before bulls regain momentum. If the current selling eases earlier, a shorter-term bounce could happen sooner.

MVRV Points to Undervaluation

Another key indicator worth looking at is Bitcoin’s MVRV Ratio. This on-chain indicator reveals whether investors are collectively sitting on profits or losses. An MVRV Ratio above 1 means the average holder is in the green; below 1 signals most are underwater.

BTC’s MVRV now sits at 1.5, its lowest level in over two years. When MVRV enters a “opportunity zone”, it suggests two things:

• Many short-term holders are underwater
• Downside selling pressure is approaching exhaustion

Key Levels to Watch

If bearish pressure continues, it’s possible BTC could revisit the $80,000 level, with a deeper support level around $77,000, matching the RSI’s recent historical pattern.

But there’s also a realistic bullish scenario: reclaiming $92,000 could turn the structure decisively bullish, opening the door to the $95,000 region and beyond.

What Can We Expect From BTC This November?

Beyond the indicators, there’s a seasonal angle worth emphasizing: Bitcoin has historically shown strong end-of-year recoveries and rallies. Even during weaker macro environments, Q4 has often delivered rebounds driven by renewed risk appetite and improved liquidity flows.

Combine that with oversold technicals, undervaluation signals, and easing macro uncertainty if the Fed does follow through on cuts, and the current levels could start looking less like panic territory and more like potential opportunity.

The Takeaway

Bitcoin's slide doesn’t appear to be driven by broken fundamentals; it's the result of macro turbulence, risk-off positioning, and temporary sentiment shifts. Short-term chop may persist, but on the flip side, key indicators are flashing oversold conditions which have historically marked turning points.

Corrections are part of Bitcoin's DNA. It has survived far steeper crashes and consistently emerged more resilient. Whether the bounce starts today or after one final shake-out, the pattern is familiar: selling exhaustion plants the seeds for the next rally. Patient holders have seen this pattern many times, and more often than not, their patience has been rewarded.

Ready to cut through traditional banking barriers and dive into the world of crypto payments? From buying falafels at your local cafe to luggage from a store in Japan, crypto payments are fast, cost-effective, and easier than you can imagine. 

In this guide, we will walk you through exactly how to pay with crypto - from opening your account to making your first transaction. By the end, you'll have the confidence to make crypto payments anywhere, anytime.

Is paying with crypto legal?

Let's address the elephant in the room first. Paying with crypto is legal in most major markets, including the United States, the European Union, Canada, and the UK. However, some countries, like China and India, have restrictions on crypto transactions.

Here's the global snapshot:

• Fully legal: US, EU, UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, Switzerland
• Restricted or banned: China, India (limited use), Russia (complex regulations)
• Grey areas: Some developing nations with evolving frameworks

Why does this matter? Operating within legal boundaries protects you from compliance issues and ensures your transactions won't be flagged or reversed. Rest assured, Tap only operates in jurisdictions where crypto payments are fully compliant.

How crypto payments work

Think of crypto payments like sending an email instead of traditional mail. With email, your message goes directly from your computer to the recipient's inbox through the internet. 

Similarly, crypto payments travel directly from your cryptocurrency wallet to the merchant's wallet through a blockchain network - no banks or financial middlemen required.

Here's what happens behind the scenes:

• Your payment gets recorded on a decentralised ledger (blockchain)
• Multiple computers verify the transaction
• Once confirmed, the payment is permanent and irreversible
• The entire process typically takes minutes, not days

This system eliminates the need for banks, reduces fees, and works 24/7 globally.

Common payment methods

There are several ways to pay with crypto, each suited for different situations. Here are the two most popular:

On-chain wallet transfers involve scanning a QR code or copying a wallet address to send payments directly from your wallet to theirs. This method works well for peer-to-peer transactions and in-store payments. As a side note: Tap users can enjoy free transfers between users, anywhere in the world.

Tap’s crypto-backed debit card lets you spend your crypto anywhere Mastercard and Visa are accepted. The card automatically converts your crypto to fiat at the point of sale.

Setting up your Tap account

Here’s how to get started:

1. Download the app and create your account.
   
   
2. Complete the quick identity check.
   Since Tap is licensed and regulated, we ask for some basic verification - just like any trusted fintech app. It only takes a few minutes.
   
   
3. Once you're approved, you're in.
   You’ll be ready to explore the crypto world.

Order your Tap card
Tap the “Card” tab in the app (between Hub and Cash), and follow the steps to order your card. It’ll arrive in a few days, depending on where you are.

Now all you need is crypto.
Topping up your wallet is simple.
To load fiat (USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, CHF, JPY), tap “Cash” in the top menu and hit the black “Add Money” button. Choose your preferred method and follow the instructions.

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If you already have crypto, select Cryptocurrencies from the top menu, Add Money, and then the last option (Crypto Deposit). It’ll take a few minutes to clear (depending on the network).

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When your card arrives, move funds to the Card section of your wallet, and you’re all set. 

Step-by-step: how to make a crypto payment with Tap

Ready to make your first crypto payment? Let’s get stuck in:

Step 1: Take your Tap card out of your wallet.

Step 2: Swipe or tap at the merchant. 

That’s it. Couldn’t be simpler. 

Making a crypto payment through the app

If you don’t have a card or are waiting for it to arrive, here is the alternative option:

Step 1: Go to the “Cryptocurrencies” section of the app.

Step 2: Tap on “Send”.

Step 3: Choose “Crypto Withdrawal”.

Step 4: Pick the crypto you’d like to use.

Step 5: Tap the blue + New icon in the upper right corner.

Step 6: Choose “External Beneficiary” and carefully enter the wallet address.

Step 7: To complete the transfer, select the Beneficiary you just added and initiate the transfer.

Most payments are confirmed within minutes, though some networks may take longer during high-traffic periods.

Converting crypto to fiat & using crypto cards

Not every merchant accepts crypto directly, but that doesn't limit your spending power. Tap offers seamless conversion options that bridge the gap between crypto and traditional payments.

Our instant conversion feature lets you convert crypto to fiat currencies within your Tap account. Simply select the amount you want to convert, choose your target currency, and confirm the transaction. The converted funds appear in your fiat balance immediately.

The Tap Card takes this further by allowing you to spend crypto anywhere Mastercard and Visa are accepted. When you make a purchase, the card automatically converts the required amount from your crypto balance to fiat at competitive exchange rates. You can use it for online shopping, in-store purchases, or ATM withdrawals globally. Simply load the money onto your card through the app, and we’ll handle the rest.

Conversion happens in real-time, so you always get current market rates. *For real-time FX rates, click on your profile picture on the homepage and scroll down to “FX Calculator". 

Fees, speeds & network choices

Understanding fees helps you make cost-effective payment decisions. There are two types of fees to consider:

Network fees go to blockchain validators who process your transaction. These vary by network and have nothing to do with Tap.

Bitcoin during peak times might cost $10-50, while networks like Polygon often cost under $0.01. Lightning Network Bitcoin payments typically cost less than a penny.

Tap fees are transparent and competitive. We charge a small percentage for conversions and premium features, but basic payments between Tap users are free.

Confirmation times depend on your chosen network:

• Lightning Network: Instant
• Ethereum: 1-5 minutes
• Bitcoin: 10-60 minutes
• Polygon: Under 1 minute

Best practice: For small, everyday purchases, use fast, low-cost networks like Lightning or Polygon. For larger transactions where security is important, Bitcoin's main network offers maximum security despite higher fees.

Security & common pitfalls

Crypto payments are irreversible, making security crucial. Here are the main risks and how to avoid them:

Wrong addresses are the top cause of lost payments. Always double-check recipient addresses and use QR codes when possible. Try to avoid typing wallet addresses manually unless necessary.

Phishing attacks trick users into entering wallet details on fake websites. Always bookmark legitimate sites and verify URLs carefully. Do not follow links from emails or text messages.

Rug pulls and scam projects promise unrealistic returns. Stick to established cryptocurrencies and verified merchants when making payments.

Tap's built-in safeguards include two-factor authentication and automated AML checks that flag suspicious transactions. 

Tax & reporting considerations

Here's something many users overlook: spending crypto is a taxable event in most jurisdictions. When you use crypto to buy goods or services, you're technically selling that crypto, which may trigger capital gains tax.

How it works: If you bought Bitcoin at $30,000 and spent it when Bitcoin was $40,000, you owe tax on the $10,000 gain, even though you used it for a purchase rather than selling for cash.

Record-keeping is essential. To stay on the safe side, keep records of your transactions that include purchase dates, sale dates, amounts, and calculated gains or losses.

Regional differences matter:

• United States: IRS treats crypto spending as taxable events with capital gains implications
• European Union: VAT applies to crypto purchases, but capital gains treatment varies by country
• Other regions: Consult local tax advisors as regulations continue evolving

We recommend consulting with a crypto-savvy accountant to ensure you’re on the right side of your local tax obligations.

Why choose Tap to pay with crypto

We've built Tap specifically to solve the pain points of crypto payments. Here's what sets us apart:

Instant settlement means merchants receive payments immediately, not after blockchain confirmations. This solves the biggest barrier to crypto adoption for businesses.

Multi-chain support lets you use Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins, and 60+ other cryptocurrencies through a single platform. No need to manage multiple wallets or apps.

Built-in compliance handles KYC/AML requirements automatically, so you can focus on payments rather than paperwork. We operate within regulatory frameworks. 

Global reach without the complexity of international banking. Accept payments from anywhere, settle in your preferred currency, and expand your market instantly.

Ready to start paying with crypto? Download the Tap app and join the future of digital payments.

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