8 mistakes to avoid when choosing a payment processing software

8 mistakes to avoid when choosing a payment processing software

One of the most crucial aspects of running an e-commerce business is finding the right payment gateway and processing software for customers. This choice determines the seamlessness of the transaction, which can significantly impact a customer’s shopping experience and the company’s reputation. With so many providers available, choosing the right one can be difficult. Read on to learn about common mistakes businesses make when choosing payment processing software and simple ways to avoid them. 1. Disregarding PCI DSS compliance PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) is a requirement for all payment processing software that covers credit card transactions. To comply with these regulations, the payment processor must maintain an effective firewall, use updated antivirus software, utilize encryption technology for data storage, and review their data security policy periodically. Often, companies forget to account for this compliance when looking for a payment processor, exposing their business to cyber-attacks. Before signing up for any new provider, it is important to ensure they comply with these basics. If not, the business will have to get certified on its own, which can be expensive and time-consuming. 2. Overlooking security One of the most common mistakes businesses make is to assume that security is guaranteed with their payment processing software.
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Everything to know about buy now, pay later schemes

Everything to know about buy now, pay later schemes

Of late, many retailers have been offering ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ or BNPL schemes to help people finance their purchases. Also known as a point-of-sale installment loan, these short-term plans are an effective way for companies to improve their sales by making products more affordable for their customers. These loans typically charge no interest and are fairly easy to get approval for. Here’s everything one needs to know about BNPL plans: How does BNPL work? All BNPL plans have different rules, terms, and conditions. However, most of them offer short-term loans with fixed payments without any interest or additional fees. The payment amounts and due dates are shared upfront with the customers, making it easier for them to plan their budget. Every payment is worth the same amount. After approval, a small down payment (generally 25% of the total amount) is made, and the rest is paid in pre-set installments. These BNPL plans can be availed via special apps or one’s credit card at participating stores. With these plans, the payments are automatically deducted from the source account using shared details (debit or credit card, or bank account number). Some lenders may also accept checks and credit transfers, but this is rare.
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8 common mistakes to avoid when buying used box trucks

8 common mistakes to avoid when buying used box trucks

A box truck is an essential tool for most businesses that transport goods. However, each box truck is different, and one might have to buy the appropriate one based on their business. For instance, a catering company might need a different type than a moving company. Also, purchasing a box truck isn’t simple, and one could often make mistakes. Below are eight common mistakes to avoid when buying a box truck. Going for the incorrect size One of the first common mistakes individuals make is picking an incorrect size. Those who buy a small truck might be unable to fit additional goods if needed. On the contrary, businesses that opt for a large truck might need to consider the added fuel costs. Therefore, various factors, such as the potential growth of the business and the fuel costs, need to be considered when considering the truck size. Overlooking maintenance costs A box truck will help move goods from one place to another as long as it is maintained. Those who overlook this aspect will inadvertently face multiple problems with the vehicle in the long haul. The lack of maintenance will also increase costs when accounting for repairs or replacement parts. One should ensure they research and consider the maintenance costs of the truck they are interested in before making a purchase.
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8 tips to ensure safety at large events and gatherings

8 tips to ensure safety at large events and gatherings

Attending a large event or gathering can positively impact one’s social life as it offers a chance to meet new and like-minded people and explore fresh adventures. However, mass gatherings come with potential risks as well. During large events, it is important to be mindful of security measures to protect oneself and one’s belongings. Here are a few simple but effective safety tips for attendees looking to participate in big events. Avoid carrying expensive items to the gathering Since massive gatherings attract hundreds, sometimes thousands of people, theft is common, sometimes even with tight security measures in place. Therefore, one should be extremely careful about what belongings they carry with them at such gatherings. Even if one has to carry valuable items like cameras or phones, never leave them unattended, even for a short period. To avoid the risk associated with carrying cash to such events, try to make online transactions wherever possible. Form close groups and stay with them When one attends events alone in an unfamiliar place, there is a risk of getting lost. Furthermore, individuals who attend gatherings alone are more vulnerable to threats or attacks than people coming in groups. So, a safer option would be going to large events in close groups consisting of friends, family members, colleagues, etc.
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Top 7 risks of not shredding important documents

Top 7 risks of not shredding important documents

With sensitive, confidential information always at risk of being misused or passed on to those unauthorized to access it, it is crucial to dispose of documents containing such data. This ensures that the documents do not get into the wrong hands. Shredding the documents is a commonly preferred way of getting rid of them. Not doing so can make the information, and by extension, individuals and organizations, vulnerable to the following security risks: 1. Data breach or leaks Paperwork for a business could be resumes, project plans, reports, or more sensitive information. Client lists, financial reports, and trade secrets could also be documents worth holding on to. So, improper disposal of these documents can increase the risk of data leaks, which can make the business lose its competitive edge. Organizations must adopt proper disposal methods to avoid any data breaches or leaks. A shredder can eliminate this risk entirely by cutting up documents into strips, making them unreadable. 2. Identity theft Improper document disposal can also increase the risk of identity theft. Many documents contain personal information like names, addresses, social security numbers, dates of birth, credit card information, bank account numbers, and more. Similarly, businesses could also have organizational or employee-related information that they do not want outsiders to know.
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8 common mistakes to avoid when applying for grants

8 common mistakes to avoid when applying for grants

For those passionate about converting a big, innovative idea into a mega venture, getting a grant is probably the answer to making it happen. Unfortunately, for many, striking the winning balance is tough. Also, writing a persuasive, creative, and detailed grant proposal is challenging. However, it offers a substantial view of the quantifiable outcomes and purpose if well-written. To achieve this, one must know the common mistakes to avoid when applying for grants. Not introducing oneself One must begin by specifying the organization’s goals. Assuming the funder knows everything about the person seeking a grant is one of the most common mistakes to avoid when applying for it. So, one must explicitly specify: Intricate details about the organization. Needs and the problems one’s company may serve How this program promotes the funder’s mission Writing too much While it is vital to introduce oneself, the key is to keep it crisp. People usually have a short attention span, and the foundation trustee reviewing the grant application is no exception. Most foundations conduct the proposal process online, so one may have a restrictive page count, word, or character limit. While one may be proficient and capable of writing essays on the grant, it is advantageous to keep the language to the point and concise.
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6 major mistakes to avoid in a DIY divorce

6 major mistakes to avoid in a DIY divorce

Divorce is a complex, often messy, and expensive process, especially once the legal fees are factored in.  In such cases, some couples may consider a do-it-yourself  divorce  or  a  DIY divorce to save on the lawyer’s fees.   But there are several factors  involved throughout the filing, pre-trial, and trial process that one may be unprepared for without legal counsel.  One can also make several mistakes during the proceedings that impede or complicate the divorce. Mistake 1: Not researching well before filing for divorce If one is not well-versed in one’s state court’s filing requirements, the county court divorce process can seem like a vicious web of problems. Consequently, the divorce proceedings may be prolonged for years. Broadly, the basic filing requirements may be uniform, but there will be variations based on the county and state procedures and laws. Some customs and nuances are local to every county under their court rules. So, if an individual filing for divorce is not well-acquainted with these laws, they may not meet the requirements for regulations or formalities, impacting the process. It may even lead to additional legal repercussions. Mistake 2: Not completing the required forms Not filling out the required forms is one of the top mistakes to avoid in a do-it-yourself divorce.
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10 things to consider when planning for retirement

10 things to consider when planning for retirement

Planning for retirement and ensuring a solid safety net is a dream for almost everyone. Many people yearn to relax, stop working at 50, and spend more time with nature. However, retiring early means the income flow stops while expenses continue, making it a challenging time for many. Retirement planning is not like a typical investment decision. It requires a long-term commitment. As such, it is crucial to take measures to plan for retirement carefully. It is better to start investing early It is one of the most crucial things to remember when planning for retirement. However, starting early also implies that an individual has to keep investing for a longer period, which allows the power of compounding to work in their favor. This strategy enables an individual to build a massive corpus by starting early with a tiny monthly investment. But things rarely go as planned. However, when one starts early, one can make mistakes and adapt the course correction as one continues to invest. This is a luxury one won’t have if one starts late. One can adopt an SIP approach to retirement planning to align with one’s outflow and give them the extra advantage of dollar cost averaging.
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