Protect Yourself from Online Fraud

Internet fraud is something everyone has to worry about these days. While the internet has certainly made life easier for individuals and businesses alike, there is always a risk of identity theft. By taking a few precautions, you can greatly reduce the risk to yourself and your business. The FBI provides information on prevalent fraud schemes on their website, as well as tips to avoid common scams, both on and offline. Consider a few of the tips below before conducting an online transaction and help keep your personal and business identities safe.

• There is no reason to give your social security number in order to conduct business online.
• When making a purchase, make sure you are doing so from a reputable source.
• Research the individual company you are dealing with to be sure they are legitimate.
• Obtain a physical address and phone number rather than a post office box. Call the company directly to be sure that the contact information is legitimate.
• Don’t judge a company by its website. Websites can be created easily.
• Inquire about warrantees and return policies.
• Be cautious when dealing with companies outside of your own country.
• If possible make purchases with your credit card, since you can often dispute your purchase if something goes wrong.

You can find a complete listing of online safety tips and common fraudulent practices at www.fbi.gov. It is always a good idea to be proactive when keeping your business and personal identities safe from online fraud. A few extra moments of your time could save you from having to repair avoidable damage.

Are business cards a thing of the past?

The business card.  There’s a lot of potential in that little piece of card stock.  Though technology has made communicating with others nearly instantaneous, there is still a place for the business card in everyday life.

Throughout history, calling cards (for the wealthy) and trade cards (for merchants and shops) have been a central part of people’s lives.  The wealthy would call on friends and acquaintances, presenting their card to the staff who admitted them.  Trade cards were colorful advertisements for shops and merchants, usually with a map, in order to direct customers to their place of business. Naturally, the more colorful and eye catching the card, the more likely it would be noticed, thereby increasing sales.

Times change, but the basic functionality of the business card remains the same.  A small thing, but providing someone with your contact information is the first step in creating a lasting business relationship.  Keep some things in mind when you’re designing your cards in the future.

• Sales increase 2.5% with every 2000 cards you hand out.  Make sure you keep track of your inventory.
• People will keep a color card 10 times longer than a plain card.
• Consider adding a QR Code to drive business to a special offer for your customers, or a specific page of your website.
• Make sure your business card looks professional.  Don’t overwhelm people with loud graphics or illegible print. No one can contact you if they can’t read the information you’ve given them.
• Provide some key points of interest about your business.  This will help people tie you to your business. 
• While non-standard cards are eye-catching, they make it difficult for people to store easily.  If you want a card that stands out from the rest, consider having two cards printed. 

In the end, no matter what technology brings us in the future, the business card will always have its place. Make sure yours represents you and your business in the best possible way.

-Kate