WARNING – First Data Phishing Attack

Feb, 12th 2014

First Data has learned of a widespread phishing attack telling recipients that their merchant ID has been locked.   Unsolicited email containing errors should always raise a red flag, especially if combined with a call to action, such as calling a toll-free number or clicking on a link. If you receive an email similar to the one below, immediately delete it from your inbox and deleted items folder.  Do not open any attachments. No further action is required on your part.
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Visa / MasterCard Class Action Settlement Recovery

A court case was recently settled between a group of merchants, on one hand, and Visa, MasterCard, and issuing banks, on the other hand, about unfair business practices related to interchange fees. If you accepted Visa or MasterCard between January 1, 2004, and November 28, 2012, you are part of a $7 billion dollar settlement. But, you have to register to be included. MerchantService.com and Brownstone Recovery Group are here to help.
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Hacked credit card machine TEXTS your info to criminals

Video A Russian-speaking man casually shows on camera how he can download a punter’s bank-card details and PIN from a hacked card reader.

In a video demonstrating a tampered sales terminal, a card is swiped through the handheld device and a PIN entered – just as any customer would in a restaurant or shop. Later, after a series of key-presses, the data is transferred to a laptop via a serial cable.

See Full Article provided by The Register

The Not So Free – Free Credit Card Machine

In today’s competitive marketplace, merchant account services are a must for any business. 80 percent of all retail customers pay with their credit and debit cards. If your business does not accept credit cards, your customers may go to someone who does; your competitor. The acceptance of major credit cards is a key factor in customer satisfaction and the success of your business.
When selecting a new merchant account provider just beware of any companies that may try to sway you by offering free credit card machines. It is nice to get something for free, but in reality, nothing really is free.
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