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Sunday 30 June 2024

Unique & Cool Electronics & Tech Gadgets 2024

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, staying ahead of the curve with the latest and most innovative gadgets is essential. As we dive into 2024, a plethora of cutting-edge electronics and tech gadgets have emerged, promising to revolutionise the way we live, work, and play. 



From smart home devices to wearable tech, these unique and cool gadgets are set to make waves in the tech industry. Let’s explore some of the most exciting and trend-setting gadgets of 2024.

1. Next-Generation Smartwatches: The Ultimate Wearable Tech

Smartwatches have come a long way since their inception, and 2024 is witnessing a new wave of next-generation smartwatches. These devices are not just about tracking steps and notifications anymore. They have advanced health monitoring features like ECG, blood oxygen level detection, and even blood glucose monitoring. The Apple Watch Series 10 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 lead the charge with their sleek designs and comprehensive health-tracking capabilities.

Features to Look Out For:

  • Advanced Health Monitoring: These smartwatches offer a comprehensive suite of health metrics from heart rate to glucose levels.
  • Enhanced Battery Life: New battery technologies extend usage time to several days on a single charge.
  • Customisable Watch Faces: Personalize your watch face to reflect your style and preferences.

2. Smart Home Hubs: The Central Control for Your Smart Devices

The concept of a smart home has become more tangible with the introduction of smart home hubs that serve as the central control for all connected devices. The Amazon Echo Show 15 and the Google Nest Hub Max are at the forefront, offering seamless integration with various smart devices.

Key Features:

  • Voice Command Integration: Control your home with voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant.
  • Compatibility with Multiple Devices: Connect and manage everything from lights to security systems.
  • Interactive Displays: Access information and control your devices through a user-friendly touch screen.

3. Augmented Reality Glasses: Bringing the Virtual World to Life

Augmented Reality (AR) glasses have transitioned from a futuristic concept to a practical tool that enhances our interaction with the real world. The Microsoft HoloLens 3 and the Magic Leap 2 are leading this transformation with their immersive AR experiences.



Benefits of AR Glasses:

  • Enhanced Productivity: Use AR for virtual meetings, hands-free navigation, and more.
  • Immersive Entertainment: Experience games and media in a whole new dimension.
  • Real-Time Information: Access real-time data overlays for navigation, work, and everyday tasks.

4. Foldable Smartphones: The Future of Mobile Devices

Foldable smartphones are pushing the boundaries of what mobile devices can do. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 and the Huawei Mate X3 are paving the way with their innovative designs that combine the functionality of a smartphone and a tablet.

Notable Features:

  • Dual Screen Functionality: Switch between a compact phone and a large screen tablet with ease.
  • Robust Durability: Improved hinge mechanisms and materials ensure long-lasting performance.
  • Enhanced Multitasking: Run multiple apps simultaneously on different screen sections.

5. AI-Powered Personal Assistants: Your Digital Companion

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making personal assistants smarter and more intuitive. Devices like the Amazon Echo Dot 6 and the Google Nest Mini 3 come with enhanced AI capabilities that understand and predict user needs more accurately than ever before.

Advantages of AI Personal Assistants:

  • Predictive Assistance: AI learns your habits and preferences, offering more personalised help.
  • Seamless Integration: Connect with smart home devices and other tech gadgets effortlessly.
  • Improved Natural Language Processing: Interact with your devices in a more natural and conversational manner.

6. Electric Bikes: Eco-Friendly Commuting Solutions

As cities push for greener transportation, electric bikes are becoming a popular choice for urban commuting. The RadRover 6 Plus and the VanMoof S5 offer advanced features like pedal assist and long battery life, making them ideal for daily use.

Why Electric Bikes Stand Out:

  • Eco-Friendly Transportation: Reduce your carbon footprint with electric-powered commutes.
  • Cost-Effective Travel: Save money on fuel and public transport fares.
  • Convenient and Fun: Enjoy a quicker, more enjoyable commute.

7. Smart Fitness Equipment: Revolutionizing Home Workouts

With more people turning to home workouts, smart fitness equipment is gaining traction. Devices like the Peloton Bike+ and the Tonal Home Gym provide interactive, personalised workout experiences.

Highlights of Smart Fitness Gear:

  • Interactive Workouts: Access live and on-demand classes with professional trainers.
  • Performance Tracking: Monitor your progress and adjust workouts to meet your fitness goals.
  • Space-Saving Designs: Compact equipment fits into any home gym setup.

8. 3D Printers: Bringing Creativity to Life

3D printing technology has advanced significantly, with new models like the Prusa i3 MK4 and the Creality Ender 7 making it easier for individuals to create custom objects and prototypes from the comfort of their homes.

Benefits of Modern 3D Printers:

  • Precision Printing: Achieve high-quality, detailed prints with minimal errors.
  • Wide Range of Materials: Print with various materials, from plastics to metals.
  • User-Friendly Interfaces: Easily navigate and control the printing process.

9. Portable Projectors: Cinematic Experiences Anywhere

Portable projectors are bringing the magic of the big screen to any location. The Anker Nebula Capsule Max and the XGIMI MoGo Pro+ offer high-quality projection in compact, travel-friendly sizes.

Key Features of Portable Projectors:

  • High-Resolution Projection: Enjoy crisp, clear images in full HD.
  • Compact and Lightweight: Easily transport and set up your projector anywhere.
  • Multiple Connectivity Options: Connect to smartphones, laptops, and other devices seamlessly.

10. Advanced Drones: Elevating Aerial Photography

Drones have become essential tools for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike. The DJI Air 3 and the Autel EVO Lite+ offer state-of-the-art features that elevate aerial photography to new heights.

Drone Innovations:

  • High-Resolution Cameras: Capture stunning 4K videos and high-resolution photos.
  • Obstacle Avoidance: Advanced sensors ensure safe and smooth flights.
  • Extended Flight Time: Enjoy longer flight durations with improved battery technology.

The tech landscape of 2024 is brimming with unique and cool gadgets that cater to a wide range of interests and needs. From the latest in wearable tech to innovative smart home devices, these electronics and tech gadgets are set to redefine how we interact with technology. Stay ahead of the curve and embrace these groundbreaking innovations to enhance your lifestyle in the year ahead.

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Wednesday 26 June 2024

How to Attract new customers by listing your Products on Google Search, Google Maps, Youtube and Google Images

Boost Your Ecommerce Business: How to Attract Customers Using Google’s Platforms


Introduction

Ladies and gentlemen, entrepreneurs of the digital frontier, gather 'round. Today, we embark on a journey—a quest for online supremacy

Our destination? 

The coveted land of customer acquisition, where fortunes are made, and brands rise like phoenixes from the pixelated ashes.

Why is online visibility paramount for e-commerce businesses

Well, my friends, it’s simple: If your business isn’t visible online, it’s like opening a store in the middle of a dense forest—beautifully crafted, but utterly deserted. 

Fear not! Google, our digital compass, points the way.


1. Google Business Profile: Your Storefront Online

Imagine your Google Business Profile as the neon-lit sign above your shop. It beckons weary travellers, promising treasures within. 

But how does it work? 

Picture this: You claim your business, like a knight claiming his ancestral sword. 

Then, you personalise it—add photos, offers, and posts. Your phone number becomes a hotline to Adventure and your operating hours? 

Well, they’re the heartbeat of your digital existence. But wait, there’s more! 

Direct messaging—we’re talking carrier pigeons of the 21st century—connects you with potential customers. And reviews? 

Ah, reviews are the whispers in the marketplace, shaping your destiny.


2. Showcasing Your Products on Google

Enter the Google Merchant Center, our magical marketplace. Here, you upload your wares—the enchanted swords, the elixirs, the pixelated potions. Optimise your product descriptions; weave spells with words. Google Search becomes your enchanted forest, where seekers type incantations like “best-running shoes” or “unicorn-shaped coffee mugs.” 

Be there, waiting, like a wise old wizard.

Google Maps? It’s your treasure map, guiding adventurers to your physical store. Highlight inventory, services, and secret passages (okay, maybe not the last one). 

YouTube—the grand theatre of the digital realm—showcases your products in epic videos. 

And Google Images? Tag your images like a bard composing ballads—captivate, enchant, and conquer.



3. Smart Campaigns: Reaching New Customers

  • Ah, Smart campaigns—the sorcery of our age.
  • Targeted ads on Google Search and Maps—like whispers carried by the wind.
  • AI-powered optimisation—think Merlin tweaking spells for maximum impact.
  • And budget efficiency? It’s like turning lead into gold. Spend wisely, my friends, and watch your coffers overflow.

4. Understanding Customer Behaviour

  • Google Analytics —the crystal ball of the modern merchant. Peer into its depths.
  • Keywords—the incantations that summon your business.
  • Calls—the echoes of curiosity.
  • Reviews—the applause or the boos from the digital amphitheatre. Adapt, evolve, and thrive.

5. Appealing to Gen X and Millennials

  • Listen closely, for here lies the secret: Authenticity. Tell your brand’s saga—the hero’s journey, the dragons slain, the potions brewed. 
  • Social proof—gather testimonials like rare gems. 
  • Mobile optimisation—your website, a nimble acrobat on smartphones. 
  • Visual content—paint masterpieces with pixels.


Conclusion

In this grand saga, dear e-commerce owners, Google’s platforms are your trusty steeds. Ride forth, banners unfurled, and conquer the digital realm. 

Remember: Visibility isn’t vanity; it’s survival. So, my fellow adventurers, may your pixels be ever sharp, your reviews ever glowing, and your profits—oh, sweet profits—overflow like a cornucopia of digital delights.


And now, go forth, my digital knights, and may the algorithms be ever in your favour! 🚀🌟


Disclaimer: The above article is a creative work of fiction inspired by the legendary Steve Jobs. Any resemblance to actual events or persons is purely a magical coincidence. 😊

Monday 24 June 2024

Illuminate Your Home and Life with LED Lighting: The Perfect Choice for Indoors and Out 🌟🏡

 Picture this: a warm, inviting glow illuminating your living space, highlighting every corner with perfect radiance. Your garden, a mesmerising wonderland, effortlessly lit up to showcase its beauty. 

With LED lights and LED strip light kits, you’re not just lighting your home—you’re creating an ambience that resonates with warmth, efficiency, and style. Let’s explore how LED lighting can transform your home and why it's the perfect investment for a brighter, more efficient future.



The Bright Advantage of LED Lighting

Energy Efficiency: Light Up Your Life, Not Your Bills 💡💸

One of the standout benefits of LED lights is their incredible energy efficiency. These lights use significantly less electricity than traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, translating to lower utility bills and reduced environmental impact. Imagine the satisfaction of knowing that every flick of the switch not only brightens your home but also contributes to a greener planet. 🌍🌿

Longevity: Shine Brighter for Longer ⏳✨

LED lights are renowned for their longevity. A typical LED bulb can last up to 25,000 hours, outlasting traditional bulbs by years. This means fewer replacements, less waste, and more time enjoying a beautifully lit home. Picture the ease of mind, knowing your lighting solution is as enduring as your love for a well-lit space. 💡❤️



Versatility: Light Up Every Corner, Inside and Out 🏠🌳

From cozy living rooms to vibrant outdoor spaces, LED lighting offers unparalleled versatility. Indoor LED lights provide the perfect ambiance for any room, while LED strip light kits offer creative lighting solutions for under cabinets, along hallways, and in any nook or cranny that needs a touch of brightness. And for your garden or patio, LED lights ensure your outdoor areas are as inviting and magical as the indoors. ✨🏡🌼

Transform Your Home Environment: The Emotional Impact of Lighting

Create the Perfect Ambiance: A Home That Reflects Your Style 🎨🏡

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood of your home. Imagine coming home to a warmly lit living room, where the glow from your LED lights creates an atmosphere of comfort and relaxation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening with a book, the right lighting can make every moment special. With LED strip light kits, you can even customize the color and intensity of your lights to suit any occasion, turning your home into a reflection of your unique style and personality. 🎉📚

Enhance Safety and Security: Peace of Mind Around the Clock 🕵️‍♂️🚨

Good lighting isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about safety. LED lights can illuminate pathways, driveways, and entrances, reducing the risk of accidents and deterring potential intruders. Imagine the peace of mind knowing that your home is well-lit, safe, and secure, whether you’re home or away. With energy-efficient LED lighting, you can keep your home illuminated without worrying about high energy costs. 🌟🏡🔒

Boost Your Mood and Productivity: Light That Uplifts 🌈💪

Lighting has a profound effect on our mood and productivity. Indoor LED lights with adjustable brightness and color temperatures can help create an environment that enhances your focus and uplifts your spirits. Imagine starting your day in a brightly lit kitchen that energizes you or winding down in a softly lit bedroom that soothes your senses. With the right LED lighting, your home can become a haven of well-being and productivity. ☀️🛌




Why You Should Choose LED Lighting for Your Home

Economic Savings: More Than Just Lower Energy Bills 💰🌟

While LED lights are initially more expensive than traditional bulbs, their longer lifespan and lower energy consumption make them a more cost-effective option in the long run. Imagine the long-term savings as you reduce your energy bills and bulb replacement costs. This smart investment not only benefits your wallet but also adds value to your home, making it a wise choice for any homeowner. 💡💵

Eco-Friendly: A Small Step Towards a Greener Future 🌍💚

Switching to LED lighting is a step towards reducing your carbon footprint. LED lights consume less energy and produce fewer carbon emissions compared to traditional lighting options. Imagine the satisfaction of contributing to a more sustainable future while enjoying the benefits of efficient, beautiful lighting in your home. 🌿🌏

Style and Functionality: Light That Adapts to Your Needs 🌟🛠️

LED strip light kits offer unmatched flexibility, allowing you to create unique lighting solutions tailored to your home’s needs. Whether you want to highlight architectural features, create a cosy reading nook, or illuminate outdoor spaces, LED lights provide a stylish, functional solution that enhances your home’s appeal. Picture the joy of customising your lighting to reflect your lifestyle and preferences, making your home truly your own. 🏠❤️



Illuminate Your Future with LED Lighting

Choosing LED lights for your home is more than just a practical decision; it’s a step towards a brighter, more beautiful future. Imagine living in a home that not only looks amazing but also saves you money and helps protect the environment. With LED strip light kits and indoor LED lights, you can transform any space into a haven of light, warmth, and style.

Don’t settle for ordinary lighting when you can have the extraordinary. Make the switch to LED lighting today and experience the difference it can make in your home and your life.


Ready to light up your home with the best? Discover our range of LED lights and LED strip light kits here. 🌟🏡💡


Transform your living spaces with the power of LED lighting. Because you deserve a home that shines as brightly as you do. 🌟🏠✨

Wednesday 19 June 2024

How can you Elevate Your Culinary Journey with a Velaze Cookware Set. Find out

Imagine the aroma of a delicious meal wafting through your home, the sizzle of fresh ingredients in the pan, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re crafting something truly special. Now, picture all of this made effortless with a cookware set that feels like it was designed just for you. Welcome to the world of Velaze Cookware, where your culinary dreams turn into reality.


Discover the Velaze Difference

In a world where every detail matters, Velaze Cookware sets the standard for quality and performance in the kitchen. Here’s why you deserve to experience it:

  1. Unmatched Quality: Each piece in the Velaze Cookware Set is crafted from premium stainless steel, ensuring durability and even heat distribution. Say goodbye to uneven cooking and hello to meals that are perfectly browned, tender, and delicious every time.

  2. Elegant Design: The sleek, modern look of Velaze Cookware doesn’t just enhance your kitchen aesthetics—it transforms your space into a culinary haven. Imagine the pride you'll feel as friends and family admire your stylish kitchen setup, all anchored by this stunning cookware.

  3. Versatile Functionality: Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or experimenting with a gourmet recipe, the Velaze Cookware Set has you covered. From simmering to sautéing, braising to baking, these pots and pans handle it all with ease, making your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

  4. Healthier Cooking: With Velaze, you can cook with less oil thanks to the non-stick properties of the cookware. Enjoy healthier meals without sacrificing flavour, and take comfort in knowing you’re providing the best for yourself and your loved ones.


Elevate Your Cooking Experience

Picture yourself in the kitchen, surrounded by the finest tools. The Velaze Cookware Set isn’t just about cooking; it’s about transforming every meal into a masterpiece. Here’s how:

  • Boost Your Confidence: There’s a unique joy in cooking with equipment that performs flawlessly. With Velaze Cookware, you'll find yourself eager to try new recipes, knowing you have the perfect partner by your side. Imagine the confidence boost of seeing a complex dish turn out perfectly, all because you had the right tools.

  • Create Memorable Moments: Cooking is more than a chore; it’s an opportunity to create memories. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or a festive feast, the reliability and elegance of Velaze Cookware make each moment in the kitchen special. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the experience and the connections you foster through cooking.

  • Enhance Your Lifestyle: Your kitchen is the heart of your home and deserves to be equipped with the best. Velaze Cookware elevates your culinary space, making cooking a joy rather than a task. Picture yourself enjoying a glass of wine, listening to your favourite music, and effortlessly creating a delicious meal with your Velaze set. It’s a lifestyle upgrade you deserve.



Why You Should Choose Velaze Cookware

In a world filled with choices, why should you choose the Velaze Cookware Set ?  

Here’s why:

  1. Reliability: Investing in Velaze Cookware means investing in quality that lasts. These are not just pots and pans; they are trusted companions in your culinary journey, designed to withstand the test of time and countless delicious meals.

  2. Value: Velaze Cookware offers exceptional value, combining high-end performance with affordability. You don’t need to break the bank to own premium cookware that delivers professional results every time you step into the kitchen.

  3. Satisfaction: The ultimate goal of cooking is to create meals that bring joy and satisfaction. With Velaze Cookware, every meal is an opportunity to impress, whether it’s your family, your friends, or just yourself. You deserve to experience the satisfaction that comes from cooking with the best.

Embrace the Best with Velaze Cookware

Ready to transform your kitchen and cooking experience? The Velaze Cookware Set is your ticket to culinary excellence. Don’t settle for ordinary when you can have the extraordinary. Elevate your cooking, your kitchen, and your life with Velaze Cookware. Because you deserve the best, and with Velaze, the best is exactly what you get.


By choosing Velaze Cookware, you’re not just purchasing a product; you’re making a statement about the importance of quality in your life. Step into a world where every meal is an opportunity to shine, and every dish is a testament to your culinary prowess. Your journey to becoming a kitchen superstar starts with Velaze. 🌟


Optimise your kitchen with the best cookware, and embrace the joy of cooking with Velaze Cookware—the ultimate choice for passionate cooks and home improvement enthusiasts alike.


Ready to embark on your culinary adventure? Discover the full range of Velaze Cookware here.

Sunday 9 June 2024

Ecommerce businesses lose $20 billion to fraud each year

Retailers are no stranger to theft. But while shoppers can’t physically shoplift inventory from a shop floor, fraudsters still target online shoppers and the merchants they buy from.



In 2023 alone, an estimated $38 billion in ecommerce losses were reported in the US due to online payment fraud, and that number is set to reach $91 billion by 2028. In terms of the cost of this fraud, a recent MRC report shows 2.9% of global ecommerce revenue was lost due to fraud between 2022 and 2023.

But no country is safe; fraud is on the rise globally.

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This guide shares how to identify ecommerce fraud, handle the problem, and use software to help both you and your customers prevent major financial losses. 

What is ecommerce fraud? 

Ecommerce fraud is when scammers intercept a commercial transaction on an ecommerce store with the goal of personal or financial gain. Also known as payment fraud, it’s a criminal act in which scammers steal money from either the customer, the merchant, or both. 

With global ecommerce sales tipped to reach $6.3 trillion in 2024, there’s plenty of opportunity for scammers to hijack customer data and commit fraud. Let’s take a look at the seven types of ecommerce fraud you’re likely contending with on your online store. 

Types of ecommerce fraud

Friendly fraud

Friendly fraud happens when customers buy something through your ecommerce website and later file a chargeback with their bank. Shoppers illegitimately claim their purchase wasn’t delivered, looked different from what they ordered, or cancelled their order shortly after placing it. A complaint to their bank prompts an investigation, causing orders to result in a chargeback.

This type of chargeback fraud is common amongst merchants, with some 62% reporting an increase in friendly fraud since last year. The good news? Roughly 9 in 10 of them submit compelling evidence to resolve friendly fraud disputes.

“Overhead costs such as operational costs, transaction fees, and so on are included in chargeback processing,” says Dan Lee, head of marketing at Sealions. “And if the merchandise is sold to a fraudster, the merchant has a slim chance of recovering it. This results in a drop in revenue as well as the loss of a customer. As a result, ecommerce companies must take precautions to safeguard themselves and their consumers from fraud.”

Card testing fraud

Card testing is a tactic fraudsters use to determine whether a stolen credit card works. Scammers often make a small, low-value purchase so the fraudulent transaction goes under the radar of the card holder. Once the card is verified to still work, they go on to make more expensive purchases using the stolen card. 

card-testingnull

Graph showing the most common types of ecommerce fraud

Types Of Fraud Experienced By Merchants – Past 3 Year Rankings & Global Incidence (2023). 2023 Global eCommerce Payments and Fraud Report

Card testing is the third-most common type of ecommerce fraud for all merchants. Not only is it frustrating for customers, but should most of your online payments be blocked due to card testing fraud, your business will be subject to extra fees and disputes. 

Refund abuse

Refund abuse is a type of ecommerce fraud where customers return broken, damaged, or stolen items to a retailer in exchange for a refund. 

While many merchants have strict return policies that determine what qualifies for a refund, it’s still a costly problem. The National Retail Federation found that retailers lost $13.70 for every $100 in returned merchandise in 2023. It’s the type of online fraud that saw the biggest increase, with merchants reporting a 25% to 30% uplift in refund abuse in 2023.

Online payment fraud

Online payment fraud happens when scammers steal another person’s payment details and use them to make purchases through your ecommerce store. 

Sometimes known as credit card fraud, it can also happen if scammers create duplicate versions of your website and encourage customers to unknowingly purchase items through a fake website. Hijackers recoup their cash and store their credit card number for future scams.  

Account takeover fraud

Account takeover is a type of fraud that happens when scammers break into a customer’s online account and use stored payment cards to make fraudulent purchases. 

Some 83% of surveyed brands experienced an increase in account takeover fraud in 2023, with scammers accessing customer accounts that use weak passwords, phishing emails, or malicious software on the device used to purchase. 

Promo, affiliate, or loyalty abuse

Ecommerce brands use promotion, affiliate, and loyalty programs to attract new customers and engage existing ones. But their popularity means promotions attract scammers who rinse your business of cash through fraud using tactics like:

  • Affiliate fraud. Affiliate marketing gives customers who refer friends a percentage commission on their order. However, some affiliates bend the rules. They send spam traffic to the website or use stolen credit cards to get paid out—even though the customers they’ve referred aren’t legitimate. 

  • Loyalty fraud. This fraud affects 22% of global retailers. It happens when customers join your loyalty program, earn points through stolen credit cards, and resell them for a percentage of their value on the dark web.

  • Promotion fraud. This happens when scammers find loopholes in a retailer’s promotions to claim products for free. 

Triangulation fraud

Triangulation fraud is a serious problem for both ecommerce merchants and customers. It impacts around 17% of all businesses that sell on multiple channels. 

Here’s how it works:

  • Fraudsters list your products for sale on marketplace such as eBay or Amazon.

  • Customers purchase the lower-than-RRP item from the scammer using their legitimate credit card.

  • The scammer uses a separate fraudulent credit card to buy the real product from your store using the customers’ shipping address.

  • The customer receives their order but their credit card information is compromised.

Triangulation fraud is a serious problem for both ecommerce merchants and customers. Marketplace shoppers unknowingly have their credit card details stolen. Retailers also process fraudulent orders without recognizing the invisible middleman using stolen cards and netting the difference between the marketplace price and actual product price.

Reasons for ecommerce fraud

Ecommerce fraud stems from many sources and motivations. Some top reasons it occurs are:

  • Data breaches: Data breaches are among the leading causes of ecommerce fraud, where hackers gain unauthorized access to a company’s digital network and steal customer information. Fraudulent purchases are often made using this stolen information.

  • Weak or stolen credentials: Users’ credentials are often stolen through phishing attacks or weak passwords. By using these credentials, fraudsters can make unauthorized purchases or misappropriate funds from sellers.

  • Lack of secure payment verification: Ecommerce platforms without secure payment verification methods are prime targets for fraud. Without tools like two-factor authentication or CVV card verification, it’s easier for fraudsters to use stolen card information to make purchases.

  • Poor website security: The low-hanging fruit for cybercriminals are ecommerce websites with inadequate security measures. Vulnerabilities can be exploited to carry out SQL injection attacks, cross-site scripting, and other tactics to bypass security measures or implant malware

  • Advanced persistent threats (APTs): In these attacks, an intruder gets access to a network and stays undetected for a long time. APTs can be used in ecommerce to gather a lot of customer data over time, leading to fraud.

  • Rapid growth of ecommerce: The swift expansion of ecommerce has made it a lucrative target for fraudsters. New and inexperienced merchants might not have robust security measures in place, making them particularly vulnerable.

  • International transactions: Transacting across borders can be riskier, since they often bypass some of the stricter fraud prevention measures in place domestically. International laws can make it hard to prosecute fraudsters in different countries.

What is ecommerce fraud prevention?

Ecommerce fraud prevention is the strategy that online merchants use to prevent, detect, and solve online fraud. It’s important for customers’ safety and avoiding lost profits, which is why 75% of online merchants increased their fraud prevention budgets in 2023.

How to identify fraud on ecommerce websites

Ecommerce fraud is an expensive problem, both in terms of lost revenue from intercepted online orders and customer loyalty. Shoppers are unlikely to return to your website if they were a victim of fraud the last time they purchased through it. 

Here are seven red flags to spot fraudulent activities happening on your website.

  • Higher order volumes. Scammers using stolen credit cards often purchase high-ticket items since the cash they’re spending isn’t their own.

  • Low value orders. “Be on the lookout for low value transactions, especially if they’re only around $1,” says Ben Hyman, CEO and co-founder of rug brand Revival. “Fraudsters will purchase low value products to see if their stolen card works.”

  • Different credit cards. It’s a warning sign when one customer makes several purchases, each using a different credit card. Scammers often do this to test whether stolen credit card details work. 

  • Repeated declined transactions. Fraudsters might not have the information they need to make purchases from a stolen card. If a payment declines repeatedly due to security code errors, for example, it’s unlikely to be an honest mistake from a genuine customer.

  • Unusual IP locations. Look out for several orders from the same IP address, or suspicious orders from an IP address in a location that isn’t familiar. If most customers are in the US, for example, an attempted high-value order from an IP address in Indonesia is a warning sign of ecommerce fraud. 

  • Different billing and shipping addresses. This is especially common with triangulation fraud, where fraudsters use stolen card details to ship items to legitimate customers. 

  • PO box shipping addresses. While this type of shipping location is popular with businesses, PO boxes allow scammers to ship online orders to an anonymous location. Be wary of shipping too many orders to a single PO address. 

Yuvi Alpert, founder and CEO of Noémie, gives an example: “A purchaser that uses multiple shipping locations, a sudden change to a PO box, or several orders coming from a region or country that you had never received orders from before are all signs that ecommerce fraud could be occurring.”

9 steps for successful ecommerce fraud prevention

  1. Manually review risky orders

  2. Limit order quantities

  3. Collect proof of delivery

  4. Be PCI compliant

  5. Show clear policies on your website

  6. Be vigilant around peak shopping seasons

  7. Use verification software

  8. Build a blocklist

  9. Use IP fraud scoring tools

The ecommerce fraud detection market will be worth $84.83 billion by 2026, with US companies spending 10% of their annual ecommerce revenue on payment fraud management. 

If you do experience fraud, it’s important to have a system in place for dealing with it,” says Kristin Stump, marketing manager at My Enamel Pins. “This might involve working with your payment processor to cancel the transaction and refund the customer, or contacting the customer directly to resolve the issue.” 

Here are nine fraud prevention strategies to minimize the likelihood of fraud happening through your website. 

1. Manually review risky orders

Ecommerce software exists to flag risky orders. Manually review orders that raise a red flag, reaching out to the customer for further information if you’re unsure whether it’s legitimate. 

If you’ve received a low-value order from an unusual IP location, conduct a manual review and reach out to the customer for further verification. Failing to hear back means there’s a strong chance that the order was made using a stolen credit card. 

Similarly, consult a customer’s purchase history to determine whether a risky transaction is ecommerce fraud. It’s likely not a cause for concern if a shopper who usually makes orders from the US makes one purchase from an IP address in Spain. But there’s a strong chance their account has been compromised if they’re making orders bigger than usual, using a different credit card, from a different location. 

It’s important to get right. Customer experience is at risk if you approve a false positive—a genuine customer who’s been incorrectly flagged as fraud. If an online order has been declined, shoppers will avoid trying another time before moving to another merchant. 

2. Limit order quantities

High order quantities is a red flag for scammers using stolen credit card information to make fraudulent purchases on your ecommerce store. 

Limit the likelihood of these orders going through by limiting the number units a customer can buy. Analyse previous sales data to understand your “normal”—the average number of units you sell each day. Automatically block orders that superseded this volume to restrict the chances of people committing fraud through your online store. 

3. Collect proof of delivery 

Return fraud often happens when customers say they haven’t received their order. It’s a $101 billion problem online retailers face, largely exasperated by lazy shipping or third-party logistics (3PL) partners.

Combat the problem, and be sure that customers only claim when they legitimately haven’t received their delivery, by working with trusted shipping carriers or 3PLs that supply proof of delivery. Customer signatures or photos of a delivered parcel act as evidence they have received the item they’re illegitimately claiming a refund for not receiving. 

4. Be PCI compliant

All ecommerce businesses need to meet Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards if they’re processing online payments safely. These PCI compliance standards include:

  • Changing the default password for software and systems

  • Encrypting cardholder data across open, public networks

  • Using antivirus software to prevent malware attacks

  • Restricting which employees can access sensitive customer data

  • Regularly testing online security systems 

Having a firewall between your internet access and any system that stores credit card details is one way to ensure PCI compliance,” says Sina Will, co-founder of Foxbackdrop. “Therefore you must verify that you are adhering to the appropriate PCI requirements to avoid sanctions or penalties.”

5. Show clear policies on your website

Policies are pages on your website that explain how your business works. Aside from blanket terms and conditions, showcase clear policies on your website to crack down on ecommerce fraud. That includes: 

  • Strong password policy. It’s easier for scammers to commit account takeover fraud if a customer’s login details are easy to crack. Alongside two-factor authentication, Stephen Light of mattress brand Nolah recommends a password policy. “While some customers find password requirements tedious,” he says, “it makes it much harder for any fraudsters to hack into our customers’ accounts if their passwords are complex.”

  • Return policy. Build your case against customers requesting chargebacks or refunds with a solid return policy. Explain what qualifies for a return, the documentation needed, and how it’ll be processed (such as a cash refund, exchange, or store credit).

  • Promotions and rewards policies. From limited order quantities to prohibiting the sale of reward points, this type of policy backs up any ecommerce fraud that goes against the terms and conditions of your promotion. 

Avoid merchant errors like unclear billing descriptions or confusing return policies that can end up frustrating legitimate customers,” says Zarina Bahadur, founder of 123 Baby Box.

6. Be vigilant around peak shopping seasons

The five-day weekend from Thanksgiving to Black Friday Cyber Monday in 2023 was the biggest online shopping season on record: $38 billion in sales, a 7.8% jump from 2022, according to Adobe Analytics

Lily Will, founder and CEO of Nia Wigs, says you should be extra cautious around these dates. 

“Customers are likewise focused and busy, and they often disregard safety measures,” she says. “Many fraudsters depend on merchants being too preoccupied or distracted to identify possible fraud during these months.”

Increase your investment in fraud prevention solutions around these peak shopping times—be that through specialist software or extra cybersecurity staff who manually review risky orders. It’ll go a long way in protecting both yours and your customers’ finances during peak fraud season. 

7. Use verification software 

A tell-tale sign of ecommerce fraud is when a customer’s billing, shipping, or card details don’t line up correctly. Automatically identify orders that raise this red flag using verification software, such as:

  • Card verification value (CV). Scammers only need to see the front of a credit card to make fraudulent online purchases. Add the three or four digit PIN (CVN) as a required field on your ecommerce checkout as an added layer of security. It’s the most popular fraud detection feature, used by over half of merchants. 

  • Address verification system (AVS). This verifies a customer’s billing address against the card they’re using. As Stephen Light, CEO and co-owner of Nolah, says, “Many fraudsters will use multiple cards to make purchases to a single address, so an address verification service can catch them out.” 

  • Identity validation. This means verifying that the person is who they claim to be. It’s a tactic used by 50% of merchants, and can involve document verification, biometric identification, or 2FA. 

verification-softwarenull


Graph showing the most common types of ecommerce fraud

Current & Planned Usage Of Fraud Detection Tools. 2023 Global eCommerce Payments and Fraud Report

8. Build a blocklist 

Catching a scammer once doesn’t mean they won’t become a repeat offender. Fraudsters can try to trick merchants by changing their name, shipping address, or credit card in the hopes that fraudulent orders will fly under the radar. 

Used by 32% of merchants, blocklists prevent repeat offenders from committing fraud through their websites. It’s a document that contains names, credit card numbers, IP addresses, and shipping addresses known to be a fraud risk. Any new orders with information that matches the blocklist are automatically blocked.

While blocklists can block fraudulent orders before they’re processed, use them with care. A legitimate customer might use a credit card previously flagged as fraudulent without realizing. Blocking their order without explanation will cause confusion and frustration—two things bound to put them off future purchases once their request to be removed from a blacklist has been approved.

9. Use IP fraud scoring tools 

One person can commit several types of fraud using the same computer. Detect those serial fraudsters with IP scoring tools such as SEON or Scamalytics. Each detects an IP address that’s been linked to fraud patterns in the past, using signals like:

  • Their location (and whether it matches the country the card is registered in)

  • Whether they’re using a VPN to disguise their true location 

  • The type of internet service provider, such as a residential or public connection 

Orders placed from an IP with a high fraud score are highlighted, ready to manually review risky orders or automatically block them. 

Ecommerce fraud prevention software

The likelihood of fraud happening on your ecommerce platform scales as your business does. Protect your store with ecommerce fraud prevention tools that check, flag, and block high-risk orders on autopilot. 

Shopify Protect

shopify-protect


Image of screen showing a fraudulent order was protected by Shopify Protect

Shopify merchants already have access to a world-class fraud algorithm that uses machine learning and data from stores across the Shopify network to identify fraudulent ecommerce orders. 

Shopify Protect provides an extra layer of protection that secures your business against fraudulent chargebacks—the friendly fraud that costs retailers between $20 and $100 each time. 

Any Shop Pay transaction that’s been cleared by Shopify Protect is safe to fulfill. Should a chargeback happen on a protected order, Shopify will cover the total cost and the chargeback fee, and handle the dispute process on your behalf. 

Price: Free for Shopify merchants.


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