Julie’s Treasures and REVONU POS: Aye, the Perfect Match!

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REVONU POS is making a huge impact on the POS community, and to talk about why, we asked Julie Nelson, owner of Julie’s Treasures in Minnesota, a retail consignment store,  what she thinks about her new REVONU POS system and COCARD.

COCARD: What made you choose COCARD for your payment processing?

Julie: COCARD was recommended to me by the previous owner.

COCARD: Was the previous owner already using REVONU?

Julie: No, he didn’t have a POS system to run the business. But I definitely wanted to utilize one. The previous owner mentioned that COCARD had POS systems available and I really liked REVONU.

COCARD: So it seems like REVONU has made your business easier to manage! Could you give me some examples as to how REVONU has improved the operation of your business?

Julie: REVONU has made a positive difference! After getting REVONU, it has been easier to keep track of sales as it can sometimes be difficult to keep track of consignors. We also have two different shipping services that are out of the office, so we rely on REVONU to keep those organized. It is very important that we keep track of who we are selling to and who to pay!

COCARD: Would you say REVONU does a good job at catering to a retail business, such as Julie’s Treasures?

Julie: Yes

COCARD: Is it relatively easy for you to keep your inventory organized using REVONU?

Julie: Yes

COCARD: If you could see one feature be added/changed to REVONU what would that be?

Julie: Honestly, I haven’t encountered any issues!

COCARD: What is your favorite aspect of REVONU?

Julie: My favorite aspects are the sales tracking and the back office management options as well has being able to get support for REVONU and my merchant services account in one place with one call!

COCARD:  Thank you Julie for taking the time to speak with us today!  

Is REVONU POS right for your business?  Give us a call to set up a demo, we love to show it off!  800-318-1819

 

 

 

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EMV-compliant card reader.

EMV Pocket Glossary

silver American express chip card shown dipped, or being processed, in an emv terminalWith the liability shift here, we know that you’ve already got a lot on your plate. So we’re going to just take it easy and go over a few terms you may have already seen or will see as you continue to learn about EMV. This list can serve as a simple pocket reference during the transition. Print it out even, and refer to it as needed when reading your next article or blog post about EMV. We want the transition to be worry-free.

EMV: Short for Europay, Mastercard, and Visa, the developers of the card

Chip-enabled card: A credit card enabled with a microchip; also referred to as “chip and pin” or “chip and signature”, depending on the cardholder verification method

Fraud: the criminal use of a person’s credit card information to make unauthorized transactions

With the transition to EMV terminals, the US aims to decrease fraud. The US currently accounts for nearly half of all worldwide fraud. On a positive note, the EU has decreased card fraud by 80% since completing its transition to EMV cards, which means the US transition should be successful.

Liability shift: Starting October 1st the responsibility for fraudulent transactions switched to the party with the least EMV-capable technology

If fraud occurs with a non-EMV bank card, the bank is responsible. If fraud occurs as a result of a merchant’s POS system that can’t accept EMV-cards, the merchant is responsible. Only 20-30% of merchants are expected to use EMV-capable terminals by October 1st, with the remainder throughout the three to five-year transition period. So if you’re not there yet, don’t freak out. COCARD can work with you to determine a POS system that is right for your company’s needs.

Transaction authorization: When a chip card goes through rules set by the card-issuer to determine whether the transaction can be authorized; transactions can be authorized either online or offline

Card authentication: the process of making the card authentic or unique by providing a one-time code for the transaction

If someone does manage to actually steal this code and use it, the transaction would be declined since the code was already used.

Cardholder verification (CVM): how the issuer and merchant verify that the cardholder and the person with the card are one and the same. An EMV-terminal might require a pin, signature, or for low risk transactions, no verification method.

Mag-stripe card: Cards with a magnetic stripe on the back. Much of the world has already switched completely to EMV-cards, and the full-scale transition in the US is currently underway. Cardholder data on mag stripe cards is easy to steal using a simple card reading machine.

Cryptogram: A one-time code created during online authorization; a cryptogram validates that the chip and issuer are not counterfeit

That’s it. We hope that this glossary of terms is short and sweet, and that it provides simple definitions for terms that are often times used when discussing EMV.

And now that October 1st has come and gone we’re sure that your still standing strong. So don’t worry. Instead, continue to read up on EMV and take the information that is most valuable to you as a business owner. If you’ve got any questions, we at COCARD will be happy to assist. Feel free to give us a call at 800-317-1819.

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Cartoon illustrations of an EMV Chip Card reader and EMV Credit Card

The EMV Files: A Conversation with Chip and Terminal

Cartoon illustrations of an EMV Chip Card reader and EMV Credit Card

Last week we introduced Chip and Terminal, who have a lot to say about EMV, mainly because they are the main components in EMV technology. So we were lucky enough to be able to book a slot on their busy schedule this fall season to interview them and ask them a few questions. Personally, we think they’d be great on Bravo, but they might have competition with a real housewife or two.

COCARD: Hi Chip. Hi Terminal. We’re so glad that we could ask you two a few questions about EMV. Really, we’re honored. Could you just start by telling us a little bit about yourselves?

Chip: Sure, well I’m Chip, and I’m the small chip that’s embedded in credit cards with EMV technology. Banks have already started transitioning to cards including yours truly, and plan on having all cards in the US utilizing EMV technology within five years.

Terminal: I’m Terminal, and all cards containing chips, will be dipped into terminals to be read. I like to say that I give new meaning to dipping the chip. I provide a one-time code to authenticate the card. Because of this, your data is protected, preventing a person from stealing a code that is only good for one transaction.

COCARD: So when did you first realize that you worked so well together, that you were a great team?

Terminal: I’ll take this one Chip. We’ve had a couple of countries really benefit from EMV technology. There’s the UK, which reduced fraud by more than half between 2004 and 2013 upon implementing EMV cards. Then there’s Canada, eh, that started the EMV roll-out in 2003 and reported fraud of $29.5 million (CAD), down 79% from 2009, which was $142 million (CAD). So I would say that it’s taken some time to see the effects, but in the past few years, we’ve really seen the impact that EMV cards have had in reducing fraud for many countries around the world.

COCARD: EMV is new for many business owners. So I’m sure you understand how such a change might make people anxious. What would you say to assuage the fears of business owners everywhere?

Chip: Well, first the sky is not falling. It might seem like it, but it’s not. The proof is that it’s already been successful in other places, and the US is simply one of the few developed nations that has not adopted this technology. EMV, through its authentication process, is really what makes these cards, our cards, more secure. So they are a safe and secure way to pay for things. We think that any business owner can appreciate the feeling of comfort that security brings.  The big thing for business owners to remember is that banks have a five year plan and that only 21% of US cards will have the embedded chip by the October 1st liability shift..

COCARD: Anything else you’d like business owners out there to know?

Terminal: We just want you all to stay informed. Keep learning. The more you know, we think the less you’ll feel out of your element with something that can benefit your business.

COCARD: Thanks Chip. Thanks Terminal. You were both great. We appreciate that you were able to take time out of your busy schedules—you two are in high demand—to spend a few minutes with us at COCARD. Have a great day.

Chip: You too.

Terminal: Yeah, thanks COCARD.

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A Sky Without Limits, or Infinity and EMV

CHip-B-W-968x1024Chicken Little once said that the sky is falling.  Yet it still remains intact above us.  So while the transition from magnetic stripe to EMV might seem like a shift of cataclysmic proportions, the sky is not falling.  Your company will successfully transition from magnetic stripe to EMV (many already have), and next time you look outside your window, you’ll see the billowy clouds resting above, and not on the ground.

Yet we also understand that with anything new comes fear.  It’s normal.  So we’ve put together a few facts to calm your nerves.  We want you—the sagacious business owner that you are—to continue to make calm, smart decisions over the course of the transition.

Are you with us?  Well, here goes:

  • A transaction using EMV technology will take around 60 seconds compared to under 2 seconds with a magnetic stripe card. Magstripe cards are swiped and provide the terminal with the credit card number and expiration date, which can be easily copied by a card reader.  EMV terminals, on the other hand, require customers to “dip” the chip and verify customer data, which takes just a short while longer.  During this time, the Chip and Terminal begin a conversation.  Chip says, “Please authorize this transaction.”   Terminal replies, “I’ll need to make sure you’re valid.  I’ll also need to provide your card with a special code unique to this transaction because we can’t have any fraudsters trying to take your info.”  Chip responds, “Sounds great.”  Terminal says, “Now please sign, or enter your pin number.”  EMV takes a few more seconds than a magstripe transaction, but your data is more secure. 

 

  • Don’t panic. Although EMV has been adopted in Europe for over a decade, cards in the US still have a magnetic stripe.  Card companies have accounted for the ongoing transition by allowing terminals to still accept magnetic stripe cards. Card issuers expect the full transition to take anywhere from three to five years.

 

  • The term “liability shift” sounds pretty intense, like if you’re not prepared, the earth will shift, and you’ll fall off the edge of it. Oh, Copernicus.  Well, flat-earth jokes aside, the liability shift is not that cruel.  It is simply a method to eliminate fraud.  Starting October 2015, the party—either the business or banking institution—with the lesser technology will be responsible for the cost of fraud.  Instead of thinking of the liability shift as a way for others to make money off of your hard work, think of it instead as a way to ensure all parties are working together to eliminate fraud, which cost US consumers $16 billion last year alone.

 

In short, the sky is not falling, and EMV is not the end of the world.  Instead, it seems to be the beginning to new possibilities for business owners.  It might be an uncharted territory, but EMV will provide companies with the tools to chart their own course by allowing them to directly address fraud, a concern that leaves many involved feeling powerless.  So next time you look at the sky, we at COCARD hope that you view it with possibility, and nothing less than that.

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EMV FAQs

AMX-CHASE-B-W-1024x992Watch out—the future has arrived. And they call it EMV. As the target date for businesses to accept EMV payment cards draws near, make sure your business is ready to transition seamlessly from magnetic stripe cards to EMV. October 1st is upon us. Are you ready?

This list of FAQs will help you answer lingering questions and stay abreast of new developments with EMV technology.

What does EMV stand for?

It is an acronym for its developers Europay, Mastercard and Visa.

What’s the main difference between the cards we use now and EMV cards?

Magnetic stripe cards are the cards currently used in the United States and have a magnetic strip on the back. These cards are swiped through a card reader and contain static financial information that can be easily duplicated by card readers. EMV cards, on the other hand, contain a microchip that produces a new code with each transaction, preventing fraudsters from gaining access to sensitive data on the card. EMV cards are therefore more secure than magnetic stripe cards, and are responsible for a worldwide decrease in fraud.

How will switching to EMV directly benefit my business?

Great question. EMV will benefit your business threefold. First, your risk of chargebacks based on fraudulent transactions is greatly reduced. Whereas banks bore the brunt of the financial weight for fraud in the past, companies that have not adopted EMV technology will now be held accountable starting October 1st, when the liability shift starts. Adopting EMV technology will protect your business from costs associated with fraud. Second, as technology evolves faster than you can say Darwin, EMV is simply the beginning. Most of the hardware that accepts EMV will also allow your business to accept payment innovations such as mobile apps (i.e. mobile couponing and loyalty programs) and contactless payments. Third, you will be able to accept payment from visitors from other countries. Much of the world has already adopted this technology and no longer uses magnetic stripe cards. So prepare your business to increase profits by switching to a payment technology that more people can use.

I’ve been hearing the term “liability shift” a lot lately. What exactly is it?

It is when liability for card fraud switches from banking institutions to merchants. On October 1, 2015, businesses that aren’t updated to accept EMV cards will be held responsible for card swiped transactions on EMV capable cards that are found to be fraudulent. And penalties can be costly, particularly for small businesses. However, if your business is EMV-compatible, you will not be held accountable for fraudulent transactions.

As a small business owner, every penny counts. How much will it cost me to install an EMV-capable terminal?

EMV card readers cost between $400 and $700 but are often discounted through payment processors such as COCARD. Speak with us today—your EMV solution might even be free.

One thing to remember is that as the United States fully transitions to using EMV technology, cards will include both the microchip and magnetic strip. The process is expected to take anywhere between three and five years.

COCARD aims to develop our reputation as experts on EMV. We will continue to keep you posted on new developments and new ways of looking at this groundbreaking technology.

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Bilingual Software Sales Manager (Customer Relationship Management Experience Required)

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Since 1988, our financial services and technology firm has provided simple, secure and cost-effective merchant assistance for thousands of businesses. From electronic payment processing and data convergence programs to upper-echelon fraud prevention support, our nationally accredited services provide technical reassurance for clients around the world. Our consultants act as coveted business partners, delivering customized solutions with integrity and anticipating our merchants’ needs. Our commitment to developing cutting-edge technology and our forward-thinking approach toward personalized client relationships have allowed us to grow, even during a recession.

We are currently seeking a bilingual and energetic Software Sales Manager to join our team. Reporting directly to the General Manager, the Bilingual Software Sales Manager will build and manage a sales team of 5-15 software sales representatives, in addition to closing individual sales each month. CoCard is seeking ambitious, charismatic individuals who are willing to take initiative and make calculated decisions in a team environment. The right candidate is someone with CRM experience, a commitment to delivering outstanding customer service, vigorous work ethic, and intuitive problem-solving skills. CoCard is an international business and because of this, English is a second language for many of our clients. Fluency in at least one additional language besides English is a requirement.

Bilingual Software Sales Manager Responsibilities:

  • Build a sales team from the ground up; hire, train and provide ongoing coaching and management to sales representatives
  • Place regular phone calls to warm sales leads
  • Self-source potential sales and business development opportunities
  • Reach out to existing customers to identify their needs
  • Provide excellent customer service, building a friendly rapport and always ensuring that client and partner issues are dealt with in a timely, accurate and professional manner
  • Perform other sales, management and administrative duties as requested
  • Manage lead generation programs and marketing efforts to garner new relationships and expand awareness of company
  • Consistently meet or exceed assigned sales revenue targets and goals established in sales plan, while motivating sales team members to do the same
  • Develop and deliver concise and effective sales presentations to our channel partners and prospective clients
  • Ensure that new client agreements and trainings are completed by the support team

Requirements:

  • 2-5 years experience selling and managing sales teams in the software or CRM industry
  • Bachelor’s degree (hands-on experience may substitute for some education)
  • Proven track record of building high-performing sales teams
  • Demonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking skills
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to work in a time-critical environment
  • Excellent closing, negotiating and collaborative skills
  • Intermediate to advanced skills in MS Office, Adobe, Outlook, and the internet
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • High level of motivation and persistence for office morale
  • Fluency in at least one language in addition to English required
  • Ability to work independently and as a team in high-pressure environment
  • Ability to analyze client requirements and business requirements accurately and quickly
  • Deep understanding of the CRM industry as a whole, and sales and marketing in particular
  • Thorough knowledge of merchant service industry sales process
  • General experience with PC-based CRM software

Applicants for employment in the U.S. must possess work authorization which does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa.

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter to hr@aaaccess.com.

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Who We Are

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CoCard is an industry leader in Point of Sale / POS payment processing with advanced debit and credit card processing software and hardware.

Since 1999, CoCard has led the way in payment processing services, staying one step ahead of the curve. During this time, we’ve built a strong reputation in the processing industry and gained both the tools and management to turn your business into everything you have ever dreamed.

CoCard has also developed one of the most complete and robust selections of payment and authentication services in the industry, making CoCard the perfect option for a business that’s just getting on its feet, or one that’s been established for years.

What We Do

CoCard offers a wide selection of fully integrated, bank-neutral credit card and cash management products. We enhance our core-product offerings with best-in-class risk management and authentication tools. Your business’ security and safekeeping is the highest priority for CoCard.

We link merchants and entrepreneurs to customers and financial institutions, overseeing the secure transfer of funds. In seconds, we are able to securely process MasterCard, Visa, American Express, Discover, JCB and many other card types on behalf of any merchant card issuers.

Our Mission

Our mission is to make your electronic payment and authentication services simple, reliable, secure and cost effective. Simply put, we strive to offer you the best merchant services available.

HOW WE ACCOMPLISH OUR MISSION

Bank Certified and Recommended

Many merchant service providers claim to be as qualified and distinguished as CoCard, but very few have been certified and recommended by major banks. Bank certification ensures that all payment and financial systems have been rigorously scrutinized for accuracy and reliability. Banks only recommend organizations that have ample training and support mechanisms in place to serve their customers. Because CoCard is bank certified and recommended, you can be assured that we will serve your needs with the highest level of expertise.

Person-to-Person Service – One Call Resolution

CoCard works as a consultant for our customers. Our support technicians take the time to provide you with good advice and get you online fast and hassle-free. We are there for you when you need help the most. When you call our offices, you talk to a real person who can address your real needs. Stop arguing with an automated voice, and start conversing with a living, breathing professional.

Security

CoCard protects you and your customers with our industry-leading 4096-bit encryption and SSL. Our systems are monitored 24 hours a day by one of the leading firewall monitoring and intrusion detection firms. Any attempts at unauthorized access to our systems are immediately logged and appropriate security measures are taken. In addition, CoCard and its affiliates are all PCI compliant. Your business’ security and safekeeping are the highest of every employee’s priorities.

Speed

Every second counts for you and your customers. CoCard’s support and equipment ensures that your customer will be taken care of in a timely manner. Your marketing and sales strategies are optimized by efficient payment systems, so you spend less time calculating, and more time reaching potential clients.

Simplicity

CoCard specializes in electronic payments, so you don’t have to be an expert. We have a wide variety of integration methods and APIs available for all popular operating systems. We have invested in enterprise class servers and redundant data/banking feeds, and we hire skilled, trained technicians to oversee them all . Our systems are monitored 24 hours a day from 3 different locations to ensure that our services are always available to our clients.

Accuracy & Availability

With CoCard, your credit card transaction, electronic checks truncation, and gift and loyalty information is available to you for review 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Flexibility

We want to earn your business, which is why CoCard is dedicated to building commerce solutions customized to your needs. In addition to integrating the best in third-party, risk-management services, we have developed many of our own services in-house. The CoCard system can be used for small-business segment applications, as well as large complex financial applications.

Low Cost / High Value

CoCard provides the best value in the industry with our extraordinary services at low cost. Some of the most recognized names in business have chosen the CoCard solution for their needs.

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