Risks and Dangers for Small Businesses Accepting Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrency is now a real-time, low-cost payment option, and small businesses that accept it may be different from their competitors. Small business owners may find it difficult to learn about cryptocurrency and its potential risks.
As opposed to fiat currency, that is issued and controlled by central governments, cryptocurrency is decentralized and operates without the oversight of a central authority. Blockchain technology is used to record transactions in an unchangeable and secure ledger. The absence of central authority allows businesses to lower transaction fees, which can vary between 2 and 5 percent as opposed to up to 4 percent when using credit cards. It also eliminates the need for a bank to verify every transaction, which helps cut down on fraudulent chargebacks.
Demand and scarcity determine the value of cryptocurrencies. For example, the number of people mining Bitcoin increases the coin’s value due to the fact that it reduces the amount that can be spent. Certain coins utilize a method known as burning to increase the value of their coin by destroying a part of the total supply.
The cryptocurrency industry is filled with scams and fraud, and it’s important for consumers and businesses to be aware of the risks. For instance No legitimate business will contact you via text message or email, or even social media, soliciting money in exchange for products or services. Be sure to not click on links that are provided in unsolicited messages. These are usually phishing scams designed to steal your computer or personal information, such as username and password.