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2012-02-03
Credit card payment processing 'poised to become more competitive'
Credit card payment processing services look likely to become more competitive as online payments increase, according to recent research.
Credit card payment processing services look likely to become more competitive as online payments increase, according to recent research.
A survey conducted by the Auriemma Consulting Group (ACG) shows that credit cards currently make up 49 per cent of all online payment processing transactions.
Payment processors account for over 20 per cent of online purchases, with consumers citing a number of reasons why credit cards are their preferred web payment cards.
Some 36 per cent of respondents believe that purchases are more secure with credit cards, while the ability to earn rewards when spending with them was also cited as a major plus for a third of consumers.
Having a credit card nearby when using online billing solutions or knowing that a card has a good interest rate were other factors found to entice consumers into using their plastic.
"Rewards programmes are a key area of opportunity for credit card issuers to maintain market share and top-of-wallet status over the upcoming years," claimed Mark Jackson, director of ACG.
Mr Jackson went on to say that: "We expect the issuers that invest in both rewards programmes and the development of benefits tailored to the needs of the online consumer will be posed to better compete."
With the prolific use of credit and debit cards for online spending, security is an important issue for consumers, with internet merchant accounts and banks expected to protect sensitive data from leakages or cyber criminal attacks.
A report from the BBC this week has suggested that hackers have discovered how to bypass the latest generation of banking security devices.
Account holders using chip and pin devices could now be vulnerable to a new web scam, which offers people training in a new upgraded security system and proceeds to surreptitiously move money out of the account.
read more 2012-02-02
Star Wars: The Old Republic boasts impressive subscriber growth
Despite only being released six weeks ago, Star Wars: The Old Republic has already gone on to become the fastest growing subscription-based massively multiplayer online (MMO) game ever.
Despite only being released six weeks ago, Star Wars: The Old Republic has already gone on to become the fastest growing subscription-based massively multiplayer online (MMO) game ever.
It has sold over two million copies worldwide and boasts an impressive 1.7 million active subscribers who are each paying monthly online billing solutions-based payments to access the much-anticipated title.
The game developed from BioWare and LucasArts has reaped huge success largely due to the quality and reliability of its online service, as servers are available for more than 99.5 per cent of the time, unlike many other popular games.
"We're truly honoured and humbled by the incredibly strong support from our players who are enjoying Star Wars: The Old Republic," commented Dr Ray Muzyka, co-founder of BioWare and general manager of Electronic Arts' BioWare label.
Dr Muzyka praised the storyline and HD graphics as being part of the game's early success.
"Our entire team worked very hard over the holidays to deliver a smooth experience at launch, and the resulting response to the game from our fans and critics has been exceptionally gratifying," he added.
The new Star Wars title has helped lay to rest the current debate surrounding subscription-based games, with some industry commentators arguing that the market prefers the new micropayment system.
This week, Lord of the Rings Online and Dungeons & Dragons Online maker Turbine told Eurogamer that subscription MMOs are not dying, however offering a single method of payment processing could dissuade some online gamers.
Adam Mersky, Warner Brother's (Turbine's owner) director of digital communications, told the online games site explained that consumers want to be given a choice in how they pay for their online games.
"The idea of forcing a player to only have one option for having to consumer your content - that's probably dying," he noted.
read more 2012-02-02
Data encryption 'essential across devices'
Internet merchant account sites have been urged to encrypt all sensitive data, especially when dealing with the current bring-your-own-device (BYOD) trend in the workplace.
Internet merchant account sites have been urged to encrypt all sensitive data, especially when dealing with the current bring-your-own-device (BYOD) trend in the workplace.
Graeme Batsman, director of Datadefender.co.uk, recommended that an automated approach, "which allows automated port control, device control and can remotely delete or lock data," is the best option.
Partial data encryption on BYODs can mean that personal data is left alone, while business data is placed in an encrypted folder on a mobile device or USB.
"Automated methods and data leak prevention software are really the way forward," Mr Batsman argues, before warning that without an encryption policy or proper enforcement businesses "are asking for trouble".
Data encryption was also recently used in the US by a woman attempting to hide personal information on her laptop.
However, a Colorado judge last week ordered her to decrypt the information, after a criminal investigation into her illegal activities.
read more 2012-02-01
Rhapsody acquires Napster to compete against Spotify
Rhapsody has completed the acquisition of Napster International, a move which it hopes will help the company to compete with rival firm Spotify in the Europe.
Rhapsody has completed the acquisition of Napster International, a move which it hopes will help the company to compete with rival firm Spotify in the Europe.
The internet merchant account, which offers online music subscriptions, has enjoyed success in the US. However, its latest buy will allow it to go head-to-head against Spotify, which currently dominates the European market.
It will operate under the Napster name in the UK and Germany and is hoped to increase the number of paid subscribers using the service outside of the US.
Rob Wells, president of Universal Music Group, claimed that Rhapsody has played a pivotal role in defining legal music streaming services.
"I welcome Rhapsody's arrival in Europe, where I am eager to see them duplicate their success attracting paid subscribers in the US," he went on to add.
read more 2012-02-01
Sky 'planning to launch on-demand TV service'
Sky has revealed plans to launch a new on-demand service, allowing customers to watch popular content online.
Sky has revealed plans to launch a new on-demand service, allowing customers to watch popular content online.
The digital broadcaster is looking to take advantage of the growing rise in mobile devices, while also branching out into a multi-platform format.
Online payment processing fees will be required for consumers who do not currently subscribe to a pay TV service in order for them to receive simple access to a range of Sky content.
The service will launch in the first half of 2012 and will also allow anyone in the UK with a broadband connection to receive access to hundreds of films from Sky Movies.
With regards to payments, the broadcaster assures that there will be no minimum contract lengths, meaning that customers are free to pay for unlimited access or use pay-as-you-go methods.
The service has been created to work with a range of digital connected devices, including PCs, Macs, laptops, tablets, games consoles and internet-connected TVs, making it accessible to a wide consumer base.
"Alongside the continued growth of our satellite platform, this will be a new way for us to reach out to consumers who love great content, but may not want the full Sky service," commented Jeremy Darroch, Sky's chief executive.
Mr Darroch claimed that the new service would help Sky to "meet the needs and demands of an ever wider range of consumers" and will extend the firm's options for continued digital growth during 2012.
The British Sky Broadcasting group has also recently released its financial results for the six months ending December 31st 2011.
Revenue was shown to have increased by six per cent over the period, reaching £3.4 billion in total.
read more 2012-01-31
New gTLD adoption 'necessary for many firms'
The new generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs) could be a necessary investment for many internet merchant account holders looking to safeguard their brand, according to an expert.
The new generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs) could be a necessary investment for many internet merchant account holders looking to safeguard their brand, according to an expert.
John E Dunn, security editor at Computerworld UK, claimed that if companies "have brands to protect they probably have no choice" but to purchase a gTLD.
Mr Dunn explained that despite the regulations "put in place to help trademark holders defend themselves from speculative registration", many businesses will choose to sacrifice the cost of buying a gTLD in order to protect against any legal problems.
"In the short run gTLDs will probably serve to fuel the suspicion among larger companies that the internet has turned into a money-making scheme for those in the domain-registration business," he argued, however they could still prove useful in the long run.
GTLDs concern the introduction of new web suffixes including brand names and were officially opened for applications from January 12th.
read more 2012-01-31
Subscription MMOs 'not dying' claims games expert
Subscription-based Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) games are not in decline, according to a leading games expert.
Subscription-based Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) games are not in decline, according to a leading games expert.
Turbine spokesman Adam Mersky told Eurogamer in a recent interview that the platform was still alive and well and that games which insist upon one-time online billing solutions payment could be faring worse.
"People now in the West expect to have full control over their entertainment dollar and spend it the way they want to," Mr Mersky explained.
"It's probably not right to say the subscription MMO is dying, it's probably more right to say the idea of forcing a player to only have one option for having to consumer your content - that's probably dying," he claimed.
Turbine's most popular titles, Lord of the Rings Online and Dungeons & Dragons Online, both helped to increase their profits and rejuvenate their market by switching to a free-to-play model (F2P). Money instead was earned through in-game micropayments, a design which gamers seem to have embraced.
Due to the success of this model numerous other MMOs have followed Turbine's lead, such as Champions Online, DC Universe Online, EverQuest 2 and Star Trek Online.
Since switching to a new payment mode Mr Mersky told the gaming site that both its leading titles are earning record profits and helping to significantly grow customer numbers.
"While we certainly pioneered [F2P changeover] in the online games space, and the industry is adopting it - this is pretty prevalent throughout the entertainment industry," he went on to add, citing examples such as on-demand TV and film content available online.
While many digital titles may be under the impression that the F2P model and micropayments should only be attempted after a few years of market presence, Dungeons & Dragons Online producer Erik Boyer told Eurogamer: "The right choice would be to make it a player-choice of subscription or free-to-play."
read more 2012-01-31
Data security 'will be focus of 2012'
2012 could be an important year in the fight for data protection security among internet merchant account sites, according to an IT expert.
2012 could be an important year in the fight for data protection security among internet merchant account sites, according to an IT expert.
"More people having more devices means more malware and the same goes for data theft," claims Kevin Wharram, independent IT security consultant.
While he admits that hacking was a major problem last year, this year he claims that data leakage could be an equally pressing issue.
"The European Union has proposed a new law … which actually states that they want to fine companies two per cent of their annual revenue in the event of data loss," Mr Wharram explained, meaning that data protection and security are becoming increasingly important.
In particular this year could see a rise in malware across mobile and tablet devices, as they become more mainstream internet-connected platforms.
read more 2012-01-30
Nintendo branches into online games territory
Nintendo is to enter the world of online games, allowing it to finally compete with platforms such as Xbox Live and the Playstation Network.
Nintendo is to enter the world of online games, allowing it to finally compete with platforms such as Xbox Live and the Playstation Network.
News of this expansion was broken to investors this weekend by president Satoru Iwata shortly after the company released its fourth quarter earnings report for 2011.
Mr Iwata explained that the Nintendo Network would encompass a new generation of products, including the portable 3DS and the Wii U console, both set to be released later this year.
The new network will attract online billing solutions users by giving gamers the opportunity to play against one another over the internet, download full versions of game titles, add-ons and access to other digital content.
Nintendo's current network offers limited connectivity, meaning that the new developments would be a major upgrade.
Mr Iwata claimed: "Unlike Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, which has been focused upon specific functionalities and concepts, we are aiming to establish a platform where various services available through the network for our consumers shall be connected via Nintendo Network service so that the company can make comprehensive proposals to consumers."
The first examples of the new network functions include user-selectable music for the Final Fantasy franchise, which is available for paid download from February 16th.
While Nintendo's chairman believes that the prospect of Nintendo offering a fully fledged internet merchant account site would take a little longer, the functionality is already built into the 3DS and the Wii U platform, however games release dates have yet to be announced.
The Wii U is also set to accept mobile payment processing, as Near-Field Communication (NFC) is to be integrated into the tablet controller for the console.
Mr Iwata claims that with this NFC "it will become possible to create cards and figurines that can electronically read and write data … to expand the new play format in the video game world".
read more 2012-01-30
ITV delays content micropayment system
ITV is to delay taking micropayments for some content on its on-demand service until the summer, according to reports from the Telegraph.
ITV is to delay taking micropayments for some content on its on-demand service until the summer, according to reports from the Telegraph.
Last July the UK broadcaster revealed that it was to start charging consumers for some of its ITV Player content, such as archived episodes of long-running soaps or dramas.
However, the organisation has yet to publicly announce a payment processor or model of collecting such payments.
Chief executive Adam Crozier had claimed that switching to a micropayments system was one of the cornerstones of his five-year plan, with trials beginning in 2009 behind closed doors.
A spokeswoman told the newspaper that ITV will be "conducting closed trials as is standard practice", however these have yet to reach a conclusion.
She added: "Our wider pay strategy is also progressing well, with deals with subscription platforms LoveFilm and Netflix secured in the last month both contributing to our goal of driving new pay revenue streams."
The delays are said to be due to indecision over what the micropayments will cover.
Mr Crozier's plan to attract online payments is part of his target to reduce ITV's dependence on the advertising market and also to improve profits by selling content overseas.
New research from the latest KPMG Media & Entertainment Barometer shows that UK consumers are willing to pay for online streaming services, representing a growing market for internet merchant account holders.
Services such as BBCiPlayer, ITV iPlayer and 4oD are all seeing greater adoption levels, with 64 per cent of survey respondents admitting that they would be willing to pay to watch films online.
Pay TV content was shown to be less popular, with 30 per cent of people happy to spend on this service.
read more 2012-01-27
Rhapsody expands music subscription service to Europe under Napster brand
US music subscription service Rhapsody is preparing to take on Spotify in Europe, and will introduce online billing solutions across the UK and Germany under the Napster brand.
US music subscription service Rhapsody is preparing to take on Spotify in Europe, and will introduce online billing solutions across the UK and Germany under the Napster brand.
Rhapsody has acquired Napster's European operations, but will maintain the brand in the UK in a break from its approach to the takeover deal in the US.
Napster ceases to exist across the Atlantic, with Rhapsody having dropped the brand identity.
Although the name will be maintained in Europe, the new owners have indicated that they intend to revamp the operation.
Among the plans are proposals to enhance platform variety, which will begin with a transfer of Napster's international subscribers to the Rhapsody payment processing infrastructure from March.
Rhapsody president Jon Irwin explained: "The acquisition of Napster and its subscriber base in the UK and Germany gives us an ideal entry to the European market.
"Through the benefit of scale, the strength of our editorial programming, and strategic partnerships, we can now bring the Napster service to even more consumers on a variety of platforms."
He underlined that there has never been a better time to expand in the subscription music market, where demand has reached an all-time high.
"Our partners are eager to bring music to the masses in new and creative ways," added Mr Irwin, although details of how this will manifest itself in technological terms have yet to emerge.
"There is a lot of room for growth in this market and I firmly believe that 2012 is going to be our biggest year yet," he added.
Spotify is the UK market leader in the music subscription industry, achieving revenues of £63.2 million in 2010 - a significant increase on 2009.
Yet despite the popularity of the service, the firm recorded a pre-tax loss of £26.5 million in 2010, with licensing costs believed to have been the main cause.
read more 2012-01-26
Websites 'must be accessible and usable'
For an internet merchant account their website is their portal to consumers and clients and, according to an expert, it should be both accessible and easy to use.
For an internet merchant account their website is their portal to consumers and clients and, according to an expert, it should be both accessible and easy to use.
Tom Stewart, executive chairman of System-concepts.com and former president of The Institute of Ergonomics & Human Factors, claims that before setting out to design a website "get some research done on what users are doing with it".
This allows businesses to understand their customers and how they would navigate the site.
Mr Stewart went on to state: "There is a British standard on making websites usable and that says if you're an organisation with a website, it should be usable and accessible - as well as secure and safe, et cetera."
This ensures that the site can be used equally by all visitors, helping to drive traffic, engagement and conversion rates.
read more 2012-01-26
EU unveils data protection proposals
The European Union's (EU) new proposals could dramatically change how many internet merchant account holders store online payment processing and other personal data.
The European Union's (EU) new proposals could dramatically change how many internet merchant account holders store online payment processing and other personal data.
A recent survey from the EU found that two thirds of Europeans were worried that businesses were sharing their personal information without their permission, prompting nine out ten people to call for universal data protection rights across the continent.
In light of these findings, the European Commission (EC) has proposed updates to the EU's data protection law.
This would involve introducing a single set of rules which would increase the responsibility and accountability of businesses, meaning that they would be required to notify consumers and clients of any accidental release of personal data or cyber hacking beach.
It would also mean that consent would be required before the reuse of consumer personal data and would reinforce the 'right to be forgotten'.
While many of the proposals directly involve business practices and safeguards they also include the rule that when data is being processed outside Europe people in the EU would still legally be allowed to involve national data protection authorities in their own countries.
This single set of rules is estimated to cut red tape, saving businesses an estimated €2.3 billion (£1.92 billion) a year.
The new data protection rules could also see companies fined up to two per cent of their global annual turnover should they be found to be breaching the regulations.
In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, James Lovegrove, managing director of TechAmerica Europe, explained that the new rules could in fact create more bureaucracy, contrary to the opinion of the EC.
Mr Lovegrove claimed: "The real concern is that many of the proposed rules will inhibit the free flow of information globally and make it difficult for global businesses to operate and invest in Europe due to greater legal uncertainty, increased administrative burdens and the risk of fines."
read more 2012-01-25
Global music industry blames slow growth on piracy
The global music industry is claiming that its single figure growth in digital revenue is due to the rise in online piracy and illegal downloads.
The global music industry is claiming that its single figure growth in digital revenue is due to the rise in online piracy and illegal downloads.
Internet merchant account holders, some of which who offer music subscriptions services are working in a challenging environment, according to Frances Moore, chief executive at the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI).
Ms Moore claimed that the eight per cent annual growth in online revenue "should be much higher" and is something the industry is looking to tackle this year.
The IFPI's report noted that there are around 500 legitimate music sites worldwide offering up to 20 million tracks for legal download, however while subscription sites are witnessing rapid increases in customers they are still forced to compete with illegal sites.
It went on to complain at the recent backlash against the Stop Online Piracy Act in the US, describing it as a "setback" in the fight against illegal file sharing.
read more 2012-01-25
Trion has high hopes for Rift following subscription fee cuts
Not long after video game Rift lowered its subscription rates, the publisher behind the title has raised $85 million (£54.5 million) in a new round of funding as it prepares for an expansion.
Not long after video game Rift lowered its subscription rates, the publisher behind the title has raised $85 million (£54.5 million) in a new round of funding as it prepares for an expansion.
Online billing solutions for the fantasy video game will be made available in South Korea from April, followed by China at a later date, as the company moves to capitalise on the Asian games market.
Trion Worlds' founder and chief executive Lars Buttler noted: "We are thrilled about entering this exciting period of growth and scale with our investors."
Rift is Trion's first title and was launched in March 2011, generating revenues of $100 million in North America and Europe.
Players are required to subscribe through the game's payment processing service, in a similar vein to other massively multiplayer online (MMO) titles such as World of Warcraft.
Gamers can now purchase Rift via EA's online third party processing service, Origin. There is an incentive for buying the role-playing game too, with shoppers offered in-game bonuses if they buy within a limited timeframe on the platform.
Commenting on the successful fundraising exercise this week, Mr Buttler noted: "We have a world class team focused on our vision to bring the era of connected live services to premium games, much in the way casual and mid-core games have already been disrupted."
The company has already earmarked its next two titles as an opportunity to further showcase the strength of its technology platform. End of Nations is expected to be rolled out early this year, and will feature multiplayer real-time strategy.
Meanwhile, Defiance will feature a collaboration with TV channel Syfy, which is expected to simultaneously launch a TV show to complement the online action game, where storylines merge and mutually impact events and consequences, across mediums.
Mr Buttler added that Rift remains "the tip of the iceberg" for what Trion is capable of doing.
read more 2012-01-24
Consumers 'happy to pay for online streaming content'
Consumers in the UK are increasingly willing to pay for online streaming services, according to new findings which show that there is a growing market for internet merchant account holders offering subscription-led content.
Consumers in the UK are increasingly willing to pay for online streaming services, according to new findings which show that there is a growing market for internet merchant account holders offering subscription-led content.
New research from the latest KPMG Media & Entertainment Barometer shows that online streaming services, including those offered by BBC iPlayer, ITV iPlayer and 4oD, are being adopted more than ever, especially among younger people.
The survey found that there was a high level of awareness of online streaming services, especially of BBC iPlayer, which nine in ten people admitted to having heard of.
Online payment processing services seemed to be less of a barrier than previously recorded, with 64 per cent of respondents admitting that they would pay for films online, four per cent more than in March 2011.
Pay TV content was also shown to be popular, with 30 per cent of people willing to spend money on this service in October 2011.
The study discovered that among those who would consider signing up to a paid digital content subscription they would be most willing to pay for films, music and TV, rather than other streamed services.
"The foundations for online streaming services to be successful appear to be set," according to David Elms, head of media at KPMG, who believes that the market is set to expand rapidly over 2012.
"Not only is awareness and usage of streaming high, but willingness to pay for content has increased too," he claimed, which is positive news for direct merchant account holders offering online subscriptions.
Online video content is also particularly popular in the US, with recent statistics from comScore showing that 182 million internet users in the country watched it online in December.
read more 2012-01-24
Mecom changes business strategy with content paywall introduction
European publishing organisation Mecom is looking to attract online payment processing users as part of its new paywall introduction.
European publishing organisation Mecom is looking to attract online payment processing users as part of its new paywall introduction.
The group is currently operating at a loss and is looking to slash costs and review its assets, while earning more money from its digital readers.
Digital subscriptions will now be present on its best-selling ten titles, which account for almost 85 per cent of the pan-European newspaper publisher's profits.
Paid-for apps are expected to also follow this step by the end of the first quarter of 2012 as Mecom looks to offer content on a range of online platforms and tap into the growing app market.
In October, the business reported that earnings had been hit by deteriorating consumer confidence, which has lead to the business falling into debt and having to sell its Norwegian arm in December.
Mecom currently owns over 600 titles largely in the Netherlands, Denmark and Poland and believes that the introduction of paid content will help to reduce imminent job cuts and make essential savings.
Chief executive officer of the publisher Tom Toumazis claimed: "The strategy we are announcing today will ensure greater commercial focus through a commitment to paid platforms and closer integration to capture better the strengths of the group," which in turn will benefit readers, advertisers and shareholders.
"Mecom has more subscribers than any of our European peers and more than the entire UK national newspaper industry," Mr Toumazis highlighted, before adding "there is a clear need, however, for Mecom to adapt quickly to meet the challenges our industry faces".
The expansion of digital content paywalls for newspapers could be a lucrative move, especially in Europe as recent figures from comScore show that almost half of residents visited newspaper websites during November 2011.
read more 2012-01-23
Online games 'set to overtake physical titles'
Online games and subscriptions which require the use of payment processing solutions could soon become more popular than physical titles purchased on the high street, according to an expert.
Online games and subscriptions which require the use of payment processing solutions could soon become more popular than physical titles purchased on the high street, according to an expert.
Gaz Deaves, Guinness World Records gaming editor, argues that as gaming is gradually being taken more seriously the rise of digital platforms could pose a real threat to traditional consoles.
While he admits that consoles will still reap significant numbers of customers, Mr Deaves commented that: "Certainly mobile and tablet gaming is expanding the market and audience."
The editor claimed that there is a "move away from physical, boxed product games into digital downloads".
"Digital streaming is still a way off being accessible to a number of people, but internet speeds are only going to get faster, and programmers are going to get cleverer in terms of how they deal with things like latency and the distances involved," Mr Deaves noted.
The gaming editor spoke at the launch of the Guinness World Records 2012 Gamer's Edition, which is hoped to tap into the growing global gaming market.
It recognises the greatest and strangest achievements in the world of videogames, such as the world's biggest fully-working games controller.
The fifth edition of the specialist Guinness World Records title is available in the UK, US and Australia, which are all prolific online and console gaming nations.
A recent report from Juniper showed that consumers around the world are becoming more accustomed to buying items through online billing solutions in-game, as free-to-play games look increasingly towards this method of boosting profits.
Report author Charlotte Miller claimed: "An increasing number of games developers are finding the in-game purchase model attractive simply because it provides easy answers."
read more 2012-01-23
Europe embracing online newspapers
Newspapers with internet merchant account sites are increasingly adopting paywalls and content subscription services to help fuel their online growth and while content barriers may be increasing this is not dissuading consumers, according to new figures.
Newspapers with internet merchant account sites are increasingly adopting paywalls and content subscription services to help fuel their online growth and while content barriers may be increasing this is not dissuading consumers, according to new figures.
Data released by comScore shows that across Europe online audiences are embracing online newspaper sites, with 181.5 million unique people across the continent visiting such destinations in November 2011.
This represents an increase of nine per cent from the previous year, with the Daily Mail continuing to attract the largest digital audience with more than 20 million unique visitors.
Other news providers which attracted more than ten million unique visitors during the month included the Guardian, Turkish newspapers Hurriyet and Milliyet and German newspaper Bild.
The UK sites were shown to be have significantly higher percentages of inbound digital traffic, with at least ten per cent of visits preceded by a visit to social networking site Facebook.
Overall internet usage figures for Europe showed that 379.4 million people went online during November 2011 for an average of 27.8 hours. Almost half of these people were also found to have accessed an online newspaper at least once during the month.
Figures released by the market analysts in August show that newspaper site audiences are growing significantly, increasing by 11 per cent between June 2010 and June 2011.
As well as the Daily Mail, Guardian, Hurriyet, Milliyet and Bild, the New York Times was the only non-European site in the list of top newspaper entities.
The New York Times currently uses payment processing services to collect digital subscription fees of readers of its Boston Globe newspaper.
Free access is still available to occasional users, however frequent readers will have to sign up to the paywall.
read more 2012-01-20
Microsoft TV subscription service plans on hold?
Microsoft's plans to introduce an online payment processing subscription TV service have been put on hold.
Microsoft's plans to introduce an online payment processing subscription TV service have been put on hold.
Sources familiar with discussions between the technology giant and its potential programming partners have indicated there are problems with licensing costs, according to Reuters.
Speaking to the news agency, a senior media executive explained: "It doesn't mean they won't be back in another iteration. We'll have to wait and see."
Microsoft had also been considering the incorporation of its Xbox 360 Kinect voice control technology into its TV offering.
In December, Microsoft announced that Kinect voice control would be integrated with Bing search technology on the Xbox Live subscription platform, providing users with a new way to search for TV entertainment using their voice.
Microsoft Interactive Entertainment Business president Don Mattrick explained: "With this update, Xbox 360 system owners will experience Kinect voice control integrated with Bing search, making your TV and entertainment experiences more social and personal than ever."
A host of services were made available under the new platform, including Netflix, DailyMotion, YouTube, MSN and MLB.TV, across more than 30 countries.
This rollout began in December and is scheduled to continue early into 2012. Microsoft's announcement came amid rumours that rival Apple is planning to integrate its natural language interface Siri into its Apple TV product.
Siri is currently only embedded in the new iPhone 4S, but technology experts believe its functionality has the potential to transform TV viewing, doing away with remote controls.
In a guest article for All Things D, Wetpaint co-founder and chief executive Ben Elowitz explained: "With the blurring and exponential proliferation of television and Web content, telling your TV what you’d like to watch, instead of scrolling through a nearly infinite number of program possibilities, makes a lot more sense."
Microsoft declined to comment on the status of its TV subscription plans.
read more 2012-01-19
ICANN accepting generic top-level domains
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers is now accepting applications for new generic top-level domains (gTLDs), meaning that internet merchant account holders can now take advantage of the new web suffixes.
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers is now accepting applications for new generic top-level domains (gTLDs), meaning that internet merchant account holders can now take advantage of the new web suffixes.
While .com, .org and .gov and 19 other gTLDs are all commonplace, the new system now allows businesses to end their website with their own brand name, helping to improve access and market the sites to the appropriate audience.
As of January 12th, businesses can now apply for the scheme and will then be subjected to subsequent clarifications and checks.
Applicants from developing countries looking to create a new national web domain can also receive financial assistance from ICANN, meaning that they may only have to pay $47,000 (£30,435) rather than the full fee of $185,000 (£119,800).
Businesses are also rushing to purchase top level domains, with ICANN expecting between 500 and 1,000 to apply for a personalised web ending.
The organisation believes that this system has the potential to dramatically change the internet, however it thinks that only serious candidates will be applying due to the financial costs involved.
Organisations have three months to enter their gTLD bids, however ICANN will not be confirming the allocations for at least a year, leading many direct merchant account holders to bid for certain popular names.
Some digital commentators have claimed that the new domain endings could leave the internet open to exploitation from businesses stocking up on valuable web suffixes.
This week Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson filed a cybersquatting complaint over the use of the adult entertainment domain endings .xxx, after someone registered the web name richardbranson.xxx.
Mr Branson is one of the first people to use ICANN's Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy, which allows people and businesses to try and reclaim addresses with the .xxx ending.
read more 2012-01-18
Argus Leader to introduce online subscription model
South Dakota newspaper the Argus Leader is set to follow in the footsteps of a growing number of online publications and move behind a subscription paywall.
South Dakota newspaper the Argus Leader is set to follow in the footsteps of a growing number of online publications and move behind a subscription paywall.
US newspapers including The New York Times, Boston Globe and Star Tribune as well as UK titles such as the Financial Times, The Times and The Economist have all opted to accept credit cards online for access to their news content.
Some details about the subscription model adopted by the Leader are yet to be confirmed, but the focus will be on delivering "high-quality content" across multiple platforms, beginning with the launch of the paper's first smartphone app.
However, publisher Argus Leader Media has been quick to point out that not all online content will be moved behind a paywall.
Readers will still be able to access the argusleader.com website, but this will be limited to the homepage, classified ads, obituaries and section fronts. Online readers will be allowed to access a certain number of articles per month before they are asked to subscribe.
In many ways, it resembles the model adopted by the Financial Times which introduced a subscription service in 2007 when it revamped its FT.com website. The paper's bosses claim this decision has been taken because print sales are no longer sufficient enough to support the high-quality free content online.
Argus Leader Media president and publisher Randell Beck said in a statement: "My pledge, during the next few months, is to be open and accessible as we make these changes. You'll have questions - and we're going to answer them. You'll need help - and you will get it."
He also acknowledged that the newspaper has been available free online for 13 years, but added that the Argus Leader is keen to maintain a consistent level of quality content for its dedicated readership, which it believes is best achieved by charging for online content.
read more 2012-01-17
Wikipedia community reveals blackout against SOPA
The Wikipedia community is preparing to stage a 24-hour blackout in protest against the proposed Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) legislation being considered in the US.
The Wikipedia community is preparing to stage a 24-hour blackout in protest against the proposed Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) legislation being considered in the US.
From 05:00 (GMT) on Wednesday January 18th the English-language Wikipedia pages will be inaccessible for a whole day after arguing that SOPA has the potential to seriously damage the free and open internet, including its own site.
The blackout staged by the English Wikipedia site, which is the first public protest of this nature, is also seeking to raise attention to its opposition to the Preventing Real Online Threats to Economic Creativity and Theft of Intellectual Property Act of 2011 (PROTECTIP).
Both SOPA and PROTECTIP have been designed to protect internet merchant account rights and to prevent free and illegal content from being distributed, however a public statement from Wikipedia has expressed its negative feelings towards the bills.
A public comment claimed that 1,800 Wikipedia community members have come together to discuss the issues, adding that: "The overwhelming majority of participants support community action to encourage greater public action in response to these two bills."
It said: "We depend on a legal infrastructure that makes it possible for us to operate. And we depend on a legal infrastructure that also allows other sites to host user-contributed material, both information and expression."
The statement went on to argue that knowledge should be more accessible and that the internet should not become a place "where you can only speak if you have sufficient resources to fight legal challenges, or, if your views are pre-approved by someone who does".
While Wikipedia assures its global readers that it is not taking a political stance on the SOPA matter, rather a moral ground, however some political representatives from the US have made clear their feelings towards the legislation.
House oversight chairman and Republican leader for California Darrel Issa told The Hill: "I am confident that flawed legislation will not be taken up by this House."
But, he then noted: "We will continue to work to address outstanding concerns and work to build consensus prior to any anti-piracy legislation coming before the House for a vote."
SOPA has been constructed to go after foreign websites which offer illegal copies of music, TV and movie content, which could compromise digital subscription packages using high risk payment processing services.
One of the main provisions the legislation would involve would be to demand that search engines delete links to sites which infringe upon copyright laws.
Online payment processors and advertising networks would also be prohibited to work alongside any sites found to be offering these services.
As well as a backlash from websites, major search engines and social networking sites such as Google, Yahoo! and Facebook have all been vocal in their opposition, arguing that it would stifle innovation and suppress free speech.
SOPA has sparked a significant level of debate not only in the US but also around the world, with discussions and amendments ongoing.
read more 2012-01-16
Hulu amounts 1.5m paying subscribers
Hulu has said goodbye to a successful 2011, with its annual report indicating that it now has over 1.5 million paying online subscribers.
Hulu has said goodbye to a successful 2011, with its annual report indicating that it now has over 1.5 million paying online subscribers.
The online US video content provider has grown its internet merchant account business by 60 per cent from 2010 to earn $420 million (£274.3 million) in revenue last year.
Hulu Plus, which attracts high risk payment processing users with its long roster of current series, was found to have grown faster than any video subscription service launch in US history, with 2011 seeing a 40 per cent rise in content offering.
New shows added included Misfits, New Girl, Community, Ringer and Once Upon a Time.
As well as investing in content, the company also sought to develop a more multichannel approach, allowing consumers to access its services across new devices such as Microsoft Xbox 360, Amazon's Kindle Fire, select Android smartphones and Blu-ray players.
While predominantly focused in the US, Hulu also branched out into Japan last year, demonstrating its ambitions to take the online content subscription service to a wider global audience.
As well as reporting strong financial results, the business is also looking to become a fully-fledged alternative to satellite and cable TV and is seeking to commission its first original shows, which will be available exclusively for its online audience.
Its first scripted show, entitled Battleground, is to be released on February 14th to its US audience.
"We want to make great shows and get them out to the widest audience," claimed Andy Forssell, chief content officer of the Los Angeles-based company.
"We're not just a subscription model. We're not just an ad-based service. We're both," he went on to add.
Earlier this month, one of Hulu's biggest competitors, the US media subscription service Netflix, launched in the UK, hoping to capitalise on a growing consumer market for online video content.
read more 2012-01-16
BBC considers introducing pay-per-view iPlayer fees
The BBC is considering using online payment processing services as part of a pay-per-view iPlayer option.
The BBC is considering using online payment processing services as part of a pay-per-view iPlayer option.
According to the trade magazine Broadcast, the corporation is mulling over a plan to introduce fees for archive content on its online iPlayer site.
This could help bring in large revenues for the BBC, as it currently relies upon compulsory taxes for the majority of its income.
The suggestion of compulsory fees has sparked debate among many BBC supporters, however a BBC spokesperson told the magazine that plans were still being discussed and charges were not intended to raise profits.
"Any such ideas would need to be developed in conjunction with the industry and with rights holders and they would certainly not lead to a two-tier license fee," a statement from the broadcaster read.
Introducing micropayments would instead be used to help cover the cost of transferring 80 years of BBC video content into digital formats for consumers to view on the iPlayer website.
The BBC's popular online video service is currently free to users, however other web content is available through subscription or one-off online payments from Apple iTunes, LOVEFiLM and Netflix.
This month LOVEFiLM signed a deal with BBC Worldwide to provide access to content from the British broadcaster's vast show archive.
Subscribers to the popular online content provider can now gain access to videos on-demand on a range of internet-connected devices, allowing both mobile and PC viewing.
By introducing small fees to its own iPlayer service this will allow the BBC to compete with its largest free-to-air rival, ITV, which is currently preparing to launch its own micropayments scheme.
This will help to reduce its reliance on advertising revenues and is to be launched publicly in the next few months.
read more 2012-01-13
Israeli hacker compromises credit card security in revenge act
Credit card payment processing security could be seriously compromised as hundreds of card details were illegally published online.
Credit card payment processing security could be seriously compromised as hundreds of card details were illegally published online.
An Israeli hacker has posted the details online in an act of revenge after a cybercriminal claiming to be from Saudi Arabia uploaded tens of thousands of account details of Israelis on the internet.
The Israeli hacker has threatened to post more credit card details on the web, in what is already one of the worst incidents of online data theft in Israeli history and could lead towards a possible cyber war in the Middle East.
AFP news agency claims that the hacker identifies himself as OxOmer or Omer Cohen and his online posting on January 10th is reported to have listed consumer names, email addresses, phone numbers and over 200 currently working credit card details.
OxOmer is alleged to have told the Jerusalem Post: "This is just the beginning."
He said:"If they publish one more little detail on Israel, we will attack in full force and publish all of the credit card details," after claiming to have the information on a further 300,000 cards.
Israeli officials have confirmed that over 20,000 active credit card accounts have been accessed and affected by the cyber hack, which has lead to banks hurriedly cancelling the cards and issuing new ones.
Deputy foreign minister Danny Ayalon has since released a statement urging Israeli citizens "not to act as vigilantes".
Mr Ayalon said: "We call on Israeli citizens to abide by (the law). Just as the Israeli government has found answers for terrorism, we will find answers to this challenge."
The credit card details are alleged to have been gleaned from internet merchant account sites, further stressing the need for commercial websites who use online billing solutions to invest in cyber security.
read more 2012-01-12
Secure and innovative payment processing sought by EU
The European Union (EU) is to make online payment processing more secure and innovative.
The European Union (EU) is to make online payment processing more secure and innovative.
A safer, more transparent and more modern way of paying online and via mobile phones is to be introduced after the European Commission released its Green Paper consultation, which is available to contribute to until April 2012.
Internet merchant account holders are being invited to offer their recommendations on how to simplify and improve online billing solutions and to raise any issues which could hinder the market integration of payment legislation.
Throughout the EU more than 700 million payment cards are currently in use, with electronic payments and point-of-sale purchases becoming more commonplace.
"Secure, efficient, competitive and innovative electronic payments are crucial for consumers, retailers and companies to fully enjoy the benefits of the Single Market as well as to drive the growth of ecommerce," claimed internal market and services commissioner Michel Barnier.
Mr Barnier went on to explain that the consultation's launch "is fully in line with the Commission's mandate focusing on growth and job creation and building on the achievements already made in the field of retail payments".
The Green Paper offers an in-depth assessment of card, internet and mobile payments in Europe and identifies a series of issues, including market access for payment processors, payment security and data protection, technical standardisation, clear pricing of payment services and current inter-operability between service providers.
Despite there being significant sums of money exchanged each year through payment processors, Neelie Kroes, vice-president of the European Commission responsible for the Digital Agenda claimed: "Each year, 200 million Europeans - 40 per cent of all citizens - buy over the internet. But faced with different national rules and systems, less than one quarter of that number do so across national borders."
read more 2012-01-11
Irish households use online payment processing to pay new state charge
People in Ireland are being given the opportunity to use online payment processing to pay the new €100 (£82.64) Household Charge.
People in Ireland are being given the opportunity to use online payment processing to pay the new €100 (£82.64) Household Charge.
The new charge is an annual payment introduced by the Local Government Act 2011 and is payable by owners of residential properties. It will be used to fund local services such as fire fighters, emergency services, maintenance, public space, street lighting, leisure facilities and planning and development.
It has been described as an interim measure and equitable valuation-based property tax has been designated for introduction in 2013.
Homeowners can make a payment online using debit or credit card payment processing services, or alternatively they can use cheques or postal orders to pay the mandatory fee.
The new tax payment has been heavily criticised in the national press, with many commentators claiming that up to 50 per cent of Irish people will refuse to pay.
Socialist member of the European Parliament, Paul Murphy has launched a complaint with the data protection commissioner about the Household Charge, claiming that the site is not secure and could compromise the data of people who choose to use the online billing solutions.
Mr Murphy argued: "This site is in breach of the 2011 regulations on privacy and electronic communications … Its privacy statement declares that the site uses 'session cookies' which are erased after use, whereas in fact it used so-called 'persistent cookies' that remain on people's computers after they visit a website."
The site was then further scrutinised by the data protection commissioner Billy Hawkes, who argued that there could be room for the loss of sensitive information, as the new legislation allows for utility bill data to be used to identify properties that have not yet registered to pay the charge.
read more 2012-01-11
Report finds growing user acceptance of in-game purchases
The number of gamers buying items through online billing solutions during play has seen a sharp rise.
The number of gamers buying items through online billing solutions during play has seen a sharp rise.
A new report has shown that the number of gamers buying items through online billing solutions during play has seen a sharp rise in acceptance.
Juniper Research's latest data has found that consumers have become accustomed to the freemium model, which allows gamers free access to play online games, but also allows them to purchase items while playing.
Social and causal gamers were shown to be increasingly expectant of games being both entertaining and immersive for little or no price, meaning that the free options rather than pay-per-download models were particularly popular within this genre.
The number of game developers adopting this model is helping to boost the download volume of these free titles, making in-game buyers far more commonplace.
Online games which require one-time payments are often a target for piracy sites and hackers, as they seek to exploit the paid format.
By offering wider spread free games this helps to reduce piracy, as they are typically downloaded at no cost, with any purchases made within play all verified by the developers' server.
"An increasing number of games developers are finding the in-game purchase model attractive simply because it provides easy answers," claimed report author Charlotte Miller.
Ms Miller explained that for these businesses "their piracy rate will drop and the game will see more downloads", however she argues that while the buying of in-game items can generate significant revenues this model "doesn't work with all games".
The online gaming market has made significant gains over the past couple of years, with developments such as mobile gaming and a greater number of payment processing options driving growth.
This gaming format's popularity has been noted worldwide, with Sun Shoushan, deputy head of the General Administration of Press and Publication in China, claiming this week that the country's internet gaming market has grown annually by 32 per cent.
read more 2012-01-10
Barnes & Noble offer e-reader freebie with online subscription
Online book retailer Barnes & Noble has made the decision to offer a free gift to new subscribers in a bid to gain more high risk payment processing users.
Online book retailer Barnes & Noble has made the decision to offer a free gift to new subscribers in a bid to gain more high risk payment processing users.
The site is offering consumers who purchase a one-year subscription to People or the New York Times the chance to either receive a free or discounted Nook e-reader.
This limited-time offer is available until March 9th and is one of the first major attempts to sell both e-readers and subscriptions as a package deal.
Customers who subscribe to People magazine can buy the Nook Tablet at a $50 (£32.33) discount, while readers who sign up to The New York Times can get a Nook Simple Touch for free or a Nook Color for $99 (£64).
Jonathan Shar, vice president and general manager of digital newsstand at Barnes & Noble, explained that the decision to offer the popular digital content and e-reader device represented "amazing value".
Mr Shar went on to add: "Our customers love to have their newspaper automatically delivered to their Nook device each morning, ready to ready anytime and anywhere," a statement which signifies the mutually beneficial package offer.
E-readers have proved to be a popular purchase over the past few weeks, with one in 40 adults in the UK receiving one for Christmas, according to a survey from YouGov.
Some 1.33 million e-readers were sold over the festive period, with Amazon's Kindle device accounting for a significant 92 per cent of sales.
Marek Vaygelt, head of technology and telecoms consulting from the research firm claimed that 2011 was "finally the year when the late-medieval technology of the printing press was challenged by a 21st century, digital alternative."
E-readers represent a shift towards digital and more mobile content and could signal a boom in demand subscription packages offered by leading newspapers, magazines and online news sites.
read more 2012-01-10
China's online gaming market grows by a third
Online payment processing subscriptions in China are proving popular in the internet gaming market, as new figures show a revenue increase of 32 per cent, Xinhua news agency reports.
Online payment processing subscriptions in China are proving popular in the internet gaming market, as new figures show a revenue increase of 32 per cent, Xinhua news agency reports.
China's online gaming market is already well-known to be highly lucrative and during last year it raked in $6.79 billion (£4.4 billion), according to Sun Shoushan, deputy head of the General Administration of Press and Publication.
At an annual symposium on digital gaming, Mr Shoushan told the audience that the mobile gaming industry has also reported rapid growth, with Chinese revenues up by 87 per cent year-on-year.
The console gaming industry reported revenues up by over 300 per cent compared to annual figures, which is somewhat surprising due to the ascendancy of online games and piracy.
China has one of the world's largest online populations and online gaming communities; however the threat of online piracy has forced many organisations to reconsider their security options in the bid to protect their internet merchant account sites.
read more 2012-01-09
Online News Association reveals opposition to SOPA
Despite many media groups choosing to offer full access to their online content only through high risk payment processing providers, the Online News Association (ONA) has revealed that it is in opposition to the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA).
Despite many media groups choosing to offer full access to their online content only through high risk payment processing providers, the Online News Association (ONA) has revealed that it is in opposition to the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA).
Many news sites have been forced to compete with websites copy and pasting their content, forcing them to make their sites exclusive to paid subscribers.
However, the ONA has surprisingly come out in opposition to SOPA, even though they the world's largest membership organisation of digital journalists look set to be one of the main benefactors of stricter rules on online piracy.
In a letter to its members, board president Christine Montgomery asked them to voice their concern over the US bill, which is due to be discussed by a committee later this month.
It read that despite the ONA condemning the infringement of intellectual property and copyright it believes that SOPA "would do little to stem those problems and would actually cause harm to the internet and to the American public".
read more 2012-01-09
Netflix brings content service to UK and Ireland
Netflix will now be available in the UK and Ireland as the leading global internet subscription service looks to increase its online payment processing users.
Netflix will now be available in the UK and Ireland as the leading global internet subscription service looks to increase its online payment processing users.
Subscribers can gain instant and unlimited access to a broad range of entertainment for £5.99 in the UK or €6.99 in Ireland.
Consumers can begin with a one-month free trial, giving them the opportunity to watch a wide array of Hollywood, local and global TV programmes and films on a selection of internet-connected devices.
"Now you can enjoy as many great films and TV programmes as you want, when you want, where you want, for one low monthly price with no contracts or commitments," claimed Reed Hastings, co-founder and chief executive officer of Netflix.
The content streaming site currently has more than 20 million members in 47 countries, offering a range of film and TV programmes from organisations such as the BBC, CBS, Disney, Miramax, Paramount and Sony Pictures Entertainment.
read more 2012-01-09
Journal Sentinel branches into digital subscriptions
Journal Sentinel is now offering digital subscriptions to all of its online users, meaning that it will soon be accepting high risk payment processing services.
Journal Sentinel is now offering digital subscriptions to all of its online users, meaning that it will soon be accepting high risk payment processing services.
Home delivery subscribers will continue to have unlimited access to the JSOnline.com site, however readers of the site will now be asked to pay a subscription fee if they choose to read more than 20 articles each month.
Elizabeth Brenner, president and chief officer of Journal Communications' publishing group, claimed that this move was necessary to help the site to compete with other digital news sources.
Ms Brenner said: "We are following in the footsteps of leading media peers who have successfully launched digital subscription plans and supplemented traditional advertising revenue with new digital subscription revenue."
By signing up to the JS Everywhere digital package consumers can gain full and unlimited access to JSOnline.com and the Journal Sentinel e-Edition on computers, smart phones, tablets and other mobile devices.
read more 2012-01-06
Online payment processing to be made quicker
Online payment processing services are to be made quicker due to new European Union regulations.
Online payment processing services are to be made quicker due to new European Union regulations.
As of January 1st new legal requirements mean that electronic payments must reach the recipients account by the next working day.
The new Faster Payments system is expected to affect around 15 million internet, phone and standing order payments per month in the UK.
All standing orders, one-off internet and phone banking payments will exceed this requirement and are expected to be processed within two hours through the new regulations.
"This is great news for consumers and businesses. More bills are going to be paid more quickly through Faster Payments and the change will mean more certainty if you have been sent money too," commented Adrian Kamellard, chief executive of the Payments Council.
However, Mr Kamellard told Pay Your Way that "not all payments we make will fall under this regulation" and therefore it is important for both internet merchant account holders and consumers to become familiar with the new rules.
read more 2012-01-06
Charter Communications expands online subscription content
Charter Communications may increase its high risk payment processing subscribers after it announced that its customers have a greater amount of online content choice.
Charter Communications may increase its high risk payment processing subscribers after it announced that its customers have a greater amount of online content choice.
The network has upgraded its online and mobile content and apps for no additional cost to consumers, as well as adding hit US TV shows from Turner Broadcasting System and live streaming from CNN.
With the addition of other channels such as Cartoon Network, Charter has increased its entertainment portfolio by more than 500 hours of online and mobile content.
Subscribers can now also access shows within 24 hours of the live programme airing on a partner network.
"We are providing a growing amount of streaming content to bring an array of news, sports and entertainment options to customers on multiple devices through our powerful internet service," commented Rich DiGeronimo, Charter's senior vice president of product and strategy.
read more 2012-01-06
LOVEFiLM partners with BBC for subscription service
LOVEFiLM has signed a deal with BBC Worldwide to give its members streaming access to content from the broadcaster's vast archive of shows.
LOVEFiLM has signed a deal with BBC Worldwide to give its members streaming access to content from the broadcaster's vast archive of shows.
High risk payment processing services could be in demand as more consumers look to subscribe to the Amazon company in order to view a greater amount of shows.
The subscription video on-demand deal is to include celebrated TV titles such as Doctor Who, Life On Mars and Planet Earth.
LOVEFiLM Instant is Europe's leading TV and movie subscription service and is now available on a wide range of internet-connected devices, including Sony Playstation 3, Apple iPad, Xbox 360, PCs and web-enabled TV sets.
Lisa Rousseau, head of UK and Ireland sales and distribution at BBC Worldwide, claimed that it is great to see the relationship between the two firms evolve digitally.
"We're delighted to give LOVEFiLM's subscribers the opportunity to instantly watch their favourite British shows," she added.
read more 2012-01-05
Disney shows to be available through online subscriptions
High risk payment processing services could see a greater demand after Disney reached an agreement to broadcast shows online to subscribers.
High risk payment processing services could see a greater demand after Disney reached an agreement to broadcast shows online to subscribers.
The corporation has signed a long-term agreement with TV signal provider Comcast, which extends their current partnership for another decade.
This will now allow Comcast subscribers to gain greater access to shows on demand over the internet on multiple devices, on major pay channels such as ESPN, ABC Family and all Disney channels.
The online package will now cover 70 channels or services and while terms have yet to be fully disclosed it is believed that the comprehensive deal is in the interest of both organisations.
"It reinforces the value of the multichannel subscription and takes full advantage of new technologies, which serve all of our viewers," ESPN executive chairman George Bodenheimer said in a statement.
The deal is expected to give improved online content access to 22.4 million subscribers and has seen shares rise significantly.
read more 2012-01-05
Data security expected to be major issue this year
Data security is expected to become a significant issue for internet merchant account holders during 2012, as businesses and consumers beginning transferring more money online.
Data security is expected to become a significant issue for internet merchant account holders during 2012, as businesses and consumers beginning transferring more money online.
Mark Dampster, associate of the Centre for Cyber Security, claimed that as data production and storage increases as does the level of risk.
"Its confidential nature, the location and the context - makes it more attractive to exploit and [provides] a greater opportunity to criminals," Mr Dampster noted.
"Companies and individuals from the board room to the post room need to have data security at the heart of their considerations," he went on to advise.
The Information Commissioner's Office has recently published its strategy for the coming year, explaining that businesses are under pressure to protect consumer data as well as their own organisations from external threats.
It is currently proposing European-wide changes to current legislation regarding the secure storage of online data.
read more 2012-01-05
Verizon Wireless reverses payment processing charge
Verizon Wireless has been forced to reverse its decision to charge a payment processing fee to customers after a consumer backlash.
Verizon Wireless has been forced to reverse its decision to charge a payment processing fee to customers after a consumer backlash.
The US wireless operator retracted its $2 proposed fee for all telephone and online payments, after it received significant criticism from consumers and the Federal Communications Commission.
Verizon's decision to backtrack was made only a day after it announced the fee for one-time payments, a surcharge which was due to come into effect on January 15th.
Payment processing fees have come under mass criticism over the past few months, with the Bank of America recently choosing to make a u-turn on its debit card payment charge of $5 a month.
In the UK, the Office of Fair Trading is currently working with the government to investigate hidden surcharges added on the end of online transactions and looks set to ban this practice by the end of 2012.
read more 2012-01-04
New York Times sparks confusion with subscription emails
High risk payment processing users have been left confused after a mistake by the New York Times.
High risk payment processing users have been left confused after a mistake by the New York Times.
Some eight million customers received emails from the newspaper offering them a special discount if they reconsidered their choice to cancel their online subscriptions.
This offer was only intended to go to around 300 people, however was erroneously sent by an employee to the full email marketing list.
Initially social media users were concerned that that the site had been hacked and the message was a spam email, but The New York Times has since blamed human error and released an apology.
A spokeswoman said: "An email was sent earlier today from The New York Times in error. This email should have been sent to a very small number of subscribers."
The email reportedly offered customers a 50 per cent reduced rate for 16 weeks of content, sparking anger from existing consumers not eligible for the discount.
read more 2012-01-04
New Star Wars game 'competing for fastest-growing subscription title'
The new Star Wars game is already attracting a high number of online billing solutions users as it becomes one of the fastest-growing player communities in the history of subscription-based massively multiplayer online (MMO) titles.
The new Star Wars game is already attracting a high number of online billing solutions users as it becomes one of the fastest-growing player communities in the history of subscription-based massively multiplayer online (MMO) titles.
After being on the market for only a fortnight it has gained numerous positive reviews, earning awards such as MSNBC's Best Multiplayer Game of 2011.
Since its launch on December 20th it has attracted more than a million players who have spent over 60 million hours on the game, PC World reports.
The Old Republic has been developed by Bioware and general manager and co-founder of the company Dr Ray Muzyka has hailed the new game's response from fans.
"Everyone at Bioware, Electronic Arts and Lucas Arts is honoured and humbled by the stellar response from our fans," Dr Muzyka said soon after its launch.
He then went on to claim that the organisation would be working with the gaming community to deliver "compelling new features and content" as it progresses.
read more 2011-10-04
Rhapsody partners with Napster for on-demand music distribution
High risk payment processing services could be in greater demand for the premium music subscription site Rhapsody after it penned an agreement with Napster.
High risk payment processing services could be in greater demand for the premium music subscription site Rhapsody after it penned an agreement with Napster.
The partnership, which is expected to be fully introduced in late November, will mean that Rhapsody acquires Napster subscribers and other assets.
"This is a 'go big or go home' business, so our focus is on sustainably growing the company," commented Jon Irwin, the president of Rhapsody.
"Our new members will have more places to connect to the music they love and to discover new favourites," Mr Irwin went on to add.
Rhapsody and Napster are currently the two largest on-demand music services in the US and allow users to listen to music from PC, laptop, TV, MP3 player and mobile phone devices.
Launched in 1999, Rhapsody gives subscribers access to over 13 million songs from major and indie record labels, while also providing expert and consumer reviews to help introduce music fans to new artists.
read more 2011-10-04
Managers 'should understand business security risk levels'
Internet merchant account security managers have admitted that there is a significant disconnect between the perception and reality of protection levels in web businesses.
Internet merchant account security managers have admitted that there is a significant disconnect between the perception and reality of protection levels in web businesses.
Almost two-thirds of respondents in the McAfee 2011 Data Center Security Survey reported that management staff believed that security was stronger than it actually was.
Only 22 per cent claimed that these senior professionals were aware of their company's true security preparedness.
"Management needs to seek out the truth when it comes to IT security and data centre management needs to be frank and honest when discussing the strengths and weaknesses of their security mechanisms," argued Dan Olds, principal analyst at Gabriel Consulting Group, which conducted the research.
A separate study by McAfee has found that 92 per cent of people in the UK are carrying out some form of online banking.
However, despite the high number of people willing to transfer money on the web and use online billing solutions, more than half are worried about security issues.
read more 2011-10-03
News Corp's online subscription sales 'failing'
Rupert Murdoch's online subscription sales are significantly falling behind expectations and failing to encourage online billing solutions users, according to reports.
Rupert Murdoch's online subscription sales are significantly falling behind expectations and failing to encourage online billing solutions users, according to reports.
In an interview with Bloomberg, John Nitti, executive vice president of Publicis Group SA's Zenith Optimedia, claimed that News Corp's iPad-only newspaper The Daily was witnessing extremely low reader numbers.
Bloomberg reported that the app was receiving only 120,000 users each week, which is comparable to small local papers and less than a quarter of what the company explained that it needed to be profitable.
Mr Nitti explained: "They won't tell us how many paying subscribers, but that's how many unique The Daily is getting."
He said that 120,000 readers would be a respectable figure for a fledgling publication and commented that The Daily's availability on Google's Android software later this month could help increase subscribers.
Back in February chief executive officer of News Corp, Rupert Murdoch, explained that the newly launched app would need 500,000 subscribers in order to break even.
read more 2011-10-03
Online banking 'used by 92% of Britons'
Online payment processing services could be increasing in popularity as a new study shows that 92 per cent of people in the UK use online banking services.
Online payment processing services could be increasing in popularity as a new study shows that 92 per cent of people in the UK use online banking services.
Despite these high figures, the research from McAfee showed that only a third of Britons who use online banking admitted to feeling "completely confident" that their details were secure.
Some 81 per cent of online bankers revealed that recent cybercrime attacks, such as the Sony PlayStation Network security breach had made them more fearful of using online billing solutions and transferring money over the internet.
Raj Samani, chief technology officer for McAfee Europe Middle East and Africa, claimed that it was more likely that cyber problems would be the fault of the consumer rather than the internet merchant account site or bank.
"It's more likely that people are unwittingly giving out their personal banking information to criminals via phishing scams and copycat sites, or their computers being infected with malware," Mr Samani explained.
Meanwhile in the US, the country is currently playing host to its National Cyber Security Awareness Month, designed to promote greater understanding of online threats and how to prevent them.
read more 2011-10-03
Sony's Uncharted 3 requires online code
High risk payment processing use will be required for users of the new Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception game to enable them to compete online.
High risk payment processing use will be required for users of the new Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception game to enable them to compete online.
Sony has confirmed that the game will use the company's PlayStation Network (PSN) Pass system, in an interview with Spanish language outlet The Vault.
Juan Jimenez, software manager for Sony Spain, explained to the site that the online pass restricted access was necessary "in order to tackle piracy".
Online passes require players to enter in a redemption code in exchange for access to multiplayer features and content.
Uncharted 3 will become only the second game released by Sony to use its PSN Pass system and follows the success of Resistance 3, which was released last month.
Web subscriptions have faced criticism in recent weeks, with many industry experts warning that in-game microtransactions could prove to be more profitable for internet merchant accounts looking to increase online gaming revenues.
read more 2011-09-30
US hosts cyber security awareness month
Direct merchant account holders in the US are being urged to consider their online protection during October, as part of the National Security Awareness Month.
Direct merchant account holders in the US are being urged to consider their online protection during October, as part of the National Security Awareness Month.
The month is focused on the theme of shared responsibility and has been designed to emphasise the role of both businesses and consumers in securing their part of cyberspace.
Since its launch in 2003 by the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), US Department of Homeland Security and the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center, the event has used the month to coordinate educational awareness schemes and events.
It will be using the slogan STOP.THINK.CONNECT to help the digital community stay safer online and will be supported by leading cyber security experts McAfee and Verizon.
"National Cyber Security Awareness Month continues to grow stronger every year in our effort to raise awareness for a very simple but powerful message: It's our shared responsibility to protect the internet and our digital assets," claimed Michael Kaiser, executive director of the NCSA.
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Online security fears 'blamed for cart abandonment'
Online payment processing services for internet merchant account holders could be used more frequently if businesses invest in online security, according to a new survey.
Online payment processing services for internet merchant account holders could be used more frequently if businesses invest in online security, according to a new survey.
The top three reasons why consumers might abandon making an online purchase were found to be security concerns, over-complicated payment forms and enforced sign ups, a study by Postcode Anywhere has revealed.
Poor website design was also found to be off-putting for 23 per cent.
"While a lot of emphasis is rightly placed on the design of ecommerce sites, it's interesting that getting "the basics" right is essential - online buyers are more concerned about security and completing their transaction with a minimum amount of fuss," claimed the firm's sales and marketing director Phil Rothwell.
In other online security news, researchers Juliano Rizzo and Thai Dong unveiled new decryption software capable of obtaining authentication tokens and cookies used in communications and online payment processing.
Critics have however claimed that the process is too lengthy for the technology to bear a significant business risk.
read more 2011-09-30
Experts claim 'subscription games are not over'
High risk payment processing facilities used to pay for online games subscriptions may not be under threat, according to an expert.
High risk payment processing facilities used to pay for online games subscriptions may not be under threat, according to an expert.
Earlier this month reviewers and writers in the gaming industry speculated that web subscriptions could be phased out due to developer's choosing to gain revenue instead from microtransactions for items purchased in-game.
Sony Online Entertainment president John Smedley claimed that Star Wars: The Old Republic would become the last ever massively multiplayer online game to utilise the subscription model, however Bioware's Greg Zeschuk and Ray Muzyka told Industry Gamers that he disagrees with these claims.
Mr Zeschuk argued that: "I think there will always be a place for premium content at a premium price."
While Mr Muzyka explained that higher levels of competition in the social and free gaming industries provide healthy competition and should not be viewed as a threat.
He added: "There's a space for a certain number of premium products that are subscription based or whatever the premium pricing model is. But they have to merit
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