Amicus (Friend of the Court) (3rd party) Brief for specified current Research Paper

Amicus (Friend of the Court) (3rd party) Brief for specified current Suprem Court case - Research Paper Example Human Rights Watch also has a role of investigating and exposing incidences of human rights abuse abuses and violation, with an aim of putting the abuses to the task of being accountable. The organization also seeks to challenge the government and other bodies or people who hold powers to observe human rights and to end human rights abuses, particularly with reference to international human rights standards as well as that of the municipal laws. As a leading human rights body, with the aforesaid specific roles, which are highly tangential to the issues of justice , the organization has a legitimate interest to participate in the case and to present an Amicus brief for the same. The organization has a lot of interest in ensuring that justice is done to the defendant. It is the Human Rights Watch that this honorable court safeguards future systematic human rights abuses by the state, and in particular the police, against the citizens. It is the interest of the organization that the pol ice and all government organs concerned are held accountable for human rights abuses that they perpetrate. ... Incarcerated on a disorderly conduct charge, the deputies were hoping to learn more about Fields' relationship with an underage male. Fields was not given his Miranda warnings, but was told he could leave the conference room where the questioning took place at any time. During the 7 hour questioning, Fields repeatedly told the deputies that he did not want to talk about the allegations of sexual misconduct that they had leveled against him. Eventually, however, he did admit to some of the behavior that had been alleged. On the basis of that information, and over the strenuous objection of his counsel, Fields was later convicted of two counts of third-degree criminal conduct and sentenced to a term of 10-15 years.   Fields appealed claiming that when he was first removed from his cell to go to the conference room, he was given no notice of what the deputies wanted. Further, because they had not Mirandized him and continued to question him even after he told them he did not want to s peak to them, the incriminating statements should be thrown out. Throughout his appeals in the state judicial system, his arguments were denied.   Upon making a habeus corpus motion to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, however, Fields' contention that his rights had been violated was upheld. The Sixth Circuit Court affirmed that lower court ruling which contrasted with decisions made in similar cases in other federal courts. The split in the circuits virtually guaranteed that the Supreme Court would take the case. On January 24, 2011, the Supreme Court granted certiorari.   The present case presents a question as to what amounts to being in custody and in particular whether or not a prisoner is always â€Å"in

President Grover Cleveland Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

President Grover Cleveland - Research Paper Example He was also nick named as Uncle Jumbo. His commitment towards truth and honesty can be witnessed in his famous words; â€Å"To be president, you should have honesty. Honesty is always telling the truth. Do you tell the truth? Above all tell the truth† (American President – Grover Cleveland). Cleveland has contributed heavily to American politics and social life. This paper analyses Cleveland’s life and his contributions to American politics and society. Cleveland was born on March 18, 1837 in Caldwell, New Jersey. He grew up in New York. He started attending school at the age of 11. When his father died in 1853, Cleveland left school to work and support his family. He moved in 1855 to live and work with his Uncle in Buffalo, New York. He studied law in Buffalo and was admitted to the bar in 1859 (Kelly) Cleveland got married only after he became the twenty second president of America. Probably, he is the only president in the history of America who got married as a president of America. He was 49 at the time of his marriage and his wife Frances Folsom was only 21 at that time. He had five children (three daughters and two sons) in this relationship; however he was alleged to have another child in a premarital relationship. During the Civil War he had hired a substitute when drafted into the army. This was perfectly legal but certainly a disadvantage at a time when most successful northern politicians made much of their military achievements in defense of the Union. More serious still, Cleveland was the father of an illegitimate child. He had provided for the support of the child, but in those Victorian times knowledge of his transgression, should it become widely known, seemed sure to cost him heavily at the polls. Yet three years later he was elected president of the United States (Garraty) The election of Cleveland as America’s president is still mysterious to many people. Cleveland never possessed the normal qualities required for getting the candidature of Democratic Party. He was not much educated and had some illegal relationships while he was selected as the Democratic Marty candidate for presidential election. Military service was compulsory in American military; however he escaped from that using by drafting a substitute into the military. In short, none of his personal, academic or professional achievements or qualities were popular; yet he succeeded in winning the president election purely because of his anti-corruption stands and some other popular opinions he expressed on various issues. Cleveland started his political life during the latter half of nineteenth century after the completion of his law studies. He has gained immense publicity because of his anti-corruption stands since corruption was widespread in American political and social life circuits. He has taken Democratic Party membership and won the mayor election of Buffalo in 1882. Later, (during the period 1883-1885) he became the govern or of New York. He has caught the attention of the people not because of his fight against corruption alone; but because of his stands against tariffs, inflation, imperialism etc. He has demanded political and economic reforms in America which made him the real hero of American politics during the latter part of nineteenth century. Cleveland's phenomenal political rise was not entirely due to his honesty and courage, which were considerable. His unusual success was possible because the American people had become

Effective communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Effective communication - Essay Example For Ð µxamplÐ µ, a patiÐ µnt suffÐ µring from a condition may havÐ µ a complicatÐ µd history in which thÐ µy havÐ µ sÐ µÃ µn many outsidÐ µ spÐ µcialists and havÐ µ alrÐ µady triÐ µd various trÐ µatmÐ µnts, and thÐ µ dÐ µlivÐ µry systÐ µm has to know this. So what thÐ µ hospital hopÐ µs to do is to install a sort of softwarÐ µ basÐ µd knowlÐ µdgÐ µ sharing systÐ µm that will Ð µnd this problÐ µm. o What tÐ µchniquÐ µs wÐ µrÐ µ inÐ µffÐ µctivÐ µ? ThÐ µ issuÐ µ of Ð µlÐ µctronic knowlÐ µdgÐ µ sharing is rÐ µlÐ µvant bÐ µcausÐ µ today’s hÐ µalthcarÐ µ Ð µnvironmÐ µnt is onÐ µ that is quickly changing as nÐ µw tÐ µchnology is constantly bÐ µing adoptÐ µd, and this tÐ µchnology brings risks as wÐ µll as rÐ µwards. PatiÐ µnt privacy and confidÐ µntiality also rÐ µmain rÐ µlÐ µvant concÐ µrns from an Ð µthical as wÐ µll as a lÐ µgal pÐ µrspÐ µctivÐ µ in thÐ µ hÐ µalthcarÐ µ Ð µnvironmÐ µnt. In today’s hÐ µalthcarÐ µ sÐ µtting, â€Å"ComputÐ µr systÐ µms dÐ µsignÐ µd for clinical usÐ µ apply tÐ µchnology that is protÐ µctivÐ µ of data. In addition, an Ð µlÐ µctronic patiÐ µnt rÐ µcord is backÐ µd up according to hospital policy†¦ and as thÐ µ chart is modifiÐ µd by carÐ µgivÐ µrs, thosÐ µ changÐ µs arÐ µ automatically savÐ µd and an audit trail crÐ µatÐ µd† (Ford Ð µt al., 2005).

Get Prepared My Speech Essay Example for Free

Get Prepared My Speech Essay Regarding our introduction speech as my first formal one in front of the class, I felt so awkward that I forgot every details which we should pay attention to. First is the Eye Contact. There was a kind of hook that I can’t control myself from moving my sights out of the back row, where our professor sat. The second Delivery part is Vocal Pause which was my most serious issue during all the speech. Words just went out of my mind since I wrote my name on the board. I was a little unaware when my name was called on the second because I preferred the third place so that I got enough time to calm down and organized sentences. Every preparation I did was showing randomly in my head. For example, my personal considerations on how tough will a military mission be had appeared first rather than an interesting getter. Some details I added to make a rich description became a simple word, not including some parts I even forgot to say. The last issue is about Body language that it may help audiences to know where the person in the speech is. Thanked for the outlines paper so that I knew where I should put my hands on. I was easily lost my minds but caught up on time by fingering which line I would read next. By recollecting fragments of my speech, I keep telling myself it would be better if I performed in that way. An interesting beginning, more eye contacts or less pause while I was expressing. All the problems I mentioned above is because I didn’t realize there was more nervousness than I expected. In another words, I didn’t rehearse enough to conquer that as Ronald B. and George states, â€Å"A smooth and natural delivery is the result of extensive practice. Get to know your material until you feel comfortable with your presentation† (page 342). After switched to a listener, contents were not the only part that attracted me but how different they performed from mine. By observing their moves, their body languages were perfectly coordinated with the rhythm of presentations. It became a talk like he or she was introducing a friend of his or her to you instead of reading a research paper. About the cadence they spoke, the variable tone caught my attention all the time and I couldn’t wait to know what was on the next. I confessed that I am the selective listener who responds only to the parts of a speaker’s remarks that interested me. With those changing tones and plentiful body languages, the contents were easily understood and appealing. I am very pleased to be enrolled in this class to figure out what is my weakness and how I can beat them to be a qualified speaker. Works Citied Adler, Ronald B. and Rodman, George. Understanding Human Communication with Carrie Cropley Hutchinson, 11th edition. Print.

Card Security For Republic Bank Customers

Card Security For Republic Bank Customers There is no doubt that most organisations today are becoming essentially dependant on the use of credit cards, arguably its most strategic asset, is to support existing business operations. However, credit card fraud and identity theft has continued to plague the banking and retail industries as there seems to be no feasible solution to these crimes. Advances in technology have opened a gateway for hackers to restructure their position of attack, intruding on ones personal life. The basis of this project is on the new Chip and PIN technology introduced on credit cards. Ive considered this to be an interesting topic because of the publicity this technology has been receiving across the world and it has even reached to our shores, here in Trinidad and Tobago. Hence, Republic Bank Limited one of the local banks would be the case studied in this research. Chapter two would encompass the existing literature on credit card history and Chip and PIN. This chapter would outline how credit cards have become smart cards and how the Chip and PIN cards are used. Chapter three gives the entire design of the project and the objectives to be obtained for the research. Moving to chapter four, the research framework adopted for this study on Chip and PIN and how it relates to the model undertaken in the research. The findings from this research would be summarized version of the data collected, with the analysis of the theory and research framework the author undertook in this study. In concluding, the author would report on the learning aspects of the research and provide an assessment of achievements, giving a position on the research question. Literature REVIEW This section is intended to place the scope of the project with literature surrounding the components of the research question. The Credit Card Transaction Process Discussed This payment mechanism was formally introduced in 1958, when the BankAmericard card, now known as Visa was franchised across the global community. By introducing an electronic authorization system, the BankAmericard was able to be used globally. Now by partnering with banks across the globe, Visa has been able to provide an international processing system for the exchange of money. The workings of a credit card transaction are such that it comprises of four main steps. These are: Authorization Batching Clearing Funding The cardholder requests a purchase from the merchant, which is then submitted to the acquirer by the merchant. The acquirer then sends a request to the issuer to authorize the transaction. Once the authorization code is sent to the acquirer verifying that credit is available, the transaction is authorized and the cardholder receives the product. (This is further explained in detail on page 9 of this document) This simple process of electronic transacting has opened up a world of e-commerce opportunities. From an information system perspective the processing workflow of an online credit card transaction is shown below: Figure 1: Online Credit Card Processing Workflow Diagram (Hubbard, 2003) Because of the vulnerabilities that lay in a transaction, more so the networks across which the information is exchanged, various security breaches can occur. Types of Credit Card Fraud There are many different types of credit card fraud. Fraudsters are very innovative in finding new ways of committing credit card crime and as technology changes so does their crime tactics. Security issues surrounding the card fraud has moved from the traditional ways of committing credit card crime (Application Fraud, Intercept Fraud and Lost/Stolen Card Fraud) to the modern techniques namely, Skimming, Site Cloning and most recently Triangulation. Skimming is the fastest growing type of credit card fraud around because of its simplicity. Pocket Skimming devices can be easily carried around and the cardholders data can be obtained by merely swiping the card through the battery-operated magnetic card reader. This technology has also evolved so as to read the data of Chip and PIN cards, with the use of a scanner. These scanners, which can write or even re-write the data on the Chip cards, are fully portable and have high storage capacities. Because some of these devices are not illegal, they are easily accessible to hackers and can be bought over the internet. Site Cloning involves cloning an entire site or just the pages where customers make purchases. Since the web pages are identical customers are not aware that their personal information is being compromised. Also, confirmation details are sent to the customer just as the official companys website would, so the crime goes undetected. The details entered on the cloned site are then used by the fraudster to commit credit card fraud. Another method of credit card fraud is Triangulation. Goods are presented on websites at discounted prices, which can be shipped to the customer before payment. Again, just as with site cloning, the site appears to be legitimate then the customer proceeds to enter their personal data. With this captured information the fraudster can then order goods from legitimate retail websites using the credit card number obtained. Due to these security issues surrounding credit card information security, there has been global industry-wide concern for the protection of cardholders data. Since security management is a systematic issue, a serious look at what can be done to prevent security breaches is necessary-whether it may be legislation, the use of fraud detection system monitors or the application of data encryption/ authentication techniques. Chip and PIN Technology Credit cards have been a feasible solution for making payment processing simple and efficient. The history of the credit card dates back to the 1900s when oil companies and proprietors created their own credit card as a means of obtaining customer loyalty and improving customer service. However, as with advances in technology, the credit cards have evolved from having just encoded magnetic stripes to modern day Chip and PIN cards, with embedded microchips, which can store and transmit data. These Chip and PIN cards were developed to provide an inter-operative system that would combat card fraud (counterfeit and plastic cards). This transaction processing infrastructure has enabled the cash-less revolution, whereby consumers, governments and businesses benefit from the electronic payment network, which has shifted payments by cash and cheques to an efficient electronic payment system. The mechanics of a credit card transaction is such that the merchant acquirer, usually the bank processes transactions on behalf of the merchant. This payment by credit card represents an offer for issuance of payment in exchange for the goods or services provided by the merchant, (Transaction Processing). There are two parts to this type of transaction processing: the first is front end processing which involves the capture of data messages across communication channels to the point of sale devices; and secondly the back end processing which involves the balancing of accounting information by acquirers and issuers and the submission of the payment to the acquiring merchants bank. As a result of the rapid advances in technology, data security continues to be a major concern as every transaction that involves the transmission data across networks is open to external attacks. Attacks on a consumers card information can come from any angle, whether it may be data thieves or network intruders. The Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC), which comprises of major payment brands namely VISA, MasterCard, Discover and a few others, have created global compliance standards to protect cardholders data. These set of standards help govern and educate all merchants and organisations that process, store and transmit data, as well as the manufactures of the devices used in transaction processing. The PCI SSC (2010), Data Security Standard Quick Reference Guide, as summarized below, outlines the best practices for protecting cardholder data: Develop and Maintain a Secure Network Install and maintain firewall configuration to protect cardholders data. Do not use vendor-supplied defaults for system passwords or other security parameters. Protect cardholders data Protect stored data Encrypt transmission of cardholders data across open public networks Maintain a vulnerability management program Use and regularly update anti-virus software or programs Develop and maintain secure systems and applications Implement strong access control measures Restrict access to cardholder data by business need to know Assign a unique ID to persons with computer access Restrict physical access to cardholder data Regularly monitor and test networks Track and monitor all access to network resources and cardholder data Regularly test security systems and resources Maintain an information security policy Maintain a policy that address information security for all personnel Nevertheless, despite these procedures in place, there has been amplified instances of the various types of credit card fraud, namely Intercept Fraud, Skimming, Site Cloning as well as Triangulation. This propelled an industry and governmentà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å"led initiative in the UK to embark on the introduction of Chip and PIN card technology. Based on the EMV standard (Euro pay, MasterCard, Visa) Chip and PIN technology was launched in the UK on February 14th 2006. This programme was introduced to combat credit and debit card fraud, and to provide an ideal way of validating the cardholders identity. By utilizing smart card technology a microchip is embedded with the customers information which includes their unique four digit PIN. For transactions to be accepted, the customer PIN entered must match the one encoded on the microchip. These steps are further explained below: The card is inserted by the customer into the card reader. The card reader would then prompt the user to insert their PIN. A four-digit PIN is then entered by the customer. Once the reader accepts the PIN entered the transaction would be approved. Note the PIN entered is not displayed on the reader but rather represented by asterisks. The customer is issued a receipt as confirmation of the transaction process. This process removes the responsibility and accountability from the merchant to the customer for point of sale transactions. The card never leaves the customers hand and as such prevents skimming of ones card information. One of the benefits of the Chip and PIN cards is that the Chip itself is encrypted with a range of security features, which the transaction processing system uses to identify the cardholder. These security features are said to be virtually impossible to replicate. The terminals used for Chip and PIN transactions, use secure transmission technology to ensure the privacy of the cardholders data and can operate over a range of connectivity environments, such as wired, wireless and cellular networks. The PCI Security Standards Council also developed a framework of standards which is legally enforced through a merchant/service provider/card brand agreement. These include requirements that support the encryption of the cardholders account data and the point of sale terminal integration. Figure 2: Outline of the process of a Chip and PIN transaction The PIN entered replaces the request for signature as verification of the transaction. This is why the banking industry in the UK has campaigned for this technology, because signatures can be forged, however the PIN is unique to that person. Although the United States is yet to convert to this technology, countries such as Japan, China, Canada, Mexico as well as the majority of the European Countries have all introduced Chip and PIN technology and it is gaining momentum in various other countries including Trinidad and Tobago. Republic Bank Trinidad and Tobago Limited is the first local bank in Trinidad and Tobago to introduce Chip and PIN technology to make the concept of paying by credit card safer for cardholders. The bank adopted this type of technology because this is now an industry-wide conversion from the magnetic-stripe cards and it is also in keeping with the EMV standard. Conversely, a potential security issue with Chip and PIN card terminals is its capability of processing cards with the magnetic stripe as well. Because of this the request to enter the customers PIN can be bypassed by the merchant, with a receipt generated to be signed by the customer. Now because this option is still available it poses an added security threat to card transactions. So, unfortunately skimming still remains a huge problem for cardholders and sadly enough this includes Chip and PIN cardholders as well. Although this practice is slowly migrating from EMV compliant countries, once a card has been skimmed it can still be used in countries where the magnetic stripe is still prevalent, for example some Asian Countries and the United States. This is why many fraudsters can still create a fake card with stolen magnetic stripe information which can be used in for example the United States. The United States believes that although Chip and PIN has reduced fraud for face to face card transactions, there are a still a number of issues surrounding the security of the system used for this these transactions. Now as with any new system introduced, there have been a number of studies on whether Chip and PIN cards are really secure. So the question is has Chip and PIN technology impacted on the activities of overall card fraud or has the activities of fraudsters shifted from retail crime. In a study by Emily Finch (2010) The Impact of Chip and Pin Technology and The Activities of Fraudsters, it was recognised that since the implementation of Chip and PIN technology participants involved in card fraud made varying decisions when it came to their crime of choice. The Decision to Desist The Decision to Continue To work with others Shift to Distance Transactions Diversification of Theft into Identity The study also shows that there is a shift in the attack strategy of fraudsters from point of sale card fraud to Internet and Card Identity Fraud. In an analysis of Internet and Card Identity Fraud, we can note that Chip and PIN technology was not designed for preventing these types of card fraud. So, the question remains, was Chip and PIN successful at what it was set out to achievereduce card fraud? This too can be argued further as there are other limitations. How can one link a particular card to a specific owner? Once the PIN is known by the individual a transaction can be completed with ease. Other studies have shown that the card readers used for Chip and PIN transactions can be modified. In a study by a team of University of Cambridge Computer Scientists, they have uncovered a series of fatal flaws in the Chip and PIN system. One example is where the internal hardware can be replaced without external evidence of this. This new terminal could then be programmed and modified so that it performs just as a typical terminal, where the card details can be collected and allow criminals to make cards with a fake magnetic stripe, which along with the PIN would enable a fraudster to make valid purchases. Another example is that fraudsters can insert an electronic wedge between the stolen card and the terminal, which tricks the terminal into believing that the PIN was correctly verified. Further, with this wedge inserted, any PIN can be entered and the transaction would be verified. This type of fraud makes it difficult for the victims of the attack to be refunded by the bank as the receipt given is authentic and would state verified by PIN. The bank in turn would be accurate in stating that no refund is required as their records show verified by PIN. This type of complaint appears as an act of negligence by the cardholder as he/she allowed their PIN to be compromised. So based on this study the point of sale attacks are much more prevalent, since before the introduction of Chip and PIN cards, consumers only entered their PIN at ATMs. Now with the introduction of Chip and PIN, consumers are using their cards at various other public areas. To combat the compromising of the consumers PIN a shield over the keypad has been used as added security but in many public areas there are video cameras and a persons PIN can still be captured on footage. So, although the UK banking industry has claimed to have rolled out this new technology successfully in 2006, there seems to be some negative aspects of this technology. The architecture surrounding Chip and PIN technology is questionable and the onus is on the banking industry to ensure that cardholders information is protected. Additionally, it also seems that Chip and PIN terminals offer no difference to what the magnetic stripe terminals offered. These terminals can be tampered with, which is a clear indication that there needs to be accurate configuration of these terminals so as to secure the cardholders data when transmitting transactions and that is not vulnerable to incident of attack. So the intent of Chip and PIN technology has more so opened a new marketplace for fraudsters than prevent/reduce fraudulent activity. PROJECT DESIGN, OBJECTIVES AND RESEARCH METHODS The scope of this project is to outline the features of Chip and PIN technology and whether its implementation thus far has been beneficial. This section of the project would provide the methods involved in achieving the data for the project as well as the results based on the data collected. The chosen approach to this design is online research (journals/scholarly articles) along with a case study on the implementation of Chip and PIN technology in Trinidad and Tobago, with the case being Republic Bank Limited. Objective 1 A good foundation for this objective would be the interpretation of the credit cards history. How has this cash-less mechanism moved from a local innovation to a global payment mechanism by use of digital communication across networks? In gaining a clear understanding on the reason for the implementation of this technology, a wealth of research would be conducted on credit card technology and digital security. Objective 2 A holistic understanding on the basis of credit card fraud and the types of fraudulent activities and the steps taken to prevent credit card crime. What technologies have been implemented and the effects/benefits drawn from these approaches. Objective 3 Expanding from objective two also discussed would be whether or not since the introduction of Chip and PIN technology in the UK, has there been a cascading effect of this new technology across countries. Analysing the increasing number of fraudulent activities reported from statistics, which compelled the global banking industry to find a seamless solution for the protection of cardholders data. Objective 4 An assessment on the introduction of Chip and PIN technology by Republic Bank Limited, which would include sourcing information on its implementation and the benefits derived. Further research would be on the acceptance (or non-acceptance) of the technology by customers. Objective 5 Lastly, from the feedback received from the interview conducted and by analysing the incidents of attack on Republic Bank credit cardholders, what was the determining factor in the bank aligning themselves with the UK standards set by EMV? CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK In identifying the framework to be adopted that can be referenced to the literature in this research, the author considered the Delone and Mc Lean IS Success Model. Using this model, the author would explain the net benefits of adopting Chip and PIN technology, relating it to Republic Banks implementation of this technology. DeLeone and McLean IS Success Model In evaluating the success of Information Systems, the DM IS Success Model, systems quality measures the technical success, information quality measures semantic success and organisational impacts and user satisfaction measures the effectiveness of the system. The processes in the model are inter-connected by links, across the dimensions of the system. Figure 3: Depiction of the Updated Information Systems Success Model (DeLeone McLean 2002, 2003) The updated DM Model interprets the evaluation of a system in terms of the information, system, and service qualities and how these characteristics attribute to user satisfaction. As a result of using the system, certain benefits will be achieved and the net benefits will in turn (positively or negatively) influence user satisfaction and the further use of the information system. So, therefore three basic components make up this model, the creation of a system, its use and the consequences of its use. Case study as it relates to the ISS model. Republic Bank has been providing banking and financial solutions to individuals and businesses for over 160 years. Their mission is not only to provide efficient and competitively priced services but also to implement sound policies which will be beneficial to their customers. These factors presented provide clarity and influences the net benefits of the implemented Chip and PIN system at Republic Bank thus far. By use of the ISS model to map the research done in this project, the author would complete a step by step relay of the framework discussing the implementation of Chip and PIN by Republic Bank. Information Quality-Information quality refers to the accuracy/protection of the content of the data in transacting. How secure is the personalized data being transmitted across networks. When a customer presents their card to make a purchase, are they confident that their card information is protected because of the added security enabled on this card. System Quality-The system quality refers to the reliability of the network and the response time in transacting, notwithstanding the approved devices that accept personal identification numbers for all PIN based entries (the ease of use of the system functionalities). Therefore in rolling out this new technology the bank along with their partner merchants would train staff so that they are familiar with the best practice guidelines when using Chip and PIN. Service Quality-This refers to the back-end support systems that assist in usage of the technology. How reliable are Republic Banks servers and IP networks? User Satisfaction- This encompasses measuring the users entire experience-the purchase payment, receipt and service (the ease of purchasing without the fear of being a victim of fraudulent activity). Net Benefits -This is the most important success measure and it encapsulates the cost savings and the decrease in the value of fraudulent transactions arising from stolen credit card data. Was the implementation of this technology beneficial in reducing the incidents of card fraud? Are Republic Bank cardholders satisfied that their bank is on par with global industry changes? The focus of this success model lies in determining the impact the features of technology (information, system, and service quality) have on the variables user satisfaction, use, and net benefits. The main objective for using this ISS model is to establish the ultimate benefits derived from the use of information system both in individual and organizational terms. FINDINGS This chapter will illustrate the findings from the questionnaires submitted to a sample of the Republic Banks credit card customers as well as a formal interview conducted with an employee of Republic Bank Credit Card Centre. The aim of the chapter is to source an awareness of the topic area Chip and PIN by cardholders and the personnel interviewed. Primary Data Collection For the basis of the findings of this research the author conducted a formal interview with a middle management employee at Republic Bank and also distributed questionnaires to a sample of the banks credit card customers. A summarized version of the responses from the interview is represented in this chapter, based on the interviewees knowledge. The questionnaires distributed were mostly closed questions so as to deliberately avoid open-ended respondent answers. Approximately 120 questionnaires were distributed to Republic Bank Customers. Only the answers to the key questions are represented in this chapter. Summarized responses from the interview This interview was conducted with the Supervisor, Card Services, which prove to be very insightful. The Supervisor spoke about the banks vision for their credit card market, and how they plan to continuously innovate so as to maintain their customer base and attract new profitable customers. Since the credit card industry is a highly competitive one, the bank is constantly reviewing their interest rates and looking for new ways to give customer returns from the use of their credit card. Due to his long tenure at the bank and having the customer service background, the supervisor was able to give insight on what infuriates a credit card customer. He explained that customers become frustrated when they see added charges and puffed up late fees placed by the bank on their card statements. In view of the fact that most customers do not read the fine print when completing a credit card application, they are not totally aware of all the charges that can arise from delinquent payments. He f urther added that although queries like this can be explained by representatives at the bank who can provide valued solutions to the cardholders problem, the most infuriating of all queries from customers are unexplainable purchases on their account. At Republic Bank, fraudulent activity on a card can be detected from the use of their state-of-the-art security systems and their experienced fraud expert team that are in place to monitor and detect any unusual activity on a customers credit cards, but even with these measures in place, fraud can occur. The supervisor expressed that by implementing Chip and PIN technology for credit cards, the bank was able to be a step ahead of the competition and most importantly the card criminals. He also stated that although credit card fraud is not as prevalent in Trinidad and Tobago as in the developed countries, continuous education in counteracting fraudulent activities for their customer base is an effective method of addressing credit card fraud. He explained that Republic Bank has not had many eye-opening occurrences of notified credit card fraud but they believe that Chip and PIN technology is an innovative solution to the likelihood of this problem. He was also truthful in expressing that this technology is still new to the industry and all merchants have yet to convert to Chip and PIN enabled machines, therefore there is a window of opportunity for fraud until merchants are mandated to have these Chip and PIN enabled machines. He used the term mandate, because eventually all Republic Bank debit cards would also be chip enabled. In summing up the interview the author probed the supervisor on the banks position on the studies done by the University of Cambridge team on Chip and PIN technology and the tested flaws of the system. His response was quite interesting, because it ventured into a thought-provoking discussion on research. He lamented that the sphere of research done on any topic would result in the researcher seeking out the positive and negative aspects of it. How the data is interpreted, reflects the real value of the research done. Questionnaire Findings Question 5: How often and where do you frequently use your credit card to make purchases? Aim: To assess how often the average Republic Bank cardholder uses their credit card. Findings: Most Republic Cardholders in this study used their credit card regularly, at least five times per month. Credit Cards are used for purchases at the supermarket, restaurant and retail clothing stores. Question 6: Has your credit card information ever been compromised? If yes provide details. Aim: To determine the number of incidents of attack on Republic Bank credit card holders. Findings: Less than 50% of the respondents have never had their credit card data compromised. Question 7: Do you understand the workings of Chip and PIN technology introduced to Republic Bank credit cardholders and the value to be derived from using this technology? Aim: To determine the extent of the customers perception of this technologys value and how the card is used. Findings: Although some customers are guarded about the use of their credit cards, most of the respondents are confident in the service that Republic Bank provides and believes that implementing Chip and PIN gives them that added security against fraudulent activities, especially those customers that frequently travel abroad. Question 8: How do you think by using Chip and PIN cards for making payments will make it easier in transacting? Aim: To establish the efficiencies in the use of Chip and PIN cards, on the time taken to complete a transaction. Findings: Many customers applaud this technology as it reduces the time taken at the cash register when making purchases. It is simple, easy and convenient and most customers are truly happy as there is no need to write their signature. For this reason they find the system most efficient as it prevents their signature from the likelihood of being forged. ANALYSIS The main objective for the research completed on this topic, was to show how and to what extent the adoption of Chip and PIN technology has improved credit card security for Republic Bank cardholders. At a glance, before Chip and PIN technology was introduced in the UK, there was nation-wide educational literature on the benefits of the technology for banks, merchants and most importantly, the customers. However, it seems that this programme led by EMV, created more enthusiasm in the build-up to its implementation rather than the actual usage of the system. From the research, the mounting negative features of the technology and use of the system is outweighed the decreasing positive ones. It seems that the card theft criminals were focused on a solution to obstruct the successful use of the technology before the intention to use. The question remains, which facet of credit card fraud has Chip and PIN really reduced? The research show that for point of sale transactions Chip and PIN has been useful in the prevention of skimming ones card information, however the fraudsters have found alternative ways to improve on that tactic. Chip and PIN technology can only be used à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“successfullyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? for point of sale transactions and not online transactions, so fraudsters have modified their techniques as with the modifications of the technology. Based on the research framework adopted, Republic Bank has measured their net benefits of adopting the Chip and PIN technology by encircling the information, service and system qualities to deliver user satisfaction and usage of the system with this technology. The success of any information system is multi-dimensional and the relationships among the constructs relate to the comprehensive evaluation of the system. The variable dependent on these constructs are the net benefits of this system, and for whom? This local company has app Card Security For Republic Bank Customers Card Security For Republic Bank Customers There is no doubt that most organisations today are becoming essentially dependant on the use of credit cards, arguably its most strategic asset, is to support existing business operations. However, credit card fraud and identity theft has continued to plague the banking and retail industries as there seems to be no feasible solution to these crimes. Advances in technology have opened a gateway for hackers to restructure their position of attack, intruding on ones personal life. The basis of this project is on the new Chip and PIN technology introduced on credit cards. Ive considered this to be an interesting topic because of the publicity this technology has been receiving across the world and it has even reached to our shores, here in Trinidad and Tobago. Hence, Republic Bank Limited one of the local banks would be the case studied in this research. Chapter two would encompass the existing literature on credit card history and Chip and PIN. This chapter would outline how credit cards have become smart cards and how the Chip and PIN cards are used. Chapter three gives the entire design of the project and the objectives to be obtained for the research. Moving to chapter four, the research framework adopted for this study on Chip and PIN and how it relates to the model undertaken in the research. The findings from this research would be summarized version of the data collected, with the analysis of the theory and research framework the author undertook in this study. In concluding, the author would report on the learning aspects of the research and provide an assessment of achievements, giving a position on the research question. Literature REVIEW This section is intended to place the scope of the project with literature surrounding the components of the research question. The Credit Card Transaction Process Discussed This payment mechanism was formally introduced in 1958, when the BankAmericard card, now known as Visa was franchised across the global community. By introducing an electronic authorization system, the BankAmericard was able to be used globally. Now by partnering with banks across the globe, Visa has been able to provide an international processing system for the exchange of money. The workings of a credit card transaction are such that it comprises of four main steps. These are: Authorization Batching Clearing Funding The cardholder requests a purchase from the merchant, which is then submitted to the acquirer by the merchant. The acquirer then sends a request to the issuer to authorize the transaction. Once the authorization code is sent to the acquirer verifying that credit is available, the transaction is authorized and the cardholder receives the product. (This is further explained in detail on page 9 of this document) This simple process of electronic transacting has opened up a world of e-commerce opportunities. From an information system perspective the processing workflow of an online credit card transaction is shown below: Figure 1: Online Credit Card Processing Workflow Diagram (Hubbard, 2003) Because of the vulnerabilities that lay in a transaction, more so the networks across which the information is exchanged, various security breaches can occur. Types of Credit Card Fraud There are many different types of credit card fraud. Fraudsters are very innovative in finding new ways of committing credit card crime and as technology changes so does their crime tactics. Security issues surrounding the card fraud has moved from the traditional ways of committing credit card crime (Application Fraud, Intercept Fraud and Lost/Stolen Card Fraud) to the modern techniques namely, Skimming, Site Cloning and most recently Triangulation. Skimming is the fastest growing type of credit card fraud around because of its simplicity. Pocket Skimming devices can be easily carried around and the cardholders data can be obtained by merely swiping the card through the battery-operated magnetic card reader. This technology has also evolved so as to read the data of Chip and PIN cards, with the use of a scanner. These scanners, which can write or even re-write the data on the Chip cards, are fully portable and have high storage capacities. Because some of these devices are not illegal, they are easily accessible to hackers and can be bought over the internet. Site Cloning involves cloning an entire site or just the pages where customers make purchases. Since the web pages are identical customers are not aware that their personal information is being compromised. Also, confirmation details are sent to the customer just as the official companys website would, so the crime goes undetected. The details entered on the cloned site are then used by the fraudster to commit credit card fraud. Another method of credit card fraud is Triangulation. Goods are presented on websites at discounted prices, which can be shipped to the customer before payment. Again, just as with site cloning, the site appears to be legitimate then the customer proceeds to enter their personal data. With this captured information the fraudster can then order goods from legitimate retail websites using the credit card number obtained. Due to these security issues surrounding credit card information security, there has been global industry-wide concern for the protection of cardholders data. Since security management is a systematic issue, a serious look at what can be done to prevent security breaches is necessary-whether it may be legislation, the use of fraud detection system monitors or the application of data encryption/ authentication techniques. Chip and PIN Technology Credit cards have been a feasible solution for making payment processing simple and efficient. The history of the credit card dates back to the 1900s when oil companies and proprietors created their own credit card as a means of obtaining customer loyalty and improving customer service. However, as with advances in technology, the credit cards have evolved from having just encoded magnetic stripes to modern day Chip and PIN cards, with embedded microchips, which can store and transmit data. These Chip and PIN cards were developed to provide an inter-operative system that would combat card fraud (counterfeit and plastic cards). This transaction processing infrastructure has enabled the cash-less revolution, whereby consumers, governments and businesses benefit from the electronic payment network, which has shifted payments by cash and cheques to an efficient electronic payment system. The mechanics of a credit card transaction is such that the merchant acquirer, usually the bank processes transactions on behalf of the merchant. This payment by credit card represents an offer for issuance of payment in exchange for the goods or services provided by the merchant, (Transaction Processing). There are two parts to this type of transaction processing: the first is front end processing which involves the capture of data messages across communication channels to the point of sale devices; and secondly the back end processing which involves the balancing of accounting information by acquirers and issuers and the submission of the payment to the acquiring merchants bank. As a result of the rapid advances in technology, data security continues to be a major concern as every transaction that involves the transmission data across networks is open to external attacks. Attacks on a consumers card information can come from any angle, whether it may be data thieves or network intruders. The Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC), which comprises of major payment brands namely VISA, MasterCard, Discover and a few others, have created global compliance standards to protect cardholders data. These set of standards help govern and educate all merchants and organisations that process, store and transmit data, as well as the manufactures of the devices used in transaction processing. The PCI SSC (2010), Data Security Standard Quick Reference Guide, as summarized below, outlines the best practices for protecting cardholder data: Develop and Maintain a Secure Network Install and maintain firewall configuration to protect cardholders data. Do not use vendor-supplied defaults for system passwords or other security parameters. Protect cardholders data Protect stored data Encrypt transmission of cardholders data across open public networks Maintain a vulnerability management program Use and regularly update anti-virus software or programs Develop and maintain secure systems and applications Implement strong access control measures Restrict access to cardholder data by business need to know Assign a unique ID to persons with computer access Restrict physical access to cardholder data Regularly monitor and test networks Track and monitor all access to network resources and cardholder data Regularly test security systems and resources Maintain an information security policy Maintain a policy that address information security for all personnel Nevertheless, despite these procedures in place, there has been amplified instances of the various types of credit card fraud, namely Intercept Fraud, Skimming, Site Cloning as well as Triangulation. This propelled an industry and governmentà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å"led initiative in the UK to embark on the introduction of Chip and PIN card technology. Based on the EMV standard (Euro pay, MasterCard, Visa) Chip and PIN technology was launched in the UK on February 14th 2006. This programme was introduced to combat credit and debit card fraud, and to provide an ideal way of validating the cardholders identity. By utilizing smart card technology a microchip is embedded with the customers information which includes their unique four digit PIN. For transactions to be accepted, the customer PIN entered must match the one encoded on the microchip. These steps are further explained below: The card is inserted by the customer into the card reader. The card reader would then prompt the user to insert their PIN. A four-digit PIN is then entered by the customer. Once the reader accepts the PIN entered the transaction would be approved. Note the PIN entered is not displayed on the reader but rather represented by asterisks. The customer is issued a receipt as confirmation of the transaction process. This process removes the responsibility and accountability from the merchant to the customer for point of sale transactions. The card never leaves the customers hand and as such prevents skimming of ones card information. One of the benefits of the Chip and PIN cards is that the Chip itself is encrypted with a range of security features, which the transaction processing system uses to identify the cardholder. These security features are said to be virtually impossible to replicate. The terminals used for Chip and PIN transactions, use secure transmission technology to ensure the privacy of the cardholders data and can operate over a range of connectivity environments, such as wired, wireless and cellular networks. The PCI Security Standards Council also developed a framework of standards which is legally enforced through a merchant/service provider/card brand agreement. These include requirements that support the encryption of the cardholders account data and the point of sale terminal integration. Figure 2: Outline of the process of a Chip and PIN transaction The PIN entered replaces the request for signature as verification of the transaction. This is why the banking industry in the UK has campaigned for this technology, because signatures can be forged, however the PIN is unique to that person. Although the United States is yet to convert to this technology, countries such as Japan, China, Canada, Mexico as well as the majority of the European Countries have all introduced Chip and PIN technology and it is gaining momentum in various other countries including Trinidad and Tobago. Republic Bank Trinidad and Tobago Limited is the first local bank in Trinidad and Tobago to introduce Chip and PIN technology to make the concept of paying by credit card safer for cardholders. The bank adopted this type of technology because this is now an industry-wide conversion from the magnetic-stripe cards and it is also in keeping with the EMV standard. Conversely, a potential security issue with Chip and PIN card terminals is its capability of processing cards with the magnetic stripe as well. Because of this the request to enter the customers PIN can be bypassed by the merchant, with a receipt generated to be signed by the customer. Now because this option is still available it poses an added security threat to card transactions. So, unfortunately skimming still remains a huge problem for cardholders and sadly enough this includes Chip and PIN cardholders as well. Although this practice is slowly migrating from EMV compliant countries, once a card has been skimmed it can still be used in countries where the magnetic stripe is still prevalent, for example some Asian Countries and the United States. This is why many fraudsters can still create a fake card with stolen magnetic stripe information which can be used in for example the United States. The United States believes that although Chip and PIN has reduced fraud for face to face card transactions, there are a still a number of issues surrounding the security of the system used for this these transactions. Now as with any new system introduced, there have been a number of studies on whether Chip and PIN cards are really secure. So the question is has Chip and PIN technology impacted on the activities of overall card fraud or has the activities of fraudsters shifted from retail crime. In a study by Emily Finch (2010) The Impact of Chip and Pin Technology and The Activities of Fraudsters, it was recognised that since the implementation of Chip and PIN technology participants involved in card fraud made varying decisions when it came to their crime of choice. The Decision to Desist The Decision to Continue To work with others Shift to Distance Transactions Diversification of Theft into Identity The study also shows that there is a shift in the attack strategy of fraudsters from point of sale card fraud to Internet and Card Identity Fraud. In an analysis of Internet and Card Identity Fraud, we can note that Chip and PIN technology was not designed for preventing these types of card fraud. So, the question remains, was Chip and PIN successful at what it was set out to achievereduce card fraud? This too can be argued further as there are other limitations. How can one link a particular card to a specific owner? Once the PIN is known by the individual a transaction can be completed with ease. Other studies have shown that the card readers used for Chip and PIN transactions can be modified. In a study by a team of University of Cambridge Computer Scientists, they have uncovered a series of fatal flaws in the Chip and PIN system. One example is where the internal hardware can be replaced without external evidence of this. This new terminal could then be programmed and modified so that it performs just as a typical terminal, where the card details can be collected and allow criminals to make cards with a fake magnetic stripe, which along with the PIN would enable a fraudster to make valid purchases. Another example is that fraudsters can insert an electronic wedge between the stolen card and the terminal, which tricks the terminal into believing that the PIN was correctly verified. Further, with this wedge inserted, any PIN can be entered and the transaction would be verified. This type of fraud makes it difficult for the victims of the attack to be refunded by the bank as the receipt given is authentic and would state verified by PIN. The bank in turn would be accurate in stating that no refund is required as their records show verified by PIN. This type of complaint appears as an act of negligence by the cardholder as he/she allowed their PIN to be compromised. So based on this study the point of sale attacks are much more prevalent, since before the introduction of Chip and PIN cards, consumers only entered their PIN at ATMs. Now with the introduction of Chip and PIN, consumers are using their cards at various other public areas. To combat the compromising of the consumers PIN a shield over the keypad has been used as added security but in many public areas there are video cameras and a persons PIN can still be captured on footage. So, although the UK banking industry has claimed to have rolled out this new technology successfully in 2006, there seems to be some negative aspects of this technology. The architecture surrounding Chip and PIN technology is questionable and the onus is on the banking industry to ensure that cardholders information is protected. Additionally, it also seems that Chip and PIN terminals offer no difference to what the magnetic stripe terminals offered. These terminals can be tampered with, which is a clear indication that there needs to be accurate configuration of these terminals so as to secure the cardholders data when transmitting transactions and that is not vulnerable to incident of attack. So the intent of Chip and PIN technology has more so opened a new marketplace for fraudsters than prevent/reduce fraudulent activity. PROJECT DESIGN, OBJECTIVES AND RESEARCH METHODS The scope of this project is to outline the features of Chip and PIN technology and whether its implementation thus far has been beneficial. This section of the project would provide the methods involved in achieving the data for the project as well as the results based on the data collected. The chosen approach to this design is online research (journals/scholarly articles) along with a case study on the implementation of Chip and PIN technology in Trinidad and Tobago, with the case being Republic Bank Limited. Objective 1 A good foundation for this objective would be the interpretation of the credit cards history. How has this cash-less mechanism moved from a local innovation to a global payment mechanism by use of digital communication across networks? In gaining a clear understanding on the reason for the implementation of this technology, a wealth of research would be conducted on credit card technology and digital security. Objective 2 A holistic understanding on the basis of credit card fraud and the types of fraudulent activities and the steps taken to prevent credit card crime. What technologies have been implemented and the effects/benefits drawn from these approaches. Objective 3 Expanding from objective two also discussed would be whether or not since the introduction of Chip and PIN technology in the UK, has there been a cascading effect of this new technology across countries. Analysing the increasing number of fraudulent activities reported from statistics, which compelled the global banking industry to find a seamless solution for the protection of cardholders data. Objective 4 An assessment on the introduction of Chip and PIN technology by Republic Bank Limited, which would include sourcing information on its implementation and the benefits derived. Further research would be on the acceptance (or non-acceptance) of the technology by customers. Objective 5 Lastly, from the feedback received from the interview conducted and by analysing the incidents of attack on Republic Bank credit cardholders, what was the determining factor in the bank aligning themselves with the UK standards set by EMV? CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK In identifying the framework to be adopted that can be referenced to the literature in this research, the author considered the Delone and Mc Lean IS Success Model. Using this model, the author would explain the net benefits of adopting Chip and PIN technology, relating it to Republic Banks implementation of this technology. DeLeone and McLean IS Success Model In evaluating the success of Information Systems, the DM IS Success Model, systems quality measures the technical success, information quality measures semantic success and organisational impacts and user satisfaction measures the effectiveness of the system. The processes in the model are inter-connected by links, across the dimensions of the system. Figure 3: Depiction of the Updated Information Systems Success Model (DeLeone McLean 2002, 2003) The updated DM Model interprets the evaluation of a system in terms of the information, system, and service qualities and how these characteristics attribute to user satisfaction. As a result of using the system, certain benefits will be achieved and the net benefits will in turn (positively or negatively) influence user satisfaction and the further use of the information system. So, therefore three basic components make up this model, the creation of a system, its use and the consequences of its use. Case study as it relates to the ISS model. Republic Bank has been providing banking and financial solutions to individuals and businesses for over 160 years. Their mission is not only to provide efficient and competitively priced services but also to implement sound policies which will be beneficial to their customers. These factors presented provide clarity and influences the net benefits of the implemented Chip and PIN system at Republic Bank thus far. By use of the ISS model to map the research done in this project, the author would complete a step by step relay of the framework discussing the implementation of Chip and PIN by Republic Bank. Information Quality-Information quality refers to the accuracy/protection of the content of the data in transacting. How secure is the personalized data being transmitted across networks. When a customer presents their card to make a purchase, are they confident that their card information is protected because of the added security enabled on this card. System Quality-The system quality refers to the reliability of the network and the response time in transacting, notwithstanding the approved devices that accept personal identification numbers for all PIN based entries (the ease of use of the system functionalities). Therefore in rolling out this new technology the bank along with their partner merchants would train staff so that they are familiar with the best practice guidelines when using Chip and PIN. Service Quality-This refers to the back-end support systems that assist in usage of the technology. How reliable are Republic Banks servers and IP networks? User Satisfaction- This encompasses measuring the users entire experience-the purchase payment, receipt and service (the ease of purchasing without the fear of being a victim of fraudulent activity). Net Benefits -This is the most important success measure and it encapsulates the cost savings and the decrease in the value of fraudulent transactions arising from stolen credit card data. Was the implementation of this technology beneficial in reducing the incidents of card fraud? Are Republic Bank cardholders satisfied that their bank is on par with global industry changes? The focus of this success model lies in determining the impact the features of technology (information, system, and service quality) have on the variables user satisfaction, use, and net benefits. The main objective for using this ISS model is to establish the ultimate benefits derived from the use of information system both in individual and organizational terms. FINDINGS This chapter will illustrate the findings from the questionnaires submitted to a sample of the Republic Banks credit card customers as well as a formal interview conducted with an employee of Republic Bank Credit Card Centre. The aim of the chapter is to source an awareness of the topic area Chip and PIN by cardholders and the personnel interviewed. Primary Data Collection For the basis of the findings of this research the author conducted a formal interview with a middle management employee at Republic Bank and also distributed questionnaires to a sample of the banks credit card customers. A summarized version of the responses from the interview is represented in this chapter, based on the interviewees knowledge. The questionnaires distributed were mostly closed questions so as to deliberately avoid open-ended respondent answers. Approximately 120 questionnaires were distributed to Republic Bank Customers. Only the answers to the key questions are represented in this chapter. Summarized responses from the interview This interview was conducted with the Supervisor, Card Services, which prove to be very insightful. The Supervisor spoke about the banks vision for their credit card market, and how they plan to continuously innovate so as to maintain their customer base and attract new profitable customers. Since the credit card industry is a highly competitive one, the bank is constantly reviewing their interest rates and looking for new ways to give customer returns from the use of their credit card. Due to his long tenure at the bank and having the customer service background, the supervisor was able to give insight on what infuriates a credit card customer. He explained that customers become frustrated when they see added charges and puffed up late fees placed by the bank on their card statements. In view of the fact that most customers do not read the fine print when completing a credit card application, they are not totally aware of all the charges that can arise from delinquent payments. He f urther added that although queries like this can be explained by representatives at the bank who can provide valued solutions to the cardholders problem, the most infuriating of all queries from customers are unexplainable purchases on their account. At Republic Bank, fraudulent activity on a card can be detected from the use of their state-of-the-art security systems and their experienced fraud expert team that are in place to monitor and detect any unusual activity on a customers credit cards, but even with these measures in place, fraud can occur. The supervisor expressed that by implementing Chip and PIN technology for credit cards, the bank was able to be a step ahead of the competition and most importantly the card criminals. He also stated that although credit card fraud is not as prevalent in Trinidad and Tobago as in the developed countries, continuous education in counteracting fraudulent activities for their customer base is an effective method of addressing credit card fraud. He explained that Republic Bank has not had many eye-opening occurrences of notified credit card fraud but they believe that Chip and PIN technology is an innovative solution to the likelihood of this problem. He was also truthful in expressing that this technology is still new to the industry and all merchants have yet to convert to Chip and PIN enabled machines, therefore there is a window of opportunity for fraud until merchants are mandated to have these Chip and PIN enabled machines. He used the term mandate, because eventually all Republic Bank debit cards would also be chip enabled. In summing up the interview the author probed the supervisor on the banks position on the studies done by the University of Cambridge team on Chip and PIN technology and the tested flaws of the system. His response was quite interesting, because it ventured into a thought-provoking discussion on research. He lamented that the sphere of research done on any topic would result in the researcher seeking out the positive and negative aspects of it. How the data is interpreted, reflects the real value of the research done. Questionnaire Findings Question 5: How often and where do you frequently use your credit card to make purchases? Aim: To assess how often the average Republic Bank cardholder uses their credit card. Findings: Most Republic Cardholders in this study used their credit card regularly, at least five times per month. Credit Cards are used for purchases at the supermarket, restaurant and retail clothing stores. Question 6: Has your credit card information ever been compromised? If yes provide details. Aim: To determine the number of incidents of attack on Republic Bank credit card holders. Findings: Less than 50% of the respondents have never had their credit card data compromised. Question 7: Do you understand the workings of Chip and PIN technology introduced to Republic Bank credit cardholders and the value to be derived from using this technology? Aim: To determine the extent of the customers perception of this technologys value and how the card is used. Findings: Although some customers are guarded about the use of their credit cards, most of the respondents are confident in the service that Republic Bank provides and believes that implementing Chip and PIN gives them that added security against fraudulent activities, especially those customers that frequently travel abroad. Question 8: How do you think by using Chip and PIN cards for making payments will make it easier in transacting? Aim: To establish the efficiencies in the use of Chip and PIN cards, on the time taken to complete a transaction. Findings: Many customers applaud this technology as it reduces the time taken at the cash register when making purchases. It is simple, easy and convenient and most customers are truly happy as there is no need to write their signature. For this reason they find the system most efficient as it prevents their signature from the likelihood of being forged. ANALYSIS The main objective for the research completed on this topic, was to show how and to what extent the adoption of Chip and PIN technology has improved credit card security for Republic Bank cardholders. At a glance, before Chip and PIN technology was introduced in the UK, there was nation-wide educational literature on the benefits of the technology for banks, merchants and most importantly, the customers. However, it seems that this programme led by EMV, created more enthusiasm in the build-up to its implementation rather than the actual usage of the system. From the research, the mounting negative features of the technology and use of the system is outweighed the decreasing positive ones. It seems that the card theft criminals were focused on a solution to obstruct the successful use of the technology before the intention to use. The question remains, which facet of credit card fraud has Chip and PIN really reduced? The research show that for point of sale transactions Chip and PIN has been useful in the prevention of skimming ones card information, however the fraudsters have found alternative ways to improve on that tactic. Chip and PIN technology can only be used à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“successfullyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? for point of sale transactions and not online transactions, so fraudsters have modified their techniques as with the modifications of the technology. Based on the research framework adopted, Republic Bank has measured their net benefits of adopting the Chip and PIN technology by encircling the information, service and system qualities to deliver user satisfaction and usage of the system with this technology. The success of any information system is multi-dimensional and the relationships among the constructs relate to the comprehensive evaluation of the system. The variable dependent on these constructs are the net benefits of this system, and for whom? This local company has app

Global Warming and the Kyoto Protocol Essay -- environmental pollution

Global Warming and the Kyoto Protocol   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In the world today there are talks about why and how the people of this planet are polluting the rivers, lakes, soil, and even air. With these talks countries are coming up with great ways to reduce this problem. They see the effects and they are happy and life goes on but there is another problem, the one the everyday people just can’t solve with their own hands, that problem is the theory of global warming. During December of 1997, a meeting in Kyoto, Japan, started a huge trend to try to improve the world’s greenhouse gas releasing which could cause an unnatural shift in climate throughout the world. This meeting was called the Kyoto Protocol and about thirty- eight industrialized countries agreed to lower their emissions of major greenhouse gases below 1990 levels. (Rowntree) In this research we are trying to find how the Kyoto Protocol is an example of globalization.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Globalization is the integration of world economies. Globalization affects productivity, imports and exports, technology, and growth rates. (Questia) Some of the trends in globalization are an increase in international trade, the use of global telecommunications, an increase in immigration, development of global financial systems, and the development of global business standards. In this case of the Kyoto Protocol, the European Union is one of the strongest advocates of regulations. With this the European Union today is lower than what it was in the ...

MBA Admissions Essays - Major Accomplishments -- MBA College Admission

I had practiced it before, but this time it was for real. Well, as real as a college mock trial tournament can get. I objected, pointed, and did squat thrusts during 10-minute breaks. During the trial, I paused for a few seconds of silence and methodically tied up the loose ends of my closing monologue. My mock trial team sat quietly for a couple of minutes until the judges offered some feedback and tabulated the scores. Unfortunately, we lost in a landslide and would not be moving on to the final round of competition. Before our team departed from Ithaca, however, we still had to sit through closing ceremonies, where team and individual awards would be distributed. We arrived to the function with our head between our tales, but when they read the award for best mock trial attorney, my name was called. I was shocked and utterly ecstatic. I was even surprised that it wasn't a run of the mill paper award I had won, but actually a wooden plaque with some official looking carvings. It wa sn't an Academy award or Nobel Prize, but for someone who had practiced relentlessly for months, it su...