Have you heard about the Goheard scam? Let’s understand what this ‘Goheard’ keylogger scam is all about and how you can keep yourself safe from it.

As we use more and more new technologies in today’s digital world, the chances of getting tricked by scams also go up. Scams are growing every day. After the "**<a href="https://empiricinfotech.com/blogs/child-process-scam/39" target=”_blank”>child_process scam</a>**", we’ve now noticed another scam called the ‘Goheard’ keylogger scam. Let’s understand what this ‘Goheard’ keylogger scam is all about and how you can keep yourself safe from it.

## Understanding the Goheard Scam in Simple Terms

‘Goheard’ is a website that claims to be useful for meetings, calls, and chats with AI-based translator apps. But, many online security platforms have marked it as a possible scam. The trust scores of the goheard.io and goheard.us sites are very low, which means there could be a risk. So, be careful when dealing with these sites. Here is the <a href="https://www.scamadviser.com/check-website/goheard.io" target=”_blank”> **result of the Scamadviser site for the goheard.io site**</a>.

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1715683937640_result of the Scamadviser site for the goheard.io site.png" alt="result of the Scamadviser site for the goheard.io site " />

## How Does This Scam Work?

The scam usually starts with an email from what looks like a trustworthy company. The email is well-written and convincing, making many people believe it’s real.

This email includes a link to the ‘Goheard’ app. When you download this app, it doesn’t seem to do anything, but it actually works as a keylogger.
A keylogger is a kind of software that records what you type (also, capable of taking screenshots, URL of the page & many more ), which could include sensitive information like passwords and credit card numbers.

## How We Found This Might a Scam

They posted a job in the marketplace apps, invited us and many others. We accepted their invitation and started chatting with them. They asked to have a call for further discussion, so we shared a Zoom link. They agreed to join, but when we shared the link, they showed an edited screenshot(as shown below) saying they had trouble joining the Zoom meeting.

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1715683929791_error accured in joining meeting.png" alt=" trouble joining the Zoom meeting" />

We then suggested connecting via Google Meet, but they refused, saying they couldn’t join us on Google Meet for security reasons. Then they sent a link to the Goheard website and asked us to have a call through this app. Now we feel this is something unusual so we follow the following steps to check whether the site is genuine or not.


## How Can You Protect Yourself?

### Be careful with unexpected emails
If you get an email from an unknown person or even from someone you know but with a strange request, be suspicious.
Don’t download unfamiliar apps

If an email or message asks you to download an app from a provided link, it’s better to avoid it. Only download apps from trusted & known sites/stores like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

### Use antivirus software
Keep your devices safe with up-to-date antivirus software. This can help find and stop harmful software like keyloggers.

### Check if a website is legitimate
Before you use a website, check if it’s legitimate. Websites like Scam Detector and Scamadviser can give a trust score for websites. You can also check how old the website is. Just search for domain lookup on Google, and you can find sites like whois.com. It shows information about the domain like when it was registered and when it will expire, who registered it, and so on. 

If the domain was registered recently, you should think twice before doing anything on the site. Here you can see, the goheard.io domain was registered recently for one year.

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1715683946192_whois data of goheard.io.png" alt="who is lookup site data of goheard.io domain " />

Source - https://www.whois.com/whois/goheard.io

## What To Do If You Already Downloaded Goheard

### Disconnect!
Immediately turn off your Wi-Fi and data to prevent the app from sending stolen information.

### Uninstall!
Delete Goheard from your computer.

### Change passwords!
If you think your login details might be stolen, change the passwords for your email, bank accounts, and any other important online services.

### Enable 2-step authentication
Consider enabling two-step authentication (also known as 2FA) for your online accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step (such as a text message or authentication app) in addition to your password.

By doing so, you can better protect your accounts from unauthorized access. Remember to enable 2FA for all relevant services, including email, social media, and financial accounts.

At Empiric Infotech LLP, we save millions for our clients by preventing them from falling into scams like these. Our **<a href="https://empiricinfotech.com/services/software-development-agency" target=”_blank”> custom software development solutions</a>** are designed to keep your business secure and efficient.

## Why Choose Empiric Infotech LLP?

#### Proven Track Record

We have a history of protecting our clients from digital threats while enhancing their operational efficiency.

#### Tailored Solutions

Our team works closely with you to develop software that meets your specific needs and business goals.

#### Expert Team

Our experienced developers and cybersecurity experts ensure your software is robust and secure.

Don't wait until it's too late. **<a href="https://calendly.com/jaypal-b/30min" target=”_blank”>Schedule a discovery call with us today to discuss your software development needs</a>** and find out how we can help protect your business from scams and other online threats. Let’s build a safer digital future together!

Scam Alert - Beware of Goheard keylogger App Scam

Learn about Bubble.io, a no-code platform that empowers businesses to build custom web apps. Explore benefits, use cases, and transform your operations.

Is your business being held back by technology? Generic software solutions can't keep up with your unique needs, and traditional development cycles are frustratingly slow. Therefore, it's time to break free from these limitations. 

**[Bubble.io](https://bubble.io/)** is a powerful no-code platform that puts you in control. You can build custom web applications that perfectly match your workflows, automate time-consuming tasks, and deliver the seamless experiences your customers expect. With Bubble.io, you're no longer confined by inflexible off-the-shelf products. 

In this blog, we will discuss what Bubble.io is, its benefits for businesses, and what its use cases are. By reading this blog, you will be able to decide whether Bubble.io is suitable for your project or not. 

## What is Bubble io?

What if you could build your own custom software solutions without writing a single line of code? With Bubble.io, you can! It is a no-code development platform designed to put business owners in the driver's seat of technology. 

Traditional software development requires complex programming languages. No-code platforms like Bubble.io replace that with a visual, drag-and-drop interface. Instead of writing lines of code, Bubble.io provides pre-built building blocks that you can assemble to create the functionality you need for your application. 

## Bubble Approach- Building Blocks and Workflows

With Bubble, you create web applications by: 

- #### Designing the Interface

Drag and drop elements like buttons, text fields, images, and more to visually lay out your app's screens. 

- #### Defining the Logic

Bubble uses "workflows" for the behind-the-scenes magic. You can create step-by-step instructions (e.g., "When a user clicks this button, save their information to the database and display a success message").

## Why Bubble io is Beneficial for Businesses

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1715078933990_Why Bubble is Beneficial for Businesses.png" alt="Why Bubble.io is Beneficial for Businesses " />

### Cost-Effectiveness

Traditional **[custom software development](https://empiricinfotech.com/services/software-development-agency)** can be incredibly expensive. Bubble.io significantly reduces costs by allowing you or members of your existing team to build applications. It empowers you to rapidly prototype new ideas and create functional internal tools without outsourcing to development agencies. This saves on both development hours and the ongoing cost of adapting off-the-shelf software. 

### Agility

Business needs to change quickly. Bubble.io lets you make updates and adjustments to your web applications on the fly. No need to wait for lengthy development cycles or rely on external developers for every tweak. Whether you need to streamline a process, add a new feature, or respond to market feedback, Bubble keeps you in control and ready to adapt. 

### Custom Fit

Generic software forces your business to conform to its workflows. With Bubble.io, you build applications that mirror your exact processes. This eliminates frustrating workarounds, streamlines tasks, and increases efficiencies only possible with a truly custom-built solution. Whether you need a niche inventory system, a unique client portal, or specialized analytics dashboards, Bubble provides the flexibility to bring them to life. 

### Process Automation

Bubble allows you to automate repetitive or time-consuming tasks. This can range from simple lead generation forms to complex approval workflows. By taking manual work out of the equation, you reduce the chances of human error, improve consistency, and free up your team's time to focus on higher-value activities. 

### Enhanced Customer Experiences

Customer expectations are high today. Bubble.io enables you to create custom web applications that improve service and interactions. You can build custom client portals where customers can access their information, track orders, or submit support tickets. Or, design web apps that streamline complex processes, making it easier for customers to do business with you. 

### Data-Driven Insights

Bubble.io seamlessly integrates with your database, allowing you to create custom dashboards that track key business metrics. Visualize your sales performance, operational efficiency, customer trends, or any other data crucial to your success. These real-time insights empower you to make informed decisions and optimize your business.

## Use Cases of Bubble io for Businesses

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1715079011581_Use Cases of Bubble.io for Businesses.png" alt="Use cases of Bubble.io for Businesses " />

### Internal Tools

Bubble.io excels at building custom tools tailored to your internal needs. Streamline your operations with solutions like: 

- #### Advanced Inventory Management

Track stock levels, automate purchase orders, and get real-time insights into product movement. This is especially helpful for businesses with multi-location inventory or complex supply chains. 

- #### Custom CRM Systems

Manage customer relationships more effectively with a CRM built around your sales process. Capture leads, track interactions, and get reminders to follow up, boosting close rates and customer satisfaction. 

- #### Data Dashboards

Visualize key performance indicators (KPIs) tailored to your business. Monitor sales, website traffic, operational metrics, or create specialized dashboards for each team's needs, driving better decision-making.

### Client Portals

Build private, secure portals where clients can easily access information and interact with your business. This could include features like: 

- #### Self-Service Options

Allow clients to view invoices, track order status, or update their profile information, reducing the load on your support team. 

- #### Appointment Scheduling

Let clients book appointments online, streamlining the process and integrating seamlessly with your internal calendar. 

- #### Collaboration Tools

Create portals where teams can share documents, provide feedback, or track project progress. 

### Process Automation

Eliminate tedious manual tasks and increase efficiency by automating common processes within your business. Bubble lets you set up automated workflows for actions like: 

- #### Lead Generation and Nurturing

Capture leads from web forms, send automatic follow-up emails, and qualify leads based on predefined criteria. 

- #### Approval Workflows

Define multi-step approval processes for expenses, document sign-offs, or major business decisions. This ensures the right people are involved and reduces bottlenecks. 

- #### Task Automation

Trigger actions to update a database, send notifications, or generate reports based on specific events or conditions. 

### MVPs (Minimum Viable Products)

Want to test a new product idea or enter a new market quickly? Bubble's rapid development capabilities are ideal for building basic, functional versions of your product (MVP). This allows you to: 

- #### Validate Your Concept

Gather feedback from real users without large, upfront investments in development. Identify potential issues or areas for improvement before scaling. 

- #### Attract Early Adopters

Launch your MVP to a select group of customers or investors to gauge interest and demonstrate potential. 

- #### Accelerat

Time to Market: Get a working product in front of your target audience faster, potentially beating competitors and seizing opportunities. 

### Membership Sites and Online Courses 

Want to monetize your expertise or create exclusive content? Bubble lets you build membership platforms with gated content, manage subscriptions, and even offer drip-fed online courses. This expands income streams and positions you as a knowledge leader in your industry. 

### Niche Marketplaces 

Have an idea for connecting buyers and sellers in a specific industry? Bubble's ability to handle complex data structures and transactions makes it possible to create specialized marketplaces. Target niche markets with custom functionality, facilitating transactions and potentially taking a commission on each sale. 

### Project Management Tools 

Off-the-shelf project management software can be too generic for specific workflows. Bubble lets you build project management systems tailored to your team's process. Track tasks, milestones, deadlines, and even include integrated communication features for seamless collaboration. 

### Vendor/Supplier Management Portals 

Improve communication and streamline operations with vendors or suppliers through dedicated portals. Share up-to-date product information, collect order requests, track shipping statuses, and manage invoices in one centralized location. 

### Custom Reporting and Analytics 

Go beyond generic analytics dashboards and generate highly customized reports. Extract insights, track trends, and monitor performance metrics unique to your business model and key objectives.

## Create Your Bubble io Solution with Empiric Infotech

The beauty of Bubble.io is that it puts the power of custom software creation directly in your hands. If you have processes you wish you could streamline, customer experiences you want to enhance, or ideas for new digital products, Bubble could be your key. 

Don't hesitate to explore this exciting technology and see how it can transform your business. If you'd like guidance on your Bubble journey, the team of **[expert Bubble.io developers](https://empiricinfotech.com/hire/hire-bubbleio-developers)** at Empiric Infotech would be happy to assist.

Bubble.io for No-code Web App Development

Discover the benefits of e-commerce migration and learn how to seamlessly switch platforms for improved performance, security, and user experience.

Is your online store held back by sluggish performance, poor user experience, or security concerns?  Outdated technology, limited features, and increasing costs can cripple your ability to compete and grow. The solution to all these problems is ecommerce platform migration. 

E-commerce migration involves relocating your online storefront to a more capable platform. 

Our comprehensive blog will help you understand the when and why of platform migrations, offering expert insights for every step of the process. 

## What is E-commerce Migration

E-commerce migration means moving your online store from its current platform to a new one. This major shift impacts all facets of your online business, from backend management to the customer-facing front end. Let's break down why this change happens and how it matters for your online store. 

### Reasons for E-commerce Platform Migration

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714563366981_Reasons for E-commerce Platform Migration.png" alt="Reasons for E-commerce Platform Migration" />

#### Outdated Technology

Your existing platform might no longer meet your store's growing needs. Slow loading times, performance bottlenecks during peak traffic, and an inability to handle increased product catalogs or transactions all signal the need for a migration.  Outdated platforms might become incompatible with important third-party tools you wish to integrate with your store. 

#### Limited Features

Your current platform might be inflexible for customizations vital to your evolving business strategy. This could involve challenges like implementing loyalty programs, advanced search functions, personalized product recommendations, or the inability to support multiple languages or currencies if you want to expand internationally. 

#### Security Concerns

Older platforms, especially those that are no longer actively supported, can become vulnerable to hacking and data breaches.  eCommerce migrations usually prioritize moving to a platform with robust security infrastructure, built-in fraud prevention tools, and compliance with regulatory standards like PCI-DSS (crucial for handling payment card information). 

#### Improved User Experience (UX)

Today's shoppers expect fast, intuitive, and visually appealing online stores. They might become frustrated and take their business elsewhere if your current platform has confusing navigation, poor mobile optimization, or a lengthy and complex checkout process. This makes migration an opportunity to prioritize enhancing the overall user experience across devices. 

#### Cost Savings

While re-platforming is an investment, consider the long-term savings. Newer platforms sometimes offer more favorable payment processing rates or reduced licensing fees. Optimizations that come with a modern platform might mean a reduced need for certain add-ons or the use of costly custom workarounds, driving down costs. 

## Different Types of E-commerce Migration

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714563451499_Different Types of E-commerce Migration.png" alt="Different Types of E-commerce Migration" />

### Platform-to-Platform

This is the most common type of platform migration, involving a wholesale shift of your online store from one dedicated e-commerce platform to another. It encompasses scenarios like: 

 - Moving from Shopify to BigCommerce to take advantage of different pricing structures or feature sets aligned with your current business needs. 

- Upgrading from Magento 1 to Magento 2 to access essential security patches and leverage a vastly improved backend interface for store management. 

- Transitioning from a self-hosted solution, where you are fully responsible for server setup and maintenance, to a SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) platform for simplified hosting and streamlined updates. 

### Monolithic to Headless 

In a monolithic architecture, your storefront (what customers see) and your backend management system (product listings, order processing, etc.) are inseparable. Headless commerce decouples these, allowing for far greater flexibility on the front end. 

Your 'head' (presentation layer) could be designed using modern web technologies and connect to the backend via APIs. This empowers rapid custom frontend development without being burdened by legacy backend limitations and helps create truly unique shopping experiences. 

### Monolithic to Microservices

Monolithic platforms bundle all operations into a single unit. A microservices-based architecture involves breaking down those functions into individual, independently managed services that communicate via APIs.

For large enterprises, this offers scalability advantages when specific elements (search, inventory, etc.) need to handle heavy loads and rapid innovation. It allows changes to be deployed swiftly in a compartmentalized way, improving developer speed. 

### Phased Migration 

This approach is about managing risk and minimizing disruptions. Instead of a sudden cutover to the new platform, you migrate specific sections or modules of your store piece by piece over a set timeline. 

This is suited to very complex operations where any potential downtime has a significant impact, allowing you to manage changes strategically in a controlled way. For example, you may first migrate product data, then the checkout process, and finally implement new frontend design elements in separate phases. 

## Why You Should Go For E-commerce Migration

While a significant undertaking, e-commerce migration often brings benefits that far outweigh the initial time and resource investment.  Here's why it's worth considering: 

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714563562543_Why You Should Go For E-commerce Migration.png" alt="Why You Should Go For E-commerce Migration" />

### Overcoming Growth Limitations

When growth stalls due to technological barriers, the question shouldn't be if you migrate, but rather when. Imagine frustrating load times during peak shopping seasons, an inventory system unable to handle your product expansion or limits on the number of orders you can comfortably process. 

A well-chosen new platform removes these obstacles, paving the way for sustained business growth and greater revenue potential. 

### Enhancing User Experience (UX)

Modern shoppers have high expectations. They demand quick load times, intuitive navigation, and a seamless checkout process regardless of device. Your store's success relies on exceeding these expectations. 

If your current platform leads to a lackluster front end or hinders your ability to create streamlined mobile shopping experiences, a well-executed migration offers an avenue to transform these weaknesses into strengths. 

> Do users leave your website or app without interacting with it? [Hire our UI/UX Designers to Take Your Design to the Next Level](https://empiricinfotech.com/hire/hire-ui-ux-designers).

### Improving Security and Compliance

Data protection is paramount, and it's challenging to stay on top of security concerns without ongoing support from your platform provider. If you work with a legacy system nearing its end-of-life or are burdened by costly custom patching, platform migration provides a path to safer ground. 

Newer platforms prioritize up-to-date security practices and tools, simplifying the often complex world of compliance (like PCI-DSS requirements), protecting customer data, and fostering trust. 

### Greater Control and Customization

Picture customizing every aspect of your store to the unique needs of your customers. Migrating often removes the roadblocks you're used to, granting more freedom than ever before. APIs offer a powerful way to seamlessly integrate with tools and services that boost your operations, whether it involves shipping platforms, accounting software, or marketing automation. 

This freedom makes creating highly tailored, efficient, and scalable shopping experiences easier than ever. 

### Reduced Long-Term Costs

An obvious initial investment comes with any e-commerce migration, but consider the hidden costs of staying put. Older platforms may lack performance optimizations, leading to higher hosting expenses.  

They often rely on inefficient workflows, translating into either a need for extensive development work or pricey plugin marketplaces to bridge feature gaps. A modern platform may have a higher monthly cost but could yield a lower total cost of ownership through efficiencies gained. 

### Staying Ahead of Competition

Consumers have a wealth of choices at their fingertips. Those unwilling to upgrade create openings for competitors who do. Staying competitive requires keeping pace with evolving web technologies. 

This might include features like AR previews that give customers a better product understanding, powerful data-driven personalization tactics, or tight social media integration for increased discoverability. Migration opens the door to continuous innovation.

## Steps for a Successful E-commerce Migration

E-commerce migration projects may differ in specific details but broadly adhere to the following phases: 

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714563526486_Steps for a Successful E-commerce Migration.png" alt="Steps for a Successful E-commerce Migration" />

### Planning and Preparation

- **Set Clear Goals**: Define what you want to achieve. Are you focused on scalability, security, or improved cost efficiencies? Outlining clear goals aligns all stakeholders and guides decision-making. 

- **Data Audit**: Take a deep dive into your existing store. Analyze product catalogs, customer data, order history, and identify any dependencies related to integrations with third-party tools. 

- **Platform Selection**: Carefully research platforms in accordance with your identified needs, budget, and scalability goals. Request demonstrations, try out trials, and pay close attention to features and ease of integration. 

### Development and Migration

- **Design and UX Focus**: Develop wireframes and create the design for your new storefront. Modern e-commerce prioritizes exceptional user experience. This may also involve a phased approach, where front-end changes come later if a fast migration time is required initially. 

- **Data Migration**: Plan a meticulous data migration strategy. This is a mission-critical element with many considerations in terms of both methods and accuracy. 

- **Testing**: A robust testing plan covering functionality, performance, security, and various device responsiveness is non-negotiable. Ideally, testing involves different use-case scenarios and real-world simulations. 

### Launch Preparation and Monitoring 

- **SEO Strategy**: Prevent losing search engine rankings. Establish 301 redirects, update sitemaps, and address metadata to ensure search engines index your new site without hiccups. 

- **Launch Checklist**: Create a pre-launch and post-launch checklist. This will ensure all stakeholders have their tasks planned and any necessary communication templates are set for both staff preparedness and customer outreach. 

- **Monitoring**: Watch closely after launch. Look at crucial metrics, analyze logs, and be ready to address any unforeseen issues, bugs, or unexpected customer experience problems. 

### Additional Considerations

- **Choosing a Migration Team**: Assess whether you have the skills in-house or if employing an external agency makes sense. Experience in your chosen platform, knowledge of SEO best practices, and strong project management skills are essential. 

- **Timeline and Budget**: While speed is a factor, rushing often leads to mistakes. Allocate a realistic timeline and budget – this minimizes mid-project surprises. 

- **Customer Communication**: Transparent communication builds trust. Inform customers about the migration beforehand, especially of any temporary downtime that might be part of the launch. 

## Migrate Your E-commerce Platform with Empiric Infotech

Understanding the transformative potential of e-commerce migration is only the first step. Bringing your vision to life demands careful execution and seamless collaboration. Empiric Infotech, with its e-commerce migration services, stands ready to be your trusted partner throughout this process. 

We offer a seasoned team of ecommerce experts, specializing in all the major platforms. Don't let a legacy system hold you back. Capitalize your e-commerce potential with a tailored migration plan from Empiric Infotech. 

#### [Request a free consultation today and discover the possibilities for your online store. ](https://calendly.com/jaypal-b/30min)


Is It Time for an E-commerce Migration? Reasons, Types, & How-To 

This article deeply discusses the "child_process" scam, analyzing its mechanics, potential consequences, and most importantly, how to protect yourself from such threats.

Imagine you're a developer, building something cool. You need a tool to run other programs from your code. So you head to open-source libraries that are readily available packages.

However this ecosystem fosters innovation and efficiency, but it also creates vulnerabilities that malicious actors can exploit. The recent "child_process" scam on the npm registry serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and security best practices.

This article deeply discusses the "child_process" scam, analyzing its mechanics, potential consequences, and most importantly, how to protect yourself from such threats.

## Understanding the childprocess Package - Legitimate One

The legitimate "childprocess" package is a core module within the Node.js environment. It empowers developers to spawn child processes, allowing them to execute external programs or scripts from within their Node.js application. This functionality proves invaluable for various tasks, including:

=> Launching system commands

=> Running background processes

=> Interacting with external programs

But some sneaky people made a fake "child_process" that looked just like the real one. This fake tool could have done some nasty things:

## The Malicious Twist - Fake child_process packages
Deceptive actors capitalized on the recognition of the "childprocess" name by publishing malicious packages under the same moniker. These fake packages, despite appearing legitimate at first glance, harbored nefarious functionalities. Here's what we know about the potential threats:

### Social Engineering

The familiar name likely tricked developers into installing the malicious package, assuming it was the standard "childprocess" module. This tactic plays on human trust and the fast-paced nature of software development.

### Hidden Malicious Code

The true purpose of the fake package could have been to conduct malicious activities on the unsuspecting developer's system. Potential actions might have included:

**System Scanning:** The package could have scanned the system for sensitive information like file structures, software versions, or even network configurations.

**Environment Variable Theft**: Environment variables often store critical details like API keys or database credentials. The fake package could have extracted this valuable information.

**Private Key Extraction:** In a worst-case scenario, the malicious code might have targeted private keys used for digital signatures or secure connections.

Thankfully, npm, the primary package manager for Node.js, has removed the malicious "child_process" packages. However, this doesn't guarantee complete safety.

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714473015778_The Malicious Twist_ Fake _child_process_ packages.png" alt="npm has removed the malicious child_process packages" />

Source - https://www.npmjs.com/package/child_process

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714473189832_npm Security holding package.png" alt="npm Security holding package" />

Source - https://github.com/npm/security-holder#readme

## The Forking Threat - Why Vigilance Remains Crucial

While the original malicious package might be gone, the threat of forked versions persists. Forking, in the context of npm packages, allows developers to create their own versions based on existing code. Unfortunately, malicious actors can exploit this feature by forking a legitimate package and injecting harmful code.

Here's why vigilance remains crucial:

**Unpredictable Content:** Forked versions, especially those from untrusted sources, can contain hidden malicious code. This code could execute upon installation, potentially compromising the system.

**Difficult Detection:** Forked packages often retain the original name, making them difficult to distinguish from the legitimate version. This lack of clear differentiation increases the risk of accidental installation.

## How Scammers Reach Out

These same scammers might also try to target you directly. Here are a couple of red flags to watch out for:

**Tempting Offers on LinkedIn:** A stranger contacts you on LinkedIn with a seemingly perfect project. They might offer a high fee and ask you to run their code, which could be a malicious package in disguise.

**Shady Source Code on Freelancer Platforms:** On platforms like Upwork or Freelancer, someone might share a public Github repo, Google Drive link, or a zip file containing source code and ask you to run the app. This code could harbor hidden dangers.

## Be Mindful of Dependencies or Fork packages

Before incorporating any dependency into your project, take a moment to research its origin, reputation, and the code it includes. This vigilance can help you avoid unknowingly introducing vulnerabilities into your application.

For a complete list of fork packages directly dependent on "child_process," you can refer to the official npm page linked here: https://www.npmjs.com/package/child_process?activeTab=dependents

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714473415477_List of fork packages directly dependent on child_process.png" alt="List of fork packages directly dependent on child_process" />

## Safeguarding Yourself - Best Practices to Mitigate Risks

There are several ways developers and IT professionals can protect themselves from falling prey to malicious package scams:

**Scrutinize Before Installing:** Don't blindly trust package names. Take the time to read the package.json file associated with any dependency. Look for inconsistencies or unfamiliar details in the description, author information, or dependencies listed.

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714473467454_read the package.json file associated with any dependency.png" alt="read the package.json file associated with any dependency" />

**Research Package Reputation:** Before installing a package, especially one with a common name like "child_process", conduct a quick online search. Look for reviews, documentation, and community discussions about the package. A well-maintained package with a positive reputation is a safer bet.

**Consider Alternatives:** For functionalities similar to the "child_process" module, explore established and well-regarded alternatives. Popular options include execa or cross-spawn. These packages offer similar features while undergoing stricter security reviews.

**Review Code Execution:** Be cautious of code that executes shell commands. Always understand the specific command being used and its potential security implications. Consider safer alternatives like dedicated libraries for interacting with external programs.

**Maintain Updated Dependencies:** Keep your project's dependencies up-to-date. Patch updates often address security vulnerabilities discovered in older versions. Utilize tools like npm audit to identify outdated or potentially risky dependencies.

**Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):**  Enforce multi-factor authentication on your npm account. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step beyond just your password in order to publish or install packages.

**Stay Informed:**  Keep yourself updated on the latest security threats within the npm ecosystem. Subscribe to reliable security blogs or forums to stay informed about vulnerabilities and malicious packages. Reporting suspicious activity to the npm security team also plays a crucial role in keeping the community safe.

## Beyond npm - Holistic Security Measures

While the focus of this article has been on the npm registry, security best practices extend beyond a single package manager. Here are some additional considerations:

**Secure Coding Practices:** Adhere to secure coding principles throughout your development process. This includes input validation, proper error handling, and avoiding practices that could introduce vulnerabilities like SQL injection or cross-site scripting (XSS).

**Code Reviews:** Implement code review procedures within your development team. This allows for peer scrutiny of code and helps identify potential security issues before deployment.

**Regular System Audits:** Conduct periodic security audits of your development environment and systems. These audits can help detect vulnerabilities and misconfigurations that could be exploited by malicious actors.

> **Also read: [Goheard keylogger App Scam](https://empiricinfotech.com/blogs/goheard-keylogger-app-scam/46)**

## Conclusion

The "child_process" scam is just one example. By combining these practices with the npm-specific recommendations outlined earlier, developers and IT professionals can create a robust security posture that minimizes the risk of falling victim to package scams and other cyber threats. Stay aware and stay safe.

 


The "child_process" Scam: Beware of Forked Packages

Choose the right payment gateway to streamline transactions, boost sales, and build customer trust. Explore our top 7 picks in this extensive blog!

Online stores are popping up everywhere these days, thanks to tools that make building them a breeze. You might be excited to jump in and create your own with custom web application development, especially with a great product and a talented development team behind you. 

 However, the one thing that your online store can’t work without is the right payment system. 

Payment gateways are essential for any online business. They handle your online payments securely, accept major credit cards, and even deal with international sales. They make things easier for you and your customers, building trust by keeping their payment information safe.  

This blog will explore the top payment gateways so you can pick the perfect ones for your online store and keep your customers checking out smoothly. 

## List of Top 7 Payment Gateways

Here is the list of the top 7 popular payment gateways for online ecommerce stores:
- PayPal
- Authorize Net
- Braintree
- Adyen
- Amazon Pay
- Square

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714649555076_List of Top 7 Payment Gateways.png" alt="List of Top 7 Payment Gateways" />

## PayPal

[PayPal](https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/payflow-payment-gateway) is one of the world's most widely recognized and trusted online payment gateways. It offers various payment solutions for businesses of all sizes and easy payment processing for individuals. 

### Key Features of PayPal

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714649635220_Key Features of PayPal.png" alt="Key Features of PayPal" />

- **Wide Acceptance**: PayPal is available in over 200 countries and supports a vast range  of currencies, making it a great choice for businesses with international customers. 

- **Variety of Payment Types**: Accommodates credit/debit cards, PayPal balance transfers, bank transfers, and even invoicing features. 

- **Buyer and Seller Protection**: Offers fraud protection measures and dispute resolution mechanisms for both buyers and sellers.

- **Seamless Integration**: Well-documented APIs and pre-built integrations for many ecommerce platforms and web development frameworks. 

- **Additional Business Tools**: Options include recurring payments (subscriptions), point-of-sale solutions, and working capital loans.

### Pricing

Transaction fees vary slightly based on your region but for US-based businesses, it's typically 2.9% + $0.30 (USD) per domestic transaction. 

#### PayPal is suitable for

- **Established Businesses and Freelancers**: Its reputation and name recognition instill trust in customers. 

- **eCommerce**: Wide integration options with popular platforms and shopping carts. 

- **Global Marketplaces**: Excellent for processing payments from international customers. 

- **Businesses Needing Additional Tools**: Options for subscriptions, invoicing, and business financing.

## Stripe

[Stripe](https://stripe.com/) is a leading payment processing platform trusted by businesses of all sizes, from startups to Fortune 500 companies. Known for its developer-friendly approach and robust features, Stripe simplifies the process of accepting and managing online payments. 

### Key Features of Stripe

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714649773583_Key Features of Stripe.png" alt="Key Features of Stripe" />

- **Global Reach**: Stripe supports over 135 currencies and payment methods from around the world. 

- **Seamless Integrations**: Offers well-documented APIs, SDKs, and pre-built integrations for e-commerce platforms. 

- **Customizable Checkout**: Create branded, embeddable checkout experiences to fit your website's design. 

- **Fraud Prevention**: Stripe Radar uses machine learning to detect and block fraudulent transactions. 

- **Subscription Management**: Easily handle recurring billing, trials, and different subscription plans. 

- **Invoicing**: Generate and send professional invoices to customers. 

- **Reporting and Analytics**: Robust dashboard for insights into payment data, trends, and customer behavior. 

### Pricing

Stripe's core pricing is a flat-rate transaction fee of 2.9% + $0.30 per successful card charge. 

#### Stripe is suitable for

- **Tech-Forward Companies**: Stripe's developer-centric approach and customizable solutions are a great fit for tech companies that want flexibility. 

- **eCommerce**: Stripe integrates seamlessly with major ecommerce platforms and offers features vital for online stores. 

- **Businesses Scaling Globally**: Stripe's international support makes it ideal for companies expanding into new markets. 

- **SaaS and subscription-based Models**: Stripe's recurring billing and subscription management tools are a strong fit. 

## Authorize Net

[Authorize.Net](https://www.authorize.net/) is a veteran payment gateway provider, established in 1996. Acquired by Visa in 2010, it has a long track record of reliability and security within the ecommerce space. It's a popular choice for businesses of all sizes that prioritize robust fraud prevention features and a wide range of payment processing functionalities. 

### Key Features of Authorize Net

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714649836908_Key Features of Authorize.Net.png" alt="Key Features of Authorize.net" />

- **Payment Methods**: Accepts a wide range of credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, and JCB. It also supports electronic checks (e-checks), ACH payments, and popular digital wallets like PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Venmo. 

- **Manual Transactions Through Virtual Terminal**: Authorize.Net's virtual terminal allows you to manually enter and process card payments over the phone, fax, or mail order. This is useful for situations where customers cannot pay directly on your website 

- **Subscription Management**: Offers robust recurring billing and subscription management tools. This empowers businesses with subscription-based revenue models to easily set up and manage recurring payments. 

- **Advanced Fraud Protection**: Authorize.Net's advanced fraud detection suite incorporates a layered security approach to minimize the risk of fraudulent transactions like Address Verification Service (AVS), Card Verification Value (CVV), Velocity Checks, etc. 

- **Data & Insights**: Provides a comprehensive suite of reporting and analytics tools that can help businesses gain valuable insights into their customer base, transaction trends, and overall payment processing performance. 

### Pricing

The price of Authorize.Net’s payment gateway is $25 monthly fee + 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction. 

#### Authorize.Net is suitable for 

- **B2B Businesses**: Authorize.Net is well-suited for businesses with robust security and fraud prevention needs. 

- **eCommerce**: Its range of features and integrations make it a good choice for online stores.

- **Subscriptions**: The recurring billing functionality is helpful for subscription-based business models. 

- **Larger Businesses**: While used by smaller businesses, the monthly fee structure is generally more cost-effective for companies with higher transaction volume. 

## Braintree

[Braintree](https://www.braintreepayments.com/), a subsidiary of PayPal, is a full-stack payment gateway designed to simplify how businesses accept, process, and manage online payments. It offers a wide range of global payment options and advanced features for businesses of various sizes. 

### Key Features of Braintree

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714649909726_Key Features of Braintree.png" alt="Key Features of Braintree" />

- **Marketplace Payments**: Braintree streamlines complex financial management for platforms with multiple sellers. It facilitates seamless split payments, ensuring sellers receive their portion of the transaction after deducting marketplace fees or commissions. 

- **Developer-Friendly**: Braintree provides comprehensive developer tools and resources to streamline the integration process and empower customization. Well-documented APIs are available in various programming languages. That makes it easier for developers to integrate Braintree's functionalities into their web applications. 

- **Low International Charges**: Businesses can leverage Braintree's established partnerships with international payment processors to benefit from lower transaction fees compared to some competitors. 

### Pricing

Braintree's standard pricing is 2.9% + $0.30 per successful credit/debit card transaction. 

#### Braintree is suitable for

- **Mid-to-Large Businesses**: Braintree's advanced features and customizable pricing make it well-suited for businesses with more complex payment needs. 

- **Global eCommerce**: Businesses looking to expand internationally appreciate Braintree's wide range of supported currencies and localized payment methods. 

- **Marketplaces**: Platforms with multiple sellers benefit from Braintree's marketplace payment capabilities. 

- **Developers**: Braintree's robust APIs and developer tools are attractive to tech-savvy businesses seeking flexibility and customization in their payment integration. 

## Adyen

[Adyen](https://www.adyen.com/) is a global payment platform enabling businesses to accept a wide range of payment methods both online and in-person (if applicable) through a single integration. It emphasizes global reach, advanced risk management, and a unified view of payment data across channels. 

### Key Features of Adyen

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714649954510_Key Features of Adyen.png" alt="Key Features of Adyen" />

- **Extensive Global Payment Methods**: Adyen offers over 250 local and international payment methods, including credit/debit cards, digital wallets, bank transfers, and region-specific options. This enables customers to pay with their preferred methods. 

- **Omnichannel Capability**: For companies with both online and physical stores, Adyen allows for a unified payment experience across channels. That allows a seamless checkout experience for customers. 

- **Revenue Protect**: Adyen's advanced suite of fraud prevention tools employ machine learning and data analysis to detect and mitigate fraudulent transactions. This safeguards businesses from financial losses and protects customer data. 

- **Shopper Insights**: Adyen's reporting tools provide businesses with granular insights into customer payment behavior, success rates across different payment methods, regional trends, and more. 

- **Direct Connections to Card Networks**: Maintains direct connections with major card networks (Visa, Mastercard, etc.). This minimizes intermediaries, often resulting in higher authorization rates and potential cost savings on some transactions. 

### Pricing

Adyen's pricing structure generally combines a processing fee with a variable payment method fee based on the specific method used by the customer. You can check out its pricing by clicking here. 

### Adyen is suitable for 

- **Global Businesses**: Adyen's strength lies in its global reach and vast international payment method support, particularly beneficial for businesses expanding into new markets. 

- **Enterprise-Level**: Adyen's sophisticated risk management tools and customizable features appeal to larger businesses with complex payment needs. 

- **Retailers with Omnichannel Needs**: Companies seeking to streamline payments across both online and in-store channels may find value in Adyen's unified platform. 

- **Data-Driven Companies**: Businesses prioritizing data insights into payment trends can benefit from Adyen's powerful analytics and reporting features. 

## Amazon Pay

[Amazon Pay](https://pay.amazon.com/) is a payment gateway that leverages the trust and convenience associated with Amazon accounts. It allows customers to use their existing Amazon account information (shipping address and stored payment methods) to make quick and easy purchases on third-party websites and within apps. 

### Key Features of Amazon Pay

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1714649978233_Key Features of Amazon Pay.png" alt="Key Features of Amazon Pay" />

- **Seamless Checkout**: For customers with Amazon accounts, Amazon Pay eliminates the need to re-enter billing and shipping details. This dramatically reduces friction in the checkout process, often leading to increased conversion rates. 

- **Trust Factor**: Backed by Amazon's brand recognition, Amazon Pay inherits a level of trust, improving buyer confidence during checkout. 

- **Mobile Optimization**: Amazon Pay is designed with mobile shopping in mind, streamlining payments within apps or mobile-optimized websites. 

- **Recurring Payments**: Amazon Pay supports subscription models and recurring billing. 

- **Fraud Protection**: Includes Amazon's A-to-z Guarantee for eligible purchases, providing protection for both buyers and merchants. 

- **Alexa Integration**: Businesses can enable voice-based payments through Alexa devices for a futuristic checkout experience. 

### Payments

- **Domestic Transaction Fee**: 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction for most sellers. 

- **Cross-Border Fee**: Additional 3.9% for transactions where the customer's billing address is outside your seller account country. 

- **No Setup or Monthly Fees**: Amazon Pay doesn't have recurring monthly charges or initial setup fees. 

#### Amazon Pay is suitable for

- **Existing Amazon Sellers**: Businesses already selling on the Amazon marketplace get easy setup with Amazon Pay. 

- **Established Brands**: Companies with existing brand recognition can leverage the trust factor associated with Amazon. 

- **Businesses Targeting Increased Conversions**: If a major pain point is cart abandonment, Amazon Pay's faster checkout can help optimize conversion rates. 

- **Merchants with International Customers**: Amazon's global reach could be advantageous, although cross-border fees need to be factored into costs. 

## Square

[Square](https://squareup.com/us/en) is a financial services and merchant services company known for its user-friendly payment solutions. It provides businesses with both versatile point-of-sale (POS) hardware and integrated online payment processing, along with various business management tools. 

### Key Features of Square

<img src="https://empiricinfotech.com/api/image//app/media/imageGallery/1715075727354_Key Features of Square.png" alt="Key Features of Square" />

- **Payment Processing**: Square supports various payment methods, including credit/debit cards (swiped, dipped, tapped), online payments, and mobile wallets. 

- **POS Solutions**: Square offers a range of POS hardware options, from basic card readers to advanced countertop systems that support inventory management and analytics. 

- **Invoicing**: Square Invoices allows businesses to easily create and send professional invoices to clients. You can customize invoice templates with your branding, include itemized lists of products or services, and set clear payment terms. 

- **eCommerce Integration**: Square offers seamless integration with popular ecommerce platforms or allows for building a store through their website builder. 

- **Business Tools**: Square offers various additional tools for business management, including employee management, customer relationship management (CRM), marketing solutions, and reporting. 

- **Financial Services**: Square provides business loans, a business checking account (Square Banking), and the Square Card (business debit card). 

### Pricing

The price of online transactions on Square is 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction. 

#### Square is suitable for 

- **Small Businesses and Startups**: Square's simplicity and affordability make it a popular choice for small businesses just getting started. 

- **Businesses Needing POS Solutions**: Square excels with its range of point-of-sale hardware options, catering to both mobile and brick-and-mortar businesses. 

- **Merchants Seeking a Suite of Services**: Companies that want financial services, invoicing, and other business tools integrated with their payment processing may appreciate Square's ecosystem. 

- **Omnichannel Sellers**: Square's ability to sync online and in-person sales data offers a unified view for businesses with both physical and online presence. 

## Set Up a Payment Gateway for Your eCommerce Store with Empiric Infotech

Now you know about 7 great payment systems for your online store! Some are easy to set up yourself. Others have more advanced options if you need them.  

But don't worry if you're not a tech expert, Empiric Infotech, a [custom web application development company](https://empiricinfotech.com/services/web-development-company), is here to help you set up the perfect payment system for your business.

There's never been a better time to start your online store. Contact our experts today! 

[**Schedule a 30-Minutes call with our expert to set up a payment gateway**](https://calendly.com/jaypal-b/30min)

Top 7 Payment Gateways for Your eCommerce Store

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