Learning the
friendly way

At Tap, adaptability and innovation define everything we do. Operating across the EU, EEA, and the UK, we’ve built a reputation for offering cutting-edge fintech and crypto solutions while continually striving to adapt and innovate in response to evolving regulations. But the road isn’t always smooth—sometimes, regulatory changes demand that we rethink, adapt, and find creative solutions to stay true to our mission.

Today, we’re thrilled to announce the return of XTP token locking for Premium accounts in the UK—a journey that wasn’t without its challenges, but one that reflects our unwavering commitment to our users.

A Challenge Worth Tackling

Last October, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) introduced new regulations aimed at tightening the promotion and distribution of cryptocurrency services. These rules, while important for safeguarding the sector, directly impacted the structure of our Premium accounts. 

For our EU and EEA users, accessing Premium perks like lower fees, higher card spending limits, cashback rewards, and VIP support is as simple as locking a specific amount of XTP tokens for 12 months. For our UK users, regulatory requirements led us to suspend this system to ensure compliance. Determined to continue offering UK users access to our Premium perks, in its place, we introduced a new structure : Premium upgrades through a fixed annual fee paid in GBP.

This interim solution allowed us to continue offering UK users the perks they loved, but it wasn’t the ideal experience we wanted for our community. Restoring XTP locking for the UK became a top priority.

Behind the Scenes: A Year of Dedication and Perseverance

When the change rolled out, many users understandably voiced frustration. Some felt we weren’t doing enough, unaware of the monumental effort happening behind the scenes. The reality? Our team embarked on a year-long journey deeply immersed in research, consultations, and legal review to align our XTP locking system with the regulatory requirements in order to craft a compliant yet user-centric solution.

This wasn’t a quick fix. Every step of the process—from analysing legal frameworks to liaising coordinating with relevant stakeholders required time, expertise, and meticulous attention to detail. We don’t take shortcuts, and we don’t settle for half measures. At Tap, we focus on outcomes, not just promises, we channel our energy into quietly, diligently achieving results.

A Moment of Triumph: The Return of XTP Locking

After a year of hard work, we’re delighted to reintroduce XTP locking for Premium accounts in the UK. This marks a return to the system our users value—one that aligns perfectly with our broader offering across the EU and EEA.

For those who upgraded to Premium with the GBP annual fee, our dedicated support team will personally reach out to personally guide you through your options and ensure a seamless transition. We’re committed to making this process as smooth and rewarding as possible. We’re committed to ensuring this transition is smooth, positive, and tailored to your needs, giving you the best experience possible.

The Road Ahead

This journey is a reminder of what makes Tap unique. We don’t just adapt in the face of complex challenges; we embrace them as opportunities to grow and innovate. We’re proud to bring back a feature that resonates deeply with our community, and we’re more excited than ever about what lies ahead.

We’re proud to bring this chapter full circle and thank every one of our users for their patience and trust. Here’s to the next step forward—together.

The holiday season, with all its glitter, cheer and tradition, can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of emotions and expenses. Between those persuasive commercials and the relentless social media ads and influencers, it can feel like an added pressure on your finances that you just don’t have the energy to fight off at the end of the year.

But fret not, taming holiday spending isn't as tricky as wrapping a bowling ball, even if your loved ones are living it up in the holiday splurge zone while you're in the "I'm on a budget" Santa hat.

We’re here to help you sleigh the festive season without sending your bank account into winter hibernation. Here are five realistic financial boundaries to implement with friends and family this festive season. 

Create a budget

Who could have predicted this? Well, it's not exactly breaking news, but a well-crafted budget is your trusty reindeer reins. And no, it's not here to rain on your festive parade, it's the voice of reason when things get a little too merry.

Planning a holiday budget may not sound like a barrel of laughs, but trust us, it's the key to unlocking financial serenity this season. Here's your step-by-step guide to make it a tad more enjoyable:

Step one: Snuggle up with your favourite holiday treat and get comfy. Plot out your budget, factoring in gifts, decorations, travel, and entertainment.

Step two: Be brutally honest with yourself about your spending limits and keep expectations in check. Keep it realistic, and don’t ignore your January Voice of Reason.

Step three: Now, manage and follow your budget as if your life depended on it. It's your financial GPS, steering you away from the treacherous cliffs of overspending. Be in the business of staying disciplined, and both your wallet and future self will be singing your praises.

Be picky with your social calendar

Finding the right balance during the holiday season can be a bit tricky, especially if you're the life of the party who never turns down a chance to celebrate. While holiday gatherings are undeniably fun, they can also put a strain on your wallet, what with buying gifts or splurging on new outfits for every Friendsgiving or seasonal bash on your invite list.

So, what's the secret sauce? Simple, really: set a cap on how many events you'll attend, and fill your calendar with wallet-friendly or no-cost activities. 

Think about hosting a cosy Christmas cocktail night at home instead of hitting up pricy holiday pop-up bars, enjoying potluck dinners at friends instead of eating out, or even just swapping holiday-themed books with your pals. These options let you savour the holiday spirit without breaking the bank.

Propose a gift swap instead of playing Santa to all

The fastest way to empty your pockets during the festive season? Showering gifts on everyone you adore. It's undeniably heartwarming, as the holidays are all about giving, but if your mission is to rescue your finances, it's crucial to stick to that budget.

Here's the savvy play: suggest a group gift exchange like Secret Santa or White Elephant, where each person is responsible for a single present. This gem of an idea works wonders, especially if you're accustomed to playing Santa for your entire office or friend gang, at the cost of any good times in January.

Now, we get it. Your love language might be gift-giving and holding back your desire to gift everyone can be challenging. However, it'll save you a ton of money in the long run. Bonus? You might discover that you can give a more heartfelt gift when you're not fretting over multiple purchases or chasing down the perfect presents for everyone. Happier you, happier everyone.

Embrace the cash or debit approach

Taming the holiday spending frenzy calls for some clever tactics. Swap that tempting credit card for cash or a trusty debit card when you head off on your festive shopping adventures. With this approach, you'll stick to spending only what's safely nestled in your bank account.

It's like Santa himself keeping a watchful eye on your wallet, ensuring you don't venture into the land of overspending. When you physically see those bills leave your hand or the numbers dip in your account, it becomes a tangible reminder to stay within your budget. 

So, this holiday season, let your cash or debit card be your financial guardian and keep the festivities merry without the budget hangover.

Master the art of responsible online shopping

Last but not least, yes, online shopping is still spending. The allure of online deals and discounts can be irresistible, leading to overspending in the blink of an eye. To conquer this digital shopping realm, establish a strict limit on your online purchases and banish impulsive buying tendencies.

But there's more: declutter your inbox by unsubscribing from those tempting promotional emails. It's like building a fortress around your financial willpower. With fewer temptations, you're less likely to get lured into spontaneous shopping sprees.

Final thoughts

Navigating the holiday whirlwind without emptying your pockets is doable. Craft a budget, stick to it, and then lean into the festivities around you. Sticking to these boundaries will not only protect your mental health but also ensure a festive season filled with cheer, not financial stress. Because, after all, aren’t Aunt Linda’s questions about what you’re doing with your life stressful enough?

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Let's be honest, entering the world of crypto can feel like trying to surf a tsunami while blindfolded. Especially during a bull market, when excitement is running high and everyone seems to be making money, it's easy to get swept up in the madness. We’ve all be there. But here's the deal: smart surfing is about strategy, not just catching the biggest wave.

What you need to know about bull markets

A bull market is crypto's version of spring - everything's blooming, prices are rising, and optimism is in the air. But just like spring can bring unexpected storms, the crypto market has its own unpredictable weather.

Do your homework (just do it)

Forget following random influencers promising overnight riches. The crypto world moves fast, and information is your best life jacket. Here's what to focus on:

• Research is your superpower: Dive deep into projects. What problem are they solving? Who's behind the team? What makes them unique?
• Understand the narratives: The crypto market loves stories. Right now, everyone's talking about AI tokens, decentralised infrastructure, and meme coins. Know what's trending, but don't just jump in blindly.

Build your crypto survival kit

Think of your crypto journey like preparing for an adventure:

1. Diversification is your friendsome text
   • Don't put all your eggs in one digital basket
   • Mix different types of cryptocurrencies
   • Consider a blend of established coins and promising new projects
2. Emotional discipline is your mentorsome text
   • FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) is the crypto trader's worst enemy
   • Set clear goals and stick to them
   • Have a plan for both buying and selling

Spot the red flags and warning signs

Spotting the red flags

• Promises of guaranteed returns? 🚩 Red flag
• Projects with zero transparency? 🚩 Run away
• Everyone's talking about a coin, and you feel pressured? Take a breath

Risk management implementation

• Only invest what you can afford to lose
• Consider using strategies like Dollar Cost Averaging (buying small amounts regularly)
• Set up stop-loss mechanisms to protect your investment

The learning never stops

There’s nothing wrong with a long-term hodl plan. But if you’re looking to shake things up: stay curious, stay learning:

• Follow reputable crypto news sources
• Join community discussions
• Watch educational content from experienced traders

Always look beyond the hype

Look beyond price. Understanding blockchain technology, market trends, and the real-world applications of cryptocurrencies will make you a smarter investor.

Mindset matters

Remember, this isn't a get-rich-quick scheme. It's a journey of learning, strategy, and calculated risks. Some days you'll feel like a crypto wizard, other days like you're playing financial Jenga.

Pro tips from the crypto trenches

• Keep emotions in check
• Don't chase every shiny new token
• Learn from both your wins and losses
• Stay humble and curious

The bottom line

Crypto trading during a bull market is thrilling, but it's not a lottery. It's about informed decisions, continuous learning, and maintaining a level head.

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. The crypto market is volatile, and past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Always do your own research and consider consulting with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Stay smart, stay safe, and enjoy the ride! 

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Navigating the crypto world can be tricky, especially with new coins popping up daily. How do you tell which ones are legit and which are scams?

This guide will walk you through five simple ways to check if a cryptocurrency project is trustworthy. We'll show you how to spot red flags and avoid falling for schemes that could end up only costing you money.

By the end, you'll have practical tools to assess whether a token is likely to last or disappear quickly. This knowledge will help you make smarter choices and protect your investments.

Let's get started on how to separate the Bitcoins from the deadcoins in the world of crypto.

1. Start with social media and good old Google

Start your crypto research with basic Google and social media searches. Look for the token's official website, whitepaper, and verified social media accounts. Be wary of projects with many followers but little genuine engagement - comments like "Great project!" or "To the moon!" from multiple accounts could be red flags.

When searching for the token address, you should easily find links to block explorers, the official website, and whitepaper. If these aren't readily available, it's cause for concern. Also, be cautious of Google Ads, as scammers often use them. And always double-check you're on the official site to avoid potential scams or malware.

Remember, a legitimate project will have a clear online presence and purpose. If you can't find basic information about a token, it's likely not worth your investment. Trust your instincts - if something seems off, it probably is.

2. Utilise block explorers’ comments section

Another simple yet effective way to vet a crypto project is to check the comments section on block explorers like Etherscan. While many tokens have no comments, scam projects often attract a flurry of negative feedback.

To do this, visit the token's page on Etherscan (or another relevant block explorer) and look for the comments tab. If you see users calling out the project as a scam, take it very seriously - these warnings are usually accurate. Remember, people who've lost money are likely to warn others, so these comments can be valuable red flags.

If you've personally fallen victim to a scam, consider leaving a comment to alert others. This simple step of checking (and potentially contributing to) the comments section can be a quick way to gauge a project's legitimacy and protect yourself and others from potential fraud.

3. Look for its listing on a token explorer site

Checking token explorers like CoinGecko or DappRadar's Token Ranking can quickly reveal potential scams. If a token isn't listed on these platforms, it's often a red flag.

Even for listed tokens, watch out for warning notifications like the one below. These are valuable alerts designed to help you spot risks.

Keep in mind that while legitimate projects usually share information with these ranking services, not all tokens appear automatically. Some platforms have specific listing criteria.

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4. Check the token’s liquidity on DEXs

When determining whether a coin is a scam, assessing its liquidity is always a good call. Liquidity on DEXs refers to the amount of cryptocurrency or tokens locked in smart contracts, enabling trading on decentralised exchanges like Uniswap V2.

Checking liquidity is simple and can provide valuable insights into a token's legitimacy. If the liquidity is below $100,000 or rapidly decreasing, it's often a red flag indicating a potential scam.

Tools like DappRadar can be helpful in this process. For tokens tracked on their supported blockchains, DappRadar provides warnings when liquidity levels are concerningly low.

Remember, adequate liquidity is essential for a healthy token ecosystem. Low liquidity can make it difficult to trade the token and may suggest a lack of genuine market interest or support. 

5. DappRadar’s blacklist

DappRadar offers a useful tool for identifying potential crypto scams: their community-driven blacklist. This feature allows users to contribute to a shared database of suspicious tokens.

To use this resource, simply check if the token you're researching is listed in the DappRadar blacklist on GitHub. If you find the token's address there, consider it a strong warning sign - tokens on this list are highly likely to be scams.

Additionally, if you've encountered a scam token yourself, you can contribute to the community's safety by submitting it to the blacklist. This simple act can help protect other investors from falling victim to the same scheme.

Final thoughts

Remember to use these tools as part of your broader research. A token's absence or presence of warnings should make you cautious, but always combine this with other verification methods for a complete picture.

Whether you're investing or simply observing, new cryptocurrencies and tokens offer a unique window into the evolving narrative of cryptocurrency. They remind us that in the digital age, finance isn't just about numbers; it's about stories, cultures, and communities. As this corner of the crypto world continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly provide both entertainment and lessons in the broader dialogue about the future of digital assets and their impact on society.

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Dreaming of working from exotic beaches or cosy cafes around the world? Becoming a digital nomad might just be your ticket to an exciting journey of professional and personal growth. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to transform your career and lifestyle, combining work with travel. 

What is a digital nomad?

A digital nomad is someone who works online while travelling the world. Using laptops, smartphones and a reliable internet connection, they perform remote jobs like writing, coding, or marketing from various locations. This lifestyle offers freedom to explore new places, flexible work hours, and rich cultural experiences. However, digital nomads also face challenges such as unstable internet, time zone differences, and maintaining work-life balance. 

Essentially, a digital nomad trades traditional office life for adventure, using their skills to fund a travel-focused lifestyle.

How to become a digital nomad

If you’re sold on becoming a digital nomad, here is a step-by-step plan to get you from the office to the beach in no time. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and it will do you well to get prepared and make the transition as smooth as possible.

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Step 1: Take inventory of your skills, and available jobs

Let's talk about figuring out what you're good at and how it fits into remote work. First, look for jobs you can do from anywhere - there's plenty out there! Then, take a good look at your skills. What are you great at? What do you enjoy? 

Now, be honest - do your skills match up with those remote jobs you found? If not, don't worry! You might need to learn some new tricks, maybe take an online course or two, or try your hand at some small projects. The key is to make yourself valuable in the remote work world. Remember, it's all about having skills that let you work from wherever you want to be. 

Step 2: Start finding remote job opportunities

Ready to dip your toes into the freelance world? Don't wait until you're sipping coconuts on a beach - start now! It's a great way to build up a client list and beef up your portfolio before you jet off. 

There are tons of ways to find work: try freelance sites like Upwork, Fiverr and Guru, ask around your network, or reach out to businesses directly. LinkedIn can be a goldmine too. Spend some time on these platforms to get a feel for what's out there, what people charge, and how to sell yourself. 

It's all about finding what clicks for you and your skills. Before you know it, you'll be landing gigs and building that nomad lifestyle!

Step 3: Organize your finances

Right, let's talk money! Before you pack your bags, you need to get your finances in order. First up, create a budget that fits your new lifestyle. Remember, costs can be way different in other countries - sometimes cheaper, sometimes not. Be sure to do thorough research so you can plan accordingly - look at things like rent, wifi, transport, food, etc. 

Next, sort out your banking. You'll want a way to access your cash without crazy fees, so look into international-friendly banks or online options. A great place to start is the Tap app, which we’ve intricately designed to be as travel-friendly as possible. Before you leave home, get your Tap card delivered to your door, then load and manage all your funds and transactions from the secure app. You can then use the card at merchants and ATMs around the world. 

And don't forget about taxes - they don't disappear just because you're sipping coffee in Bali! Each country has its own rules, so do your homework. It might sound boring, but trust me, getting this stuff sorted will make your nomad life so much smoother!

Step 4: Plan your travel

Alright, time for the fun part - planning your adventure! First things first, you've got to figure out those pesky visa rules. Some countries are super welcoming to digital nomads, others... not so much. Do your homework to avoid any nasty surprises at the border. 

Next up, pick your first stop. Where's calling your name? Bali's beaches? Prague's cobblestone streets? Once you've decided, start locking in the details. Find a comfy place to crash - maybe a cool Airbnb or a co-living space where you can meet other nomads. Then sort out how you'll get around. Airport to your accommodation is a good place to start. The more research you do before, the smoother your landing will be. 

Step 5: Set up your workstation

Time to gear up for your mobile office, nomad! You don't need much, but what you do need should be solid. First, pick your tech sidekicks - a reliable laptop, maybe a tablet, and maybe a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones for those busy cafe days. 

Next, the internet is your lifeline, so research the best ways to stay connected wherever you go. Maybe grab an international SIM or a portable hotspot. Lastly, load up on tools that'll keep you productive. Think project management apps, time trackers, and cloud storage. 

With the right setup, you can turn any corner of the world into your personal HQ. 

Step 6: Establish a routine with a work/life balance

Alright, let's talk about creating that nomad life balance. Creating a routine that lets you crush your work goals while still exploring is key. Maybe you're a morning person who knocks out tasks before hitting the beach, or a night owl who works after sightseeing. Find your groove. 

Also, use the time to scope out cool workspaces in each new spot - cafes, co-working spaces, or even your Airbnb balcony. And don't forget to connect with your like-minded nomads around. Join online nomad communities, chat with other remote workers at local hangouts, and keep in touch with folks back home. Having a support network makes the journey way more fun and keeps you on track. 

Now get out there

You've got the roadmap, future nomad - now it's time to take the leap. Remember, becoming a digital nomad isn't just about working from exotic locations; it's about embracing a whole new lifestyle. 

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There'll be challenges, sure, but the rewards are incredible. You'll grow personally and professionally, experience new cultures, and redefine what 'office' means to you. Take it step by step, be patient with yourself, and don't forget to enjoy the journey. Whether you're coding from a Costa Rica beach or writing in a Paris café, you're living a dream many only imagine. So pack your laptop, open your mind, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. The world's waiting for you!

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When making purchases with your debit card, you’re typically asked to provide a security code, also known as a CVV or CVV2 code. This 3-digit (or sometimes 4-digit) number is an important security feature that helps protect your card from unauthorised use. Understanding what this code is, where to find it, and why it's crucial to keep it safe can help prevent financial fraud and give you greater control over your accounts. In this article, we dive into the details.

What is the security code used for?

The debit card security code serves a critical purpose in verifying your identity and protecting against fraudulent activity. When you provide the code during a transaction, it confirms that you physically possess the card, rather than just having access to the card number alone. 

This helps prevent criminals from making unauthorised purchases, especially for online, phone, or mail-order transactions where the physical card is not present. By requiring the security code, merchants and financial institutions can have an additional safeguard against fraud, giving you greater confidence that your hard-earned money stays secure.

Why are debit card security codes important?

The bottom line is that debit card security codes play a vital role in safeguarding your financial information and protecting your hard-earned money. This security code acts as an additional layer of security beyond just your card number and expiration date and without it, criminals would have a much easier time making unauthorised purchases or accessing your accounts. 

Where can I find my debit card security code?

The debit card security code is typically found in one of two places on your card: 

On most standard debit cards, the 3-digit code is printed on the back of the card, often in the signature strip or just to the right of it. 

Some debit cards may have a 4-digit security code that is printed on the front of the card, usually in the top right corner. 

How debit card security codes work with contactless payments

While debit cards with security codes are primarily used for in-person, online, and over-the-phone transactions, the code also plays a role in contactless or "tap-to-pay" payments. 

When you hold your debit card up to a contactless payment terminal, the 3- or 4-digit security code is digitally transmitted along with your card information. This allows the payment system to verify your identity and approve the transaction, just as it would for a contact-based payment that requires manually entering the security code. 

The security code therefore provides an extra layer of protection, even for quick tap-and-go purchases.

CVV vs OTP

The key difference between a debit card's CVV (card verification value) code and an OTP (one-time password) lies in how they function to verify transactions. A CVV is a static 3 or 4-digit code printed on your physical debit card, which you manually enter to confirm your identity. 

In contrast, an OTP is a dynamically generated code, typically sent to your mobile device via SMS from the bank or an authentication app, that changes with each new transaction. While both add an extra security layer, OTPs provide stronger protection, as they cannot be reused like a static CVV. 

Combining the use of your debit card's CVV code and a one-time password (OTP) provides the strongest protection against financial fraud.

CVV vs PIN

Your debit card's PIN (Personal Identification Number) is different from the CVV (card verification value) code.

The PIN is used to verify in-person transactions when you use the physical card, like at a store checkout or ATM.

The CVV code is used instead for remote purchases, like online or over the phone, where the physical card isn't present.

Closing thoughts

In summary, the debit card security code, also found on a credit card, is an essential safeguard against fraud and unauthorised transactions. By understanding what this code is, where to find it, and how it protects your finances, you can take control of your financial security and enjoy greater peace of mind when using your debit card in the wild or online. 

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