The use of crypto currencies to make transactions online has grown in popularity over the past few years, but one has begun to dominate the market — bitcoin. According to Bitcoin.com, there are currently 16.67 million Bitcoins in supply with 12,000 transactions made per hour. Several businesses in major Texas cities like San Antonio and Austin even accept it. As popular as this new form of currency has become, many are left wondering what it is, how it even works and the risks involved.
Unlike dollars, pesos or yen, bitcoins are not backed by a government or distributed by a central bank. Instead, bitcoins are simply lines of programming code created on a peer-to-peer network through a process called “mining.” People involved in this process use special computer resources to compete with other “miners” to solve complex mathematical puzzles. Solving the puzzle awards the winner a “block” of bitcoins. Transactions can then be made online or through an app on your phone.
Since there is no regulatory agency, the value of Bitcoin can fall just as quickly as it can rise depending on demand. For example, the value of Bitcoin hit a record high of nearly $20,000 per coin back in December. It has since dropped to less than half that value and, by the time you read this article, that number will probably be drastically different. The Federal Trade Commission has found that some online merchants that accept Bitcoin as payment do not deliver the product on time or they provide refunds with store credit rather than currency. That is why it is important to always know the seller and their policies before making a purchase.
Better Business Bureau advises if you choose to use or invest in Bitcoin, use extreme caution. Be sure to do your homework first, to understand the rules and risks of Bitcoin transactions.
- Check out the seller’s reputation. Make sure you know where the seller is located and how to contact someone if there are problems.
- If you pay with bitcoins, the only way to get a refund is through the seller or payment processor, so it’s important to choose companies you trust.
- How much will your refund be? The value of a bitcoin changes constantly so the seller should tell you before you buy what exchange rate will be used for refunds.
- Read the seller’s privacy policy to find out what other information might be collected and shared. If the seller uses a payment processor, check its privacy policy, too.”
If you have a problem with a bitcoin-related product or service, file a complaint with the FTC. To report a scam, go to the BBB Scam Tracker. To find trustworthy businesses, go to BBB.org
