As shoppers start to spend more digitally, fraudsters actively seek vulnerable shoppers for financial scams. Emerging digital payment frauds can catch even the most cautious users by surprise. Once trapped, how does one get out of it?(Digital Scam) Here are five effective tips from Visa to help act swiftly and minimise the risk if you’ve been duped.
Call only the authorised customer care services: Waste no time in calling the customer care number of your bank or payment provider,given in their official communication. Rely solely on officially listed contacts and freeze your account or block your card/payment method, as the case may be. This will enable you to halt any further fraudulent activity and activate a chargeback or refund.
Report without delay: Report it immediately to the bank and inform The Police Computer Crime Investigations Division on 0112381045 or Police Headquarters (+94 12421111). File a complaint at your nearest police station and keep a copy of it handy.
Document every detail!: Amidst the chaos of a scam,it is easy to panic and overlook crucial details. Try to remember the details and document everything from the moment you suspect foul play; record the conversation, take screenshots, copy any messages, etc. Also capture transaction IDs, dates, amounts, etc. that you may have shared with the scammer; these details could be invaluable when reporting and resolving the fraud.
Upgrade your security: Reinforce your defenses by updating passwords to strong and unique ones, activate two-factor authentication and install strong anti-malware that scan your device/s regularly. Once you switch that on, choose payment options with robust security measures, such as tokenisation that the RBI has mandated for online transactions.
Advocate and educate: Being a victim of a digital payment scam can be an ordeal. Proactively share your experience with friends, family, elders and on social media, with essential safety tips and what you did wrong or right so they are educated from your experience and can be cautious.
Together, we can cultivate a safe and secure digital ecosystem by being more aware, safeguarding our devices and staying informed and vigilant, not just for ourselves but also for others around us.
In today’s fast-paced digital age, the tech world is dominated by innovators who are constantly pushing boundaries. However, behind the glitz and glamour of Silicon Valley success stories, there are countless individuals who have had to overcome significant challenges to make their mark. One such personality is Jack Ma, a tech visionary whose journey is a powerful testament to resilience, perseverance, and a deep belief in innovation.
Humble Beginnings
Born in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, Jack Ma didn’t have access to the resources many tech entrepreneurs take for granted. Growing up in a modest household, the dream of becoming a tech innovator seemed far-fetched. While many of Ma’s peers were exposed to the latest gadgets, he had limited access to technology. Yet, what Ma lacked in resources, he more than made up for in curiosity and determination.
From an early age, Jack Ma was fascinated by how things worked. Despite not having a computer at home, he spent countless hours at the local library, immersing himself in books about English, business, and eventually, the burgeoning field of the internet. It was here that Ma first encountered the concept of e-commerce – a world that would soon become a lifelong passion.
Early Struggles and Setbacks
The path to success is never linear, and Jack Ma’s journey was no exception. After completing high school, Ma faced numerous challenges, not least of which was the struggle to secure a place in university. Despite his proficiency in English and his passion for business, Ma was rejected from multiple colleges, including the prestigious Hangzhou Teacher’s Institute. This repeated rejection was a harsh blow, but it only fueled his determination to succeed.
Undeterred, Ma eventually earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Hangzhou Normal University. His proficiency in English led him to work as an English teacher, a job he held for nearly a decade. However, Ma’s aspirations extended beyond teaching. He was deeply interested in the internet and recognized its potential to revolutionize business and communication in China.
In 1995, during a trip to the United States, Ma was introduced to the internet. Struck by its possibilities, he attempted to create an online directory for Chinese businesses but faced technical challenges and limited support. Returning to China, Ma founded China Pages, one of China’s first internet companies. However, the venture struggled due to a lack of funding and limited internet penetration in China at the time.
Ma’s journey was further marred by personal setbacks. He applied for dozens of jobs, including positions at KFC and other multinational corporations, but was repeatedly rejected. These rejections could have easily discouraged anyone, but for Ma, they were opportunities to learn and grow. His resilience in the face of adversity became a defining trait that would later propel him to success.
A Breakthrough Moment
After years of perseverance, Jack Ma finally caught a break. In 1999, he gathered 18 friends in his apartment and pitched the idea of an online marketplace. They decided to pool their resources and founded Alibaba, a platform aimed at connecting Chinese manufacturers with international buyers. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in Ma’s journey.
The early days of Alibaba were challenging. The internet infrastructure in China was still developing, and convincing businesses to adopt online commerce was no easy task. Additionally, Ma faced fierce competition from established players like eBay. However, Ma’s unwavering belief in the potential of e-commerce and his innovative approach to business set Alibaba apart.
One of the pivotal moments for Alibaba was securing a significant investment from Goldman Sachs in 2000. This infusion of capital allowed Alibaba to scale its operations and enhance its platform. Ma’s ability to attract investment and build a strong team of talented individuals was instrumental in Alibaba’s growth.
Overcoming Personal and Professional Challenges
Despite Alibaba’s early success, the road ahead was far from smooth. Just as the business was gaining momentum, Jack Ma faced significant personal and professional challenges. The dot-com bubble burst in the early 2000s led to a downturn in the tech industry, and Alibaba had to navigate through financial uncertainties and market skepticism.
Moreover, Ma had to balance his role as a leader with the pressures of scaling a rapidly growing company. Managing a diverse team, fostering innovation, and maintaining Alibaba’s vision required immense dedication and strategic thinking. During this time, many might have chosen to step back, but Ma saw these challenges as opportunities to refine his leadership and business strategies.
Another notable challenge was Alibaba’s battle against eBay in China. While eBay had a strong global presence, Ma was committed to building a platform tailored specifically to the Chinese market. His deep understanding of local business practices and consumer behavior gave Alibaba a competitive edge, ultimately leading to eBay’s exit from the Chinese market in 2006.
Innovation and Impact
Today, Jack Ma is the co-founder and former executive chairman of Alibaba Group, a global e-commerce and technology conglomerate that has revolutionized the way businesses operate and consumers shop. Alibaba’s ecosystem encompasses e-commerce, cloud computing, digital entertainment, and financial services, making it one of the most influential tech companies in the world.
Beyond the success of Alibaba, Jack Ma is also deeply committed to philanthropy and education. Recognizing the challenges he faced in accessing education and resources, Ma established the Jack Ma Foundation in 2014. The foundation focuses on improving education, supporting entrepreneurship, and promoting environmental sustainability. Through various initiatives, Ma is working to ensure that the next generation of innovators has the support and resources they need to succeed.
Alibaba’s impact extends beyond business. The company has empowered millions of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by providing them with access to global markets and digital tools. This democratization of commerce has not only spurred economic growth but also fostered a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in China and beyond.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Jack Ma’s journey is a powerful reminder that success in the tech industry is not solely dependent on having the right connections, degrees, or financial backing. Instead, it is about persistence, creativity, and a willingness to embrace failure as part of the learning process.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Ma offers several key pieces of advice:
Embrace Continuous Learning: In the tech world, things change rapidly. Stay curious, keep learning, and never be afraid to teach yourself new skills. Ma’s self-taught knowledge of the internet and e-commerce was foundational to Alibaba’s success.
Be Resilient: There will be setbacks – whether personal or professional. How you respond to these challenges will define your success. Ma’s ability to persevere through rejections and business failures was crucial in building Alibaba.
Solve Real Problems: The most successful tech products are those that address real-world pain points. Understand the needs of your target audience and create solutions that genuinely improve their lives. Alibaba’s focus on connecting Chinese businesses with global markets addressed a significant gap in the e-commerce landscape.
Build a Strong Team: Surround yourself with talented and dedicated individuals who share your vision. Ma’s ability to attract and retain top talent was instrumental in Alibaba’s growth and innovation.
Give Back: Success is not just about personal achievement. It’s about lifting others up and helping to create opportunities for those who come after you. Through his foundation, Ma is actively contributing to education and entrepreneurship initiatives.
Conclusion
Jack Ma’s story is one of grit, determination, and a passion for technology. Against all odds, Ma has carved out a place in the tech world, proving that with the right mindset and a willingness to persevere, anything is possible. For those who dream of making their mark in tech, Ma serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when passion meets perseverance.
Through innovation and leadership, Jack Ma continues to inspire and pave the way for the next generation of tech entrepreneurs. His journey underscores the importance of resilience, continuous learning, and a commitment to solving real-world problems, offering invaluable lessons for anyone aspiring to succeed in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
with one bold decision, Steve Jobs turned the tide, surprising rivals like Microsoft and IBM, and ultimately propelling Apple to an unprecedented 9,000% stock growth over the next 14 years.In the late 90s, Apple was struggling. The company had lost its innovative edge, and its stock was plummeting. Enter Steve Jobs, who had just returned to the company after being ousted years earlier.
His first major move? Partnering with Apple’s biggest competitor, Microsoft. This controversial decision involved Microsoft investing $150 million in Apple and agreeing to develop software for the Mac. It shocked the industry but gave Apple the lifeline it needed.
Jobs then streamlined Apple’s product line, cutting down on less profitable products and focusing on innovation. This led to the creation of the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and iPad—products that redefined technology and culture.
The result? Apple became one of the most valuable companies in the world, with its stock soaring by 9,000% over the next 14 years.
Jobs’ decision to partner with a rival wasn’t just about survival—it was about setting the stage for a revolution in the tech world.
එක් නිර්භීත තීරණයක් ඇපල් බංකොලොත් භාවයෙන් බේරාගත් ආකාරය –Steve Jobs
In the competitive world of smartphones, Apple and Samsung have emerged as the two dominant players, each with a distinct approach to both marketing and business strategy. While both companies aim to capture market share and foster brand loyalty, their methods reflect their unique corporate philosophies and consumer bases. This article delves into the marketing and business strategies that have propelled Apple vs Samsung to the forefront of the global tech industry.
01.Apple’s Marketing & business strategy
Apple’s marketing strategy is centered around the idea of premium branding. The company positions its products as high-end, luxury items, emphasizing quality, innovation, and design. Apple’s advertising often focuses on the aesthetic appeal and user experience of its products, creating a perception of exclusivity and desirability.
– Emotional Appeal and Lifestyle Marketing
Apple has mastered the art of lifestyle marketing. Its campaigns often connect emotionally with consumers by highlighting how Apple products integrate seamlessly into their lives, enhancing creativity, productivity, and social connectivity. The iconic “Think Different” campaign is a prime example of how Apple aligns its brand with innovation and individualism.
– Simplicity and Consistency in Messaging
Apple’s marketing messages are simple, clear, and consistent. Whether through sleek advertising, minimalist packaging, or straightforward product names, Apple ensures that its communication is easily understood by all. This simplicity reinforces its brand identity and makes its products more accessible to a global audience.
– Strong Focus on Brand Loyalty
Apple has cultivated a loyal customer base by consistently delivering high-quality products and a seamless ecosystem. This loyalty is reinforced through strategic product launches, where existing customers are encouraged to upgrade to the latest model. Apple’s loyalty programs and customer service further solidify this bond, making it one of the most valuable brands globally.
02.Samsung’s Marketing Strategy
– Diversification and Economies of Scale
Samsung’s business strategy is based on diversification. The company operates in various industries, including electronics, semiconductors, and home appliances. This diversification reduces risk and allows Samsung to achieve economies of scale, lowering production costs and enabling competitive pricing.
– Rapid Innovation and Time-to-Market Advantage
Samsung’s business model emphasizes rapid innovation and a fast time-to-market. The company frequently releases new products, often being the first to market with new technologies. This strategy allows Samsung to stay ahead of competitors and appeal to early adopters eager for the latest advancements.
– Strategic Partnerships and Alliances
Samsung frequently enters into strategic partnerships and alliances to enhance its business operations. These collaborations range from technology licensing to joint ventures in research and development. Such partnerships help Samsung access new markets, technologies, and customer segments, bolstering its competitive edge. Apple vs Samsung
– Global Manufacturing and Supply Chain Efficiency
Samsung has a vast global manufacturing network that ensures supply chain efficiency. The company’s ability to produce components in-house, such as memory chips and displays, gives it a significant cost advantage. This efficiency allows Samsung to compete aggressively on price while maintaining profitability.
Apple vs Samsung have both carved out dominant positions in the global smartphone market through distinct marketing and business strategies. Apple’s focus on premium branding, simplicity, and vertical integration contrasts with Samsung’s emphasis on market segmentation, rapid innovation, and diversification. Despite their different approaches, both companies have successfully built loyal customer bases and continue to lead the industry. The ongoing rivalry between Apple vs Samsung serves as a testament to their respective strengths and the dynamic nature of the technology sector.
In 1963, Sri Lanka witnessed a groundbreaking moment in its industrial history. On the 4th of April, a remarkable innovation was introduced to the island nation: the first Sisil refrigerator. This milestone was not just a triumph of technology but a testament to the vision and engineering brilliance of a Sri Lankan named Jerry Wijesinghe.
A Vision Born from Experience
JW’s journey towards creating the Sisil refrigerator began far from the shores of Sri Lanka. Employed by General Electric (GE) in England, Jerry gained invaluable experience and insight into the manufacturing processes that produced high-quality refrigerators in Europe. His time at GE ignited a vision within him—he wanted to provide the people of Sri Lanka with a product that matched the standards of any refrigerator made in the West. This was a bold ambition for a young engineer returning home from abroad
The Birth of Sisil -Jerry Wijesinghe
Upon his return to Sri Lanka, Jerry set to work on realizing his dream. With determination and a deep understanding of engineering, he began the process of manufacturing his own refrigerator. However, dreams of this magnitude often require the support of others. Enter Sir Cyril de Zoysa, a man who not only believed in Jerry’s vision but was also willing to invest in it. With Sir Cyril’s financial backing, the first Sisil refrigerator was born—a locally manufactured product that stood as a symbol of Sri Lankan ingenuity and self-reliance.
The brand name “Sisil” itself carries a personal touch; it was the brainchild of Jerry’s wife, Doreen Wijesinghe. Under this name, the refrigerator quickly became a household essential, offering Sri Lankans the luxury of preserving their food and drink with a high-functioning cooling device. Sisil became the first and only brand of refrigerator in Sri Lanka, dominating the market as the best-selling refrigerator in the country until the late 1990s.
Beyond Refrigeration: The Metalix Engineering Company
JW talents extended far beyond refrigeration. He was a man of many innovations, a fact evidenced by his founding of the Metalix Engineering Company. Starting from scratch, Metalix became a powerhouse in manufacturing, producing a variety of products including instrument boxes for schools, electrical kettles, domestic equipment, and office furniture.
However, the company’s contributions didn’t stop there. Metalix Engineering went on to become the leading manufacturer of bridges in Sri Lanka, further showcasing Jerry’s diverse engineering capabilities. They also pioneered the introduction of MSC BS for power installations in Sri Lanka and grew to be the largest producer of electrical distribution panels in the country.
A Legacy That Endures
JW passed away in 2007 at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. His contributions to Sri Lanka’s industrial landscape are immense, yet many in the younger generation are unaware of the man whose experiment laid the foundation for an entire industry.
The story of JW is not just about a refrigerator; it’s about vision, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. His work, whether in refrigeration or electrical engineering, stands as a testament to what one individual can achieve with determination and support. Today, as we look back on his achievements, we are reminded that the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship is not bound by geography—it is the result of vision, hard work, and a commitment to making the world a better place.
JW may no longer be with us, but his legacy lives on, both in the Sisil refrigerators that were once a staple in Sri Lankan homes and in the enduring success of the Metalix Engineering Company. His life is a reminder of the power of engineering, innovation, and the impact one Sri Lankan man can have on an entire industry.
Starting a Small Business in Sri Lanka: Legal Considerations
Starting a small business in Sri Lanka can be an exciting and rewarding venture. However, navigating the legal landscape is crucial to ensure your business operates smoothly and within the law. Here are the key legal considerations you need to address when launching your business in Sri Lanka.
1. Business Registration
Choose a Business Structure: The first step is to decide on the legal structure of your business. Common structures include sole proprietorship, partnership, and private limited company. Each structure has its own legal and tax implications, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
Register the Business Name: Ensure your business name is unique and not already in use. You can check the availability and register the name with the Registrar of Companies.
Obtain a Business Registration Certificate: This certificate is mandatory for all businesses in Sri Lanka. You can obtain it from the Divisional Secretariat office relevant to your business location.
2. Tax Registration
Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN): Register with the Inland Revenue Department to obtain a TIN for tax purposes. This is necessary for filing taxes and other legal financial obligations.
Register for VAT: If your annual turnover exceeds the VAT threshold, you must register for Value Added Tax (VAT). This registration is also done through the Inland Revenue Department.
3. Licenses and Permits
Industry-Specific Licenses: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need specific licenses. For example, food and beverage businesses require health and safety permits, while retail businesses may need trade licenses.
Environmental Permits: If your business operations impact the environment, you may need to obtain environmental clearances from the relevant authorities.
4. Labor Laws and Employment
Comply with Labor Regulations: Adhere to the Shop and Office Employees Act, Wages Boards Ordinance, and other labor laws. These regulations cover employee rights, working hours, wages, and conditions of employment.
Employment Contracts: Draft employment contracts that comply with legal requirements, clearly outlining the terms and conditions of employment.
Employee Provident Fund (EPF) and Employee Trust Fund (ETF): Register for and contribute to EPF and ETF for your employees. These are mandatory social security schemes in Sri Lanka.
5. Intellectual Property Protection
Register Trademarks: Protect your brand by registering trademarks with the National Intellectual Property Office of Sri Lanka. This prevents others from using your brand name or logo.
Patents and Copyrights: If applicable, protect your inventions and creative works by registering patents and copyrights.
6. Health and Safety Regulations
Ensure Workplace Safety: Comply with occupational health and safety regulations to create a safe working environment for your employees.
7. Business Bank Account
Open a Business Bank Account: Separate your personal and business finances by opening a dedicated business bank account. This helps in maintaining clear financial records and managing business expenses efficiently.
8. Annual Compliance and Reporting
File Annual Returns: Submit annual returns and financial statements to the Registrar of Companies as required by law. This ensures your business remains in good standing.
Tax Filings: Ensure timely filing of income tax returns, VAT returns, and other tax-related documents to avoid penalties.
9. Data Protection and Privacy
Comply with Data Protection Laws: If your business handles customer data, ensure compliance with relevant data protection and privacy regulations to safeguard customer information.
10. Seek Professional Advice
Legal and Financial Advisors: Consult with legal and financial advisors to ensure full compliance with all legal requirements. Professional guidance can help you navigate complex legal issues and avoid potential Starting a small business in Sri Lanka requires careful planning and adherence to legal requirements. By addressing these key legal considerations, you can establish a strong foundation for your business and set it on the path to success.
The life of Jan Koum from an immigrant to a tech billionaire is full of opportunities for everyone. Koum was born on February 24, 1976, in Kyiv, Ukraine where he was brought up in poor background. His journey proves the fact that one must work hard, strive hard for success as well as never stop inventing. (success story)
Early Life and Immigration
Koum was born and raised in a village a day’s drive from Kyiv in the midst of the Soviet age. His family had a lot of troubles, the material one and the political one as well. In late 1992, at the age of 16, Koum, and his mother moved to the United States in pursuit for a better life. They moved to Mountain View, California where they resided in a two bedroom apartment. In an effort to feed the family Koum’s mother got a job babysitting while Koum himself had to do cleaning services at a grocery store.
Education and Early Career
However, Koum was not one to be dissuaded and he set his goal to achieve success. Taking classes at San Jose State University at the same time, he had a job at Ernst & Young as a security tester. This is the time he discovered his passion in computers specifically in computer programming and network security. The knowledge and experience in these fields made him get a job a Yahoo in 1997 and there he met Brian Acton, with whom he founded WhatsApp -Success Story
He Birth of WhatsApp
Feel exhausted, Koum and Acton resign from the Yahoo in 2007 and they desire change their new challenges. It was in 2009 that Koum made a purchase of the iPhone through which he studied the possibility of the app market. This realization made the necessity of developing a new and easy, but ambitious messaging application, which is called WhatsApp, to allow people to send them messages without any cost of the SMS. -Success Story
Koum’s vision for WhatsApp was clear: to deliver a perfect messaging system that would enable interaction at a very faster, more secure and reliable way. He concentrated on construction of a product that was centered on the user and their privacy. The app was soon popularised and by 2014; the app had accumulated more than 600 million users globally.
Facebook Acquisition
WhatsApp’s success caught the attention of Facebook, and in February 2014, Facebook acquired WhatsApp for a staggering $19 billion. This deal marked one of the largest acquisitions in tech history and solidified Koum’s status as a tech mogul. Despite the acquisition, Koum remained committed to WhatsApp’s principles of user privacy and minimalism. -Success Story
Philanthropy and Personal Life
After the acquisition, Koum continued to lead WhatsApp until he resigned in 2018, citing differences with Facebook over data privacy issues. Since then, he has focused on philanthropy, donating millions to various causes, including education and healthcare.
Koum’s personal life remains relatively private. He is known for his love of sports cars and his philanthropic efforts. His journey from a small village in Ukraine to becoming one of the most influential figures in tech is a powerful reminder that with determination and innovation, anything is possible.p-Success Story
Legacy
Jan Koum’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and commitment to principles. His creation, WhatsApp, has changed the way people communicate globally, making messaging more accessible and secure. Koum’s legacy in the tech world continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators around the globe.
In conclusion, Jan Koum’s success story is a testament to the power of hard work and vision. From his challenging beginnings in Ukraine to creating one of the world’s most popular messaging apps, Koum has left an indelible mark on the tech industry. His journey is a beacon of hope and inspiration for anyone striving to make a difference in the world. -Success Story
We are happy to begin day one of How to Start Your Business in 30 Days Challenge. This involves strengthening your entrepreneurial power by concentrating on necessary researches and market analysis.
Key Highlights for the Day:
🔍 Research Insights: Unearth opportunities by closely examining the market trends and customer’s needs.
📊 Market Analysis: Understand competition and unique selling point identification.
🌱 Innovation Opportunities: Discover gaps within markets and think up new solutions.
Next Steps towards Success:
🌟 Define Your Vision: Determine what you want in business and how you will get it.
📈 Set SMART Objectives: Establish measurable goals that go beyond the next month.
🔍 Research Deep Dive: Collect data to prove your business model or assumptions about the market.
Tip of the Day: “To win try to understand your market.” Use today to research, analyze, and innovate.”
Walk with us from Zero to Hero! Use #ZeroToHeroChallenge to share your progress and learnings. Let’s empower the entrepreneur in you as we convert your dreams into a reality. 💪✨
Caucasian businessman walking up stair and calling manager by using smart phone. Top view of manager talking marketing team and planning financial strategy by telephone while going up stair. Urbane.
