#Payment for Ecosystem Services

[farmerstrend]

Putting a price on soils: can farmers benefit?

Healthy soils do much more than produce food. They perform a multitude of vital functions, like filtering water, supporting biodiversity, and even protecting the planet from climate change. Just as the environmental costs of intensive farming never factor into the price of food, farmers who build soil health are rarely compensated for the ecosystem services they provide. As a result of these…

[bitnestloop]

BitNest

BitNest: The Leader of the Digital Finance Revolution

BitNest is a leading platform dedicated to driving digital financial innovation and ecological development. We provide comprehensive cryptocurrency services, including saving, lending, payment, investment and many other functions, creating a rich financial experience for users.

Our story began in 2022 with the birth of the BitNest team, which has since opened a whole new chapter in digital finance. Through relentless effort and innovation, the BitNest ecosystem has grown rapidly to become one of the leaders in digital finance.

The core functions of BitNest ecosystem include:

Savings Service: Users can deposit funds into BitNest's savings system through smart contracts to obtain stable returns. We are committed to providing users with a safe and efficient savings solution to help you achieve your financial goals. Lending Platform: BitNest lending platform provides users with convenient borrowing services, users can use cryptocurrencies as collateral to obtain loans for stablecoins or other digital assets. Our lending system is safe and reliable, providing users with flexible financial support. Payment Solution: BitNest payment platform supports users to make secure and fast payment transactions worldwide. We are committed to creating a borderless payment network that allows users to make cross-border payments and remittances anytime, anywhere. Investment Opportunities: BitNest provides diversified investment opportunities that allow users to participate in trading and investing in various digital assets and gain lucrative returns. Our investment platform is safe and transparent, providing users with high-quality investment channels. Through continuous innovation and efforts, BitNest has become a leader in digital finance and is widely recognised and trusted globally. We will continue to be committed to promoting the development of digital finance, providing users with more secure and efficient financial services, and jointly creating a better future for digital finance.

[paybyfaceireland]

Revolutionizing Payments in Europe with PAYBYFACE® Biometric Payment & Loyalty Platform.

PayByFace Offers a Unique Bio Metric Payment System, PayByFace takes Customer Loyalty to the next level. PayByFace Makes Digital Advertising Simple and effordable for Small and Large Businesses.

PayByFace continues to add to its suite of value added services included in their Ecosystem.

PayByFace, a innovative Amsterdam-based fintech start-up, announces several country based agreements and subsidiary expansions across several major European markets, including the Netherlands, UK, Ireland, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Romania, and Bulgaria.

This is a significant milestone for PayByFace and its journey to both enable and scale biometric facial recognition technology adoption and in our commitment to simplify the future of check-out interactions while remaining fully GDPR compliant with the EU regulation.

PayByFace the future of payments is poised to transform the way European consumers interact with retailers at the check-out, offering unparalleled convenience, loyalty value focus, and enhanced security in the digital era.

For more information reach out to us here at PayByFace Ireland

www.paybyface.ie

#FaceRecognition #PayByFace #Biometricpayment #Futureofpayments #FacialRecognitionPayments #Securecontactlesspayments

[otiskeene]

Shift4 Partners With Give Lively To Offer Powerful Fundraising Solution To Nonprofits

Shift4 (NYSE: FOUR) is a prominent player in the payments and commerce technology industry, committed to revolutionizing the way businesses handle transactions worldwide. They have recently announced a groundbreaking partnership with Give Lively, an innovative nonprofit fundraising platform, at the Global Citizen Festival. This collaboration holds great promise for nonprofit organizations in the United States, aiming to alleviate the burdensome and costly challenges associated with fundraising platforms.

Give Lively is renowned for its mission to create robust and user-friendly fundraising solutions that are not only free for nonprofits but also intuitive for donors. The newly announced partnership will see Shift4 become a payment processor for Give Lively, offering some of the industry's most competitive transaction fees while ensuring a secure and reliable transaction experience. This integration is set to launch in 2024 and will introduce additional donation processing capabilities, including the acceptance of stocks and leading cryptocurrencies, facilitated by The Giving Block, a subsidiary of Shift4.

David DeParolesa, the CEO of Give Lively, expressed the organization's commitment to making the nonprofit sector more efficient and donor-friendly. He emphasized that nonprofits should not have to compromise their resources to fulfill their missions and that the act of giving should be seamless and joyful for donors.

Read More - https://bit.ly/3PNcXxf

[sexymemecoin]

The Expansive World of Altcoins: Exploring the Diversity Beyond Bitcoin

Bitcoin, the original cryptocurrency, has long dominated headlines and market discussions. However, the world of digital currencies is vast and diverse, with thousands of alternative coins, or altcoins, each offering unique features and value propositions. Altcoins encompass a broad range of projects, from utility tokens and stablecoins to meme coins and more. This article delves into the rich ecosystem of altcoins, highlighting their significance, various types, and the innovative projects that make up this vibrant space, including a mention of Sexy Meme Coin.

Understanding Altcoins

The term "altcoin" refers to any cryptocurrency that is not Bitcoin. These coins were developed to address various limitations of Bitcoin or to introduce new features and use cases. Altcoins have proliferated since the creation of Bitcoin in 2009, each aiming to offer something different, whether it be improved transaction speeds, enhanced privacy features, or specific utility within certain ecosystems.

Categories of Altcoins

Utility Tokens: Utility tokens provide users with access to a specific product or service within a blockchain ecosystem. Examples include Ethereum's Ether (ETH), which is used to power applications on the Ethereum network, and Chainlink's LINK, which is used to pay for services on the Chainlink decentralized oracle network.

Stablecoins: Stablecoins are designed to maintain a stable value by being pegged to a reserve of assets, such as fiat currency or commodities. Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC) are popular stablecoins pegged to the US dollar, offering the benefits of cryptocurrency without the volatility.

Security Tokens: Security tokens represent ownership in a real-world asset, such as shares in a company or real estate. They are subject to regulatory oversight and are often seen as a bridge between traditional finance and the blockchain world.

Meme Coins: Meme coins are a playful and often humorous take on cryptocurrency, inspired by internet memes and cultural trends. While they may start as jokes, some have gained significant value and community support. Dogecoin is the most famous example, but many others, like Shiba Inu and Sexy Meme Coin, have also captured the public's imagination.

Privacy Coins: Privacy coins focus on providing enhanced privacy features for transactions. Monero (XMR) and Zcash (ZEC) are notable examples, offering users the ability to transact anonymously and protect their financial privacy.

The Appeal of Altcoins

Altcoins offer several advantages over Bitcoin, including:

Innovation: Many altcoins introduce new technologies and features, driving innovation within the cryptocurrency space. For example, Ethereum introduced smart contracts, enabling decentralized applications (DApps) and decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms.

Specialization: Altcoins often serve specific niches or industries, providing targeted solutions that Bitcoin cannot. For instance, Ripple (XRP) focuses on facilitating cross-border payments, while Filecoin (FIL) aims to create a decentralized storage network.

Investment Opportunities: The diverse range of altcoins presents numerous investment opportunities. Investors can diversify their portfolios by investing in projects with different use cases and growth potentials.

Notable Altcoins in the Market

Ethereum (ETH): Ethereum is the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization and has become the backbone of the DeFi and NFT (Non-Fungible Token) ecosystems. Its smart contract functionality allows developers to create decentralized applications, leading to a thriving ecosystem of financial services, games, and more.

Cardano (ADA): Cardano is a blockchain platform focused on sustainability, scalability, and transparency. It uses a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, which is more energy-efficient than Bitcoin's proof-of-work. Cardano aims to provide a more secure and scalable infrastructure for the development of decentralized applications.

Polkadot (DOT): Polkadot is designed to enable different blockchains to interoperate and share information. Its unique architecture allows for the creation of "parachains," which can operate independently while still benefiting from the security and connectivity of the Polkadot network.

Chainlink (LINK): Chainlink is a decentralized oracle network that provides real-world data to smart contracts on the blockchain. This functionality is crucial for the operation of many DeFi applications, making Chainlink a vital component of the blockchain ecosystem.

Sexy Meme Coin: Among the meme coins, Sexy Meme Coin stands out for its combination of humor and innovative tokenomics. It offers a decentralized marketplace where users can buy, sell, and trade memes as NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), rewarding creators for their originality. Learn more about Sexy Meme Coin at Sexy Meme Coin.

The Future of Altcoins

The future of altcoins looks promising, with continuous innovation and increasing adoption across various industries. As blockchain technology evolves, we can expect altcoins to introduce new solutions and disrupt traditional systems. However, the market is also highly competitive, and not all projects will succeed. Investors should conduct thorough research and due diligence before investing in any altcoin.

Conclusion

Altcoins represent a dynamic and diverse segment of the cryptocurrency market. From utility tokens and stablecoins to meme coins and privacy coins, each category offers unique features and potential benefits. Projects like Ethereum, Cardano, Polkadot, and Chainlink are leading the way in innovation, while niche coins like Sexy Meme Coin add a layer of cultural relevance and community engagement. As the cryptocurrency ecosystem continues to grow, altcoins will play a crucial role in shaping the future of digital finance and blockchain technology.

For those interested in the playful and innovative side of the altcoin market, Sexy Meme Coin offers a unique and entertaining platform. Visit Sexy Meme Coin to explore this exciting project and join the community.

[couchpotatoaniki]

An Annoying Kind of Pretty

Pairing: College Rival!Jungkook x College!Reader (British college, so basically senior year in highschool--they're 18) Word count: 4k+ Tags: mega fluff, light swearing, mentions of very mild violence (banter...maybe), mentions of clowns, reader is terrified of them, honestly, just cute shit, and they're being idiots A/N: I'm in the middle of reading Highly Suspicious and Unfairly Cute by Talia Hibbert and this just sprung to mind soooooooo yeah

No matter how much you scrub, you can't get this darn plate clean. At this point, you're ready to smash it to pieces so you don't have to spend another second on it. But, alas, this is not your dish and therefore dish-smashing rights are revoked. A true travesty, considering how ugly the damn thing looks anyway. Society would be better off without it.

But you scrub, scrub, scr--"Are you done?" A deep voice rumbles behind you. Involuntarily, your eyes close to hide the annoyance flickering through them, lest he somehow sees through the obscured reflection of the kitchen window. This time you've spent together has taught you he's almost decent at guessing body language (almost--he's still otherwise a useless male).

Gosh, if only you could destroy the plate and take a shard to one of his annoyingly pretty brown eyes. Honestly, the fact that a man like him has such wonderful features is what you'd consider to be a crime that nature has committed.

"What does it look like?" Yeah, maybe you should relax your jaw before your teeth grind to dust. Your dentist would have a heartattack if she saw the stress they've put them under lately (she likes to talk about them like they're some separate entity, a bit odd but she's sweet and likes to rant about her cats so you can happily bare it).

"Looks like you're slacking off."

Excuse me? "Maybe I'd be more efficient if you didn't leave your dishes to grow a mini ecosystem in your kitchen. You're likely worshiped as a god by bacteria since you created them their own little world."

He rolls his eyes. This you can't see through the haze of his reflection on the slightly filthy window but you've somehow grown accustomed to his mannerisms. Like a shitty superpower.

"Don't be so dra--"

"If you dare say 'dramatic', the next thing I'll be cleaning are your insides off the floor and countertops."

His reflection raises a hand in mock surrender. "Touché. But for your information, I don't live here."

This makes you turn around, pinning him with a glare. "If you don't live here, which ogre or troll does?"

"My brother. But he's been... ah, what's the word--" he waves his hand in a circular motion with his eyes closed, only to open again at the snap of his fingers--"backpacking across mainland Europe for past three months."

A huff leaves your nose as you return to the gruelling task at hand. You're going to need a shower after this, maybe two, just to make sure you don't catch the Black Plague or some other disease that would trigger another pandemic. "Then why am I here?"

"Because you owe me, remember?"

"Yes, you--not your brother that can't even remember to put away his dishes before he goes on stupidly basic holidays."

"'Stupidly basic'?" Jungkook's frame hobbles into the corner of your eye as he mocks you with a smirk. Darn him and his unusually large (and unfortunately well sculpted) build. A disgustingly natural beauty that demands attention, but you'd rather poke your eye repeatedly than admit that to him lest his cocky smirk and big head grow more than it already has.

Yet, you can't help a glance in his direction. Props to you though, your face managed to not betray your soul and remained in it's usual disinterested state.

"If I had a penny for every time I've heard someone backpacking across Europe, I'd be so rich I wouldn't have to pay you back with my services."

"Considering you sprained my wrist and my ankle, I'd request both payment in money and services."

The thought of the Incidents sent and involuntary shudder down your spine. About two weeks ago, you were minding your own business in the library, one thing led to another and long story short, you accidently pushed the usually well-balanced hulking man onto the hardwood floor and his hand landed at a funky angle. Less than 72 hours had passed and various shenanigans ensued involving 12 glue sticks, streamers, a helium tank, and an unwanted clown roaming the gymnasium which led to his second trip to Accident and Emergency.

In all fairness, he shouldn't have even been there helping to set up the farewell assembly for the final years in the first place. His fault, really, but he wouldn't hear of it since you did crash into him as you were running away from a definite (maybe) psycho killer.

"How many times do I have to apologise," you huff.

His finger taps his chin in mock thought. "Preferably forever, seeing as though I am having to limit my activities while it's the summer holidays before we go off to uni. But I suppose having you as my little servant until I get better is decent enough."

You send him another glare before carrying on. Almost spotless, this dish. "This is abuse of power."

He raised his cast as well as a deadpanned expression onto his face. "And this was just regular abuse."

"It was self-defence."

"Against me or the very innocent clown you claimed was 'chasing' you?"

"Both. And he was chasing me. I was terrified."

"Remind me when your birthday is?"

"Why?"

"No particular reason. Certainly not a clown-related one for retaliation. None whatsoever."

Your head turns so quickly to him that it almost gives you whiplash. "You dare."

"We'll just have to see."

Huffing, you finish up the last of the dishes, with Jungkook sat on the countertop beside yours (with a bit of difficulty). Guilt begins to bleed out of your heart and pool into a warmth in your cheeks as you once more mumble an apology to him, the dishes suddenly looking more appealing for your eyes to land on. "I... I really am sorry, though."

He sighs--as he usually does when you once more feel horrible about the state he is in and try to voice it. "Stop that."

For the millionth time, you purse your lips, ready to let a few beats of silence pass before you could say something to return it back to that annoyingly fun hateful banter than the heavy and suffocating air that follows an apology. Jungkook, however, did not care for your mental plans (you don't really think he cares about much of anything besides his grades, friends, and snacks like a typical man).

"Can I... admit something to you? So, like, Truce?"

"...Truce." You reach out for a cloth to wipe anything left on the countertop, but ears keenly remained on him.

"I'm kinda... glad you fucked up my arm." You send him an incredulous look, to which he blurts in response, "don't get me wrong, it hurts like shit and I'm no masochist, but having you here doing my bidding--" his lips quirked at the sight of you murderous glare, "--and keeping me company is... nice."

"...'Nice'." The word feels funny to your ears as you hear it, and even funnier when you speak it.

"Yes, nice." His feet swing a little, his head hanging a little sheepishly. "My friends are cool and all, but you're, like, really fun to piss off." Okay, you might actually end up killing him. "And we don't really hang out all that often during the holidays. Plus, you've got a different vibe to you that I think is... nice--" There's that fucking word again, how on earth did he get higher marks than you in English? "--and my parents work a lot regardless so having you as company is, I suppose, ni--"

"Get a grip, dude." Your eyes roll by themselves. "You're rambling."

His lips pout and his cheeks puff to make a ridiculous (yet adorable) face of a child being lightly scolded for no reason. "You said Truce."

"I'm hearing you out, aren't I?"

"Yeah, but you're still being mean."

"Boo-hoo." He look up at you and his narrowed eyes make you retract your statement. "I mean, sorry. Carry on."

"That's it."

"What's 'it'?"

"The thing I wanted to tell you."

"What thing?"

"You know...the thing."

"You spewed a lot of crap in that short frame of time, I truly have no idea what you're talking about."

Jungkook's eyes narrowed once more, this time in suspicion. "You know exactly what I mean."

"No I don't." It's pitiful to say that your face is losing the battle to keep your smile away, which ultimately makes him gasp and point accusingly towards you.

"Yes, you do, you egg."

"Going for the Shakespearean insults? Wow, I must've really ticked you off," you laugh.

Lucky for you, the nearest thing to him was an almost-finished kitchen roll, otherwise he would've landed you in A&E too from his well-aimed throw to your forearm.

"I'm trying to be sincere." His voice is at that whiney pitch he uses when he's frustrated but not enough to care about it. He tends to only use it around his friends, but the more hellish (a potential exaggeration) time you spend with each other, the easier it slips out of him.

"Stop saying 'nice' like someone's pulling it out of your arse and not in a fun way."

"Well, what else am I supposed to say?! That I think your wonderful and funny and interesting and I like it when we spend time together!"

You try not to let the admission show up in your expression, not when it's making your heart race a mile a minute. "I mean, yeah. Don't stop on my account, keep telling me how you think I'm the most amazing person on the planet and you worship the ground I walk on, please."

He rolls his eyes and smiles in that adorable shy why which tells you that he knows exactly what you're trying to do and appreciates the way you relieve the tension. "Jesus, even when you take the piss out of me you still say 'please' in a way that makes me want to..." he trails off, then sighs. "Nevermind, ignore me."

Oh no, you're not going to let it go that easily. "Hard to do when your pig-headed ego takes up half the room." You take your gloves off--making a mental note to burn them in the incinerator for all they've had to deal with today (it's a mercy, really)--and turn towards him to give your full undivided attention. As if that would make it any easier for him to speak. "Go on, please."

He rolls his eyes again, trying even harder to hide his smile but it's fails just as easily. "Stop it."

"Stop what? Could you tell me, please?" Your head cocks to the side and your eyes challenge him in a teasing sort of way.

"God fucking damnit, Y/N. I don't know how I'm going to survive uni with you," he laughs, but the way he looks back at you feels a little too fond.

It takes a second to process what he just said. "Um, what?"

"What?"

"You said... wait, are we going to the same uni?!"

"Um, yeah? We got into the same uni."

Shock takes ever your expression for a moment. "You remember which uni I applied to?"

He looks at you incredulously. "Yeah, of course I remember. And don't be so damn humble about your exam results, I know for a fact we're both getting in."

You take a second to find a response in your head, which seems momentarily empty except for that one phrase 'of course I remember.' "Well, that's beside the point." Jungkook raises a brow at you, not buying it but willing to shelf the matter for now. "What did you mean by all that earlier?"

He looks down, fiddling with the hem of his shirt. "I have no idea what you mean."

"No no, you can't get out of it that easily."

"I think I can."

You take a few steps to his side and try to perch yourself up on the side of the counter next to him. He doesn't say anything as he helps you up with his good hand wrapped around your waist--and neither do you in case the combustion of heat in your body will expel flames out of your mouth the second you open it, right for your rival to see. "You're infuriating, you know that right?"

"Really? Haven't heard you say it before."

"Shut up," you chuckle, lightly shoving his shoulder with your own.

"Never. I know how much you love my snark, even if you don't admit it," he grins in return, looking at you in a way that makes your insides turn and twist. God you didn't think you could hate his stupid face even more than you do now (or something like that).

Then there comes a moment where everything went still. You think it's slightly unfair that this boy is able to bend people to his will with his looks and charm, and now apparently he can bend time too. Okay, maybe in this instance it doesn't feel as bad because you strangely don't mind having time suspended when he's there with you.

Those brown eyes flicker down to your lips so quickly you wouldn't have caught it had you not been intently gazing at him too. Rushes of heat fill every inch of your body, and to be honest, you don't know how to respond to it.

Times like these are few between you two, mostly because most of your interactions happen where there's a number of people around. But when it's just the two of you...

It feels slightly dangerous, but in a warm, comforting way that's so addictive you get a little scared of how much you don't want it to end. And also how his lips don't look as repulsive to press your own again as much as they usually do.

Damn him and his witchery.

"Anything else you want me to do?"

He raises a brow. "I want you to do a lot of things, you're gonna have to be more specific."

It was your turn to roll your eyes. "I mean, any cleaning up you needed me to do for your unhygienic brother?"

"Ah... no. The dishes were the main thing."

"Okay..." Silence stretches around the two of you until you find enough boldness within you to break it. "What were the other things?"

"What other things?"

"That you wanted me to do."

"Uh, I think you might fracture my balls too if I said them."

"Coward."

The corner of his lips curve. "There's a fine line between bravery and stupidity."

"Wow, I didn't think you knew it existed since you tend to cross it a lot."

"Har har," he deadpans, making you smile.

Your hands run over your thighs, a nervous tick you have that you have no doubt he's clocked onto by the way his good hand reaches out to squeeze one of them gently. Your hand, that is, though a corner of your traitorous mind that's steadily becoming louder over the past couple of weeks the longer you spend time with him thinks that maybe it wouldn't be so bad if it was your thigh instead. It's certainly big enough and you've seen the way he handles modelling clay for his art homework. There's no doubt he'd be able to relieve the tension of the muscles there. Or anywhere else--ah, no. Nope. Absolutely not.

"Sometimes I kinda kick myself for doing this deal with you." At your quizzical look, he clears his throat. "Makes it harder to ignore you when you're right with me for a good chunk of the day."

"You couldn't ignore me even if you tried."

He snorts. "Tired and proven."

Your brows scrunch, though your heart still beats against your chest. "What, really? You've tried to ignore me? Damn. Here I was hoping it would've worked out."

"Oh, I tried a few years ago, I think? Closer to when we first met. But unfortunately, you're hard to ignore."

Mockingly, you straighten you back and lift your head up. "Given how perfect I am, smarts and looks and all."

His smile is a bit weaker this time. "Yeah... Practically impossible to keep my mind off you."

Silence flows once more for a moment or two and you realise his hands is still wrapped around yours. "You know I tried too...in the beginning. Unfortunately, that didn't last long either."

His brow quicks. "Given how perfect I am, smarts and looks and all?"

"The opposite, actually. You were too dumb and ugly not to. Out of pity, really." From your teasing expression, he knows that he was right.

"Riiiiight, 'pity'. We'll go for that blatant lie if you want to save face."

"I have no idea what you mean."

"I think you do."

"I think I don't."

You don't realise until now how close your faces have gotten, able to feel the soft gentle breaths against your lips from his. It feels so difficult to maintain the distance but even more so to move closer to further.

"When you asked me what I meant by all that... ask me again."

"What?"

"Ask me what I meant by everything I said before."

You've been sensing this coming for a while now, longer than whatever time you've spent together in his brother's now-clean kitchen (thanks to you). Like the sky is falling, but you can't seem to look away from it.

"What did you mean?"

Jungkook's tongue peeks out to run along his bottom lip. "I meant that I... I think you're amazing, potentially out of my league--"

"--definitely out of your league--" Definitely what you would consider a lie because look at him and his social skills and his grades and passion and whatnot.

"--and so damn sweet and kind."

"Did you not just hear me call myself out of your league? Or pay attention to most of our conversations in general."

He sends a questioning look to you, as if he can see through your bullshit. "I think we both know you don't think that--for some stupid reason, because you actually are out of my league."

"Don't be humble, it doesn't suit you."

"I'm not. Just truthful. And the truth is, I find it hard to be around you and not fall for you. I see the person you are when you let your guard down with people you care about and how annoyingly well you follow that moral compass of yours even if you use fancy mean words to distract everyone else."

You snort. "If only you heard my thoughts about you while I was doing the dishes. Maiming was not off the list."

He tried to bite back a laugh. "Given the condition of those dishes, I would give you a free pass for homicide."

"Good thing your teen boy-genes haven't totally overtaken your common sense of hygiene."

"I think we can both agree we're growing out of the 'teen' bit of our lives."

"Nope," you deny quickly, waving your hand out as if to undo what he just said. "I'd like to stick my head in the sand and forget about how quickly life is moving into adulthood until it hits me like a train--"

"--or a clown--"

"--thank you very much," you end tightly, sending him a light-hearted glare.

"As I was saying," he continues, amusement lighting up his face, "it's hard not to want to kiss you at times."

"Even when I'm mouthing off to you?"

"Especially when you're mouthing off."

Even though you were expecting it, it takes a minute to process. "Oh."

"Yes, 'ohhhhh'," he mocks, nudging you with a teasing smirk.

"That must've been annoying in class then."

"Very," he nods solemnly. "There were times I wanted to throw caution to the wind and traumatise everyone."

"From the shit some of my friends say, I don't think people would be that shocked if you'd kiss me."

"Huh, maybe you're not as airheaded as you make yourself out to be."

"Rude," you mumble. "I pay attention. I just tend to...second guess."

"I think my feelings for you were a bit obvious. I mean, I think I could've survived without having you be at my beck and call this summer but I said yes anyway."

"Manipulative bastard."

"Anything for you," he sends a cheesy grin your way, making you laugh at the sudden and very inconvenient butterflies fluttering about in your stomach.

"'Anything'?"

"Okay, from that tone, I can tell you're imagining something horrifying so let me change that to 'anything within reason'."

"Coward."

"You are slightly terrifying."

"Why, thank you," you smile, and he smiles too with that buttery warm look of fondness again before he leans in slowly, giving you enough time to move away. But when you don't, he pressed his lips against yours and fucking hell it's the softest thing you've ever felt.

You don't know how long it takes for the kiss to break but even breathless you still miss the warm softness against your mouth. And apparently he felt the same because it takes very little time for him to capture your lips again, untangling his hand from yours to cup the side of your jaw, keeping you in place--not like it was possible for you to leave his addictive taste anyway, it might take dark magic for that to happen.

Maybe something even more potent, when his tongue slips its way past your lips and you find that he's stolen every single thought that occupied your mind. Again, time slips away until you're lungs are burning from the lack of air and you both pull away--though not too far from one another.

"So," he says breathless.

"So," you repeat in the same manner, mind still a little fuzzy.

"That was... something."

"Good something or bad something?"

"I don't think 'good' is a strong enough word I want to use." You hum in agreement, and reluctantly pull a little further away, his hand dropping back down onto yours. He looks at you curiously. "So..."

"So..."

"Would I be too soon if I asked you to take pity on a poor simp like me and be mine?"

"Hmmm," you hum in thought. "Given your performance, I'm inclined to accept."

"I can upgrade you from being my reluctant servant to my reluctant lover." He wiggles his borrows and you groan.

"With a romantic declaration like that, I find it hard not to accept," you deadpan, before sighing and leaning against his shoulder. You want to bottle up that sound up and listen to it until you get sick of it--which you have a sneaking suspicion is about as likely as the sun imploding in your lifetime.

"Would you let me continue to wreak havoc on your life?"

"Naturally."

"Then yes. I accept." He raises a brow expectantly and you clock on to what he's waiting for. "I'm not saying it."

"Say it."

"No."

"Please?"

"I take back my answer."

"No backsies."

"What, are you five years old or something?"

"Just say it! Say you'll be my lover."

"If you manage to make this relationship last for 50 years, then I will."

He huffs, leaning his head on top of yours, fingers linking with yours. "I suppose I can agree with that. I'll keep a note of it in my calendar."

"How unusually organised of you."

"Like I said, I'd do anything for you."

"Within reason, of course."

"Of course. Doesn't need to be logical reason, just reason."

"Good to know. Now, let's get out of your brother's place. I feel all the germs crawling all over me and need an extra hot shower--maybe two--to feel even remotely clean after that ordeal."

He laughs as he pressed a kiss on top of your head. "Yeah, okay, we can do that. Though I hoped you reminded me before I kissed you."

"You just did again after I told you, dumbass."

"In my defence, I did tell you it was hard not to. If I die of some unknown disease, I blame on you." You roll your eyes with a smile as the two of you hop off the counter and make your way out, hands still clasped together.

[beardedmrbean]

A Montana rancher was sentenced to six months in prison on Monday after cloning a "near threatened" sheep from Asia and then selling its offspring to shooting preserves, according to court documents.

Arthur “Jack” Schubarth, 81, will spend six months in federal prison, with a 3-year supervised release and have to pay a $20,000 fine and a $4,000 community service payment for cloning the near-threatened Marco Polo sheep from the Asian country Kyrgyzstan.

Schubarth was sentenced for committing two felonies, conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and substantively violating the Lacey Act, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. The Lacey Act is a law that bans the trafficking of illegally taken wildlife, fish, or plants.

Schubarth and at least five other people conspired to "create a larger hybrid species of sheep that would garner higher prices from shooting preserves" from 2013 to 2021, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

“Schubarth’s criminal conduct is not how Montanans treat our wildlife population,” said U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich for the District of Montana in a statement. “Indeed, his actions threatened Montana’s native wildlife species for no other reason than he and his co-conspirators wanted to make more money."

Rancher illegally bought parts of the sheep

The rancher illegally brought parts of the near-threatened Marco Polo argali sheep, one of the largest sheep species in the world, weighing 300 pounds or more, to the U.S. from the Asian country Kyrgyzstan, court records show.

From 2013 to 2021, Schubarth also sold mountain sheep, mountain goats and various other hoofed animals primarily to captive hunting facilities, according to the Justice Department.

Captive hunting facilities, or shooting preserves, allow "allow trophy hunters to shoot animals who are fenced in," according to the Humane Society of the United States. "The animals are often semi-tame—some have even been hand raised or bottle fed by humans."

"Argali sheep are trophy hunted due to their large size and unique long spiraling horns," according to court documents. "Argali horns are the largest of any wild sheep."

Argali sheep have a market value of over $350 per animal, according to court documents.

A protected species

The sheep are natives to the high elevations of the Pamir region of Central Asia, and "are prohibited in the State of Montana to protect native sheep from disease and hybridization," the Justice Department said.

The sheep are protected around the world by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and domestically by the Endangered Species Act, according to the Department of Justice.

“This case exemplifies the serious threat that wildlife trafficking poses to our native species and ecosystems,” said Assistant Director Edward Grace of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Office of Law Enforcement in a statement. “Mr. Schubarth's actions not only violated multiple laws designed to protect wildlife, but also risked introducing diseases and compromising the genetic integrity of our wild sheep populations.

Schubarth pleaded guilty in March

The rancher admitted to conspiring to violate the Lacey Act and substantively violating the Lacey Act while owning and operating under Sun River Enterprises LLC, according to court documents filed in March in the District of Montana.

The crime has since "ruined his life, reputation and family," said his attorneys.

He committed the crimes at Schubarth Ranch, a 215-acre alternative livestock ranch in Vaughn, Montana, records show.

"On a ranch, in a barn in Montana, he created Montana Mountain King (MMK)," the sentencing memorandum submitted by Schubarth's attorneys stated. "MMK is an extraordinary animal, born of science, and from a man who, if he could re-write history, would have left the challenge of cloning a Marco Polo to only the imagination of Michael Crichton (the author of Jurassic Park)."

How did Schubarth create the giant hybrid sheep?

To create the hybrid sheep, Schubarth sent genetic material from the argali parts to a third-party lab to generate cloned embryos, according to the Justice Department. He paid a $4,200 deposit for the cloning, according to court records.

The rancher and his co-conspirators then used artificial breeding procedures to implant the 165 cloned Marco Polo embryos into female sheep on Schubarth Ranch, court records show.

Schubarth's process would result in a single pure genetic male Marco Polo argali named "Montana Mountain King" or "MMK," the Justice Department said. The rancher then used MMK's semen to artificially impregnate other female sheep that were illegally possessed in Montana to create "hybrid animals," according to federal authorities.

Schubarth's and his co-conspirator's goal was to "create a larger and more valuable species of sheep to sell to captive hunting facilities, primarily in Texas," the Justice Department said.

Schubarth illegally sold sheep across the US, DOJ says

Moving the sheep in and out of Montana meant Schubarth and others had to forge veterinary inspection certificates and lie about how the sheep were legally permitted animals, according to court documents. The rancher would also sell MMK's semen directly to sheep breeders in other U.S. states, the documents continued.

In addition to argali sheep, Schubarth illegally bought genetic material from wild-hunted Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in Montana, court records show. He violated Montana law by purchasing parts of the wild-hunted sheep and selling them. He also sold big horn parts in different states, federal authorities said.

“This was an audacious scheme to create massive hybrid sheep species to be sold and hunted as trophies,” Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the DOJ's Environment and Natural Resources Division said in the release. “In pursuit of this scheme, Schubarth violated international law and the Lacey Act, both of which protect the viability and health of native populations of animals.”

[kirynnvt]

You, tumblr user, have you heard of the commission website VGen?

i am not being paid this is not an official ad i just really think its super cool and more people should check it out maybe and help them build a better online commission ecosystem

It's like fiverrr but with no AI and much less of a risk of getting scammed. They take reports very seriously and all verified artists have been reviewed by a human in their dev team.

You can commission fully custom (or YCH) pieces of art in all different mediums. From music, to writing, and even physical goods! There's also a shop feature coming soon for pre-made items or adoptables! There's also a ton of filters to help you find exactly what you want AND you can always follow an artist to get notified of when they open next.

Every seller gets their own page to customize which hosts not only the services they're selling, but also space for a portfolio, and reviews for past commissions.

Artists even get to review their past clients so that other artists can look out for troublesome buyers :3c

For anyone interested in selling there, it is still in open beta so you'll need an invite code to start selling. More information here: https://vgen.co/for-artists

The biggest plus for artists IMO is the discoverability and notification system. Anyone who follows you can choose to be notified by email whenever you open comms. They also have an entire dashboard where you can keep track of all your comms, services, and even your TOSs (policies).

Like any selling platform, they do have fees though :'( It's a 5% fee on every order you make through them and they have a price breakdown for every sale that tells you how much you'll actually be getting after VGen fees + payment processing (Paypal or Stripe) fees.

They provide a ton of services for us artists and while the fees can hurt, I don't mind them too much. I personally use my VGen as just ONE form of selling, I also make sales through other websites or on my own through word of mouth or through my social medias. There's no expectation that VGen will be your ONLY platform that you sell on :)

I really really love the mission that VGen has of helping human artists thrive and making commission based selling easier and more accessible to prospective clients. They're constantly improving the site and they actively review suggestions through their discord. If you'd like to help them succeed make buy something from an artist on there \o/

oh also bonus, they currently allow spicy artwork as well

[cryptoworldindia]

Everything You Need to Know About UPB Token: The Future of Digital Transactions

The world of cryptocurrency is constantly evolving, with new tokens emerging to reshape the financial landscape. One such token making waves in the digital economy is UPB Token. Whether you're an investor, trader, or crypto enthusiast, understanding UPB Token can open up exciting opportunities. In this blog, we'll explore what UPB Token is, its features, use cases, and why it stands out in the competitive crypto market.

What is UPB Token?

UPB Token is a next-generation digital asset designed to facilitate fast, secure, and decentralized transactions. Built on a robust blockchain network, it offers users an efficient way to transfer value globally with low transaction fees and high scalability.

Key Features of UPB Token

✅ Decentralization: UPB Token operates on a decentralized blockchain, ensuring transparency and security without the need for intermediaries. ✅ Fast Transactions: The token is designed to process transactions within seconds, making it ideal for everyday use. ✅ Low Fees: Unlike traditional banking systems, UPB Token provides minimal transaction costs, allowing users to save money on transfers. ✅ Scalability: The network can handle a large number of transactions simultaneously, making it suitable for global adoption. ✅ Smart Contract Support: Developers can create decentralized applications (DApps) using UPB Token, enhancing its utility in the DeFi ecosystem.

Use Cases of UPB Token

1. Digital Payments

UPB Token can be used for online purchases, peer-to-peer transfers, and merchant payments, offering a seamless alternative to traditional payment systems.

2. Decentralized Finance (DeFi)

As part of the growing DeFi ecosystem, UPB Token enables staking, yield farming, and liquidity provision on various DeFi platforms.

3. NFT Marketplace

With the booming NFT industry, UPB Token can be used to buy, sell, and trade digital assets securely on NFT marketplaces.

4. Cross-Border Transactions

UPB Token eliminates the need for costly remittance services by allowing users to send and receive funds instantly across borders.

Why UPB Token Stands Out

Unlike many other tokens in the market, UPB Token is backed by a strong technological foundation, a growing community, and real-world applications. Its commitment to innovation and security makes it a promising digital asset for both investors and users.

Final Thoughts

As the cryptocurrency space continues to expand, UPB Token presents an exciting opportunity for those looking to invest in the future of digital finance. With its unique features, growing adoption, and strong use cases, it has the potential to become a major player in the blockchain ecosystem.

If you're interested in UPB Token, stay updated on its latest developments and explore how it can be integrated into your financial strategy!🚀 Join the UPB Token revolution today! 🚀

[wagecagelocations]

Here’s a refined breakdown of the negative impacts associated with the listed companies and the accusations tied to them:

Google

Google is one of the most powerful technology companies in the world, with significant influence over internet search, digital advertising, and data collection. The key negative impacts include:

垄断 (Monopoly):

Google has faced antitrust lawsuits in multiple countries, including the U.S. and EU, for allegedly using its dominant position in search and digital advertising to suppress competition.

Examples include prioritizing its own services (like Google Shopping or YouTube) in search results, disadvantaging competitors.

侵犯隐私 (Privacy Invasion):

Google has been repeatedly accused of violating user privacy through extensive data collection practices.

Issues like tracking users across websites (even in private browsing) and selling targeted ads based on sensitive user data have raised concerns.

Some governments have penalized Google for non-compliance with privacy laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU.

滥用权力 (Abuse of Power):

Google’s control over the digital advertising market has led to allegations of unfair practices, such as charging advertisers high fees or giving preferential treatment to its own ad platforms.

Critics argue this dominance stifles innovation and undermines smaller competitors.

Alchemy Technologies

Alchemy Technologies, a digital marketing company, has been accused of engaging in deceptive practices that manipulate user behavior:

Manipulation and Deception:

The company has been accused of misleading consumers through fake advertisements, false claims, or unethical digital marketing strategies.

Allegations include using dark patterns (design choices that trick users into actions they didn’t intend, such as subscriptions) and targeting vulnerable populations with exploitative tactics.

Erosion of Trust:

By misleading consumers and clients, companies like Alchemy Technologies contribute to widespread distrust in digital marketing practices, undermining the credibility of the broader advertising ecosystem.

Apple

Apple is known for its innovation and market leadership but has faced serious accusations regarding its business and labor practices:

垄断 (Monopoly):

Apple has been accused of monopolistic behavior, particularly regarding its App Store policies.

Developers are required to use Apple’s in-app payment system, for which Apple charges up to 30% commission, leading to accusations of anticompetitive behavior.

Legal battles, like the high-profile lawsuit with Epic Games, highlight claims that Apple unfairly limits competition within its ecosystem.

侵犯隐私 (Privacy Invasion):

Despite its public stance on user privacy, Apple has been accused of enabling surveillance, particularly in cases where it complied with government requests for user data.

Concerns about the AirTags product, which has been misused for stalking and tracking people without consent, further dent Apple’s privacy reputation.

强迫劳动 (Forced Labor):

Apple has faced allegations of forced labor within its supply chain, particularly involving factories in China and other countries.

Investigations have linked Apple’s suppliers to Uyghur forced labor in China, where workers are allegedly coerced into producing components for Apple products.

Reports of abusive working conditions, including long hours, low pay, and unsafe environments, persist, despite Apple’s claims of enforcing ethical supplier standards.

Summary of Impacts:

Google: Dominance in tech markets, privacy violations, and abuse of its powerful position have led to antitrust scrutiny and fines worldwide.

Alchemy Technologies: Manipulative and deceptive marketing practices harm consumer trust and foster unethical advertising environments.

Apple: Allegations of monopolistic practices, breaches of privacy, and labor rights violations cast a shadow over its reputation as a tech innovator.

Each company’s actions have far-reaching consequences, affecting industries, consumers, and global labor markets. Addressing these issues would require stricter regulations, transparency, and corporate accountability.

Here’s a refined breakdown of the negative impacts associated with the listed companies and the accusations tied to them:

Google

Google is one of the most powerful technology companies in the world, with significant influence over internet search, digital advertising, and data collection. The key negative impacts include:

垄断 (Monopoly):

Google has faced antitrust lawsuits in multiple countries, including the U.S. and EU, for allegedly using its dominant position in search and digital advertising to suppress competition.

Examples include prioritizing its own services (like Google Shopping or YouTube) in search results, disadvantaging competitors.

侵犯隐私 (Privacy Invasion):

Google has been repeatedly accused of violating user privacy through extensive data collection practices.

Issues like tracking users across websites (even in private browsing) and selling targeted ads based on sensitive user data have raised concerns.

Some governments have penalized Google for non-compliance with privacy laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU.

滥用权力 (Abuse of Power):

Google’s control over the digital advertising market has led to allegations of unfair practices, such as charging advertisers high fees or giving preferential treatment to its own ad platforms.

Critics argue this dominance stifles innovation and undermines smaller competitors.

Alchemy Technologies

Alchemy Technologies, a digital marketing company, has been accused of engaging in deceptive practices that manipulate user behavior:

Manipulation and Deception:

The company has been accused of misleading consumers through fake advertisements, false claims, or unethical digital marketing strategies.

Allegations include using dark patterns (design choices that trick users into actions they didn’t intend, such as subscriptions) and targeting vulnerable populations with exploitative tactics.

Erosion of Trust:

By misleading consumers and clients, companies like Alchemy Technologies contribute to widespread distrust in digital marketing practices, undermining the credibility of the broader advertising ecosystem.

Apple

Apple is known for its innovation and market leadership but has faced serious accusations regarding its business and labor practices:

垄断 (Monopoly):

Apple has been accused of monopolistic behavior, particularly regarding its App Store policies.

Developers are required to use Apple’s in-app payment system, for which Apple charges up to 30% commission, leading to accusations of anticompetitive behavior.

Legal battles, like the high-profile lawsuit with Epic Games, highlight claims that Apple unfairly limits competition within its ecosystem.

侵犯隐私 (Privacy Invasion):

Despite its public stance on user privacy, Apple has been accused of enabling surveillance, particularly in cases where it complied with government requests for user data.

Concerns about the AirTags product, which has been misused for stalking and tracking people without consent, further dent Apple’s privacy reputation.

强迫劳动 (Forced Labor):

Apple has faced allegations of forced labor within its supply chain, particularly involving factories in China and other countries.

Investigations have linked Apple’s suppliers to Uyghur forced labor in China, where workers are allegedly coerced into producing components for Apple products.

Reports of abusive working conditions, including long hours, low pay, and unsafe environments, persist, despite Apple’s claims of enforcing ethical supplier standards.

Summary of Impacts:

Google: Dominance in tech markets, privacy violations, and abuse of its powerful position have led to antitrust scrutiny and fines worldwide.

Alchemy Technologies: Manipulative and deceptive marketing practices harm consumer trust and foster unethical advertising environments.

Apple: Allegations of monopolistic practices, breaches of privacy, and labor rights violations cast a shadow over its reputation as a tech innovator.

Each company’s actions have far-reaching consequences, affecting industries, consumers, and global labor markets. Addressing these issues would require stricter regulations, transparency, and corporate accountability.

https://chatgpt.com/share/6752f369-7f9c-800c-8ef8-c927a0069dc6

[dandelionsresilience]

Good News - April 15-21

(Sorry it's late, I got sick)

Like these weekly compilations? Support me on Ko-fi! Also, if you tip me on here or Ko-fi, at the end of the month I'll send you a link to all of the articles I found but didn't use each week - almost double the content! (I'm new to taking tips on here; if it doesn't show me your username or if you have DM's turned off, please send me a screenshot of your payment)

1. Restoring an unsung hero

“"We are aiming to restore a significant area of seagrass around Nova Scotia, rebuilding these ecosystems and doing it in a climate-smart way," says Derek Tittensor, head of the FOME research group and a professor of biology at Dalhousie. "Importantly, we are also integrating Indigenous and scientific knowledge of these remarkable ecosystems through a two-eyed seeing approach.””

2. Four super-rare quolls caught sneaking around Australian wildlife sanctuary

““We had a mysterious case of cat-trap tampering whereby the traps were closed, the bait was gone but no culprit inside,” explains AWC Field Ecologist, Erin Barritt. [… T]he opportunistic little mischief-makers were juvenile western quolls, the first to be born on the sanctuary in 100 years.”

3. LGBTQ+ parents are raving about ‘accessible’ gender-neutral children’s book What Makes A Baby

““Overall I think this is a great book and a great representation of what inclusive media can look like. It incorporates a variety of perspectives and experiences to make something that is accessible to everyone.” The LGBTQ+ community – with parents in particular – praised “the accuracy of the terminology”, with one writing: “Human anatomy isn’t too much for children to learn and this book makes it so accessible for them to learn!””

4. Switch to green wastewater infrastructure could reduce emissions and provide huge savings according to new research

“Researchers have shown that a transition to green wastewater-treatment approaches in the U.S. that leverages the potential of carbon-financing could save a staggering $15.6 billion and just under 30 million tons of CO2-equivalent emissions over 40 years.”

5. Millions Offered Up To Create New Disability Employment Models

“[Projects] can focus on increasing access to advanced technology careers, using advanced technology to support youth or adults with disabilities to access competitive integrated employment or helping justice-involved youth with disabilities gain employment. In addition, projects can look at early intervention and workforce reintegration strategies for those with acquired disabilities or efforts to reintegrate disconnected individuals with disabilities into the workforce.”

6. Laser-Treated Cork Absorbs Oil for Carbon-Neutral Ocean Cleanup

“Cork comes from the bark of cork oak trees, which can live for hundreds of years. These trees can be harvested about every seven years, making cork a renewable material. When the bark is removed, the trees amplify their biological activity to replace it and increase their carbon storage, so harvesting cork helps mitigate carbon emissions.”

7. This boat runs on 100% renewables. Can it help clean up bigger ships?

“For the past seven years, Energy Observer has traveled around the world, serving as a floating test bed for zero-emission technologies that can propel boats and ships — without spewing any of the nasty pollution that comes from running diesel engines. […] The project’s leaders say they’re now ready to focus their efforts on cleaning up much larger and dirtier types of vessels, including cargo ships.”

8. 1,000 oceanic manta rays seen in the Maldives

“With 1,000 individuals in its waters, the Maldives is home to the world’s third largest population of giant mantas (it also has the most reef mantas (Mobula alfredi) in the world, with over 5,000 individuals).”

9. Service Finalizes Land Protection Plan for Expanding Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge

“Plan aims to deliver in-perpetuity conservation of up to 700,000 acres of land for benefit of migratory and resident wildlife. […] "These vast grassland landscapes provide essential habitat for wildlife while also providing benefits like clean water filtration and carbon sequestration, which are essential for both the environment and human well-being."”

10. Medicaid Officials Remove Barriers For Those With Disabilities

“In addition [to grace periods for submitting paperwork], states will no longer be allowed to conduct renewals any more than once every 12 months and they will be barred from requiring in-person interviews for people with disabilities, among other changes.”

And a bonus article to make up for posting late: Gay Furry Hackers strike again!

April 8-14 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[mariacallous]

As Donald Trump’s administration continues its relentless reorganization of the United States federal government, documents obtained by WIRED showed this week that the Department of Defense is looking at cutting as much as three-quarters of its workforce that’s specifically focused on stopping proliferation of chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, the US Army is using its “CamoGPT” AI tool to “review” diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility policies per Trump administration orders. The military originally developed the AI service to improve productivity and operational readiness.

US civil liberties organizations are pushing the director of national intelligence. Tulsi Gabbard, to declassify details about Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act—a central overseas wiretap authority that is notorious for also capturing a large number of calls, texts, and emails made or sent by Americans. And the US Justice Department on Wednesday charged 10 alleged hackers and two Chinese government officials over digital crimes spanning more than a decade as part of China’s extensive hack-for-hire ecosystem.

Ongoing analysis from a consortium of researchers led by Human Security found that at least a million low-price Android devices, like TV streaming boxes and tablets, have been compromised as part of a scamming and ad fraud campaign known as Badbox 2.0. The activity, which the researchers say comes out of China, is an evolution of a previous effort to backdoor similar devices.

And there's more. Each week, we round up the security and privacy news we didn’t cover in depth ourselves. Click the headlines to read the full stories. And stay safe out there.

Cybercriminals Allegedly Used a Backdoor to Steal Taylor Swift Tickets

Two people who allegedly worked as part of a group to access nearly 1,000 tickets to concerts and other events—many for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour—before selling them on for more than $600,000 profit were arrested and charged with the potential crimes in Queens this week. Tyrone Rose, 20, and Shamara P. Simmons, 31, of Jamaica, Queens, were arrested and arraigned in connection to the theft and sales, according to Queens district attorney Melinda Katz.

Between June 2022 and July 2023, it is alleged that 350 orders—totaling 993 tickets—on ticketing platform StubHub were accessed at a third-party contractor called Sutherland. “The Sutherland employees, defendant Tyrone Rose and an unapprehended accomplice, allegedly used their access to StubHub’s computer system to find a backdoor into a secure area of the network where already sold tickets were given a URL and queued to be emailed to the purchaser to download,” the district attorney’s office wrote in a statement.

They then emailed URLs to another accomplice who has since died, the office says, before posting the tickets to StubHub for resale. While the investigations are ongoing, the District Attorney’s office claimed the proceeds of the cybercrime totaled around $635,000 and also involved tickets for Ed Sheeran concerts, NBA games, and the US Open Tennis Championships.

Payment Provider Linked to ‘Largest Illicit Online Marketplace’ Loses Banking License

Every year, criminals make billions from the operations of highly organized scam compounds in Southeast Asia. As these operations have grown in sophistication, so has the wider ecosystem that supplies them with the technology and services needed to run the scams. And experts say there’s no bigger marketplace than Huione Guarantee—a Cambodian gray market selling scam services that researchers claim has facilitated more than $24 billion in transactions.

This week, according to a report by Radio Free Asia, the banking arm of Huione Guarantee’s parent company, Huione Group, had its financial license suspended by officials in Cambodia. According to the report, the Huione Pay service had its license withdrawn for failing to comply with “existing regulations.” The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and crypto tracing firm Elliptic previously had linked money moving through Huione Pay to cyberscamming. “They are willing facilitators of pig butchering and other fraud, so any regulatory action against them should be welcomed,” Elliptic founder Tom Robinson claimed to Radio Free Asia.

Russian Cryptocurrency Exchange Garantex Taken Down in Law Enforcement Action

The US Department of Justice announced an operation this week with Germany and Finland to disrupt the digital infrastructure behind notorious Russian cryptocurrency exchange Garantex. For years, the platform has allegedly been used for money laundering and other criminal transactions, including sanctions evasion. The DOJ claimed in its announcement that “transnational criminal organizations—including terrorist organizations” have utilized the exchange. Law enforcement said that the platform has processed at least $96 billion in cryptocurrency transactions since April 2019. US authorities said they froze over $26 million in funds used to facilitate money laundering as part of the Garantex takedown.

Scammers Are Impersonating Notorious Ransomware Attackers to Extort Targets

The FBI warned this week that scammers pretending to be attackers from the BianLian ransomware gang are demanding ransoms from corporate executives in the US. The demands include claims that the group has breached a company’s network and threaten to publish sensitive information unless a target pays up. Such criminal digital extortion is common enough that scammers apparently feel that they can plausibly make the claims and intimidate targets without even attacking them. The FBI says that the scammers’ ransom demands say that they come from BianLian and range from $250,000 to $500,000 payable via a QR code that links to a Bitcoin wallet. The real BianLian group has links to Russia and has targeted US critical infrastructure since June 2022, according to a November alert from the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

[valeriatourist]

⚠️BREAKING NEWS: XRP HOLDERS, YOUR TIME HAS COME!

If you own XRP today, you are holding the key to the future of global finance. XRP is set to become a cornerstone of the revolutionary ISO 20022 financial messaging standard, transforming the way value is transferred across borders. And that’s not all—ISO 20022 will launch alongside the Quantum Financial System (QFS), ushering in a new era of transparency, efficiency, and security.

XRP and ISO 20022:

XRP is poised to take center stage in the ISO 20022 ecosystem. As a bridge asset with unmatched speed, scalability, and cost efficiency, XRP aligns seamlessly with the goals of this global standard. Its integration into ISO 20022 protocols positions XRP as a pivotal player in enabling frictionless cross-border payments and financial operations.

Have you ever wondered why only XRP has a Destination Tag? It’s the ultimate feature for precision and security, mirroring the way SWIFT operates in banks today. Everything is prepared, and the launch is imminent! XRP is ready to revolutionize global finance.

What Is ISO 20022?

ISO 20022 is a global standard for the electronic exchange of financial data between institutions. It establishes a unified language and model for financial transactions, creating faster, more secure, and highly efficient communication across the financial system.

What Is the Quantum Financial System (QFS)?

The QFS is a revolutionary infrastructure designed to work in tandem with ISO 20022. It promises unparalleled security, transparency, and efficiency in managing and transferring financial assets. Built on advanced quantum technologies, QFS eliminates intermediaries, reduces fraud, and ensures every transaction is traceable and immutable. Together with ISO 20022, QFS will form the backbone of the future financial ecosystem.

Key Aspects of ISO 20022:

1. Flexibility and Standardization: A universal language for services like payments, securities, and foreign exchange transactions.

2. Modern Technology: Supports structured data formats like XML and JSON for superior communication.

3. Global Adoption: Used by central banks, commercial banks, and financial networks worldwide.

4. Enhanced Data: Delivers richer and more detailed transaction information, enhancing transparency and traceability.

Why Is ISO 20022 Important?

• Payment Transformation: It underpins the global migration to advanced financial messaging, with organizations like SWIFT transitioning fully to ISO 20022 by 2025.

• Efficiency: Reduces costs, accelerates processing, and enhances data quality.

• Security: Strengthens risk detection and fraud prevention through detailed standardized messaging.

The Future Is Now: XRP, ISO 20022, and QFS

With XRP’s integration into ISO 20022 and the simultaneous launch of the Quantum Financial System, the future of payments and global finance is here. XRP holders are already ahead of the curve, ready to benefit from the revolutionary changes that will reshape the financial world. Everything is ready, and the launch is just around the corner. Together, ISO 20022, QFS, and XRP represent a groundbreaking shift toward a more interconnected, efficient, and secure financial world.

🌟 Are You Ready for the XRP Revolution? 🌟

History is being made, and XRP holders are at the forefront of a new financial era. Stay ahead with exclusive updates and strategies for the massive changes ahead!

Got XRP in your wallet? You’re already ahead back it up to Coinbaseqfs ledger, maximize your gains and secure your spot in the financial future.

If you care to know more about this topic send me a message on telegram

[addictivesunayna]

Why Noida is Becoming the Hub for Innovative Website Design Services

Introduction

Noida, a bustling city near India’s capital, has rapidly evolved into a major IT hub. With an increasing number of startups and tech companies, the demand for website design services has surged. Businesses now understand that a well-designed website is crucial for success in the digital era. But why has Noida emerged as a leader in innovative website design? Let’s explore.

Why Noida is the Preferred Destination for Web Design

Strategic Location and Connectivity

Noida enjoys excellent connectivity to Delhi and other major cities, making it a prime location for IT companies. The presence of high-end infrastructure, affordable office spaces, and a well-developed tech ecosystem further strengthens its position.

Thriving IT and Startup Ecosystem

With the rise of digital transformation, Noida has become a hotspot for IT startups. Several businesses look to Noida-based web designers to craft high-performance, visually appealing websites.

ArtAttackk: Leading the Way in Noida

Introduction to ArtAttackk

Among the top web design agencies in Noida, ArtAttackk stands out with its innovative approach. Specializing in creating user-centric websites, the company has gained recognition for its creativity and expertise.

Unique Services and Expertise

ArtAttackk offers a wide range of services, including UI/UX design, branding, and e-commerce solutions. Their ability to blend aesthetics with functionality makes them a preferred choice for businesses.

Success Stories and Client Testimonials

Many well-established brands and startups have benefited from ArtAttackk’s services, with clients praising their strategic approach and modern design aesthetics.

Affordable and High-Quality Services

One of the reasons Noida is booming in website design is the affordability factor. Compared to cities like Mumbai and Bangalore, Noida offers high-quality services at a fraction of the cost, making it a go-to destination for businesses worldwide.

The Role of Skilled Talent Pool

Presence of Top-Tier Professionals

Noida is home to some of the best IT professionals and designers. The city’s booming job market attracts skilled individuals who push the boundaries of web design.

Contributions from IT Institutes and Universities

Reputed institutions like Amity University and NIIT supply a steady stream of talented web designers and developers, ensuring continuous innovation in the industry.

Advanced Technologies in Website Design

AI and Machine Learning in Website Development

Modern web design agencies in Noida leverage AI to enhance user experience. Features like chatbots, automated customer support, and AI-driven personalization are becoming the norm.

User Experience (UX) and UI Innovations

Companies like ArtAttackk focus on UX/UI to ensure seamless navigation and engaging interfaces that keep visitors hooked.

Custom Web Design vs. Templates: What Works Best?

While pre-made templates are budget-friendly, custom-built websites offer greater flexibility and uniqueness. Noida-based firms provide tailored solutions that align perfectly with business goals.

Mobile-First Approach in Web Development

With mobile users surpassing desktop users, responsive web design is a priority. Noida’s web designers ensure seamless experiences across all devices, boosting customer engagement.

E-Commerce Boom and Noida’s Role

Noida’s web design industry has significantly contributed to the growth of e-commerce businesses, providing tailored solutions for online stores, payment integration, and customer-friendly layouts.

SEO and Digital Marketing Integration

Noida’s web design agencies don’t just build websites—they optimize them for search engines. This ensures businesses rank higher on Google, driving more traffic and conversions.

The Rise of Freelancers and Agencies

Apart from established agencies like ArtAttackk, Noida also has a growing community of skilled freelancers who provide quality web design services at competitive prices.

Government Initiatives Supporting IT Growth

The Indian government’s Startup India initiative and other policies have played a key role in promoting Noida as an IT hub, further fueling the web design industry.

Challenges and Future Trends

Despite its success, Noida’s web design industry faces challenges like increased competition and evolving technologies. However, with AI, AR/VR, and voice search optimization on the rise, the future looks promising.

Conclusion

Noida has firmly positioned itself as a leader in website design services. With a mix of affordability, skilled talent, innovative agencies like ArtAttackk, and cutting-edge technology, the city continues to attract businesses looking for high-quality web solutions.

FAQs

Why is Noida emerging as a web design hub? Noida offers a combination of skilled professionals, affordable services, and a strong IT ecosystem, making it a top choice for web design.

What makes ArtAttackk stand out? ArtAttackk excels in creative and user-centric designs, offering customized web solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Are web design services in Noida affordable? Yes, Noida offers high-quality web design at competitive prices compared to metro cities like Mumbai or Bangalore.

How important is UX/UI in web design? A well-designed UX/UI enhances user engagement, leading to better conversions and business growth.

What future trends will shape Noida’s web design industry? AI-driven design, AR/VR experiences, and voice search optimization are expected to play a significant role in the coming years.

[thebrandscalingexpert]

Best 10 Blockchain Development Companies in India 2025

Blockchain technology is transforming industries by enhancing security, transparency, and efficiency. With India's growing IT ecosystem, several companies specialize in blockchain development services, catering to industries like finance, healthcare, supply chain, and gaming. If you're looking for a trusted blockchain development company in India, here are the top 10 companies in 2025 that are leading the way with cutting-edge blockchain solutions.

1. Comfygen

Comfygen is a leading blockchain development company in India, offering comprehensive blockchain solutions for businesses worldwide. Their expertise includes smart contract development, dApps, DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, and enterprise blockchain solutions. With a strong focus on security and scalability, Comfygen delivers top-tier blockchain applications tailored to business needs.

Key Services:

Smart contract development

Blockchain consulting & integration

NFT marketplace development

DeFi solutions & decentralized exchanges (DEX)

2. Infosys

Infosys, a globally recognized IT giant, offers advanced blockchain solutions to enterprises looking to integrate distributed ledger technology (DLT) into their operations. Their blockchain services focus on supply chain, finance, and identity management.

Key Services:

Enterprise blockchain solutions

Smart contracts & decentralized apps

Blockchain security & auditing

3. Wipro

Wipro is known for its extensive research and development in blockchain technology. They help businesses integrate blockchain into their financial systems, healthcare, and logistics for better transparency and efficiency.

Key Services:

Blockchain consulting & strategy

Supply chain blockchain solutions

Smart contract development

4. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

TCS is a pioneer in the Indian IT industry and provides robust blockchain solutions, helping enterprises optimize business processes with secure and scalable decentralized applications.

Key Services:

Enterprise blockchain development

Tokenization & digital asset solutions

Decentralized finance (DeFi) applications

5. Hyperlink InfoSystem

Hyperlink InfoSystem is a well-established blockchain development company in India, specializing in building customized blockchain solutions for industries like finance, gaming, and supply chain.

Key Services:

Blockchain-based mobile app development

Smart contract auditing & security

NFT marketplace & DeFi solutions

6. Tech Mahindra

Tech Mahindra provides blockchain-as-a-service (BaaS) solutions, ensuring that businesses leverage blockchain for improved transparency and automation. They focus on finance, telecom, and supply chain industries.

Key Services:

Blockchain implementation & consulting

dApp development & smart contracts

Digital identity management solutions

7. Antier Solutions

Antier Solutions is a specialized blockchain development firm offering DeFi solutions, cryptocurrency exchange development, and metaverse applications. They provide custom blockchain solutions for startups and enterprises.

Key Services:

DeFi platform development

NFT & metaverse development

White-label crypto exchange development

8. HCL Technologies

HCL Technologies offers enterprise blockchain development services, focusing on improving security, efficiency, and automation across multiple sectors.

Key Services:

Blockchain-based digital payments

Hyperledger & Ethereum development

Secure blockchain network architecture

9. SoluLab

SoluLab is a trusted blockchain development company working on Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and Solana-based solutions for businesses across industries.

Key Services:

Smart contract & token development

Decentralized application (dApp) development

AI & blockchain integration

10. Mphasis

Mphasis provides custom blockchain solutions to enterprises, ensuring secure transactions and seamless business operations.

Key Services:

Blockchain for banking & financial services

Smart contract development & deployment

Blockchain security & risk management

Conclusion

India is emerging as a global hub for blockchain technology, with companies specializing in secure, scalable, and efficient blockchain development services. Whether you're a startup or an enterprise looking for custom blockchain solutions, these top 10 blockchain development companies in India provide world-class expertise and innovation.

Looking for the best blockchain development partner? Comfygen offers cutting-edge blockchain solutions to help your business thrive in the decentralized era. Contact us today to start your blockchain journey!