What is a Cryptocurrency Payment Processor?

A cryptocurrency payment processor is a type of payment gateway that enables businesses to accept digital currencies as a form of payment for their products or services. It acts as a bridge between the customer and the business, facilitating the transaction by verifying the payment and transferring the digital currency to the business’s merchant account.

Unlike traditional payment processors, which typically only support typical currencies such as USD, EUR, etc., cryptocurrency payment processors can process payments in a variety of digital currencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and more. 

This allows merchants to expand their customer base and cater to a growing number of consumers who prefer to use digital currencies for online transactions.

Cryptocurrency payment processors typically charge a fee for their services, which can vary depending on the platform and the type of transaction being processed. Some payment processors may also offer additional features such as automatic currency conversion, fraud protection, and integration with popular e-commerce platforms.

How Does a Cryptocurrency Payment Processor Work?

A cryptocurrency payment processor allows merchants to accept payments in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others. These payment processors are similar to traditional payment processors, but they are designed specifically for digital currencies.

They work like this:

1. First, the business needs to integrate the cryptocurrency payment processor into their existing website or app. This process includes applying for an account with the chosen payment processor, getting approval from the processor, and setting up any plugins or APIs the processor requires to operate.
2. After integrating the payment processor to the website or app, the business can start accepting payments. The customer can select to pay with cryptocurrency during the checkout process, and the payment processor will display a payment address and the amount to be paid.
3. The customer will then send the required amount of cryptocurrency to the payment address displayed by the payment processor. The payment processor monitors the blockchain for all incoming transactions and confirms the payment once it has been received and verified.
4. Once the payment has been confirmed, the payment processor will send a confirmation to the business’s website or app. Both the business and the customer will be notified of the confirmation. 
5. Now that the payment has been accepted and confirmed to both the customer and the business, the business can fulfill the customer’s order and provide them with the product or service that was ordered.
6. At the end of each day, the payment processor settles the transactions by converting the received cryptocurrency into the business’s desired currency, such as USD or EUR, and then transferring the funds to the business’s merchant account.

Some cryptocurrency payment processors also offer additional features such as fraud protection, instant conversion to the business’s desired currency, and recurring payments. These may require extra steps in the process, depending on the processor’s requirements.

Are Cryptocurrency Payment Processors Safe?

Cryptocurrency payment processors are generally considered safe, as they use advanced encryption techniques and other security measures to protect transactions. However, like any other financial service, there are always risks involved.

One of the main advantages of cryptocurrency payment processors is that they provide an added layer of privacy for users. Transactions are typically conducted without the need for personal information or banking details, which can protect against identity theft and fraud.

Cryptocurrency payment processors often employ multi-factor authentication and other security features to prevent unauthorized access to accounts. They also typically use advanced encryption techniques to protect against hacking and other forms of cybercrime.

However, as stated above, there are risks involved with cryptocurrency payment processors. Some processors may be more vulnerable to hacking or other types of cyber attacks, which could result in the loss of funds or sensitive information.

It is important to conduct research and carefully evaluate the reputation and security practices of any cryptocurrency payment processor the business is considering using. 

Look for providers with a solid track record of security and customer service, and be sure to follow best practices for securing the business accounts and transactions, such as using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication.

Features to Look For in a Cryptocurrency Payment Gateway

With cryptocurrency gaining popularity, it is important to make sure that the chosen cryptocurrency payment gateway has features that fit the needs of the business. When searching for a payment gateway to process cryptocurrency, keep these features in mind.

Security

A good cryptocurrency payment gateway must have robust security measures in place to ensure that all transactions are secure and protected against fraudulent activities. Ensure that the chosen gateway has top-notch security to protect the customers of the business.

Multi Currency Support

A payment gateway that supports multiple cryptocurrencies can be more useful for customers who use different cryptocurrencies for transactions, meaning the business will earn more money.

User-Friendly

The payment gateway should have a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for customers to use and understand. If a customer doesn’t like the payment process, they won’t hesitate to take their money somewhere else.

Compatibility

The payment gateway should be compatible with different platforms and devices, including mobile and desktop, allowing customers to check out on whichever device they are on. The gateway should also be compatible with the business’s existing website or app.

Fees

The fees charged to the business for transactions should be transparent and reasonable. High fees can quickly eat into business profits, since fees are usually on a per-transaction basis. 

Understanding the fees is important to ensure the business can afford the service and not be overwhelmed by fee payments to the processor. It is also important to ensure there are no hidden fees, so the business doesn’t get a surprise bill that they can’t afford.

Customization

Not all cryptocurrency payment gateways allow the business to customize its appearance. In order to provide customers with the best checkout experience possible, look for a processor that can be customized to fit the brand of the business.

Benefits of Using a Cryptocurrency Payment Processor

Using a cryptocurrency payment processor can provide merchants with a fast, secure, and cost-effective way to accept payments from customers around the world. In addition, using a payment processor that can process cryptocurrency can bring a business many more benefits including:

• Fast transactions. Cryptocurrency payments can be completed in a matter of seconds or minutes, compared to traditional payment methods like bank transfers or credit cards, which can take days to clear
• Lower transaction fees. Cryptocurrency payment processors typically charge lower fees than traditional payment processors, which can save merchants money
• International capability. Cryptocurrencies can be used to make payments anywhere in the world, without the need for currency conversions or international transaction fees
• Increased security measures. Cryptocurrency transactions are secured by cryptography, making them virtually impossible to counterfeit or reverse. This eliminates the risk of chargebacks, which can be costly for merchants
• Improved privacy. Cryptocurrency payments can be made anonymously, which can be beneficial for individuals or businesses that prioritize privacy
• Access to new customers. Accepting cryptocurrency payments can attract new customers who prefer to use digital currencies for their transactions

Disadvantages of Accepting Cryptocurrency as Payment

While cryptocurrencies have gained popularity as a mode of payment in recent years, there are also several disadvantages to accepting them as payment. In order to fully understand using cryptocurrency, it is important to know of the disadvantages such as:

• Volatility. Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and their value can fluctuate significantly in a short amount of time. This makes it difficult to accurately price products and services, which can lead to confusion and potential losses for businesses
• Limited acceptance. Despite the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies, they are still not widely accepted by merchants and consumers. This limits the number of customers who can pay using cryptocurrencies, which can be a significant disadvantage for businesses that want to maximize their sales
• Legal and regulatory problems. Cryptocurrencies are still largely unregulated in many jurisdictions, which can create legal and regulatory uncertainties for businesses that accept them as payment. This can result in additional costs and complexities for businesses
• Complexity. Cryptocurrencies can be complex and difficult to understand, especially for those who are not familiar with the technology behind them. This can make it challenging for businesses to integrate cryptocurrency payments into their existing systems and processes
• Tax implications. Cryptocurrency transactions are subject to tax laws, and businesses that accept cryptocurrency as payment must ensure that they are complying with these laws. Failure to do so can result in penalties and fines, adding to the administrative burden of accepting cryptocurrency as payment.

EMerchantBroker Can Help with All of Your Cryptocurrency Payment Processor Needs!

EMerchantBroker has experience working with cryptocurrency and can help your business get started accepting it as a form of payment today! Head over to the website and submit an application.