As the world becomes more digital, the way we pay for things is changing. One area that has seen a significant shift is the hospitality industry, where many restaurants and hotels now offer complimentary meals to their customers. However, while these free meals may seem like a great deal, there are hidden costs that many people may not be aware of.
To help shed some light on this issue, we spoke with Tony Anscombe, Chief Security Evangelist at ESET, a leading cybersecurity company. Anscombe has extensive experience in the hospitality industry and has seen firsthand the challenges that come with offering complimentary meals.
According to Anscombe, one of the biggest expenses associated with complimentary meals is the cost of fraud. “Fraudsters are always looking for ways to exploit vulnerabilities in payment systems,” he explains. “And when it comes to complimentary meals, there are a lot of opportunities for them to do so.”
One common tactic used by fraudsters is to create fake accounts and use them to order free meals. They may also use stolen credit card information to make purchases, which can result in chargebacks and other financial losses for the restaurant or hotel.
Another expense associated with complimentary meals is the cost of security measures. “Restaurants and hotels need to invest in robust security systems to protect against fraud and other types of cyber attacks,” Anscombe says. “This can include everything from firewalls and antivirus software to employee training programs.”
In addition to these direct expenses, there are also indirect costs associated with offering complimentary meals. For example, restaurants and hotels may need to hire additional staff to handle the increased volume of orders. They may also need to purchase additional equipment and supplies, such as plates, utensils, and food.
Despite these challenges, Anscombe believes that offering complimentary meals can be a great way for restaurants and hotels to build customer loyalty and increase revenue. “When done correctly, complimentary meals can be a win-win for both the business and the customer,” he says. “But it’s important to understand the actual expenses involved and take steps to mitigate any risks.”
So what can restaurants and hotels do to protect themselves against fraud and other security threats? According to Anscombe, there are several key steps they can take:
1. Implement strong security measures: This includes everything from firewalls and antivirus software to employee training programs.
2. Monitor transactions closely: Keep a close eye on all transactions, especially those involving complimentary meals.
3. Use fraud detection tools: Consider using fraud detection tools to help identify and prevent fraudulent activity.
4. Educate employees: Make sure all employees are aware of the risks associated with complimentary meals and know how to spot potential fraud.
By taking these steps, restaurants and hotels can help protect themselves against the hidden costs of offering complimentary meals. And with the right approach, they can continue to provide great service to their customers while also protecting their bottom line.
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- Source: https://zephyrnet.com/the-real-cost-of-a-free-lunch-week-in-security-with-tony-anscombe-welivesecurity/