Making sure your customers feel comfortable is essential to establishing a lasting connection with them; and this trust is gained in a variety of ways; one of those being protecting their sensitive data. With the growing usage of digital payment technologies, customers are increasingly putting their self at risk by making sensitive financial information accessible so that their transaction can be processed. Because of this, it is important that businesses do everything they can to protect those who matter the most to their business. Here are some things to consider when evaluating a POS system.
- Encryption
It is crucial that the POS system you use encrypts any data it processes so that the information run through it is masked from malicious parties. Utilize strong encryption protocols like SSL/TLS, for example; and ensure that any data you store receives the same treatment.
- Tokenization
Another safety feature to consider is tokenization; which basically creates a “substitute” for a given set of data. By themselves, tokens are useless pieces of digital material; so if by chance they are intercepted by an unauthorized party, no damage can be done.
- PCI DSS Compliance
When evaluating any POS set-up it is paramount that you see if it meets Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) requirements; and you can view their website(link: https://listings.pcisecuritystandards.org/pci_security/) for information about what that entails. Compliance ensures proper handling; storage; and transmission of cardholder information, reducing risks of data breaches.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
One of the more well known forms of protecting data is two-factor authorization (2FA). With this protocol account access is granted only after a dual security pathway is validated: each step requiring different requirements for validation. Popular forms of this type of security set up include authentication apps or SMS messages after an initial login.
- Regular Security Audits
Even with a robust security system in place for your POS set-up, be sure to conduct regular security audits, and vulnerability assessments to identify and rectify potential security gaps. To help you can utilize third-party security experts to do this for you; or you can connect with your POS system provider to help you with this. INKAS® Payments is always glad to assist those looking to maintain and enhance the payment processing capabilities of those they serve.
- Employee Training
Despite your POS being optimized for secure processing, workers still have to operate it. That is why it is important to educate employees about data security best practices and phishing prevention. Ensure they understand the importance of handling payment information securely and how to recognize, and respond to security threats.
By prioritizing the security of customers’ payment information, businesses not only protect their reputation but also build trust, and loyalty with those that support their business. Data security can be a complex matter; and what we listed here is merely for your awareness and consideration. To get the best direction possible, seek professionals who have an industry-leading reputation for providing secure POS systems. INKAS® Payments for example offers award-winning data security, and appreciates any chance we get to help businesses protect their most valuable asset: their customers. Call INKAS® Payments, now to see how we can help you.
