Do you have a business selling to customers on and offline? If so, are you sure that your company covers all the bases concerning security? Your little business could be a goldmine for hackers, fraudsters, and all kinds of shenanigans. So, it is essential that you take your security seriously.
In today’s guide, we’re going to run through some of the basics with you. It’s possible to take things a lot further, of course. But, get through this checklist and make sure you have everything set, and you will be in a good place.
You can sleep better at nights, safe in the knowledge that you are secure. And, most importantly, your customers will have faith in your business, which should improve your sales. Let’s take a closer look.
Online: Get SSL certification
First of all, consumers are a lot savvier about surfing the web than they used to be. It is essential, then, that we start this process by looking at SSL security certification. It’s a badge of honour, if you like, for anyone making sales online. It guarantees that your website will look after the credit and debit card details of your customer. There are plenty of people out there who will refuse to pay for anything if an SSL certificate isn’t there. So, get one before you set up your payments gateways and you will protect your sales – and your customer’s details. You should also seek out tools to prevent hackers and thieves getting into your system – try this guide to get you started.
Offline: EMV Compliance
Fraud is still a big threat when it comes to owning a shop, so it’s vital to ensure that you have the right cover in place. The new Europay MasterCard and Visa (EMV) rules mean that all businesses have to be able to accept modern cards with chip technology. Check out this excellent guide to new EMV rules to fill yourself in on all the finer details. In short, if you don’t have the right payment processing in place, you may get a fine if a fraud occurs.
Online: Purge your customer details
There are a lot of details you will collect online from your clients. But, there is no need for you to keep hold of all that data. Sure, there’s a lot you can do with their names, addresses, emails and phone numbers. But, you don’t need to hold on their bank account details or security numbers. And, in fact, you aren’t allowed to keep them if you want to stay within the boundaries of industry standards. So, make sure that you purge your old customer records of those critical numbers. You will be much less of a target for thieves and hackers.
Offline: Security cameras
Shoplifters cost UK retailers upwards of £335 million a year, according to statistics from 2015. While theft can be difficult to stop for small businesses, having security cameras can make things a little easier. You will be able to prove your losses, both to the police, and your insurance company. Plus, of course, if the police recognize the thief, you will have more chance of getting those stolen goods back.
As you can see, there is plenty to think about regarding security, whether you are an offline or online retailer. Good luck – and keep secure!