Why Point-of-Sale (POS) Security is Important?

A point of sale system holds valuable financial data. Since they come in the eyes of so many people, they are usually prime targets. Therefore, you need to prioritise it their protection in your business. Physical security is important for your POS systems.Make sure your POS systems are protected and monitored for unauthorised access.

Here are few tips on how to keep your POS system safe:

• It is very simple for online criminals to hack into your POS systems and steal payment card numbers and the associated personal identification number (PIN).
• You can protect your POS computer system using the same measures you use for computer systems in your business. That includes keeping them patched with latest updates, running security software such as anti-virus, limiting administer access and using strong passwords.
• If using cameras for surveillance of POS terminals ensure they are positioned so as to not inadvertently capture the entry of PINs. Retain recordings for a minimum of three months.
• Train your staff to be aware of POS threats and report any unexpected or suspicious behaviour.
• It is important to set up strong encryption for transmission of all data. Your service provider should implement this by default.
• If purchasing a new system, carefully vet vendors of POS systems to ensure they are trustworthy and legitimate.
• Do not allow anybody and everybody to access your POS system without verifying their identity. If unsure, contact the service company to confirm their details.
• Never use the default user name and password that came with the system. Always create a new user name and password that is strong and unique to your business.
• Limit access to client data to those employees with direct need to access it and are authorised to do so. Ensure all client data stored is encrypted, so even if it is compromised, criminals will not be able to use it.
• Make sure your POS system is behind a firewall.

Therefore, ensuring security of your POS system is of utmost importance.

Mr. Sanjeev, IT Manager of Essae - Teraoka Private Limited, Bangalore. Manufacturers, Suppliers and Exporters of Electronic Weighing Machine like Weighing Scale, Counting Scale, Printer Scale, Point Of Sale(POS) Systems, etc.