Our 12-post series explores how small retailers can ACT now to repel data thieves during this prime shopping season.
Awareness, Checking security controls and Testing security now will help your business lock down your systems before the holiday rush.
Merchants looking for more information on how to secure customer payment data should visit the PCI SSC merchant site.
Is Your Security Software Working?
Security software such as firewalls, anti-malware, anti-spam and anti-virus is a critical part of your defense strategy. Its diligent use can help prevent hackers from breaching your payment system during the busy holiday shopping season.
Malicious software and nasty viruses allow hackers to sneak control of your computer systems, capture account credentials, steal payment card data and drain bank accounts – including yours and your customers’.
But these tools only do their job if they are installed and kept up to date. Hackers are constantly updating their attacks to get past security measures – so it’s really important to that your defenses are not outdated! Take time now, heading into your busy selling season to make sure you have it in place and that it’s working.
How can you be sure your security software is working?
Security software should be installed on all computers connected to your store payment network. When installed and running, you may be able to see a small security icon in the application tray located at the bottom of a computer screen. If you’re not sure, click on the application launch menu, check your computer’s master list of installed applications, or ask your payment system provider.
- Make sure your security software is doing its job: Set to “auto-launch” – always! On every computer, configure the security software to automatically launch every time the machine is turned on. No exceptions!
- Keep anti-malware current! Make sure the software is set to “automatic update” so you get the most recent protection available without having to think about it.
- Protect installations and configurations. Set software’s configuration control to be password protected. It’s vital that this software always be running, and that no one is able to disable or alter configurations unless they are specifically authorized by you on a case-by-case basis for a limited time period. The typical exception is when related applications are installed or updated.
If you need help configuring your security software, consult the person who installed your computers and network.
Resources that can help you:
- Get Cyber Safe: Protect Yourself with Security Software
- Infographic: Protecting Your Customer's Payment Card Data from Malware
Merchants looking for more information on payment security essentials should start here:
