POS Security - 10 Tips for Ensuring Secure POS Systems

 

1. Regularly updated POS systems

Keep all software and systems up-to-date with the latest security patches. Regular updates help minimize/eliminate vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. Conversely, infrequently updated POS systems increase the risk of a successful attack against older, vulnerable software.

2. Rapid recovery from a data breach

Attacks on data availability, such as ransomware, can be catastrophic to retail operations. Make sure that your POS vendor can rapidly recover data in the event of a successful attack. Better yet, look for a POS solution that doesn't require sensitive data stored on every POS device.

3. Alternative checkout platforms

Ensure your POS provider has alternative checkout platforms to maintain operations during a security incident, such as a mobile point-of-sale (mPOS) system or self-checkout alternatives. These alternatives can survive attacks on operating systems, internet communications, or even the electrical grid.

4. Advanced security features from cloud providers

Cloud providers employ built-in security features such as rest and transit encryption, rich Identity and Access Management (IAM) capabilities, and advanced intrusion prevention and detection. These features safeguard your POS system against unauthorized access and data breaches.

5. Continuous monitoring and automated security tests

Ensure your POS provider has incorporated automated security-specific testing into their software development processes. DevSecOps is the practice of using Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines to perform static analysis for code security defects, detection of misconfigurations in infrastructure as code, and external vulnerability scanning of applications. These checks run on every change to ensure the solution is always secure.

6. Regular security training and drills

Supply chain attacks are on the rise. Ensure your POS software provider conducts regular information security training for all employees. This includes incident response drills and tabletop exercises to ensure staff can handle security incidents effectively. This will help to ensure that your POS system doesn't become the vehicle for transporting security threats into your retail operations.

7. Detection and incident response

Ensure your provider has implemented robust detection controls to identify and alert personnel of attempted and successful intrusion attempts. Paired with a well-tested incident response plan that includes root cause analysis, forensic evidence collection, and clear communication strategies with all stakeholders.

8. Secure data transmission

All data exchanges should be conducted over secure channels that implement Transport Layer Security (TLS). This ensures that data is encrypted during transmission, protecting it from interception, data breaches, and tampering.

9. Strong identity and access management

Ensure your POS provider has implemented robust identity and access management using OpenID Connect (OIDC) and OAuth2 protocols. These standardized protocols enable granular role-based access controls, ensuring only authorized personnel can access sensitive POS data and perform POS operations.

10. Modern application delivery

Check that your provider is incorporating containerized runtimes with autoscaling and auto-recovery. This helps to ensure your POS system is secure, highly resilient, and scalable, providing a robust foundation for your business operations regardless of the adverse conditions typical of cyber security attacks that target availability.

How to choose a reputable POS vendor for security

 

Achieving POS security often comes down to choosing the right provider. Reputable POS vendors design solutions to meet these challenges. If security is a high priority for your business, as it should be, it's wise to do your research. Plenty of information online, including testimonials and word-of-mouth, to help you find a suitable POS system for your business.

1. Evaluate the vendor’s security features

Start by assessing the security measures offered by the POS vendor. Look for:

• Data encryption: To secure customer data, the POS system will ensure that it is encrypted during transactions to prevent unauthorized access.

• PCI compliance: Verify the vendor adheres to Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS). This compliance is essential for the secure handling of cardholder data.

• Regular updates: The POS software installed should be updated frequently to protect against new security threats.

• Two-factor authentication (2FA): Adds an extra layer of security for accessing the system.

2. Research the vendor’s reputation

Reputation speaks volumes about a vendor’s reliability and commitment to security. Consider the following steps:

• Read reviews and testimonials: Look for feedback from other businesses, especially those in your industry, to gauge customer satisfaction.

• Seek word-of-mouth recommendations: Ask for recommendations from trusted industry peers or business networks.

• Check references: Reputable vendors should provide references or case studies showcasing successful implementations.

3. Assess vendor experience and expertise

An experienced POS vendor will likely anticipate and address potential security challenges effectively. Look for vendors who:

• Have experience working with businesses of similar size or industry.

• Offer tailored solutions that align with your specific security needs.

• Provide support for both hardware and software, ensuring comprehensive protection.

4. Understand their support and maintenance services

A reputable POS vendor should offer excellent customer support and maintenance to address data security and data breaches concerns promptly. Check if they provide:

• 24/7 support: Availability to resolve urgent issues quickly.

• Proactive monitoring: Tools to detect and mitigate threats before they escalate.

• Training resources: Materials or sessions to help your team securely understand and use the POS.

5. Consider integration capabilities

Security doesn’t operate in isolation. A good POS system security should integrate seamlessly with other tools, such as accounting software, inventory management, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems, without compromising data protection. Ensure the vendor has:

• Secure APIs for integrations.

• Proven compatibility with your existing systems.

6. Prioritize transparent pricing

Beware of vendors offering suspiciously low prices that may compromise security features. Ensure transparency in pricing, with clear details about:

• Initial costs.

• Maintenance fees.

• Upgrades or additional security features.

7. Test before committing

Request a demo or trial of the POS system. This allows you to evaluate:

• User-friendliness and ease of operation.

• Security features in action.

• Compatibility with your business workflows.

8. Look for long-term partnerships

Choosing a POS vendor isn’t just a transaction; it begins a long-term relationship. Select a provider committed to evolving technology to meet future security challenges and business needs.

Hii Checkout: a secure POS solution using the latest cloud technology

Hii Checkout is Extenda Retail's next-generation cloud-native POS solution leveraging Google Cloud technology to deliver a customer-focused experience across all channels. It's built upon a secure-by-design cloud infrastructure, adhering to industry-standard security frameworks. You can be sure that your data is kept confidential and private while reaping all of the benefits of a revolutionary Unified Commerce platform.

With Hii Checkout, POS security comes first:

• Regular security patches and updates ensure your system remains up-to-date and protected. Critical data is securely stored in the cloud, enabling rapid recovery without reliance on local POS terminals.

• Hii Checkout supports alternative checkout methods (including mobile and offline solutions), ensuring continuous operation during security incidents.

• Built-in security features, such as rest and transit encryption, robust IAM, and advanced intrusion prevention, protect your POS system from threats.

• Automated security testing is integrated into our CI/CD pipeline, ensuring that all components are regularly tested and secured.