Keeping Credit Card Information Secure

mbwtrpolo — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:49:42 +0000

Securing your customer’s personal and credit card information is becoming more important than ever as the level of identity theft rises. Small and medium businesses are increasingly being targeted by cyber criminals because they often lack the resources to keep necessary data security software updated. Because many large businesses have extensive IT security divisions, cyber criminals, often working abroad, have modified their tactics to focus on small businesses. Here are a few ways to increase the security of personal data such as credit card information and social security numbers, both of which have significant value to cyber criminals.

Install data protection measures on any computer connected to a network, particularly computers with access to the Internet; be sure automatic software updates are enabled
Ensure that wireless networks are secured with at least WPA (a secure form of wireless network protection) encryption; WEP security (which dates back to 1997 and is very insecure) can be hacked in a matter of minutes
Store paperwork and receipts containing personal information in locked cabinets and in discreet places to minimize exposure to persons without a need for such information
Turn Internet-connected devices off at night; not only does this conserve energy but a computer that is turned off cannot be hacked remotely

Even simple preventative measures can make a difference. “Securing the entrances of one’s factory or store is second nature to any business owner and so cyber security protections must become,” says Phil Reitinger, deputy under secretary at the Department of Homeland Security. Securing your networks can make you much less of a target to identity thieves and limit the damage a hacker could do to your business.

For more information:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32841513/ns/technology_and_science-security/

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/networking/expert/bowman_03july28.mspx

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Keeping Credit Card Information Secure