E-Commerce Website Security: Top 14 Must-Have Cybersecurity Features

Published on: 14 April 2021 Last Updated on: 30 December 2024

With the rise of digitization, there has been a rise in cybercrime.

In fact, when a cyberattack happens, it harms a company directly and indirectly. Also, it affects its reputation in its potential customers’ eyes. In fact, you cannot count but estimate the loss that happens. Hence, it is important to ensure e-commerce website security.

In this article, you will learn about the top fourteen ways to ensure e-commerce website security. However, before that, it is also important to understand the importance of ensuring security in e-commerce websites. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.

Importance Of E-Commerce Website Security

In 2024, most businesses are working in the online framework. Their revenues heavily depend on their websites.

If they do not emphasize their website’s security, their customer base and reputation will become vulnerable.

As an eCommerce website owner, you need to comply with certain payment guidelines. These include PCI/DSS (Payment Card Industry – Data Security Standard) to ensure smooth payment transactions.

Moreover, you need to install security protocols to secure your data integrity. They will not only protect your customer data from hackers but also keep the search engines satisfied.

Thus, security is essential for your eCommerce website.

Top 14 Ways To Ensure E-Commerce Website Security

The following are some of the major cybersecurity features you must ensure on your website:

1. Implement 2-factor Authentication

Does not matter how frustrating it may sound. As long as you are keeping your customer’s data secure, every security method is fine.

Employing 2-factor authentication may make your customers a bit agitated. They first enter the login credentials and then enter the OTP received on their number to decrease security breaches and hacks drastically.

So, employ the process and safeguard your customer accounts.

2. Get HTTPs And SSL Certification

To obtain HTTPS authentication businesses need an SSL certificate to be installed on a website. Before installation, you need to buy an SSL certificate. This is because it encrypts the data communication between the server and the client.

Then, it passes the data over a secure network through cryptographic functions (symmetric & asymmetric). This keeps cybercriminals from intercepting the communication.

Out of all the SSL certificates, the EV SSL certificates require a user to undergo a unique validation process to verify his credibility through his name, ID, address, and more.

Thus, get an EV SSL to secure your Ecommerce website and obtain the highest validation level.

3. Comply With PCI-DSS Guidelines For A Secure Payment Gateway System

PCI-DSS or Payment Card Industry – Data Security Standard is a body that governs a website’s right to maintain an online payment transaction system.

If you are a website that sees over six million transactions every year, you must be level 1 compliant. However, if your transactions range from 20,000 per year, you are safe as a level 4 client of PCI-DSS.

The compliance helps you to secure your payment gateway system. Also, it allows you to use a third-party app to accept payments and make refunds on your behalf.

4. Use A VPN As A Night Watchman

When you use public networks such as Wi-Fis to access the site, it is better to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to watch your back and restrict other connections to manipulate the ongoing connection between the server and the client.

Without a VPN, hackers can easily manipulate the payment transaction and hack credit and debit card details.

VPN will secure your customers’ payment transactions even on Wi-Fi and keep their sensitive data as safe as houses.

5. Restrict Malicious Bots Using reCAPTCHA

The reCAPTCHA method is extremely effective in keeping hackers at bay. Basically, ReCAPTCHA generates random questions that a bot cannot answer.

There are plenty of malicious bots lurking around the internet in hopes of finding an ideal prey for cybercriminals.

When they get access to your account, malicious bots can steal information, leak it, or even bring your site down.

ReCAPTCHA adds an extensive layer of security that is impenetrable for a code or a bot.

It restricts bad guys’ entrance by protecting login pages, signup pages, contact form pages, form submission pages, payment gateway pages, etc.

6. Start Using A Reliable Content Management System (CMS)

Choosing the right CMS is important for businesses to determine whether an eCommerce website will stay safe.

Mediocre CMSs are a big risk to have. They might help you save a few bucks, but you will always be vulnerable to theft.

But, CMSs like WordPress and Joomla have renounced entities having customer bases in millions.

Moreover, they are regular in updating security patches and always stay a step ahead of the bad guys.

The only thing you need to do is keep them updated.

7. Do Not Use Unsolicited Extensions And Plugins

Plugins and extensions are necessary to enhance your website’s reach. They allow you access to multiple tools and features on the internet.

However, not all plugins are safe to install. These days, due to rising cybercrimes, you must be aware of what you’re installing or adding.

Cybercriminals can engrave malicious codes in the plugins, and when a user installs it, they get access to his site.

Before installing any plugin, make sure that its source is known. Check for its reviews and ratings across the internet.

Also, check its performance reports and badges for further inquiry and self-satisfaction.

8. Perform Audits For Site Security

Site security auditing does not interest a lot of merchants, but it is essential for their survival.

Site security auditing includes checking whether the anti-virus is working appropriately and whether security protocols are repelling attacks or not.

As a merchant, you must initiate site auditing from time to time. It will help you prevent attacks and fix bugs and technical glitches.

If detected early, some security issues can be repelled; otherwise, they may harm the website if they stay for longer periods.

So, keep auditing your website at regular intervals of time.

9. Install A Firewall In Your Web Application

If you own a web application, the firewall can benefit you immensely.

Web Application Firewall or WAF protects the website or web app by analyzing the traffic between the application and the internet.

A firewall protects the user data of the application from XSS (cross-site scripting), SQL injection, cross-site request forgery, etc.

A firewall is the need of the hour to suffice the mounting cyberattacks and help sustain the business.

10. Perform Data-Backup Regularly

In today’s tech world, data is more important than cash in your wallet. Here, you can earn cash again. However, once you lose data, you cannot retrieve them in the same proportion.

For businesses, data is their lifeline. They thrive on data and channel their operations accordingly.

Since it is immensely important, protecting it is quite a task for businesses as cybercriminals are always on the lookout for data.

The best way to protect your data is by creating a copy of it and saving it on the cloud.

Cloud allows you to access your data anywhere at any time, making it extremely reliable.

11. Regular Software Updates

Regular software updates are crucial for e-commerce website security since they come with patches that deal with vulnerabilities. Additionally, since developers always research and improve cybersecurity, new updates let you access the latest features.

In fact, they protect your website from new threats like ransomware. Also, it offers protection against data breach attempts. Moreover, software updates also let your website meet the compliance requirements of the e-commerce industry.

Furthermore, it also helps in improving the overall performance of your e-commerce website.

12. Strong Password Policies

Firstly, if there is a strong password policy, cyber criminals will not gain unauthorized access to the website.

As a result, you can also prevent financial losses that may happen to your business. Moreover, you can also save your business from reputational damage.

Generally, cybercriminals and hackers use weak passwords to penetrate networks. Thereby, they stop your business’s critical processes. Hence, with a strong password policy, you can ensure e-commerce website security.

13. Use A Secure Hosting Environment

A secure hosting environment protects your e-commerce website from various security threats. These include hacking, data breaches, malware, etc.

Apart from that, it also helps to maintain your site’s integrity. Also, it helps you to protect sensitive information like passwords and credit card numbers. Additionally, it also offers protection against DDoS attacks

Moreover, site downtime negatively affects your search engine ranking. Here, a secure hosting environment can help you a lot.

14. Focus On User Education And Training

If you invest in user education and training, you can help them respond to cybersecurity threats. Basically, your users will learn to identify and respond to threats such as phishing, social engineering, and malicious attachments.

Thereby, you can reduce the likelihood of cyberattacks that can compromise your e-commerce website security. As a result, you will gain more trust from your users and customers.

Final Thoughts

eCommerce is booming every day. New ways of marketing, selling, and attracting are in place to make life convenient for customers.

On the hind side, hackers also build new ways to capture as much data as possible. Basically, they employ bots and bugs to do the dirty work. Bots can enter your website and steal customer data, whereas bugs can get attached to plugins and gain access once you install them.

Keeping track of what you are installing, where you are visiting, and who you are allowing access to is of paramount importance. However, everything can get simple if you follow these fourteen steps. This way, you can frame a robust website security system.

Do you have more recommendations on how to ensure e-commerce website security? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.

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Soumava Goswami

A passionate writer and an avid reader, Soumava is academically inclined and loves writing on topics requiring deep research. Having 3+ years of experience, Soumava also loves writing blogs in other domains, including digital marketing, business, technology, travel, and sports.

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Dangers Of Chemical Spills On Humans, Buildings, And Environment

Do you work with chemicals? While working with chemicals, do you take all preventive measures? Whether you have years of experience working with chemical spills or you are new to chemical handling, proper safety is vital. A spillage can happen at any time and can cause massive damage not only to the person handling the chemical but to the surroundings also. Dangers Of Chemical Spills On Humans, Buildings, And Environment: We will make you aware of the different dangers that are associated with chemical spillage. Effects on Human Health: The threat of chemicals varies from one type of chemical to another. Even their effect varies from person to person. But if we talk in general, the more the concentration of the chemical spill higher are the risks. Chemical spills can have some adverse effects on the humans. Transferring chemicals without using safety equipment can even lead to loss of life. When a human body comes in contact with the corrosive chemical, you can suffer burns, damaged eyesight, and your respiratory system can also be harmed. Some chemicals also have delayed effects. For example, if a person inhales asbestos accidentally, the chemical can show its effects years later in the form of lung cancer. Moreover, some of these substances are flammable and makes significant damage via fire burst. Direct contact with these toxic substances is hazardous to health. They spread quickly and damage the tissue by getting absorbed through the skin. Effects on Structural Buildings: When a chemical spill occurs, it possesses immense damage to the property. The equipment can get fully damaged, or it can also make colossal destruction to the complete structure or the building. A fire can break out as a result of the chemical spill. If this happens, it causes massive damage to the building, and if workers are present, their life is also at risk. Transferring chemicals without a secure liquid transfer pump can put both the operator and the property at risk if there is a spill. If a spill does occur depending on the chemical that was spilled workers may not be able to enter the facility until the spill or chemical is removed entirely which could prove costly for clean up and removal. Whenever such a spill takes place in a building, the person cleaning the spill is also at risk. It is advisable not to make attempts for protecting property if there is a possibility of any damage to human health or life. Effects on the Environment: A chemical spills has a high impact on the environment. Spilled chemicals can run off into the water and cause considerable damage to marine life by making the water contaminated. When these spills reach the soil, severe ecological damage can be observed. That further results in making the area not suitable for flora and fauna. As the chemical penetrates deep into the soil, it lets the plant absorb it during its growth period. It shows its disastrous results someone consumes these contaminated plants or crops. Moreover, after penetrating deep into the soil, it reaches underground aquifers and spreads to a large area with the natural water movement. As the water tends to keep moving at its pace, it lets the toxic chemical keep spreading. When its effects are detected, it is difficult or also seems impossible to trace the origin or source from which it had spread It doesn’t matter how carefully you handle the chemicals, spillage still happens. This is not the event that occurs rarely. So, it is advisable to use proper safety measures and make full proof, spill response plans to minimize the damage. It is also advisable to approach environmental protection agencies to clear the toxic sites from spills before the contamination spread to a broader region. Read Also: Use Floor Polishing For Keeping Your Flooring Looking New Staying Safe In The Office: 8 Workplace Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

Five Tips to Make Sure Your Security Software Is Actually Secure

Security software is a must for any business. Your systems contain a lot of important company information, as well as the personal information of your employees and your customers. A security leak or a hacker can be devastating to your business. However, you shouldn’t make the mistake of thinking that just because you have security software that you don’t have anything to worry about. You have to know what to do, or what not to do, to make sure that software keeps you as secure as you think. You can also look for a network security company that will help secure your business. Choose the Right Software The first step is choosing the right software. You have to choose software that provides your business with the features you need, but you also have to choose a trusted name. You need to make sure that your planning begins by finding the correct network security company. Look for credibility, experience, and reputation in the field. Make sure that you are confident of their abilities. A SOAR vendor, which stands for security orchestration, automation, and response, is a good choice for many businesses. The right system can provide you with end-to-end security operations management, which means the program covers every security concern with thorough protection. Choosing an experienced, full-service vendor also means you always have access to a customer service associate who can answer your questions and make modifications to your program to ensure it works for your specific business. Check Your VPN Your virtual private network (VPN) is important because it guards your internet traffic. No one can gain access to the information on your network unless they are provided with direct access to the network. Even if a device is using an outside internet connection, with a VPN, not even the owner of that connection can access your information. That includes information about the security of your virtual systems. The problem is, just having a VPN isn’t enough. It could be leaking your IP address, giving hackers a way into your system. To make sure your VPN isn’t leaking: Turn off your VPN. Conduct a Google search for, "What is my IP address." Engage your VPN. Search Google for your IP address again. When you check your VPN these ways, you should see that the address is different. If it isn’t, you have a problem with your VPN. You can also use an exit server to check your VPN. When you check your IP address, it should match your address and the country you selected. Allow Authorized Cell Phone Use Only It’s normal for employees to access company platforms and information on the go. It’s so convenient that many employers encourage it. You can even access your desktop from a tablet or phone, which means you can continue working, even when you’re not in the office. Unfortunately, using other devices can compromise security. Apple devices are relatively secure, but Android devices are not. No matter what kind of device your employees have, they should be updated with the latest security software. This can be a difficult thing to police. If working at home is expected of employees, provide them with company devices that you have control over updating. Assign Authorized Users Carefully Not everyone should have access to your company’s personal information. Not all employees should have access to certain systems and programs either. They only need access to the information and systems that are relevant to their job description. Assign authorized users carefully to help prevent information leaks. Although most employees have pure intentions, they can still make mistakes with important company information. That includes accessing information from unsecured systems or accidentally sharing the information with someone else who shouldn’t have access to that information. It’s especially important when someone leaves the company. As part of the exit process, it’s important to unauthorize access to all company systems. Schedule Continuous Training Training and development are important to any business but don’t think your job is over as soon as the initial training is over. Security systems are changing all the time, as are the needs of your business. It is important to continually train your staff to ensure your systems are secure. It includes refresher training on basic security information, like proper password selection, as well as specific training on how to use the actual security program. Partnering with a quality provider enables you to use them as a resource when planning your trainings, and in some cases, they may even be able to provide you with training led by one of their associates. Don’t think that just because you have security software that your system is actually secure. There are a lot of things you can do to make sure your company’s information stays safe. Read Also: What Are The Things You Need To Know While Choosing Antivirus Software? Why DRM Is The New Standard For Document Security Top 10 Computer Security Mistakes

The Top Reasons Why Your Business Needs a Security Guard

Whether you have a small- or medium-sized business such as a restaurant, a convenience shop, a retail shop, or a bank, your business could well be a target for intruders and those who are criminally inclined. Security should be a top priority, and for good reason, especially if your business is in an area that has had its share of security issues. The need for security guard is huge when you want to ensure the safety of your business. The good news, however, is that you can make use of a security guard to enhance security for your premises, and security guards are not just there to provide protection, either – they can also assist your employees and customers. So how else can a security guard benefit your business? Here are the top reasons why your business needs a security guard. Reasons Why Your Business Needs Security Guard These are some of the factors that you have to take care of while you want to make choices to achieve your objectives for making the use of a security guard. 1. Enhanced security and protection One apparent reason why you need a security guard for your business is enhanced security and protection. If you have a security guard present at your business, they can enhance your peace of mind as well as the peace of mind of your employees along with your customers. Employees who work in an area with a high risk of security breaches can be more productive because they need no longer worry about theft or break-ins and their personal safety. Your customers will also be assured by the knowledge that you have taken substantial steps to ensure their security while they are on your premises. This is especially true if you have highly-valuable merchandise or if your business is in an area with a high incidence of crime. 2. An invaluable deterrent Just the simple fact that you have a security guard at your premises is often enough to deter criminals from breaking in or steal something from your premises. A thief or burglar will think twice before they target your business if they can see a professional security guard at your premises. Aside from this, professional security guards are specially-trained to identify and detect suspicious behaviour or activities. They can assess a specific situation and take the necessary steps to ensure that no security breaches occur. A security guard is also a better deterrent than a camera or a standard system for security, as they are highly visual. 3. Improve your service to customers With a static security guard such as one from specialists in security in Oxford like Securipol Ltd, you can improve your service to your customers. The security guard can assist your customers and man a desk or reception area, and they can also serve as a sentry in order to control access to a specific sector of your premises. A security guard can act as an escort for employees and customers who are trying to locate their cars in the parking lot, and they can help your customers reach their destination within your premises. 4. A thorough way of dealing with criminal incidents and other situations Security guards often receive different levels of professional training in regards to responding to an incident or a crime. Some guards can note down specific details of a situation and then get in touch with the police. Others can detain intruders and suspects. Most will also know how to handle difficult situations (such as fights and disturbances). With a security guard, you can be sure that any problematic situation will be dealt with in the proper manner. Read Also: How To Improve Workplace Security Protecting Your Business From Retail Theft

E-Commerce Website Security: Top 14 Must-Have Cybersecurity Features

Importance Of E-Commerce Website Security