What security risk does ecommerce involve

[Sanjeev Nanda]

I heard that the security risks run by web merchants are similar to those of mail-order companies. Is it true? Can someone give me a clear explanation please.

 

[Web Hosting UK]

Security risks would depend on several factors:

• Your Web Hosting provider, is their web server secure? Any vulnerability which the hacker can take advantage of a server will compromise your website.
• CMS (content management system) you are using - If you are using e.g WordPress make sure your installation and plugins are always kept up to date to prevent vulnerabilities. Same applies for other installations to keep them upto date.
• SSL (secure socket layer) - For establishing an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. Definatly required if you are selling goods/products online.

 

[antropy]

I heard that the security risks run by web merchants are similar to those of mail-order companies. Is it true? Can someone give me a clear explanation please.

Well with ecommerce the main security risks are:

1. Hackers getting credit card details
2. Hackers getting customer details such as email addresses

With mail-order, credit card details aren't sent and neither are email addresses, so no, the risks aren't really similar.

 

[Mr D]

Well with ecommerce the main security risks are:

1. Hackers getting credit card details
2. Hackers getting customer details such as email addresses

With mail-order, credit card details aren't sent and neither are email addresses, so no, the risks aren't really similar.

Been a while since did mail order, sending credit card details was pretty common. Unless you wanted to wait an extra couple of weeks for delivery and sent a cheque.

 

[antropy]

Been a while since did mail order, sending credit card details was pretty common. Unless you wanted to wait an extra couple of weeks for delivery and sent a cheque.

Yikes, I can't imagine that happening these days!

 

[AllUpHere]

Yikes, I can't imagine that happening these days!

People used to think nothing of filling in an order form with their name, address, phone number, and complete credit card details. Seems a bit daft now doesn't it.

 

[Mr D]

Ah, the bad old days.
Yes, security has improved a lot since. The scammers merely changed their tactics to compensate.

 

[Bates]

I'm guessing I'm the poor guy still dealing with that generation? I have a full Magento site and still get mail orders with a cheque .

 

[Mr D]

I'm guessing I'm the poor guy still dealing with that generation? I have a full Magento site and still get mail orders with a cheque .

Can I use a postal order to pay?

 

[Farhan Saeed]

Been a while since did mail order, sending credit card details was pretty common. Unless you wanted to wait an extra couple of weeks for delivery and sent a cheque.

Its right and do not use null plugin or theme.

 

[Mr D]

Its right and do not use null plugin or theme.

Back then I wouldn't have known a null plugin if it had turned up at my front door.
Theme was part of a place we went to for fun. The other part being park.

 

[antropy]

I have a full Magento site and still get mail orders with a cheque .

Oh dear haha. How do you find Magento?