Mobile security seems to be a misnomer of sorts. We are now living in a generation when mobile technology has impacted several aspects of human living, but at the same time we are exposed to the threats of identity theft and cyber fraud. It seems as if the extent of the benefits brought about by mobile devices is limited by the security required to safeguard personal and financial data. That’s why it’s more important today Securing Smartphone Card Readers.
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Of course, we cannot discount the level of convenience that smartphones and mobile devices have afforded business owners. Back in the day, we’re contented with using mobile phones to improve customer service and organization of processes. These days are more exciting, as more businesses are relying on mobile transactions for their daily operations.
Take the case of payments. Aside from traditional face-to-face meetups and over-the-counter transactions, financial transactions may be accomplished through mobile gadgets. One amazing invention to make use of mobiles for payment is the credit card reader, which allows you to accept payments from credit or debit cards on the fly.
Sure, this strategy may be ultra-convenient because you can accept credit cards anywhere, but is it really safe? Here are some ways to amp up the security in using smartphone card readers.
Don’t use jailbroken mobile phones
This is a very obvious security measure, but it really needs to be emphasized. Rooted or jailbroken mobile devices were configured as such in order to bypass app payments or customize core functions. Unfortunately, this scheme triggers a higher risk of security vulnerabilities, which may lead to personal data breach.
Antivirus company McAfee advises against jailbreaking or rooting mobile phones. “By hacking your device, you can potentially open security holes that may have not been readily apparent, or undermine the device’s built-in security measures.” Using a highly secure smartphone card reader won’t achieve its purpose if you use a mobile phone that’s compromised.
Use Point-to-Point Encryption
One way of preventing mobile security threats and securing smartphone card readers is to use a Point-to-Point Encryption (P2PE) solution. This method converts credit card data into an encrypted code that is undecipherable by even the mobile phone owner. Although there are no validated P2PE solutions as of yet, the Payment Card Industry Council has approved companies that are equipped with providing this kind of solution.
Configure phone locking mechanism
Aside from preventing your friends from reading your private messages, locking your mobile device is a very effective tool to make financial transactions absolutely secure. It may be disturbing for you to unlock your phone after 30 seconds of inactivity, but it could be your first line of defense and help securing smartphone card readers. “Sure, you look at your mobile phone every 30 seconds during the course of a day and entering in a PIN is a pain, but just compare that to what you might lose if your device is stolen and compromised”.
Use a secure Internet connection
Never perform online financial transactions using a public WiFi, because hackers may gain access to passwords and personal information. It would be best to use your own WiFI network or connect to a secure line.
Mobile devices can do practically anything these days, especially as more apps and accessories are being developed. Amidst all of the tech upgrades, always be on alert for potential security threats that may compromise your personal data. In this way, you can maximize your mobile device without fear or insecurity.
