Criminals seeking to steal payment card data are increasingly targeting point-of-sale (POS) terminals. Such illegal activities include accessing POS terminals and inserting a “bug” that reads cardholder data and associated PINs. Other tactics include installing miniature cameras or video recording devices pointed at PIN-entry devices.
Here are some important steps merchants can take to reduce the risk of having their POS terminals compromised:
- Protect POS equipment – Merchants should track POS terminals and their serial numbers; routinely inspect terminals and PIN-entry devices to confirm serial numbers and ensure there are no signs of tampering.
- Safeguard POS equipment and the surrounding area – To prevent equipment “swaps”, Merchants should use secure stands, tethers, or security cables; check the retail environment for unauthorized hidden recording devices; install security cameras.
- Train staff on POS equipment tampering prevention – Merchants should help employees recognize the noticeable signs of equipment tampering; validate all POS equipment service and repair technicians.
For more information, please read Visa's in-depth article:
