E-commerce refers to the sale of goods or services over the Internet. This business practice is developing at an unprecedented pace with many businesses setting up websites where clients can buy products and pay for services directly. The growth in e-commerce has not gone unnoticed as hackers and other types of online criminals try to cause damage and losses to the process. Businesses need to analyze threats and defenses used in e-commerce to prevent losses and identity theft through a process known as website security analysis. This process involves analyzing user end security, SSL, passwords, server firewall, and providing multiple points of protection.
User End Security
Some of the most effective means of protecting your computer from Internet attacks is by installing antivirus, antispyware, and firewall software. These defenses make it hard for criminals to hack the business or client computer. Without these defenses, business websites are vulnerable to hackers who can infiltrate the system to view or steal client and business passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive information stored in their computers. While businesses should take every precaution to protect their clients on the Internet, shoppers should also take measures to protect their computers while shopping online.
SSL
This is one of the main components of website security. Secure Socket Layer, or SSL, is a technology that encrypts customer information from the time they enter the information on the website and protect the information as it travels to the server. SSL certification is provided by a government-mandated body, normally on a yearly subscription. Web browsers check website’s SSL certification and display a warning if a site lacks the certification.
Server Firewall
Another significant component of website security is the server firewall. This is a software program that works in a similar manner as a software firewall. This application monitors website’s incoming and outgoing access requests. Server firewalls recognize suspicious incoming server requests and block them, making it hard for criminals to access business website servers. Advanced server firewalls include two-server firewalls set in a special configuration known as demilitarized zone. In this configuration, the server is placed between two firewalls, with secure information behind the firewalls.
Passwords
An important element of website security analysis is analyzing website password policy. When users sign up on a website, they provide their email addresses, usernames, and passwords. The passwords should conform to the website password policy, which refers to a set of rules set up by websites to ensure password security. For example, websites may require users to set passwords with a minimum number of letters or numbers. Some websites have a lockout threshold that blocks users who try to log in to the site with incorrect passwords.
Multiple Points of Protection
Modern hackers use advanced tools such as Trojan horses and advanced spyware programs to steal or damage data in private and public networks. Website security analysis audits data protection methods used in websites and helps to develop multiple data protection systems to deter unauthorized access.
A secure website where customers can safely shop not only protects the website but also provides it with the security it requires to protect sensitive client information. If you have a business website, a Jumpem website security analysis conducted on a yearly basis will help you stay updated on website security.
For more information on Website Security Analysis, call a Jumpem representative at 1 (800) 293-5867.