As website owners, we know that security is one of the most important things on our website. With so many hackers out there today, you want to make sure that your website is as secure as possible. When it comes to accepting payments on your website, though, security becomes even more important. You never want someone else’s credit card information ending up in the wrong hands! In this blog post, we’ll cover 10 things you should think about before collecting payments on your website – and what steps you can take to increase website security in general!
What website security measures should I take when collecting payments on my website?
You want to make sure that your website is as secure as possible. This involves features like SSL certificates, firewall, and malware protection in addition to the normal safety precautions you already follow for your website! You never want someone else’s credit card information ending up in the wrong hands, so make sure that you take website security seriously when collecting payments.
Use SSL certificates: An SSL certificate is a must for any website that collects payments. This ensures that all communications between your website and the customer’s browser are encrypted, keeping their information safe from prying eyes.
Install and configure a firewall: A firewall helps to protect your website from unauthorized access, as well as attacks like DDoS.
Use malware protection: Malware can infect your website and steal customer information or even damage your website. Make sure that you have a good malware protection solution in place to keep your website safe.
What other security precautions should I take?
In addition to the website security features listed above, you should also follow some basic website safety precautions.
Use strong passwords: Your passwords should be long and include a variety of characters – including numbers, letters, and symbols. Never use the same password at more than one website!
Keep your software up to date: Software vulnerabilities are constantly being discovered and fixed. Make sure that you keep your website software up to date so that you’re taking advantage of these security fixes.
Use a secure hosting provider: Not all hosting providers are created equal when it comes to website security. Make sure that you choose a provider who takes website security seriously and has measures in place to protect your website.
Test your website for security vulnerabilities: You never know if you have an un-patched vulnerability or malware on your website until it’s too late. Make sure that you test regularly to uncover any issues before they cause problems!
What are the most common types of attacks?
There are many different kinds of website attacks out there today, but some of the most common include:
DDoS attacks: A Distributed Denial of Service attack is a website attack where multiple compromised systems send requests to your website with the intent of overwhelming it so that no legitimate traffic can get through. These types of website attacks are often initiated by bots or malware on users’ computers without them knowing! This type of attack can be very difficult to defend against without the help of a good firewall.
Cross-site scripting attacks: A cross-site scripting attack is when an attacker injects malicious code into your website, which is then executed by unsuspecting users who visit your website. This type of attack can allow the attacker access to sensitive information like user cookies, website data, website files (including website code), and even your web cam!
Brute force attacks: A brute force attack is where the attacker tries to guess what you password by systematically trying different combinations of characters until they find something that works. These types of website attacks are often automated with bots, which can make them very difficult to defend against.
SQL injection attacks: A website attack where the attacker tries to insert malicious code into your website’s database, which can then allow them access to sensitive information like website data and website files (including website code). These types of website attacks often come along with a DDoS or brute force attack as part of an overall plan by the attacker to take down your website.
Phishing attacks: A phishing attack is where the attacker tries to fool you into giving them your personal information like your username, password, or credit card number by sending you a fake email or website. Be very careful about any emails or websites that ask for this type of information and never enter it anywhere unless you’re absolutely sure it’s safe!
Malware attacks: A malware attack is where the attacker installs malicious software on your website or computer with the intent of stealing information, taking down your website, or just causing general mayhem. Make sure that you have a good malware protection solution in place to protect yourself from these types of website attacks.
What is a merchant provider?
Merchant providers are companies that provide website owners with the means to accept payments on their website. Many merchant providers are also payment gateways, which mean they help you integrate credit card processing into your website’s checkout process.
Popular Merchant Providers and Payment Gateways
Stripe: Stripe is a popular merchant provider (our favorite) that allows website owners to accept payments. They also have built-in fraud protection and are very developer friendly, making it easy to get started using their services.
PayPal: PayPal is another popular payment gateway that allows website owners to accept payments in many currencies. They offer a wide range of website add-ons and features to help you get started.
Authorize.net: Authorize is a popular payment gateway that website owners can use to accept payments. They offer a wide range of features and support for website owners.
Don’t forget about tax and shipping costs!
When you’re setting up your website to accept payments, make sure to also account for tax and shipping costs. These costs can vary depending on where you are located, so it’s important to do your research ahead of time!
Test everything out before going live!
Make sure to test everything out before going live with your website. This includes website hosting, website security, and your website’s checkout process.
The bottom line is that security should be a top priority for any website owner. You can’t afford to take your customers’ trust and their information lightly! Have you thought about how secure your website is? If not, now’s the time to consider these tips. We hope this blog post has helped you think more critically about your own site – it could save you from some serious trouble in the future! Our team at Graticle would love to help make sure your online presence stays safe and sound – just reach out if we can help with anything else! (360) 450-3711
