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Archives for August 2012
Improved Data Security Against New Threats
SSL or TLS Promote Improved Data Security Against New Threats
In today’s business world, there is virtually no company that can operate completely without computers and related technology. Large businesses and corporations usually have an entire IT department dedicated to providing for their needs and keeping company operations safe online, but those who run and manage small businesses rarely have the luxury of even a single in-house expert to make sure that their business technology is kept secured against an evolving threat environment.
One recent threat that businesses must keep abreast of is the Firesheep Wi-Fi attack tool, which allows a hacker to monitor users’ web sessions on a network once he or she has managed to make an illegal connection to that network. Such monitoring means that an attacker can see any information that crosses the screens of legitimate employees; using screen capping tools, such information can be saved for later analysis and use. Data that the company believed to be secure can end up entering the public domain if the hacker chooses to release it, but a more likely scenario is that the hacker will use it to commit identity theft or financial fraud – or offer it for sale to others who specialize in these criminal activities.
Data security experts advise that the best way to prevent the use of the Firesheep Wi-Fi attack tool is to make sure that connections to all websites are managed through a Secure Socket Layers (SSL) connection or its successor, a Transport Secure Layer (TLS) connection. This should even include connections to the company’s own home page.
Using TLS or SSL does increase the processing power needed to conduct online operations. For this reason, many businesses have shied away from extensive use of it. According to those with vast experience in the field of computer safety, however, this strategy exposes the business to serious vulnerabilities that far outweigh the cost of preventing them in the first place.
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Proper Care and Maintenance- POS Point of Sale Equipment
Proper Care and Maintenance of POS Equipment: Practical Considerations
One of the lesser-understood issues when it comes to the proper care of point of sale equipment is the need for a restaurant or other small business to supply POS systems with clean electrical power. In fact, challenges related to a stable and steady electrical supply is the number one cause of problems with POS equipment. This only stands to reason; since POS systems contain highly sensitive and sophisticated electronics, even small fluctuations in the supply of power can lead to adverse effects.
Such fluctuations can occur when other machines consuming electricity are located on the same circuit. Items such as fax machines and copiers are obvious candidates to isolate from the circuit being used by the POS circuit, but other machines such as blenders and microwaves can also cause problems in the steady supply of electricity.
Solutions
Most POS equipment repair technicians advise that POS systems should be installed on a dedicated circuit used only by the system itself. This circuit should be supplied with an isolated ground wire. Another alternative is to use power filtering. This can help to eliminate “noise” in the circuit and level out spikes in power. It is, however, considered less of a complete solution than moving the POS system to a dedicated circuit.
Businesses should discuss their power situation with the point of sale repair firm providing them regular service. Only then can they feel assured that all proper safeguards have been put in place.
Wireless handheld point of sale units
When servers or other employees use handheld units instead of a centralized touchscreen, it can improve efficiencies and return on investment because workers are “on the floor” far more. This enables them to interact more extensively with customers, which has the effect of both improving customer service – a key component helping to guarantee return business – and of giving them more opportunities to make sales.
Wireless POS terminals are, therefore, an excellent addition to POS systems, particularly in the restaurant trade. They come with their own considerations, however. Businesses with tile or concrete flooring will need to make sure they invest in the most rugged units possible, even though these tend to be more expensive. Such an investment will minimize the need for POS equipment repair. Restaurants that have carpeting, which provides a “soft landing” for dropped units, may be able to successfully use less rugged units.
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