Internet and data security
The concern most often expressed is that credit card details may be
intercepted as they cross the Internet, allowing someone to “clone” the
card and make unauthorised purchases. The SSL (Secure Sockets
Layer)
“padlock on the browser” ensures that these details are encrypted,
making
interception virtually impossible.
However, a more real threat exists once the customer data is stored inside company web sites. The Data Protection Act puts an obligation on you to safeguard personal details of all customers, suppliers and staff. It is important to ensure that both encryption and firewall technologies are used to prevent hackers from breaking in to steal or even alter your data.
Similar encryption precautions should be taken by anyone carrying a laptop with confidential or personal data stored on it, as recent high profile stories concerning military personnel have illustrated!
Entrelevel Limited can assist you in undertaking a risk assessment and with hiring a security specialist to implement the necessary counter-measures.
Digital Signatures
The Electronic Communications Act 2000 made Digital Signatures legally
recognised in the UK.
Digital Signatures rely on public and private electronic “keys” issued as part of a Digital Certificate, with appropriate encryption technology. The certificate is issued by any one of a number of “Certification Authorities” via Registration Authorities who check the credentials of the applicant. Whilst some $9.99 certificates simply attest to the existence of the applicant’s email address, others rely on more rigorous checks (eg by Chambers of Commerce in the ChamberSign scheme).
Businesses will become familiar with these over the coming months as emails, web sites and trade documents begin to appear with digital signatures. You need to plan now how to deal with requests for digitally signed information and even a digitally signed web site. Will all members of staff be allowed to sign on behalf of the company, or just a few senior people?
Entrelevel Limited can assist you to implement digital signatures in your business.
Next: Payment options