How Different Online Industries Keep Customers Safe

With the number of things that we can do via the internet increasing, online security has never been more important for consumers. As the number of tasks that we can perform via websites and applications grows, so too does the level of risk and danger, with cybercriminals constantly finding new ways to steal data. Thankfully major brands across several industries are constantly working to combat these dangers with security features that incorporate the latest technology to help keep consumers safe. Here are some of the best examples of how online brands keep their customers and their data safe.

Online Banking

Online banking is arguably the industry for which cyber security is most important, with millions of users’ finances at risk of being compromised. Banks combat this threat by incorporating a number of security measures in all of their online processes, from the moment customers log in to when they’ve completed their business.

While most websites require just a username and password for customers to enter them, banking websites and apps make it slightly more difficult in order to keep your finances safe. For example, Barclays require customers to use a card reader that provides them with a unique single-use code that they must input along with their password and other information to be able to access their account online.

Additionally, Barclays also require verification from the card reader when performing tasks like setting up payees, changing account information, and making transfers. They also allow customers to use their phone app for verification when customers don’t have their card reader at hand. Other banks use text message verification in place of card readers; however, this method is considered to be less safe as cybercriminals are constantly finding ways of intercepting these messages.

Most banks also automatically log customers out after they’ve been inactive on the website or app for five minutes, which reduces the risk of an account being infiltrated.

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iGaming

The iGaming industry is another one for which security is a priority. Withdrawing and depositing funds is a key component of a lot of gaming and specifically online casinos, so it is vitally important that customers feel safe when doing it.

One popular example of a brand that has taken measures to ensure the safety of its customers is the Online Casino Betway. Their website and applications are certified by major financial brands like Visa and Mastercard, as well as payment platforms like PayPal, Trustly, and Skrill.

These trusted entities have strong reputations for preventing fraud and identity theft, so customers instantly feel safe when seeing their logos. For example, PayPal carefully surveys every transaction that takes place on their platform, while using high-level encryption for each one.

The games on the site are produced by award-winning online gaming software developers Microgaming who use Single Socket layer (SSL) technology that encrypts sensitive data to ensure it cannot be intercepted. They also use anti-DDoS software that stops cybercriminals from overloading web servers in order to disrupt services and steal users’ information.

Shopping apps

Online shopping is another industry where customers are at high risk of losing money to cybercrime. It is for this reason that E-commerce retailers help reduce the risk by only taking payments through trusted financial platforms. For example, one of the United Kingdom’s most popular retailers, Tesco, only accepts payment from Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Maestro and their own Tesco Bank cards. These cards are accepted by the supermarket itself and the customer can verify the payments through these outside companies’ online platforms, which means customers feel safe when paying and the supermarket can easily verify the payment.

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Tesco’s systems are regularly monitored for possible weaknesses and attacks, while also encrypting all sensitive data. They require proof of identity from customers before sharing any personal information and have stated their commitment to keeping data only for as long as it is necessary, in accordance with GDPR. Tesco has a privacy centre section on their website, where they outline their commitment to protecting customers’ information and provide tips for customers on how to keep their data safe.

It’s important to remember that cybersecurity is a joint responsibility between the consumer and the brand whose services they are using, so it’s important to take responsibility for your own safety online. Be sure to check out our tips for cybersecurity awareness for more advice.