With the recent high profile attacks on ecommerce sites, we think it’s a good time to talk a little about Magento PCI Compliant Hosting. This FAQ explains why it is important to you, the merchant.
So what is PCI Compliance?
PCI Compliance as defined by the PCI Compliance Security Standard Counsel as “In security terms, it means that your business adheres to the PCI DSS requirements for security management, policies, procedures, network architecture, software design and other critical protective measures.” In operational terms, it means making sure your customers’ payment card data is being kept safe. And, that they have confidence that they’re protected against the pain and cost of data breaches. View the PCI SSC website by clicking here.
Who needs to be compliant?
Anyone who accepts payment cards, online or offline, needs to be compliant.
If your company has credit card data stolen, who is responsible? 
YOU ARE! And the results could be fines and penalties, termination of right to accept credit cards, lawsuits and the loss of your customer’s trust. According to Reuters.com, the recent Target Credit Card Data breach cost Target $61 million. Furthermore, analysts believe this number will continue to grow. Some even saying up to $1 billion.
Who enforces PCI Compliance?
The PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) sets PCI compliance requirements . However, the Payment Card Brands (Visa, MasterCard) are responsible for enforcing the standards. Credit card companies require store owners to sign a contract that they will secure credit card data. The credit card brand may force you to pay a fine if your web site is not secure. Payment card brands often test web sites.
So what do you need to do and when?
The time to act is NOW! You should call your merchant service firm in order to find the process for becoming PCI Compliant. In addition, read the Getting Started Guide from the PCI Compliance Security Standard Counsel. Also, contact your web site host and verify that your site is on Magento PCI Compliant hosting. If not, move your eCommerce store to a PCI Compliant host. Many host firms offer very good rates with great service.
Quick and Easy Magento PCI Compliant Hosting
Most of all, we believe that security is a non-negotiable. As a result, all Web 2 Market hosting and coding is PCI Compliant. We’d rather not have a client than cut corners and put you at risk. If you’re a Web 2 Market client, you can rest knowing that we’re working hard to protect your data and your reputation.
Please see www.pcisecuritystandards.org for more information on PCI compliance.
Finally, for help with these or any other e-Commerce topics please contact us today.