In 2023, cyberattacks targeting e-commerce businesses surged, with IBM’s X-Force Threat Intelligence Index reporting a 71% increase in incidents involving stolen credentials compared to the previous year. As online retail continues to grow, so do customer expectations around security and trust.
It’s no longer enough to simply launch an e-commerce store. To compete and thrive, retailers must prioritize protecting their data, customers, and operational systems. This blog outlines key measures that e-commerce owners can implement to strengthen their websites, reduce risks, and foster long-term customer trust.
1. Prioritize Data Security from Day One
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SSL Certificates and HTTPS Encryption
One of the most foundational elements of e-commerce security is encrypting all data in transit using HTTPS. Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) certificates ensure the connection between your server and customers remains encrypted. Most modern browsers now flag sites without SSL as “not secure,” which can deter transactions and damage credibility.
To avoid this, obtain an SSL certificate from a trusted certificate authority and configure it sitewide. Consider enabling HTTP Strict Transport Security (HSTS) for added protection.
Secure Payment Gateways and PCI Compliance
E-commerce stores that handle transactions directly are responsible for PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) compliance. However, many businesses now rely on third-party gateways like Stripe, PayPal, or Authorize.net, which offload security responsibilities and reduce direct exposure to payment data.
Using trusted providers ensures card data is tokenized and stored securely, while compliance obligations are minimized.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Credential theft remains one of the top causes of data breaches. Requiring 2FA for all admin and vendor access adds a vital layer of protection. Apps like Google Authenticator or Authy generate time-sensitive login codes that significantly reduce the chances of unauthorized access.
2. Regularly Monitor Site Performance and Vulnerabilities
Uptime and Speed Monitoring
Poor website performance can affect both user experience and cybersecurity. Downtime or latency often indicates issues that may be security-related. Monitoring tools such as UptimeRobot or Pingdom track uptime and alert you to irregular behaviour.
Security Audits and Vulnerability Scanning
Routine vulnerability scans help detect weaknesses in themes, plugins, and backend code. Tools like Qualys and Sucuri SiteCheck automate this process and flag known exploits.
Frequent assessments (monthly or quarterly) allow businesses to address risks before they escalate into breaches.
3. Use Business Software Management to Stay in Control
Centralizing Operations with the Right Tools
Business software management platforms integrate sales, inventory, CRM, and order fulfillment into one system. These platforms, such as Odoo, NetSuite, or Zoho, can streamline operations and reduce human error.
By consolidating data and workflows, retailers gain better visibility and control over their business and limit exposure to fragmented systems.
Security Benefits of Management Platforms
Many ERP or business software platforms come with built-in security measures, including:
- Role-based access control
- Automatic data backups
- Audit trails and activity logs
Restricting access based on role ensures that employees only interact with the data they need, reducing the risk of accidental breaches or unauthorized activity.
4. Keep Plugins, Themes, and Platforms Updated
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Version Control and Update Automation
Outdated software remains one of the most common entry points for attackers. According to a Veracode report, nearly 76% of applications contain at least one security flaw in their third-party libraries.
Whether you’re using WordPress, Shopify, or a custom solution, keeping everything updated is essential. Automate updates when possible and run staging tests to ensure compatibility before pushing changes live.
5. Backup Everything Automatically
Daily vs. Weekly Backups
Data loss can stem from cyberattacks, server failures, or misconfigurations. For e-commerce sites, daily backups should be the minimum standard. More dynamic stores may benefit from hourly backups of critical data, such as orders or customer profiles.
Cloud-Based Storage Options
Cloud services such as Amazon S3, Backblaze B2, or Google Cloud Storage offer scalable and encrypted storage options. Make sure backups are stored in multiple locations and tested regularly for reliability.
Recovery Planning
In the event of a breach or technical failure, having a recovery plan in place can drastically shorten downtime. Define who is responsible for initiating recovery, test restore points, and maintain a communication protocol for informing customers and vendors.
Maintain Internal Security and Access Accountability
Role-Specific Permissions and Internal Policy Enforcement
While external threats get the most attention, internal mismanagement can quietly introduce long-term vulnerabilities. Limiting access based on job responsibility, a key principle of least privilege, ensures that sensitive data or settings are only available to those who truly need them. For instance, warehouse staff don’t need access to financial reports, just as marketing teams don’t require direct database visibility.
Make use of:
- Access logs to review who entered what systems and when
- Multi-layered admin approval workflows for key updates
- Regular permission audits, especially after staff changes or restructuring
Tools such as enterprise-level CRM and ERP platforms often include built-in access control dashboards to streamline this process.
Employee Offboarding and Credential Revocation
A significant number of data breaches occur not due to malice, but because access credentials are left active after employees or contractors leave. A Beyond Identity study found that 83% of former employees continued to access old employer accounts, and notably, 56% admitted to using that access with malicious intent.
To prevent unauthorized access:
- Implement a standardized offboarding checklist
- Use centralized identity platforms (e.g., SSO or IAM tools) to quickly revoke access
- Deactivate associated API keys, accounts, and devices immediately upon offboarding
Where possible, enable time-bound access or automated expiration for contractor or temp accounts.
Secure Physical Devices and Workstations
Endpoint Security in Remote and Hybrid Environments
As remote work becomes the norm, protecting endpoints, including employee laptops, desktops, and mobile devices, is increasingly important. Unsecured endpoints can be entry points for ransomware, credential theft, or even full-scale system compromise.
Minimum baseline protections include:
- Device encryption (e.g., BitLocker or FileVault)
- Anti-malware protection that auto-updates daily
- Mobile Device Management (MDM) software to enforce policies like auto-lock and remote wipe
Source: Pixabay
For teams accessing admin areas or customer records, restrict backend access to approved IP addresses or VPN-authenticated devices only. In some setups, reinforcing endpoint protections may involve adjustments at the infrastructure level; this approach can offer added flexibility when managing diverse access needs across departments.
Prohibit Personal Devices for Sensitive Tasks
Personal devices lack enterprise-level controls and are more prone to software vulnerabilities, outdated operating systems, or a lack of anti-virus coverage. Encourage employees to use company-issued hardware for all work-related tasks, especially those involving payment gateways or customer data.
If bring-your-own-device (BYOD) is permitted:
- Create an acceptable use policy
- Enforce software installation rules
- Isolate access via browser-based sessions or sandboxed environments
Implement a Security Culture Through Training and Testing
Build a Security-First Mindset
Technical tools alone cannot defend against social engineering and human error. Developing a security-aware culture reduces the chance of common mistakes, such as phishing link clicks or password sharing.
Recommended steps:
- Conduct mandatory cybersecurity awareness training every 6–12 months
- Run internal phishing simulations to test employee reactions
- Share regular updates about new scams or vulnerabilities relevant to your platform
According to a 2024 Proofpoint report, 84% of organizations experienced at least one successful phishing attack, but companies that run simulations reduced risk by up to 70%.
Encourage Reporting Without Fear
Employees should feel confident reporting suspicious activities, even if they suspect they have made an error. Establish non-punitive reporting protocols that focus on fast remediation rather than blame. The quicker an issue is flagged, the less damage it can do.
6. Secure Your Customers’ Trust
Displaying Security Seals and Privacy Policies
Trust signals such as Norton Secured, McAfee Secure, or payment processor badges help reassure customers at checkout. Display them in visible areas like the cart and footer.
Alongside these, publish a transparent privacy policy explaining how customer data is collected, used, and stored. Sites compliant with regulations like GDPR or CCPA should also disclose consent practices.
Transparent Checkout and Secure UX
Simplifying the checkout experience helps reduce abandonment and builds trust. Features like real-time payment validation, address verification, and CAPTCHA tools can reduce fraud without impacting usability.
Personalization Without Compromising Privacy
Using business software to customize user experiences (i.e. product recommendations, tailored emails, etc.) is effective, but should never come at the cost of data protection. Segment users based on anonymized data and ensure any tracking is both compliant and secure.
Conclusion
Building a profitable e-commerce business requires more than marketing and products. It demands strategic security.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Secure your infrastructure from day one with SSL, payment gateways, and access controls.
- Monitor performance and vulnerabilities with uptime trackers and regular audits.
- Manage business operations centrally to reduce risk and improve control.
- Keep all systems updated, from themes to plugins.
- Back up data frequently and store it securely offsite.
- Earn trust through transparency and responsible data use.
Security isn’t a one-time task; it’s an ongoing process. By reviewing your tools and practices regularly, you can stay ahead of emerging threats and ensure that your store remains both resilient and trustworthy.
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