For airport retailers, it is vital that you are aware of the importance of cybersecurity in 2025 and understand how you can secure your point-of-sale (POS) systems against increasing cyber threats. This post will explore the growing threat of cybercrime in the retail sector, the vulnerabilities in POS systems, robust security measures you can take, and how to build a cybersecurity culture in your business. Keep reading to find out more.
The Rise in Cyberattacks On Retailers
Cyberattacks on retail businesses are on the rise, including those in airport settings. There have been a number of high-profile attacks in recent times, including the recent Marks & Spencer cyberattack, which involved a ransomware attack that led to clothing shortages, food waste, and enormous financial losses for M&S. It has been reported that the retailer had no plan in place for a cyber attack, which means that it could take several months before they fully recover.
Vulnerabilities in POS Systems
Retailers rely on POS systems, but these present vulnerabilities that cybercriminals look to capitalise on. These include outdated software and weak encryption, which can make it simple for cybercriminals to steal payment card information from the system memory. This is why airport retailers need to be aware of this vulnerability and implement robust security measures.
Implementing Robust Security Measures
Fortunately, a few simple measures can help improve cybersecurity protection. These include performing regular software updates, encrypting data, and providing employee training to prevent human error—a common cause of cyber incidents. It is also essential that you are aware of the latest cybersecurity standards and regulations and take action to ensure compliance at all times. Standards and regulations are often changing as cybercrime evolves and changes.
The Impact of a Breach on Business
A POS system breach can have devastating effects for an airport retailer. Breaches can lead to hefty financial losses(the average cost for a UK business is £3 million), operational disruption, reputational damage, and legal issues, just as a few examples.
Building a Cybersecurity Culture
In addition to cybersecurity measures, you also need to build a culture to ensure that your employees are aware of threats and know how to carry out their roles safely. You can build this culture with regular cybersecurity awareness meetings and training sessions. Creating this culture will be key as cybercrime becomes more prevalent and sophisticated.
As an airport retailer, it is vital that you are aware of the threat of cybercrime, particularly in light of the most recent M&S attack. Cybercrime is becoming more sophisticated, and retailers are targeted heavily, particularly with many having POS systems that are vulnerable. Hopefully, the information in this post will be useful and help you develop stronger protection that will prevent cybercrime and help you build a strong culture that will provide ongoing safety.
Founder Dinis Guarda
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