The Internet is an incredible tool that allows us to communicate with people from all over the world, search for all kinds of information and even buy. In recent years, booking hotel accommodation online has become popular due to the convenience of the Internet, that is, it is an extremely effective way to search for hotel accommodation, compare packages and rates of different hotels, and finally book accommodation in hotel. Unfortunately, with the good comes the bad. If the internet broadened the reach of the hotel market to include global travelers and then hackers (criminals), use the internet to gain unauthorized access to your computer and commit fraud and damage your revenue potential and hotel reputation.

As a hotelier with a hotel website, you accept reservations and collect payments directly online, and your business continuity depends on your ability to keep your guests’ personal and credit card information secure. To prevent hackers from entering your computer systems, you must install a firewall, ensure that confidential information is encrypted, and keep

security (restrict access with passwords) in the office. You can achieve this by following the steps below:

Data encryption – Use secure socket layer certifications to protect your guests’ information. An SSL certificate encrypts personal data and reduces the risk of third parties intercepting your private data. This will help reassure guests about the security of their credit card information.

Firewall – Credit card details can be sent securely with SSL, but once stored on the server, they are vulnerable to intruders outside the server and the accompanying network. A firewall (software or hardware) can protect the server and the network from attacks by viruses and hackers. Therefore, in addition to registering for an SSL certification, you must install a firewall to protect all the data stored on your server.

Security protocols – Implement security protocols such as MasterCard Secure Code and Verified by Visa to provide stronger identification for online payments and improve the security of card transactions over the Internet.

PCI Compliance: The latest security measure is the Payment Card Industry Data Security Compliance Certification. By implementing PCI DSS version 1.1, a comprehensive set of requirements, you enhance the security of your payment account data.

In short, hackers are a threat to businesses and you need to take appropriate measures to prevent hackers from ruining your hotel brand and image. By implementing the steps listed above, you can prevent your business from becoming a target of hackers.