ECommerce Launch Security Checklist

Making a prelaunch security checklist can help you have a smooth, uneventful opening as a business. Here’s what to do!

Check Your Server

Think of your server as the foundation for your new eCommerce store. You wouldn’t open a bricks-and-mortar store without confirming the building is sturdy. And you shouldn’t debut a new online store without confirming that you have a patched server that is only running essential services. And if a provider is at the helm of your server, be clear on what they have secured on their end, so nothing is left vulnerable. Adding Cloud Infrastructure Entitlement Management (CIEM) can beef up your security, as well. Learn more about CIEM explained by Wiz.

Only Use Secure Payment Systems

Don’t take chances when it comes to payments. Turn to reliable and established brands like PayPal to be your online payment processor. They will have a robust security setup, and they’ll be able to tackle lots of different payment processing needs, such as international currencies. Ultimately, you’ll be able to focus on more pressing matters, like running your business. Perhaps most importantly, you won’t have to mingle payment information with your server, which acts as a security safeguard. 

Keep Storage Buckets Secure

You don’t want everyone on the internet to have access to your database and storage buckets. With the Principle of Least Privilege, users are granted minimal rights and permissions rather than access to everything. In general, it’s wise to limit how much access and control individuals within your company have to anything from reporting tools to customer data. Institute this practice to ensure that you’re not giving too many people access to sensitive information. Audit your permissions, too. If someone leaves your organization or changes positions, it’s too easy to neglect to restrict access. But when you audit identities regularly, you’ll be able to restrict access again based on personnel changes and needs. 

Stay on Top of Monitoring

When you’re running an eCommerce business, plan on being dutiful about monitoring online behaviors and activities. For example, you may notice unexpected spikes in traffic. Or you may get notified that there were several login attempts with an account. These alerts can suggest that you have some cybersecurity threats to watch. You don’t want what seems like a small problem to become a breach that compromises customer information. You’ll lose trust and business quickly. Use a Content Delivery Network (CDN) to help maintain protection against spikes in traffic. And use Web Application Firewall (WAF) filters to keep your applications safe from requests that match malicious patterns. 

Launch Your Store the Right Way

Yes, launching an eCommerce store can be a big step. You’ll be able to build your brand, nurture a customer base, and start your path toward business stability. Just be sure to address your security needs, too. Invest in secure payment systems, audit your permissions, and watch for malicious requests online. When you’re proactive about security, you’ll gain the peace of mind to run your business well.