What is the secure e-commerce key?

When we talk about secure e-commerce (CES), we mean more than just having a little green padlock on your browser. This goes much further: protecting your customers and yourself from any fraudulent online transactions. As someone who has been years in the industry, I can tell you that if you don't secure your platform, the risks are not only financial, but also reputational.

The CES is basically a security method used to verify the identity of the buyer when making an online payment, adding an additional layer of authentication in transactions, especially with credit or debit cards. It is very common that, when making an online purchase, after entering the card data, the bank requests a verification code that it sends you by SMS or banking app. This process is part of what we know as CES, and ensures that whoever is using the card, is really its owner.

How does CES work?

The process is quite simple. First, the customer enters his card details, but the CES comes into action at that crucial moment where the buyer's identity is validated with an additional code, sent directly by the bank. This code can arrive by different methods: SMS, bank app or even a coordinate card that some banks still use (although this method is less common nowadays).

This method protects both the buyer and the seller. The buyer is assured that no one will be able to use his card without his authorization, while the seller is assured that he is dealing with the real owner of the card, avoiding fraud. And, beware! If a store does not implement CES, you risk unrecognized charges and the wear and tear that comes with it.

Advantages of secure e-commerce

This is where it gets interesting! The advantages of implementing a CES system in your ecommerce are many, but let me summarize the most important ones:

1. Customer confidence: A customer who sees that their information is protected is a returning customer. And believe me, trust is everything in online commerce.
3. Fraud prevention: This type of authentication makes it almost impossible for a third party to use a stolen card, since without the additional code the purchase cannot be completed.
4. Reduction of returns: Many times, when there is fraud, a return is generated that ends up costing money to the ecommerce. By preventing fraud, you reduce unwanted returns.
6. Improve your reputation: A merchant that takes security measures generates a reputation for professionalism and seriousness, which in the long run will attract more customers.

Implementing CES in your online store

Here's where I get practical. If you are considering implementing a secure e-commerce system in your store, you need to make sure you choose a good payment provider. Not all providers offer the CES option, so it's essential to look for one that does. Visa and Mastercard are the most common, and both implement a system called 3D Secure, which guarantees this extra layer of security.

Steps to enable CES

• Choose a suitable payment provider: Not all payment gateways offer CES, so make sure the one you choose does. Providers such as Shopify Payments already have these systems integrated.
• Set up the right payment method: Make sure you accept credit and debit cards, as these methods benefit the most from CES.
• Verify that your store has security certificates: In addition to CES, your store should have SSL security certificates (those that assure you that the data your customers enter is encrypted).

What if you don't implement CES?

You may be thinking, "Well, my store is small, I don't need CES." Big mistake. E-commerce is growing by leaps and bounds, and more and more customers are demanding robust security systems. If you don't offer this type of security, you not only run the risk of fraud, but also of your customers not trusting you.

Also, in some countries it is already mandatory to have security measures such as CES in place to avoid fines and penalties.

Additional tips to ensure secure e-commerce

While CES is a key piece, it is not the only thing you should do to ensure the security of your online store. Here are some additional tips:

1. SSL Certificate: This is basic. Make sure your website is secured with SSL, which ensures that all information passing between the client's browser and your server is encrypted.
3. Avoid insecure connections: Never make transactions on public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in coffee shops or airports. These networks are an easy target for hackers.
5. Update your software regularly: Whether you use WordPress, Shopify or another system, keep your platform and plugins updated to protect yourself from vulnerabilities