Visa reports rise in retail terminal key-logger attacks

by Gill Montia

Story link: Visa reports rise in retail terminal key-logger attacks

Visa has recently alerted its transaction processing members and their clients to an increase in keylogger attacks involving retailers.

Keylogging is a method of capturing and recording keystrokes and keylogging software, also known as malware, is widely available via the Internet.

Responding to the announcement, Trusteer advises that attacks on retailers’ till terminals are rising because many units are Windows-driven, and therefore susceptible to the same type of malware infections as office and home PCs.

The secure browsing specialist’s chief executive officer, Mickey Boodaei, comments: “Trojan-driven keylogger attacks have been on the rise for home and office PC users for some time, but companies and home users are getting wise to the problem and are installing IT security software on their machines.”

However, according to Mr Boodaei, the problem is more complex for retailers because many of their terminals are leased and rely on the supplier for their IT security protection.

He therefore recommends that retailers check with their till terminal suppliers and establish what security software is in place and whether it is adequate.

Meanwhile, consumers who shop on the Internet can do their part to combat malware by installing a browser add-in, such as Trusteer’s Rapport software, which is provided as a free download by banks including HSBC, RBS/NatWest and Santander.