We were intrigued by a recent blog post, “Nordstrom Finds Cash Register Skimmers,” on Brian Krebs’ Krebs On Security (KOS) website.
The KOS blog points out that most scam artists who deploy debit and credit card skimmers target ATMs, but criminals may also use the inexpensive data storage devices, typically $30 to $40, to exploit modern-day cash registers.
As the most recent news of this disturbing trend, KOS describes a report circulated by the Aventura, FL police about how suspects were seen on a Nordstrom security video tampering with registers and inserting hardware keystroke loggers between keyboards and the cash register terminals.
As the only full-service POS provider — from software development to franchise incubator to ongoing support — part of Sintel’s commitment to our customers and industry is to share high-impact news. Whether you’re a first-time franchise hopeful, a small business owner or an established chain, it’s always smart to stay on top of legislative and other industry trends.
Your POS system is a gateway between a customer’s money (often their debit or credit card) and your cash register. Furthermore, a Sintel POS system extends beyond the cash register. Not just for processing transactions, it’s a valuable tool for strategic decision-making, customer relations management (CRM) and fraud detection.
We form lasting partnerships with our clients that you simply can’t get from a reseller, allowing larger franchises to grow and providing startups the foundation for future growth from the very beginning by acting as a franchise incubator. Our expertise can help you avoid common pitfalls of entry into this thriving but complex industry — including this type of fraud that can cripple your business.
According to the police memo, Nordstrom located a total of six devices attached to their registers. “The subjects would have planned to return at a later time to recover the devices and create fake credit cards for fraud.”
Brian Krebs points out that scammers who use these devices on cash registers may not need to retrieve them, saying, “I found several of these hardware keyloggers that include 2 GB of storage and built-in wireless support that allows the devices to connect to a local wireless network and send email reports of the stolen data.”
Be advised, Krebs also noted although the keyloggers seem designed for a keyboard, many retailer cash registers have card readers that will accept them as well.
Sintel Systems is unique in that we are the only full-service POS provider, from software development to our unparalleled ongoing support. If you are interested in learning more about Sintel’s POS systems and how our inside knowledge and support can impact your future, call us for a complimentary phone consultation.
Read the full Krebs on Security post here.
Sintel Systems is the only full-service provider of tailored Point of Sale systems across retail, restaurant and service industries, including frozen yogurt shops, pizzerias, sushi restaurants, cafés and retail stores.
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