BUSINESSES are being warned to strengthen their security following one of the UK's biggest data breaches.

Ultracomms, which specialises in card payment solutions has urged organisations which process card payment details to act quickly to minimise the risk of damage from a data breach after reports that Dixons Carphone could face a fine of up to £400 million after a hack exposed the payment card information of six million customers.

Derwyn Jones, chief executive has urged businesses to invest in systems to protect consumer data imminently. He said: “The Dixons Carphone data breach will go down as one of the biggest data breaches at a single firm in UK history and is a stark reminder to all businesses that we live in a new era of cybersecurity.

“It is a time where the hacking threat is unprecedented and no company is seemingly immune. Running parallel to this increasing threat are the most rigorous data protection laws Europe has ever seen. The result spells trouble for any business that does not invest now in robust systems that protect consumer data.”

Research shows that two-thirds of businesses are still using outdated technology to take payments, where card details are read out over the phone, which is putting them at risk of damage to a businesses reputation.

Derwyn added: “Any company’s reputation is built on a relationship of trust with their customer base. Once this has been tarnished in such a high-profile way, can it ever be restored? Only time will tell.

“Lessons will need to be learned across the business world from this latest data breach – and particularly those who deal with large volumes of customer card payment information.

“The goalposts have changed – and now it is time for businesses to respond to ensure their systems keep pace with both the law and the increasingly covert tactics of the hackers.

“The good news is that the technology is there for businesses to protect themselves and I would urge all customer-facing organisations to review their processes and invest for the future. Ultimately it will protect their customers – and themselves.”

Ultracomms recently produced a free downloadable guide for businesses that gives step-by-step advice on card fraud protection. Visit ultracomms.com/blog/secure-payments-whats-the-fuss-all-about to download the guide.