E-payments technology vendor Verifone has teamed with security technology firm McAfee to launch a virus protection system designed for Internet-connected eftpos systems in the US.
McAfee VirusScan Mobile for Verix will provide real-time monitoring and attack pattern update services for VeriFone's Internet-connected payment systems at the point of sale.
Verifone says the virus protection software is currently offered on the Omni 3750 Ethernet-enabled terminal and will be offered on all IP-enabled systems using the Verix and Verix V operating systems in the future. Merchants can order a new system with the software pre-installed or download the upgraded software to existing systems.
The software actively scans executables and host URLs on VeriFone payment terminals to thwart attacks and prevent the misappropriation of transaction data. Verifone says periodic virus profile updates provide protection against future potential threats to Internet connected payment systems.
Paul Rasori, VP of marketing, VeriFone, says: "Although no virus threats have been aimed at VeriFone systems, recent assaults on other links in the payment processing chain demonstrate that criminals are targeting consumer credit card account information at an increasing rate.
"McAfee VirusScan Mobile for Verix enables companies to take reasonable steps to ensure the integrity of consumer information and to protect their own businesses from malicious software infections."