For e-commerce businesses, trust is currency — and trust depends on security. As digital payments become the norm, protecting customer data is no longer a value-add, but a necessity. Over the past decade, the explosive growth of online retail has created vast opportunities — not only for businesses, but also for fraudsters.?

In fact, global e-commerce losses to online payment fraud are expected to exceed 100 billion USD by 2029, according to Statista's May 2025 report, underscoring the urgent need for robust security measures.?

From checkout to settlement, every touchpoint in the online payment process must be protected. Whether you're scaling your online store or reviewing your current infrastructure, understanding key security standards like PCI DSS is critical. Here's what to prioritise — and how working with a payment service provider like SUNRATE can help safeguard every transaction.

#1: The Gold Standard in Payment Security?

The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is one of the most crucial certifications for any business handling credit card payments. Developed by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) and backed by all major credit card companies, PCI DSS isn’t optional — it’s a baseline requirement for processing and securing sensitive cardholder data.?

Why does PCI compliance matter??

? It protects against data breaches and cyber threats.?

? It ensures that credit card data is processed, stored, and transmitted in a secure environment.?

? Non-compliance can lead to fines, reputational damage, or even loss of business.?

How to maintain PCI compliance??

? Only store what’s necessary — retain only essential cardholder data required for business functions.

? Build a sustainable compliance program with clear policies like strong password protocols, defined procedures, and strategic objectives.

? Continuously monitor the systems and test security controls to identify vulnerabilities early.

? Promote security awareness by educating employees on the latest breach trends and social engineering attacks.

#2: To Help Embed Security Across the Value Chain?

Security should be built into your products and platforms from the start — not added as an afterthought. Equally important is oversight of any third-party vendors handling card data on your behalf. PCI DSS sets out a comprehensive framework for protecting payment card data. These 12 requirements are grouped under six overarching goals and are designed to help businesses secure sensitive information throughout the payment process.

The 12 Core Requirements of PCI DSS:?

? Install and maintain network security controls?

? Apply secure configurations to all system components?

? Protect stored account data?

? Protect cardholder data with strong cryptography during transmission over open, public networks?

? Protect all systems and networks from malicious software?

? Develop and maintain secure systems and software?

? Restrict access to cardholder data by business need-to-know?

? Identify users and authenticate access to system components?

? Restrict physical access to cardholder data?

? Log and monitor all access to system components and cardholder data?

? Test security of systems and networks regularly?

? Support information security with organizational policies and programs?

As a PCI DSS Level 1 certified platform — the highest level of compliance — SUNRATE integrates these requirements into the foundation of our global payment and FX solutions, giving partners the confidence to transact securely across borders.?

??Tip: Choose technology providers who not only comply with PCI DSS but also demonstrate secure development practices and transparent vendor governance. SUNRATE’s platform is PCI DSS Level 1 certified and supports secure API integrations that meet industry-level standards for e-commerce platforms.?

#3: To Secure Your Data with End-to-End Encryption?

Sensitive financial data is most vulnerable when it’s in transit. Without proper encryption, information such as cardholder details and payment instructions can be intercepted — creating a serious risk of fraud and data loss. PCI DSS addresses this by requiring strong encryption protocols, such as TLS, for transmitting cardholder data across public networks.??

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??Tip: Always ensure that your payment and data transmission systems are secured with up-to-date encryption technologies with platforms like those provided by SUNRATE which deliver highly encrypted transaction instructions and AOI transmissions.?

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#4: Strengthen User Access with Identity-Based Controls?

Data breaches often begin with internal vulnerabilities — such as excessive user access or shared login credentials. PCI DSS outlines strict access control measures, including the need to assign unique IDs to each user, limit access based on role, and maintain logs of all activity.?

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??Tip: Implement a role-based access model and multi-factor authentication to minimise risk. SUNRATE enforces strong access control policies across our platform, ensuring only authorised users have access to sensitive data and systems. For example, SUNRATE’s Controlled Payment Account is a type of account opened and used by clients on the SUNRATE platform that is subject to specific limitations, based on the roles of users. SUNRATE may impose restrictions on the services available for such Controlled Payment accounts.?

#5: For Threat Detection and Intelligent Risk Response

Static defences aren’t enough in a constantly evolving threat landscape. Businesses need to stay alert to vulnerabilities and respond quickly to anomalies. PCI DSS calls for real-time system monitoring, regular vulnerability scans, and continuous testing of security controls to detect threats early. SUNRATE strengthens this foundation by integrating 3D Secure (3DS) authentication into its commercial card transactions, delivering a multi-layered defence that enhances traditional threat detection.?

Here’s how it works:?

? Frictionless experience: 3DS2 enables seamless, low-friction authentication for legitimate, low-risk transactions, minimising user disruptions.?

? Stronger verification: Multi-factor and biometric authentication offer robust, adaptive protection against fraud.?

? Smarter risk controls: SUNRATE applies risk-based routing and adaptive rules based on transaction size, geography, and customer behaviour.?

? Global compliance: 3DS helps businesses stay aligned with international regulatory standards, while simplifying backend security processes.?

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??Tip: Schedule regular system audits and implement automated threat monitoring tools. At SUNRATE, we combine a dedicated system of surveillance with continuous vulnerability management, so issues are addressed before they escalate.?

Why SUNRATE??

In today’s digital landscape, security is a critical foundation for trust and growth. Meeting global standards like PCI DSS helps protect your business from fraud, data breaches, and compliance risks.??

With features like end-to-end encryption, strict access controls, real-time threat monitoring, and 3D Secure authentication, SUNRATE enables e-commerce businesses to manage payments securely and efficiently across borders.?

Want to know more about how SUNRATE secures your global transactions? Get in touch with our team to explore how our global payment and treasury management platform can support your business with greater speed, security, and confidence.?