If you sell online in Italy, the security of your ecommerce business should be one of your top priorities. It’s important to protect payments, personal data, sensitive information, and operational processes, while ensuring a smooth buying experience. There are many cyber threats that can affect businesses and customers: fraud, data theft, unauthorized access attempts, and scams.

This article discusses the most common threats to ecommerce businesses, including how to properly defend your business and reassure customers about the security of your online store. We also provide the main security requirements for ecommerce businesses operating in Italy.

What’s in this article?

• What are the most common threats for ecommerce businesses?
  
• How to protect your ecommerce business in Italy
  
• How to reassure customers about your online store’s security
  
• The most important security features for online stores in Italy
  
• Data protection and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
  
• Security requirements for ecommerce businesses in Italy
  
• How Stripe Radar can help
  

What are the most common threats for ecommerce businesses?

Ecommerce security in Italy is threatened by a range of risks that affect businesses of all sizes. Below are the most common threats.

Payment fraud

Credit card fraud is one of the most common risks for online businesses. In many cases, fraudulent actors use card numbers stolen or obtained through malware, phishing, or database breaches to attempt to complete purchases on behalf of unsuspecting cardholders. When the customer’s bank discovers the unauthorized charge, the transaction is canceled. Then, the business incurs a chargeback, which results in the loss of the amount and associated fees.

To reduce exposure to this type of attack, it is important to combine technologies and operational controls. The most effective measures include card verification value (CVV) validation during payment, Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) with Three-Domain (3D) Secure, the adoption of machine learning-based antifraud system checks on billing addresses and customer behavior, and constant monitoring of atypical transactions. A clear policy for handling suspicious orders can also help significantly reduce risk. This can include manually verifying orders with high amounts, unusual addresses, or several failed payment attempts.

Phishing attacks

Fraudulent actors replicate existing websites to steal login credentials and sensitive data. Phishing can affect customers and businesses, compromising the security of online stores.

Brute force attacks

These are automated attempts to guess passwords, access codes, or sensitive credentials by rapidly trying thousands of combinations. Fraudulent actors use software that tests common passwords, predictable variations, or entire numerical sequences until they find the correct one. This type of attack can affect both customer accounts and the store’s administrative area. To defend against these attacks, online businesses can use the following tactics:

• Strong passwords
  
• Limited login attempts
  
• Two-factor authentication (2FA)
  
• Monitoring of atypical access
  

Data theft or loss

Fraud involving data theft or loss is often linked to poorly protected servers or outdated plug-ins. Companies that want to understand how to make a secure ecommerce website often face vulnerabilities stemming from outdated software.

Scams against businesses

Scams directly targeting businesses can be just as damaging as payment fraud. The most common scams include the following:

• Fraudulent refund requests: Even though they have received the product, the customer claims not to have received it or to have received a damaged item. The aim is to obtain an undue refund.
  
• Payment spoofing: The fraudulent actor manipulates or falsifies data—such as emails, notifications, or payment receipts—to make a transaction appear valid when it was never authorized or does not exist. Spoofing consists of imitating or disguising real information to deceive the business.
  
• Creation of fake accounts: Fraudulent actors and automated bots generate fictitious profiles. They use these fake accounts to attempt payments with stolen cards, take advantage of promotions for new customers, or circumvent control systems.
  
• Repeated attempts with compromised cards: Some fraudulent actors test multiple card numbers through small payments, causing operating costs and chargeback risks.
  

The most common threats for ecommerce businesses and preventive measures

How to protect your ecommerce business in Italy

Protecting an ecommerce business means combining technologies, internal processes, and good everyday practices. At a time when cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated—from unauthorized access attempts and payment fraud to vulnerable plug-ins and outdated infrastructure—security cannot be left to chance. Every online business, regardless of size, must adopt a structured, multilevel approach that includes technical tools and organizational measures. Below, we discuss the main actions that can significantly improve the security of your online store.

Keep your platform up-to-date

Updating your CMS, plug-ins, and themes is not just a matter of functionality. Many patches fix security flaws that are already known and actively exploited by fraudulent actors. Managing an ecommerce business based on platforms such as WordPress, WooCommerce, or Shopify means constantly monitoring new versions, removing unused extensions, and only using components developed and maintained by reliable suppliers. An updated website drastically reduces the risk of intrusions.

Install and regularly renew your secure sockets layer (SSL) certificate

The SSL certificate is one of the pillars of online security. It ensures that all communications between browsers and servers are encrypted and protects sensitive data, such as passwords and personal information. Besides being a technical requirement, it is also a sign of trust for customers. Seeing the padlock symbol in the URL bar confirms that the website is legitimate and secure. Online businesses should ensure that the SSL certificate is consistently valid and configured correctly.

Implement a strong authentication system

Protecting administrative accounts is necessary. Compromised access can expose your entire online store. Use strong passwords, enable 2FA, and restrict login attempts from suspicious Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. For businesses, the use of protocols—such as 3D Secure for payments—adds an extra degree of certainty about the customer’s identity. The goal is to prevent a single vulnerable credential from compromising the entire platform.

Use advanced antifraud systems

A modern ecommerce business cannot rely solely on basic bank checks. Solutions such as Stripe Radar use machine-learning models that analyze thousands of signals in real time (e.g., IP addresses, browsing behavior, payment attempt history) to identify and block suspicious transactions before they are authorized. These tools help reduce chargebacks, operating costs, and false positives, while improving conversion rates.

Protect and isolate sensitive data

Customer information must be treated with care. Never store card data on your server. Instead, entrust its management to Payment Card Industry (PCI)-certified providers that automatically tokenize cards and prevent unauthorized access. In addition, use secure servers, segment access, and apply encryption protocols for data storage.

Manage access to the administration panel

In addition to 2FA, it is important to establish clear roles and permissions for those who access the store. Avoid providing customers with excessive privileges, log all internal activities, and monitor suspicious changes. Internal security is often underestimated, but many breaches stem from compromised accounts or human error.

Perform frequent backups

A backup is only useful if it works. Set up an automatic and periodic backup strategy, including files, databases, and website settings. Store them in a location separate from the main server, and periodically check that the recovery works. This protects you from ransomware, hardware failures, and accidental deletions.

How to reassure customers about your online store’s security

Perceived security is just as important as technical security. Even the best antifraud systems aren’t helpful if customers do not feel fully protected at checkout. In a competitive market such as Italy, trust is a key factor in conversion. Customers who do not perceive your website as reliable will abandon their shopping carts or choose competitors. This is why it is important to communicate implemented measures clearly and transparently, avoid unnecessary technicalities, and emphasize protocols that make a difference to customers.

Display certifications and security indicators

Certain elements can immediately convey the feeling of a secure environment, such as the SSL padlock, PCI compliance badges, or trusted partner logos. Even small details—such as a tidy footer or an error-free checkout—help to build trust.

Highlight the use of advanced payment protocols

Explain in simple terms that your store uses protection tools, such as 3D Secure, CVV, and intelligent fraud prevention systems. Many customers are unfamiliar with technical terms but appreciate knowing that every payment undergoes additional checks.

Make your privacy policy easily visible

A clear, readable privacy policy that is not hidden at the bottom of the page increases brand credibility. Explain how you process personal data, what information you collect, and why you collect it. Transparent use of cookies also helps to build trust, especially if you communicate your data management choices in a simple way.

Communicate available payment methods

Customers might feel more comfortable when they see payment options they know and recognize, such as cards, digital wallets, wire transfers, or widely used local options. Including information about the security measures built into these payment methods can further reduce customer concerns.

Offer accessible support experiences

Providing direct contact information (e.g., email, chat, or phone number), specifying response times, and showing a problem-solving approach encourages conversion. Customers trust stores that respond quickly and have easy-to-find support options.

Manage website content and brand reputation

Clear descriptions, professional images, verified reviews, and consistent layouts contribute to the overall perception of reliability. A well-maintained website conveys commitment and professionalism. These are elements that customers automatically associate with security.

The most important security features for online stores in Italy

The security of an ecommerce business cannot be based on a single technology. Instead, it requires a set of tools and procedures that work together to protect payments, data, and website infrastructure. Each element covers a different aspect of overall security, reducing risks and improving customer confidence. Below, we discuss the technical and operational features that online store operators should consider for enhanced security.

SSL certificate and HTTPS protocol

SSL encryption is the foundation of a secure website. The transition from HTTP to HTTPS ensures that all transmitted information (e.g., credentials, personal data, contact details, and payment methods) is protected from interception. In addition to ensuring secure communication between browsers and servers, a valid SSL certificate also enhances the website’s image. When customers see that the connection is marked as “secure” in their browsers, they immediately perceive a more trustworthy environment.

Advanced antifraud systems

Modern antifraud systems analyze every payment in real time using algorithms and behavioral models. They assess factors such as IP addresses, devices, frequency of attempts, data inconsistencies, and anomalies in customer behavior. When these systems detect a high risk, they block the transaction or flag it for manual review. This approach helps to detect fraud before it turns into chargebacks, reduce operating costs, and improve order quality, ensuring a much more effective level of protection than traditional controls.

SCA

The revised Payment Services Directive (PSD2) has made SCA mandatory to increase the security of online payments. SCA introduces an additional level of verification that confirms the customer’s identity. This includes verification through one-time password (OTP) codes, authentication apps, and biometrics. Many customers perceive these checks as a guarantee of protection, especially when checkout requires a temporary code before order confirmation.

Security at the server and infrastructure levels

Server protection is important because many attacks occur in technological areas not visible to customers. In addition to firewalls that filter suspicious traffic and intrusion detection systems, it is important to configure the server correctly. This includes closing unnecessary network ports. These are communication channels the website does not require to function but, if left open, can become entry points for fraudulent actors. Lastly, hosting with certified data centers, constant monitoring, and regular backups increase overall protection.

Security at the application level

Many breaches arise from problems that exist directly in the software that makes up the website. Faulty modules, outdated plug-ins, and other features allow fraudulent actors to insert malicious code into pages. Attacks that involve forcing commands into the database or injecting scripts into webpages can compromise data and store operations. To avoid them, it is imperative to regularly update the platform, use only reliable extensions, and immediately apply security fixes. Performing regular checks—either automated or through dedicated tests—can also help to identify and correct vulnerabilities before they are exploited.

Payment checks and data verification

Modern payment gateways integrate important checks. These include CVV verification and address verification service (AVS). Payment gateways also check for consistency between the card issuing country and the customer’s country and determine the reputation of the payment instrument. These checks act as additional filters that reduce the risk of fraudulent transactions and improve the quality of orders received.

Secure management of administrative accounts

Many breaches start with unauthorized access to the management panel. It is important to limit privileges, set specific roles, enable 2FA, log internal activities, and reduce the number of users that have access to important functions, such as order data and payment configuration. Even a simple human error can cause significant damage. Therefore, clear procedures and internal controls must be put in place.

Constant event monitoring and recording

An effective security system is never static. Continuous monitoring of access, errors, failed payment attempts, and suspicious IP addresses allows anomalies to be identified before they become actual attacks. Keeping logs and analyzing them periodically helps businesses understand how customer behavior changes and helps them identify suspicious patterns.

How can you tell if an ecommerce website is reliable?

First of all, check that the connection is secure (e.g., padlock symbol and “https” in the URL). Then, check that the company provides transparent information, including its value-added tax (VAT) number, contact details, terms and conditions of sale, return policy, and privacy policy. Secure payment methods—such as cards, digital wallets, and systems with additional authentication—are another important indicator.

Reading external reviews, checking the domain’s reputation, and being wary of unusually low prices or unusual payment requests can help customers avoid scams.

What is an ecommerce security code?

There is no single “ecommerce security code.” This term usually refers to a set of verification elements used during an online purchase. The most common ones include the following:

• CVV: This is the three-digit or four-digit code on the card that is required to confirm payment.
  
• 3D Secure and OTP codes: This is a temporary code sent by the bank via short message service (SMS), app, or notification that is used to authenticate the cardholder.
  
• Other access codes: These can include passwords, personal identification numbers (PINs), or additional verifications required by the website.
  

Data protection and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Data protection is one of the pillars of ecommerce security in Italy. The GDPR imposes specific rules on the following:

• Minimum data collection: Ecommerce businesses should not collect more data than is necessary.
  
• Secure storage: Data must be archived to minimize the risk of breaches.
  
• Legal basis: Every processing operation must have a clear and justified purpose.
  
• Transparency: Providing customers with clear information is important. Many visitors assess the security of an online store by reading its privacy and cookie policies.
  
• Data breach: In the event of a breach, the GDPR requires prompt notification to the relevant authority and customers.
  

Security requirements for ecommerce businesses in Italy

Anyone setting up an online store in Italy must comply with certain fundamental obligations. Below, we provide the most important requirements.

Technical requirements

• SSL certificate
  
• Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliance through certified payment providers (e.g., Stripe)
  
• Advanced antifraud systems
  
• Mandatory SCA
  
• Secure access and HTTPS throughout the website
  

Operational requirements

• Periodic backups
  
• Software updates
  
• Consistent payment monitoring
  
• Access logs and internal operation controls
  

Requirements for payment security

PSD2 requires strong authentication through features such as OTP, 3D Secure, and CVV verification, which many customers refer to as “ecommerce security codes.”

Privacy requirements

• GDPR compliance
  
• Transparent policies
  
• Archived data security
  
• Explicit and registered consent
  

How Stripe Radar can help

Stripe Radar uses AI models to detect and prevent fraud, trained on data from Stripe’s global network. It continuously updates these models based on the latest fraud trends, protecting your business as fraud evolves.

Stripe also offers Radar for Fraud Teams, which allows users to add custom rules addressing fraud scenarios specific to their businesses and access advanced fraud insights.

Radar can help your business:

• Prevent fraud losses: Stripe processes over $1 trillion in payments annually. This scale uniquely enables Radar to accurately detect and prevent fraud, saving you money.

• Increase revenue: Radar’s AI models are trained on actual dispute data, customer information, browsing data, and more. This enables Radar to identify risky transactions and reduce false positives, boosting your revenue.

• Save time: Radar is built into Stripe and requires zero lines of code to set up. You can also monitor your fraud performance, write rules, and more in a single platform, increasing efficiency.

Learn more about Stripe Radar, or get started today.