Intelligent SME.tech Issue 40 | Page 22

? EDITOR ’ S QUESTION //

AS BUSINESSES INCREASINGLY MOVE ONLINE , THE NEED FOR
ROBUST DIGITAL
SECURITY AND IDENTITY VERIFICATION MEASURES HAS
NEVER BEEN GREATER .

I n today ’ s digital era , small- and medium-sized enterprises ( SMEs ) face the triple challenge of needing to ensure transactional security , maintain customer trust and create an enjoyable customer experience . As businesses increasingly move online , the need for robust digital security and identity verification measures has never been greater . Fortunately , for smaller businesses without the resources of large multinationals , there are a wealth of viable solutions to drive digital security and customer experience .

Securing digital transactions : a cornerstone of customer trust
The cornerstone of a strong customer relationship in the digital domain is trust , particularly in transactions . When customers engage in online transactions , they seek assurance that their personal and financial information is secure . And the risk of cyberthreats is intensifying with the rise of AI , deepfakes and other sophisticated methods to mimic and steal identities . By adopting advanced digital security measures , SMEs can foster a sense of trust and safety and offer the same type of slick buying journeys as larger competitors .
This is where technology such as secure digital signing processes become crucial . By incorporating these processes , businesses can ensure every transaction is authenticated and the identities of the parties involved are verified . This authentication isn ’ t just a technical safeguard ; it ’ s a visible sign to customers that their interactions are secure and protected . Such measures elevate customer confidence and reinforce the perception of an SME as a secure and professional entity in the digital marketplace .
Simplifying customer onboarding
The customer onboarding process is often the first significant interaction between a business and its customers , setting the tone for the experience to follow . Simplifying this process with digital solutions can enhance customer satisfaction from the outset . By utilising technologies that streamline identity verification with biometric technologies like document validation and facial recognition , SMEs can offer a swift and hassle-free onboarding experience across the assurance spectrum . When combined with high assurance passwordless authentication that can protect against identity related breaches such as phishing and MFA bypass , it allows for a vastly more secure and low friction way to have new customers sign-up and verify their identity when using their digital accounts .
Compliance and security : building blocks of digital confidence
Adhering to regulatory compliance is crucial for SMEs . Implementing solutions that align with state , country and international regulations not only ensures legal compliance but also builds customer confidence in the business ’ s commitment to security . Moreover , incorporating features like electronic Know Your Customer ( eKYC ) practices can further strengthen this trust , assuring customers that their identity is being verified reliably and securely .
With trust , comes loyalty
For SMEs , adopting advanced digital security and identity verification technologies is not just about protecting transactions ; it ’ s about building a foundation of trust and efficiency that enhances the overall customer experience . By focusing on secure , seamless and compliant digital processes , SMEs can strengthen customer relationships , foster loyalty and position themselves as trustworthy , customer-focused entities in the digital marketplace .

ROHAN RAMESH , DIRECTOR OF PRODUCT MARKETING , ENTRUST

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Intelligent SME . tech