Point-of-sale (POS) systems are the hardware and software used to process retail transactions at checkout. They usually include the terminal, payment reader, cashier software, and back-end services that sync sales, inventory, and customer data. In modern retail, POS platforms are often connected to other business systems, such as accounting, loyalty programs, and remote support tools.
POS environments matter in cyber security because they handle payment data and sit close to critical store operations. Attackers target them to steal card data, disrupt sales, or use vendor access as a path into a larger network. Common risks include weak remote administration, exposed support accounts, unpatched software, and insecure integrations with third-party service providers. Defenders reduce exposure by segmenting POS networks, limiting privileged access, monitoring remote sessions, and keeping payment and retail software tightly controlled.