A point of sale (POS) is the checkout location or software and hardware stack used to complete retail transactions. It can include cash registers, payment terminals, barcode scanners, receipt printers, and the back-end services that record sales, inventory, and refunds.
POS systems matter in cyber security because they handle payment data and are often connected to business networks that support multiple stores or branches. Attackers may target POS environments to steal card data, disrupt transactions, or pivot into other internal systems. Common risks include weak passwords, unpatched terminals, insecure remote access, and malware that captures payment information. Defenders reduce exposure by segmenting POS networks, restricting administrator access, monitoring for unusual transactions or device behavior, and keeping payment software and firmware updated.