Hallmark first to deploy new service, giving PCI-compliant
connectivity for POS, security and other applications over existing
high-speed links
iPass Inc., (NASDAQ: IPAS) a global provider of services that unify the
management of enterprise mobility, today unveiled a companion offering
to its iPass Retail Office service that allows franchise store owners
and key personnel to securely access corporate applications - such as
point-of-sale (POS), customer loyalty and store surveillance systems -
over any high-speed connection. Hallmark is the first nationwide
customer to deploy iPass’ Secure Franchise
service, which is available immediately.
The new service provides retailers with an easy-to-deploy and
cost-effective way to meet strict payment card industry (PCI) security
standards that are mandated by major credit card companies. The Secure
Franchise service is the only PCI-compliant remote-access solution that
does not require retail franchisees to use the infrastructure of their
corporate parent company. The franchisee can continue to leverage its
existing Internet connection (e.g. DSL, cable or T1 circuit), yet obtain
secure access with two-factor authentication and full compliance with
PCI standards.
“iPass’ Secure
Franchise service helps retailers extend the benefits of their
applications and systems to independent franchises without requiring
them to replace their existing infrastructure,”
said Christopher Linden, senior director of product management at iPass. “The
service helps keep franchisees and company-owned stores at parity in
terms of customer experience and operational excellence.”
The Secure Franchise service is an optional, add-on feature to iPass
Retail Office, a managed network service that helps retail chains
improve delivery of applications and communications to stores in order
to provide better service to their customers. As part of Retail Office,
iPass identifies, orders, installs and manages the broadband service, as
well as proactively monitors the connection for service and security
issues.
Hallmark Deploys at 713 Locations
iPass Retail Office was rolled out earlier this year to all 463 Hallmark
corporate stores, and the Secure Franchise service option was made
available to an additional 250 Hallmark independently-owned retail
locations.
“The benefits of having managed high-speed
broadband Internet service in all stores greatly outweigh the costs,”
said Talli Denney, retail technology manager for Hallmark. “Broadband
is the foundation for many emerging product offerings, including
personalized greetings, and a variety of new operational capabilities.
Most importantly, the combination of iPass Retail Office, the Secure
Franchise service, and our Hallmark POSX 2008 software, allows both our
company-owned stores and independent retailers to meet strict PCI
requirements.”
The service is available to any iPass Retail Office or Branch Office
customer for a $99 one-time set-up fee and a monthly fee of $30 per
user. It requires use of Cisco virtual private network (VPN) hardware,
plus an automated software download is required for any computers being
used for access. iPass plans to support additional brands of VPN
hardware in the future.
About iPass Inc.
iPass helps enterprises unify the management of remote and mobile
connectivity and devices. With iPass software and services, customers
can create easy-to-use broadband solutions for their mobile workers,
home offices, and branch and retail locations, complete with device
management, security validation, and unified billing. iPass offerings
are powered by its leading global virtual network, on-demand management
platform, and award-winning client software. The iPass global virtual
network unifies hundreds of wireless, broadband and dial-up providers in
over 160 countries. Hundreds of Global 2000 companies rely on iPass
services, including General Motors, Nokia, and Reuters. Founded in 1996,
iPass is headquartered in Redwood Shores, Calif., with offices
throughout North America, Europe and Asia.
iPass® is a
registered trademark of iPass Inc.
Breakaway for iPass
Kristofer Konietzko, 415-358-2491
krisk@breakawaycom.com
