Semafone today announced the latest release of its software, Semafone V3. The updated version of Semafone’s patented secure voice payment solution includes new features to enable greater flexibility, security and functionality. It has also achieved Payment Application Data Security Standard (PA DSS) compliance, with Semafone still the only vendor of secure telephone payments solutions to hold the certification.

PA DSS regulations aim to prevent payment applications from storing sensitive card data and also dictate that vendors’ solutions are in line with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS). By complying with PA DSS, Semafone continues to ensure that its technology will help to eliminate instances of fraud, reducing the risk of damage to brand reputation that can occur as a result of a breach.

Semafone V3’s improved multi-site capability gives increased scalability without the cost and effort usually associated with compliance. As well as capturing credit or debit card data, Semafone V3 also has the capability to process customers’ bank account information using the same secure method. By using Semafone, the caller enters their card or bank data (such as account number or sort code) via the telephone keypad. This is then transmitted directly to the acquiring bank so details are neither seen nor heard even though the agent remains on the line to deliver the same high level of customer service. No information is held in the contact centre’s infrastructure, therefore taking it out of scope of PCI DSS regulations.

V3’s highly configurable application programming interfaces (APIs) enable merchants to adapt as needed without having to make changes to their software. This means that the capture of extra information required by new regulations can be implemented without difficulty. The new version of Semafone’s software can be integrated into all types of CRM or payment interface quickly and easily, removing the hassle often experienced by those using other systems. Customisable properties also make it possible to vary payment amounts to reflect transaction charges, adding extra fees for a particular card, for example.

Semafone V3 now also supports Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) based telephony, Time-Division Multiplexing (TDM) and a combination of both, giving those considering a move to IP telephony the support they need to make the transition. In addition, V3’s improved failover capability and centralisation of core components means that servers can be located in customers’ own data centres, ensuring greater resilience and reliability.

Semafone V3 was assessed and awarded PA DSS certification by QSA, Foregenix. Benjamin Hosack of Foregenix, commented, “Semafone’s dedication and investment in providing a secure telephone payments solution for its customers is impressive. Semafone technology has achieved PA-DSS compliance and can significantly reduce the PCI DSS scope and overhead for their clients."

“Semafone strives to provide a service that is second to none and we are constantly evolving to meet the needs of the market,” commented Tim Critchley, CEO of Semafone. “We always strive to deliver the highest level of security to our customers and in turn to help eliminate telephone fraud. Complying with PA DSS regulations is an essential part of this.”