Proper cleaning for your credit card terminal during COVID

By PENNY SIERAKOWSKI

With the pandemic, cleaning protocols are a must. Your credit card device serves as a frequent contact point between your customers and your employees. Here are tips on how to sanitize your payment processing devices for the safety of all.

• First, turn off your device and unplug it from the power source.

• Devices should be gently cleaned to remove dirt, residue or debris using a lightly water-dampened, clean microfiber cloth.

• One or two drops of pH-neutral, non-scrubbing soap may be used. Do not use solvents, harsh detergents or abrasive cleaners.

• After cleaning, the devices may be sanitized using an alcohol-based wipe or appropriate alcohol-based cleaner (approx. 70-90% strength isopropyl alcohol) applied to a microfiber cloth.

• Apply gently; do not scrub. Isopropyl alcohol applied to a clean microfiber cloth may be used on touch panel displays but never press hard on displays.

To protect your machine, here are some things that you should NEVER do:

• Never spray, coat or pour any liquid, sanitizer, or disinfectant directly onto the device.

• Never use bleach, hydrogen peroxide, thinner, trichloroethylene, or ketone-based solvents – they can deteriorate plastic and rubber.

• Refrain from vigorously rubbing with a dry towel, or similar actions, which can cause electrostatic discharge and trigger a tamper alert.