Keeping takings safe at a stall

Protect the cash

Use a lockable box, avoid showing large amounts and take surplus cash out of the till through the day. Our guide to handling cash safely at events covers floats, change and counting up.

Protect card devices

• Keep the reader attached to you or on a lanyard when you are not using it.
• Use a screen lock on the phone or tablet that runs it.
• Keep software and apps up to date.
• Charge devices away from the public.
• Report a lost reader to your provider straight away.

Protect customer data

Card details belong to the customer and the card schemes set security rules for businesses that take payments. Never write down card numbers, and avoid photographing receipts that show them. Use only equipment supplied or approved by your provider. If you hold customer names, emails or phone numbers for orders, the Information Commissioner's Office has advice for small organisations on keeping personal data secure.

Stay alert to fraud

Be cautious about requests that seem unusual, such as a customer asking you to refund to a different method. Check that a payment has arrived before you hand over goods of high value. Keep your own app passwords private and use two-step verification where it is offered.

At the end of the day

1. Count the till out of public view.
2. Pack cash and devices before you take down the stall, so nothing is left unattended.
3. Go straight to the bank or to a secure place.
4. Vary your route and times if you carry large amounts.
5. Record the day's totals.

Tell helpers how to handle cash, where devices are kept and who to call if something goes wrong. A short briefing before each event costs little and reduces the chance of a loss.

Spend a few minutes after each event asking whether anything felt exposed, such as the till position, a crowded queue or a long walk to the car. Change one thing for the next pitch and keep a note of what worked.

Insurance and records

Ask your insurer whether your policy covers loss or theft of takings and equipment, as some policies exclude cash. Keep records of every sale for your tax return. The insurance and compliance hub covers cover and compliance for traders.