This course examines security issues in the Payments vertical. Students explore application security addressing the challenges and weak points of applications, learn the tools and techniques of machine learning as a defensive security strategy overcoming the continuous automatic attack generated by machines, and engage in hands-on practice in penetration testing. Payments framework and standards including NIST cybersecurity framework, ISO 27001 information security management, and Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) will be discussed. Administration of the information security function including strategic planning process, policies, procedures, and staffing functions necessary to organize and administer ongoing security functions will be discussed. In addition, fraud, regulation, security practices, security architecture, competitive intelligence, and operating environments are emphasized throughout the course.

Upon successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Understand security mechanisms that protect digital payment data.
2. Understand methods of encryption of transmission of digital payment data.
3. Define steps taken to protect payment processing data.
4. Create policies that address information security.
5. Understand PCI DSS.
6. Create a self-assessment questionnaire (SAQ).
7. Discuss digital payments security frameworks.

Below are basic parameters for advisors to use when talking to potential FinTech students regarding appropriate prior knowledge, and to ensure that students can be successful. Students should have a strong foundation in very basic concepts from multiple areas listed below. Students should have an understanding of how all of these are impacted by technology and by the regulatory environment.

Good candidates for the FinTech courses should have a background in business, finance, information technology, cybersecurity, computer science, mathematics, data science, or another related field.

Students should be familiar with or exposed to the following competencies:

1. Create and explain the income statement, balance sheet, and statement of cash flows
2. Perform time value of money calculations
3. Value and describe stocks and bonds
4. Evaluate capital budgeting projects