Semafone, a provider of data security and compliance solutions for contact centers, today announced a partnership with Avtex, a customer experience (CX)-focused consulting and technology provider for the healthcare, financial services, and government sectors. Through this new partnership, Avtex will provide Semafone's flagship Cardprotect software in North America and leverage Semafone's consulting services to simplify compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard.
Semafone's Cardprotect offers a patented payment method using dual-tone multifrequency (DTMF) masking technology. As callers enter their payment card data or other numerical personally identifiable information into their phone keypads, Cardprotect masks the DTMF tones with flat tones, shielding the data from customer service representatives, eavesdroppers, and call recording systems. The data is encrypted and sent directly to the payment processor or other designated third parties, bypassing the contact center environment completely. Throughout the process, agents remain in full voice communication with callers to address any issues that arise and handle wrap-up tasks.
"At Avtex, our clients look to us to not only improve their customer experiences, but also to help with their compliance and security challenges around PCI DSS and other regulations," said Michael Shrall, vice president of industry alliances at Avtex, in a statement. "Given the complexities and implications of PCI DSS, we are fortunate to have Semafone aboard as a trusted partner who can guide our customers down the path to full compliance and stronger data security."
"As we continue to expand globally, Avtex will be instrumental in bringing our data security and compliance solutions to the North American market. Our ability to address complex compliance issues in today's ever-evolving regulatory landscape will allow Avtex to focus on helping clients create positive customer experiences across channels. Most importantly, Avtex's clients will keep sensitive payment card data out of their contact centers, thereby reducing the risks associated with brand-damaging data breaches. Avtex are a welcome addition to our channel partner team," said Tim Critchley, Semafone's CEO, in a statement.