Login with GoogleTechnical Security System (TSE/TSS)
1. Introduction
In the world of Point of Sale (POS) systems, compliance with regulations is crucial. In Germany, one such regulation is the Technical Security System (Technische Sicherheitseinrichtung, TSE) requirement. This post aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of TSS/TSE compliance and its importance for vendors in Germany.
2. What is TSS/TSE?
The TSS/TSE is a security system that ensures the integrity and security of digital records of POS transactions. It consists of three modules: a security module, a storage medium, and a uniform digital interface. These modules are developed based on technical guidelines by the Federal Office for Information Security (Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik, BSI) and meet the ISO/IEC 15408 (Common Criteria, CC) specifications.
3. Current Requirements for POS Systems
The current essential requirements for POS systems in Germany result from the law and the cash register security regulation:
- Business transactions and other processes must be recorded individually, completely, correctly, in a timely manner, and in an orderly manner.
- The digital recordings are to be protected by a certified technical security device.
- Digital records are to be secured and kept available for cash register checks and external audits.
- A receipt for the business transaction must be issued and made available to those involved in the business transaction.
- The responsible tax office must be informed of the purchase and decommissioning of an electronic recording system within one month. (currently suspended as interface not yet available)
4. How Does Cloud-Based TSE Work?
A cloud-based TSE works by storing all transaction data in a secure cloud environment. This means that all transaction data is immediately and automatically backed up, ensuring data integrity and security. The cloud-based TSE communicates with the POS system via a secure digital interface, recording each transaction as it occurs.
5. TSS/TSE on Receipts
Every receipt issued by a TSS/TSE compliant POS system includes a unique, tamper-proof digital signature. This signature serves as proof that the transaction has been recorded in compliance with TSS/TSE regulations.
6. Why is TSS/TSE Important?
TSS/TSE compliance is not just a legal requirement; it's a matter of trust between vendors and customers. By ensuring that all transactions are recorded securely and accurately, TSS/TSE compliance helps to prevent tax fraud and ensures fair competition.
7. Consequences of Non-Compliance and the Role of Vendors
Non-compliance with TSS/TSE regulations can result in severe penalties, including fines up to €25,000. Furthermore, non-compliance can damage your business's reputation, as it suggests a lack of integrity and respect for the law. Vendors are responsible for ensuring their POS systems are TSS/TSE compliant. This includes using a certified TSE and keeping it operational at all times.
8. How KulturCart Ensures TSS/TSE Compliance
At KulturCart, we take TSS/TSE compliance seriously. Our POS system is equipped with a cloud-based TSE, ensuring that all transactions are recorded securely and accurately. We also provide support and guidance to our vendors to help them understand and meet their TSS/TSE compliance obligations.
9. The Role of Vendors in TSS/TSE Compliance
As a vendor, it's your responsibility to ensure your POS system is TSS/TSE compliant. This includes using a certified TSE, keeping it operational at all times, and providing all necessary information to the tax office. By doing so, you contribute to a fair and transparent business environment.
10. TSS/TSE Compliance: A Step Towards Fair Competition
Compliance with TSS/TSE regulations is not just about avoiding fines or legal trouble. It's about contributing to a fairer, more transparent business environment. By ensuring that all transactions are recorded accurately and securely, TSS/TSE compliance helps to level the playing field, preventing tax evasion and promoting fair competition.
11. Monthly TSE Data Records and Vendor Responsibilities
Every month, KulturCart provides vendors with their monthly TSE data. It's crucial that vendors save this data accordingly, as the tax office can request this data at any time. By keeping a record of your TSE data, you can demonstrate your compliance with TSS/TSE regulations, should the tax office ever need to verify it.
12. Conclusion
The tax office is now serious about cash management and no longer allows errors or incomplete data. If errors are found, the tax office can estimate the amount of income. Additional tax payments in the five-digit range are therefore no longer a rarity. Entrepreneurs should pay close attention to whether the formal requirements and the complete recording of income are guaranteed.
