Shopify vs. BigCommerce — What is Better for Cybersecurity

Compare the cybersecurity features of Shopify vs BigCommerce to determine which platform best secures your e-commerce store.

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Jeff Harms

Reviewed by Jeff Harms

Director, Advisory Services at OCD tech

Updated September, 18

Usability & Integration: Shopify vs BigCommerce

Discover how Shopify and BigCommerce compare on usability and integration for business productivity.

Shopify Usability and Integration for Business

Shopify offers an intuitive interface that effortlessly balances user-friendliness with robust cybersecurity best practices, incorporating features such as MFA prompts, secure logins, and role-based access to support employee efficiency while safeguarding sensitive data. Its administrative setup is streamlined, making the configuration and management of security measures like conditional access policies and encryption defaults both straightforward and effective. Moreover, Shopify integrates seamlessly with essential third-party platforms—including Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Slack/Teams, CRM systems, SSO solutions, APIs, and automation tools—ensuring that each connection adheres to stringent security standards without introducing vulnerabilities. Practical aspects such as secure migration, reliable data portability, and versatile mobile/desktop access further underline Shopify’s commitment to delivering a secure yet adaptable e-commerce environment.

BigCommerce Usability and Integration for Business

BigCommerce combines intuitive usability with strict cybersecurity best practices, enabling employees to efficiently use the platform while benefiting from features like secure logins, MFA prompts, and role-based access controls. The administrative setup is straightforward, allowing IT teams to manage security configurations such as conditional access policies and encryption defaults with ease, ensuring that both configuration and ongoing management are streamlined. Moreover, BigCommerce’s robust integration capabilities enable seamless connections to platforms like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Slack/Teams, CRM systems, SSO, and various automation tools via secure APIs, which help maintain a hardened security posture that minimizes vulnerabilities. The platform also supports smooth migration, reliable data portability, and secure mobile and desktop access, making it an excellent choice for businesses prioritizing both operational efficiency and stringent cybersecurity measures.

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Security and Compliance: Shopify vs BigCommerce

See how Shopify and BigCommerce compare on security and compliance, including data protection, regulations, and business trust.

Shopify

Data Security & Encryption

Data protection and encryption refer to the methods of safeguarding sensitive information using advanced cryptographic techniques and secure data handling practices. It is essential because it prevents unauthorized access and protects customer privacy during both storage and transmission. Shopify employs state-of-the-art encryption protocols to ensure that data remains confidential and secure at all times.

BigCommerce

Data Security & Encryption

Data Protection & Encryption is fundamental to safeguarding sensitive information and maintaining trust among merchants and customers. Advanced encryption protocols ensure that data remains secure both during transmission and when stored, protecting against unauthorized access. BigCommerce employs industry-standard encryption methods and secure key management practices to reinforce data integrity and confidentiality.

Shopify

Authentication & Access Control

Authentication and access control define the processes used to verify user identities and restrict access to critical systems. This is vital as it minimizes the risk of unauthorized actions and potential breaches. Shopify utilizes robust measures such as multi-factor authentication and role-based access controls to enforce strict user verification and limit system entry.

BigCommerce

Authentication & Access Control

Authentication & Access Control is crucial for verifying identities and ensuring that only authorized users access sensitive systems. Robust authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication and role-based access controls, reduce the risk of breaches and account misuse. BigCommerce continuously reinforces these measures by updating security protocols and ensuring only necessary privileges are granted, which limits exposure to potential threats.

Shopify

Compliance & Certifications

Regulatory compliance and certifications involve adhering to established legal and industry security standards, which is important for maintaining trust and operational integrity. These practices ensure that the platform meets global regulatory requirements and that best practices are consistently followed. Shopify continuously updates its policies and maintains certifications like PCI DSS to demonstrate its commitment to compliance and secure business operations.

BigCommerce

Compliance & Certifications

Regulatory Compliance & Certifications underscores the platform’s commitment to meeting global security standards and legal requirements. Adherence to regulations such as PCI-DSS and GDPR is critical for maintaining customer confidence and ensuring data protection practices are current. BigCommerce regularly undergoes external audits and secures relevant certifications to demonstrate its ongoing compliance and dedication to regulatory excellence.

Shopify

Incident Response & Reliability

Incident response and risk management encompass the strategies and processes used to address security breaches and mitigate potential threats. This aspect is crucial because timely detection and response can significantly reduce the impact of an incident. Shopify has a dedicated incident response team and employs continuous risk assessment protocols to quickly identify issues and implement resolution strategies, ensuring a resilient security posture.

BigCommerce

Incident Response & Reliability

Incident Response & Risk Management are essential for quickly identifying and mitigating potential threats. A well-structured incident response plan enables swift containment and recovery, minimizing the impact of security events. BigCommerce maintains dedicated security teams and proactive monitoring systems, ensuring risks are continuously managed and that a coordinated response minimizes disruptions.

Cost and Value: Shopify vs BigCommerce

Compare the cost and value of Shopify and BigCommerce to see which offers better pricing, affordability, and long-term benefits.

 

Cost & Value for Shopify

 

Shopify offers tiered pricing plans starting from around $29/month for basic features up to approximately $299/month for advanced capabilities, which include essential cybersecurity elements such as PCI compliance and fraud detection. It’s important to note that while these licensing and subscription costs are transparent, there are additional hidden expenses such as initial setup fees, employee training, and optional security add-ons designed to meet specific compliance requirements and further protect your business.

Investing in robust cybersecurity features can potentially save businesses significant costs; for example, data breach expenses can exceed $4M according to industry research, making the built-in security features of Shopify a valuable means to avoid such losses. With Shopify's proactive measures reducing the risk of compliance fines and downtime, the overall return on investment is enhanced, offering both peace of mind and financial benefits in the long run.

 

Cost & Value for BigCommerce

 

BigCommerce offers tiered subscription pricing with plans typically ranging from $29.95 per month for basic setups to around $299.95 or more for advanced solutions, while enterprise-level options can command higher fees. These subscription costs include a range of built-in security features—like automatic updates, PCI compliance, and encryption—that are vital for safeguarding sensitive data.

It’s also important to note the hidden costs associated with the platform. Beyond the base licensing, you may incur additional expenses for initial setup, secure configuration training, and necessary security add-ons. By investing in these robust cybersecurity measures, which can prevent breaches with costs exceeding $4M according to IBM, businesses not only reduce risks of compliance fines and downtime but also enjoy a strong long-term return on investment. In effect, the upfront investment in BigCommerce's security can translate into substantial long-term savings.

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Final Recommendation: Shopify vs BigCommerce for Cybersecurity

 

Final Recommendation

 

In our comprehensive analysis of Shopify vs BigCommerce for cybersecurity, we found that both platforms offer robust security and compliance features, though they cater to different business needs. Shopify delivers an intuitive, user-friendly interface, making it ideal for small to midsized businesses seeking ease of use, seamless integrations, and a swift setup process. Meanwhile, BigCommerce stands out with its advanced customization options and scalability, which appeal more to larger enterprises or businesses with complex operational requirements. Both platforms prioritize essential cybersecurity measures and adhere to strict compliance standards, ensuring that sensitive business data remains well protected. Businesses looking for simplicity and fast deployment may favor Shopify, while those requiring enhanced flexibility and growth potential might find BigCommerce more beneficial. Ultimately, the decision should align with your specific operational goals, budget constraints, and long-term digital strategy.

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Read How to Enable MFA on these tools

Enabling MFA is one of the most effective ways to strengthen account security. We’ll walk through how to turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA), making it clear which steps are required and how the user experience compares across the two tools.

How to enable 2FA/MFA on a Shopify account?

Learn how to enable 2FA/MFA on your Shopify account to boost security, protect your store, and keep your data safe with this easy step-by-step guide.

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Audit. Security. Assurance.

IT Audit | Cybersecurity | IT Assurance | IT Security Consultants – OCD Tech is a technology consulting firm serving the IT security and consulting needs of businesses in Boston (MA), Braintree (MA) and across New England. We primarily serve Fortune 500 companies including auto dealers, financial institutions, higher education, government contractors, and not-for-profit organizations with SOC 2 reporting, CMMC readiness, IT Security Audits, Penetration Testing and Vulnerability Assessments. We also provide dark web monitoring, DFARS compliance, and IT general controls review.

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