The ripple effects from the Target security breach have been large and far reaching. Aside from the impact within the company -- executives let go, payment process/credit card overhaul -- the industry as a whole is changing. This has opened the eyes of many business owners to the importance of secure payment processes.

According to a recent article from the Los Angeles Times, several retail superpowers will be partnering with the Retail Industry Leaders Association, the Homeland Security Department, the Secret Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation to create a new organization. The goal is to improve data sharing throughout the industry when it comes to security breaches.

Through the new process, companies can anonymously share tips with the new government body. A small team of cyber-analysts and technicians operating out of the National Cyber Forensics and Training Alliance facility in Pittsburgh will examine all the information that is submitted and determine any new strains of malware, activity on underground criminal forums and software weaknesses. The center will also offer training, education and research resources to retailers.

"We have seen a sharp increase in the number of malicious actors attempting to access personal information or compromise the systems we all rely on, in the retail industry and elsewhere," said Phyllis Schneck, deputy under secretary for cyber security for the National Protection and Programs Directorate at the Homeland Security Department. 

When it comes to proper PCI data security, there are many potential pitfalls that can trip up a business. The ability to safely share information on potential breaches or malicious software can help keep these from becoming major problems.