PCI DSS
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard
Security standard for organizations that handle branded credit cards.
What is PCI DSS?
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of security standards designed to ensure that all companies that accept, process, store, or transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment. PCI DSS is administered by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC).
PCI DSS v4.0, released in March 2022, introduced 64 new requirements focusing on continuous security processes, enhanced validation methods, and flexibility in how organizations meet security objectives. Compliance is required by card brands (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) and enforced through merchant acquirers.
Who Needs PCI DSS?
- Merchants accepting credit/debit card payments
- Payment processors and gateways
- E-commerce platforms
- Point-of-sale system providers
- Any organization storing or transmitting cardholder data
Key Requirements
Core compliance areas for PCI DSS
Build Secure Network
Install and maintain firewalls and security configurations to protect cardholder data.
Protect Cardholder Data
Encrypt transmission of cardholder data across open networks and protect stored data.
Vulnerability Management
Use and regularly update anti-virus software, develop secure systems and applications.
Access Control
Restrict access to cardholder data on a need-to-know basis with unique IDs.
Monitor and Test
Track and monitor all access to network resources and cardholder data, regularly test security.
Benefits of PCI DSS Compliance
- Ability to accept credit card payments
- Avoid fines from payment card brands
- Reduce risk of costly data breaches
- Build customer trust in payment security
- Lower transaction fees (some processors)
- Protection from liability in breaches
How PartnerAlly Helps with PCI DSS
Streamline your path to PCI DSS compliance with our AI-powered platform.
Official Resources
Related Frameworks
SOC 2
The gold standard for demonstrating security practices to enterprise customers and partners.
ISO 27001
The international standard for information security management systems (ISMS).
NIST CSF
Voluntary framework providing standards and best practices for managing cybersecurity risk.