The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of security standards created by major credit card companies to protect against credit card fraud. It is a set of requirements that businesses must follow to ensure that they are securely storing, processing, and transmitting credit card data. PCI DSS applies to all businesses that accept credit card payments, regardless of their size or volume of transactions.
How does PCI DSS work?
PCI DSS works by setting out a set of security requirements that businesses must follow to protect against credit card fraud. The requirements are divided into six categories, each with a set of sub-requirements. The six categories are:
- Build and Maintain a Secure Network
- Protect Cardholder Data
- Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program
- Implement Strong Access Control Measures
- Regularly Monitor and Test Networks
- Maintain an Information Security Policy
Each category has a set of sub-requirements that businesses must follow to comply with PCI DSS. For example, the “Protect Cardholder Data” category requires businesses to encrypt credit card data both in transit and at rest, and to ensure that the data is securely deleted when it is no longer needed.
Uses of PCI DSS
PCI DSS is used to protect against credit card fraud and to ensure that businesses are securely storing, processing, and transmitting credit card data. It offers several benefits for businesses and consumers, including increased security and reduced risk of fraud. By complying with PCI DSS, businesses can protect their customers’ sensitive data and reduce the risk of financial loss.
PCI DSS is also used to comply with regulations and industry standards. Many industries and countries have regulations and standards that require businesses to comply with PCI DSS. For example, the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requires businesses to comply with PCI DSS when processing credit card data.
