Introduction

What is PCI DSS?

• Definition: The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of security standards designed to protect cardholder data during and after a financial transaction.
• History: Developed by major credit card brands in 2004 (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and JCB).
• Versions: PCI DSS is updated periodically to address emerging threats (e.g., PCI DSS v4.0 in 2022).

1.2 Why is PCI DSS Important?

• Cardholder Data Protection: Ensures sensitive cardholder data (CHD) is kept secure.
• Consequences of Non-Compliance:
  • Fines ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 per month.
  • Damage to brand reputation.
  • Loss of customers and revenue.
  • Legal liabilities and potential lawsuits.

1.3 Key Stakeholders

• Card Brands: Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, Discover, JCB.
• Entities Involved: Merchants (businesses that accept card payments), service providers, payment processors, acquirers (banks facilitating transactions).

1.4 Who Needs to Comply?

• Merchants: Any business that stores, processes, or transmits cardholder data must comply.
• Service Providers: Companies that store or process card data on behalf of others (e.g., cloud services, payment gateways).