The Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) is a global forum established to develop, enhance, disseminate, and assist with the understanding of security standards for payment account security. Founded in 2006 by major payment card brands—American Express, Discover Financial Services, JCB International, MasterCard, and Visa Inc.—the council aims to protect payment data worldwide through industry-driven security standards and resources.

pcisecuritystandards.org

Key Standards and Programs:

• PCI Data Security Standard (PCI DSS):

  • A comprehensive set of requirements designed to ensure that all entities involved in processing, storing, or transmitting credit card information maintain a secure environment.

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• Point-to-Point Encryption (P2PE):

  • Standards that provide a comprehensive set of security requirements for point-to-point encryption solutions, reducing the risk of cardholder data breaches.

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• Secure Software Standard:

  • Guidelines to ensure payment software is developed securely, minimizing vulnerabilities that could be exploited.

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• Secure Software Lifecycle (Secure SLC) Standard:

  • Requirements for software vendors to integrate security throughout the entire software lifecycle.

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Training and Certification:

The PCI SSC offers various training programs and certifications for professionals and organizations to enhance their payment security knowledge and skills, including:

• Qualified Security Assessor (QSA):

  • Certification for individuals qualified to assess compliance with PCI DSS.

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• Internal Security Assessor (ISA):

  • Training for internal staff to assess and validate their organization's PCI DSS compliance.

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• PCI Professional (PCIP):

  • Credential for individuals demonstrating a foundational understanding of PCI standards.

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Resources and Support:

The council provides a wealth of resources to assist organizations in achieving and maintaining compliance with PCI standards, including:

• Documentation:

  • Access to official PCI standards, guidelines, and supporting documents.

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• Approved Products and Solutions:

  • Listings of validated payment applications, approved point-to-point encryption solutions, and certified devices.

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• Community Engagement:

  • Opportunities to participate in community meetings, forums, and special interest groups to stay informed and contribute to the development of security standards.

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Why It’s Important:

In an era of increasing cyber threats, adherence to PCI SSC standards is crucial for organizations that handle payment card data. Compliance helps protect sensitive information, reduces the risk of data breaches, and fosters trust among consumers and stakeholders in the payment ecosystem.

pcisecuritystandards.org

For more detailed information and access to resources, visit the official PCI Security Standards Council website: https://www.pcisecuritystandards.org/