PCI Compliance FAQs: Understanding the Basics
Partnering with industry experts like Security Metrics, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you understand the essentials of PCI compliance, its importance, and how to maintain compliance with ease.
What is PCI Compliance?
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) was introduced by major card brands (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.) to protect cardholder data. If your business processes, stores, or transmits payment card information, you are required to comply. The specific PCI DSS requirements depend on your card-handling practices and processing environment.
What is PCI validation?
The PCI Security Standards Council mandates PCI compliance for all merchants. Some payment processors require annual validation, which documents your compliance. This can involve a self-assessment or an audit depending on your transaction volume. Learn more about documenting your compliance.
Who needs to comply?
All businesses processing, storing, or transmitting payment card information must comply with PCI DSS.
Is PCI compliance required by law?
While PCI compliance isn’t directly regulated by UK law, accepting card payments means agreeing to follow the rules set by card networks like Visa and MasterCard. Compliance is essential for securely processing payments and avoiding penalties or fines.
What happens if I'm not PCI compliant?
Non-compliance increases your risk of a data breach and can result in fines from your processor or card brands.
Do I need to comply if I process only a few transactions?
Yes, even one transaction per year requires PCI DSS compliance.
How do I become PCI compliant?
See our Managing PCI Compliance article for more information on our programme.
What is the latest version of PCI DSS?
PCI DSS version 4.0 was released in April 2022, with updates for password protocols and ecommerce security.
Which SAQ should I complete?
Choose the right SAQ for your environment. Common SAQs include:
- SAQ A: For fully outsourced cardholder data functions.
- SAQ B: For imprint machines or standalone terminals with no electronic storage.
- SAQ C: For merchants using payment applications connected to the internet.
- SAQ P2PE: For point-to-point encryption (P2PE) devices.
For more details, read about PCI SAQ Types.
Do I need an SSL/TLS certificate for PCI compliance?
An SSL/TLS certificate alone does not meet PCI DSS requirements, but it is an important part of securing your website.
What should I do if my business is compromised?
Disconnect from the internet, notify your processor, and contact a forensic investigator to help identify and resolve the breach.
SEE ALSO: 6 Phases in an Incident Response Plan
How do I begin the Process?
To begin your Rvvup PCI journey, you can create an account through our PCI Portal hosted by our PCI Partner - Security Metrics
How do I log in to the PCI Portal?
If you have already created an account, you can log in here
🏁 That’s it! Have more questions? Reach out to support@securitymetrics.com.