PCI DSS Compliance

Overview : PCI DSS Compliance

The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) was established in 2004 to ensure the security of cardholder data. Its primary goal is to enhance the responsible processing of sensitive authentication data (SAD) within the cardholder data environment (CDE). PCI DSS compliance requirements extend to all organizations that store, process, or transmit sensitive customer data. However, certain organizations not exclusively engaged in these activities may still need to comply with PCI DSS, depending on their interactions with parties exclusively involved in such processes. If an organization stores any form of cardholder data, PCI compliance is mandatory.

Requirement For PCI DSS Compliance

Establish and maintain a firewall configuration to safeguard cardholder data.
Avoid using default settings provided by vendors for system passwords and other security parameters.
Safeguard stored data.
Encrypt the transmission of cardholder data over open, public networks.
Utilize and regularly update anti-virus software or programs.
Create and uphold secure systems and applications.
Limit access to cardholder data based on business necessity.
Assign a unique ID to each individual with computer access.
Control physical access to cardholder data.
Monitor and track all access to network resources and cardholder data.
Conduct regular testing of security systems and processes.
Implement a policy addressing information security for all personnel.

Why Choose Us?

We are a leading cybersecurity solution provider, ranking among the top 10 firms in India. Our commitment is centered around a client-centric approach and a dedicated focus on implementing best practices for organizations. Our strategic approach revolves around optimizing our clients’ pathways to PCI DSS compliance. We understand the importance of providing comprehensive solutions to ensure complete compliance with PCI DSS standards. Our expertise and strategies are geared towards not just meeting but exceeding the requirements, fostering a secure and resilient environment for our clients.

Our Expertise

Our team comprises certified cybersecurity compliance experts with extensive experience in utilizing top-of-the-line SIEM, network monitoring, and data loss prevention tools. Collaborating with diverse organizations across various industries has equipped our experts with a deep understanding of standard, industry-specific, and regulatory compliances. At Owl Neck, our compliance implementers and Qualified Security Assessors (QSAs) possess a thorough knowledge of international IT frameworks. This enables us to deliver optimized solutions tailored specifically to the unique needs of your organization.

Our Approach

Risk Assessment

In this phase, Owl Neck conducts a comprehensive gap and scope assessment to ensure that all processes involving card numbers are thoroughly examined. The tasks involved include identifying processes that access, store, or process cardholder information, initiating meetings with relevant process owners, reviewing existing policies and procedures for compliance with all 12 PCI DSS requirements, engaging with the IT department to understand network and application architecture, conducting process audits to assess the adequacy of IT and security processes, presenting a detailed gap report to stakeholders, and formulating a remediation roadmap with prioritized activities based on risk exposure and PCI DSS implementation priorities.

Gap Remediation and PCI DSS Compliance

After completing the Gap Assessment phase, our dedicated team of technical and process experts will provide remediation support. This includes assisting in the development of essential information and cybersecurity policies and procedures, initiating risk assessment activities post basic training, and documenting recommendations for closing identified gaps. In this phase, two key areas of support are provided: a. PCI Scope Reduction / Segmentation Support: Offering recommendations for reducing PCI scope. Assisting the team in finalizing implementation controls for PCI DSS scope reduction. b. Non-Technical Implementation Support: Reviewing and developing necessary PCI DSS policies, processes, and procedures. Conducting awareness sessions on policies and processes for IT/security teams and business users within the PCI DSS scope. Providing assistance in establishing stable and secure processes for PCI DSS compliance across customers. Assisting in risk assessment and planning for risk mitigation.

PCI Shield Service

In this phase, we actively support our customers in maintaining PCI DSS compliance through various activities, including: 1. **Information Security Policy and Procedure Reviews:** - Assisting in the regular review and updates of information security policies and procedures to align with PCI DSS requirements. 2. **Training and Awareness:** - Providing ongoing training sessions and awareness programs for relevant teams and personnel to ensure continuous understanding and adherence to PCI DSS guidelines. By offering continuous assistance in these areas, we aim to help organizations sustain their PCI DSS compliance and stay aligned with evolving standards and best practices.

PCI QSA Assessment

During the PCI DSS audit and certification process, a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) conducts a thorough examination of the customer's information security controls, scrutinizing each section of the PCI DSS Report on Compliance (RoC). The QSA meticulously assesses and documents specific details related to each clause of the PCI DSS standard, outlining what was done during the audit and providing insights into what was observed. The resulting RoC is crafted in accordance with the reporting instructions specified by the PCI Security Standards Council (SSC). The comprehensive audit documentation, including the official RoC, is then presented to the customer post-audit, providing a detailed account of the organization's compliance status and adherence to PCI DSS requirements.

FAQs

What are PCI DSS Controls?

PCI DSS, as a regulatory compliance standard, encompasses 12 sets of requirements that organizations handling cardholder data must meet. Unlike frameworks that provide a degree of flexibility in how controls are implemented, PCI DSS follows a stringent structure where specific requirements are mandated without allowing much liberty for varied interpretations. The standard is designed to ensure a uniform and robust approach to securing cardholder data, emphasizing a set of strict controls and measures that organizations must adhere to in order to maintain compliance.

What is PA-DSS in PCI DSS?

To tackle the vital concern of payment application security, the PCI Security Standards Council (SSC) oversees the Payment Application Data Security Standard (PA-DSS). The PA-DSS requirements are established to guarantee that vendors provide products that assist retailers in their efforts to uphold PCI DSS compliance and eliminate the storage of sensitive cardholder data. This standard aims to enhance the security of payment applications and minimize the risk associated with handling payment transactions.

What is the role of ASV in network testing?

ASV, or Approved Scanning Vendor, is a data security firm employing a scanning solution to assess and confirm a client’s compliance with PCI DSS external vulnerability scanning requirements. Organizations categorized as LEVEL 1 are mandated to undergo a PCI network scan conducted by an ASV on a quarterly basis. This scanning process is crucial for identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in the external network infrastructure, contributing to the overall security posture and adherence to PCI DSS standards.

Can anyone become an Internal Security Assessor?

Certainly, organizations that qualify and undergo PCI DSS training and certification have the opportunity to establish an internal team dedicated to enhancing their approach to payment data security. Within this framework, an ISA (Internal Security Assessor) plays a crucial role in coordinating with a QSA (Qualified Security Assessor) to ensure end-to-end compliance. The ISA is responsible for internal assessments, evaluations, and ongoing compliance efforts, working closely with the QSA to align with PCI DSS requirements and maintain a robust security stance for payment data.

Are you Planning to start a new project? Let's team up and turn your vision into reality.

Owl Neck, our exceptional cybersecurity partner, fortifies digital defenses with proactive expertise, rapid responses, and a dedication to safeguarding our assets in the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. Their invaluable services have created a robust security foundation, making them trusted allies in our quest for resilient protection.