The 12 Requirements for PCI Compliance

PCI DSS consists of 12 fundamental requirements designed to protect cardholder data. Understanding each requirement helps ensure comprehensive security implementation.

Build and Maintain a Secure Network

Requirement 1: Install and maintain a firewall configuration

Firewalls act as the first line of defense, controlling traffic between trusted and untrusted networks. Configure firewalls to deny all traffic by default, allowing only necessary connections.

Requirement 2: Do not use vendor-supplied defaults

Change all default passwords, remove unnecessary services, and configure security parameters before deploying systems into production environments.

Protect Cardholder Data

Requirement 3: Protect stored cardholder data

Minimize data storage, encrypt stored data, and implement proper key management. Never store sensitive authentication data like CVV codes after authorization.

Requirement 4: Encrypt transmission of cardholder data

Use strong cryptography and security protocols like TLS to protect cardholder data during transmission across open, public networks.

Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program

Requirement 5: Protect systems against malware

Deploy anti-virus software on all systems commonly affected by malware, ensure regular updates, and configure automatic scans.

Requirement 6: Develop and maintain secure systems

Apply security patches promptly, follow secure coding practices, and protect applications from common vulnerabilities.

Implement Strong Access Control Measures

Requirement 7: Restrict access by business need-to-know

Limit access to cardholder data to only those individuals whose job requires such access. Implement role-based access controls.

Requirement 8: Identify and authenticate access

Assign unique IDs to each person with system access, implement proper authentication procedures, and use multi-factor authentication where required.

Requirement 9: Restrict physical access

Protect physical access to systems and cardholder data through facility security controls, visitor management, and media destruction procedures.

Regularly Monitor and Test Networks

Requirement 10: Track and monitor network access

Implement logging mechanisms to track all access to network resources and cardholder data. Review logs regularly for suspicious activity.

Requirement 11: Regularly test security systems

Conduct regular vulnerability scans, penetration testing, and security assessments to identify and address potential weaknesses.

Maintain an Information Security Policy

Requirement 12: Maintain a policy that addresses information security

Establish, publish, maintain, and disseminate security policies covering all personnel. Include incident response procedures and security awareness training.

Implementation Best Practices

Successfully implementing all 12 requirements requires:

So to wrap up

The 12 PCI DSS requirements provide a comprehensive framework for protecting cardholder data. Systematic implementation and ongoing maintenance ensure robust security and regulatory compliance.

Contact Paytia today to learn how our solutions help you meet all 12 PCI requirements while simplifying compliance management and reducing implementation complexity.