Core Elements of PCI’s Data Security Standard
This organization provides an international platform for the ongoing development, enhancement, storage, dissemination and implementation of security standards for account data protection. It is impossible to be involved in the credit card processing industry and not be aware of the PCI Security Standards Council.
As such it is important to be aware of the core elements of the PCI’s Data Security Standard (DSS).
The following are the current fundamental principles and requirements:
Build and Maintain a Secure Network
Requirement a. Install and maintain a firewall configuration to protect cardholder data
Requirement b. Do not use vendor-supplied defaults for system passwords and other security parameters
Implement Strong Access Control Measures
Requirement c. Restrict access to cardholder data by business need-to-know
Requirement d. Assign a unique ID to each person with computer access
Requirement e. Restrict physical access to cardholder data
Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program
Requirement f. Use and regularly update anti-virus software
Requirement g. Develop and maintain secure systems and applications
Maintain an Information Security Policy
Requirement h. Maintain a policy that addresses information security
Protect Cardholder Data
Requirement i. Protect stored cardholder data
Requirement j. Encrypt transmission of cardholder data across open, public networks
Regularly Monitor and Test Networks
Requirement k. Track and monitor all access to network resources and cardholder data
Requirement l. Regularly test security systems and processes
