PCI DSS: Protecting Cardholder DataPayment Card Industry Data Security Standards

Data security has become a primary consideration for every business that accepts credit and debit cards.

The five major card brands established the Payment Card Industry Council to oversee the Payment Card Industry – Data Security Standards (PCI-DSS) and to promote security of the credit and debit card data presented into the payments system.

All merchants and acquirers are required to comply by answering an annual Self-Assessment
Questionnaire (SAQ) followed by third-party scans to confirm these uniform standards are met. PCI Validation results in reduced fees and exposure to liability.

Failure to comply within 90 days of the notification will result in a $25 monthly non-compliance fee. The monthly association compliance fee is $10.00. To learn more, visit the PCI Security Council site.