Compliance is essential for any business, especially in the payments industry. If you only take PCI DSS compliance requirements literally, your system follows all the requirements set by the card brand.
And it’s a good thing indeed. It’s good for you as a business to be PCI compliant because it means you’ve taken essential precautions to prevent data breaches and theft.
But how to become PCI compliant? Read our guide to know the answer.
1. Creating a Plan
Creating a plan to become PCI Compliant can be complex and involves multiple steps. This can include assessment, implementation, and validation. The review identifies the systems and technologies for processing credit cards and any parts of the payment chain.
This helps identify exactly what needs to be done to comply with PCI standards. Implementation involves configuring systems and processes to meet PCI standards. This includes the installation of documents, policies, and monitoring systems.
Finally, validation involves regularly testing systems to confirm that they continue. It is to meet the compliance standards set by the PCI Security Standards Council.
Becoming PCI-compliant is essential for any business that processes credit cards. Following these steps is an integral part of the process.
2. Understanding the Requirements
Start with PCI DSS 3.2, which contains 12 security standards that must be met. The standards involve tasks such as:
- encrypting data
- setting up firewalls
These standards are just one part of the process. Regarding PCI compliance, organizations must also prove that the proper methods are in place to guard cardholder data. When you are concerned about the PCI compliance requirements, you need to seek the help of IT Services.
3. Gaining Stakeholder Buy-In
Gaining stakeholder buy-in is essential when being PCI compliant. Companies should identify which stakeholders should be included in the process.
Stakeholders should be educated on the importance of PCI compliance. It can help protect their customer’s data and the company’s reputation. Companies should consider offering incentive programs or other forms of recognition for those who volunteer.
This is to help the company achieve its compliance goals. Having stakeholders’ buy-in will give the company a greater chance of meeting its compliance goals promptly.
A company should make sure it communicates with stakeholders regularly. This ensures everyone is on the same page and provides help, guidance, and updates on progress toward achieving compliance.
4. Correct Technologies
Ensure that you have suitable systems set up to store customer data securely. Such systems should be on a secure network to prevent malicious actors from accessing the data. This software audits vulnerable areas and constantly monitors your networks to identify threats.
Finally, provide comprehensive training for your staff. This ensures they know the correct procedures and processes for dealing with customer data securely.
5. Ongoing Maintenance
You must continually monitor and update security measures. Regularly patch and update the system’s software. Require all users to have secure passwords that are changed periodically.
Restrict access to sensitive information to those who need it. Always use encryption for communication. Train staff regularly on data security policies, and monitor accounts for suspicious activity.
Build a secure network and develop response plans. It can be quickly implemented in the event of a breach.
Understanding How to Become PCI Compliant
How to become PCI compliant? It is an essential step towards protecting your customers’ sensitive data. Following the steps outlined in this article ensures that your business remains compliant and secure. Now is the time to take action by reaching out to a certified PCI QSA for help getting your business compliant.
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