What is Required for PCI Assessment? | PCI DSS Q and A

What is required for PCI assessment compliance? This is a question i’m often asked, especially by organizations that need to comply with Level 1 of the PCI DSS standards, which is an on-site assessment conducted by a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA), such as myself. Well, here is what you need to “comply” with according to the PCI standards:

Build and Maintain a Secure Network

* Requirement 1: Install and maintain a firewall configuration to protect cardholder data
* Requirement 2: Do not use vendor-supplied defaults for system passwords and other security parameters

Protect Cardholder Data

* Requirement 3: Protect stroed cardholder data
* Requirement 4: Encrypt transmission of cardholder data across open, public networks

Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program

* Requirement 5: Use and regularly update anti-virus software
* Requirement 6: Develop and maintain secure systems and applications

Implement Strong Access Control Measures

* Requirement 7: Restrict access to cardholder data by business need-to-know
* Requirement 8: Assign a unique ID to each person with computer access
* Requirement 9: Restrict physical access to cardholder data

Regularly Monitor and Test Networks

* Requirement 10: Track and monitor all access to network resources and cardholder data
* Requirement 11: Regularly test security systems and processes

Maintain an Information Security Policy

* Requirement 12: Maintain a policy that addresses information security

Sure, it is lengthy and an arduous task, to say the least. Remember though, there are four (4) different levels of compliance for PCI DSS, with most organizations falling into levels 2,3, and 4. Level 1 compliance can be very time consuming, but so can Levels 2,3, and 4 if you do not have a good grasp on what is required by the PCI DSS standards. My recommendation, consult with a PCI QSA on what level you fall into and what assistance you may need.