The PCI Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)

• Date: December 15, 2009
• Source: www.pcisecuritystandards.org

Majority of the transactions in the recent times are cashless. The acceptance and use of the plastic money a.k.a credit/debit cards has seen a splurge in recent times. The convenience offered by these services has resulted in widespread acceptance of this form of money. This is only an end user perspective. Companies providing these services are striving to provide secure infrastructure for these transactions as there are possibilities of identity thefts which could be damaging both to the user and the provider.

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard provides guidelines for companies that process, store or transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment. Though these standards were developed by PCI Security Standards Council, an independent body formed by major credit card brands, enforcing compliance is the responsibilities of the different payment brands and acquirers. The PCI DSS is a multifaceted security standard that includes requirements for security management, policies, procedures, network architecture, software design and other critical protective measures.