PCI DSS compliance refers to adherence to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, a global set of security requirements for any organization that stores, processes, or transmits credit cardholder data to protect it from fraud and theft. The standard aims to reduce risks by ensuring secure networks, robust data protection measures like encryption and access controls, and regular testing of systems and personnel security awareness. Compliance is mandated by credit card brands and involves an annual validation process, with failure to comply resulting in potential penalties, fines, or even the inability to process card payments. 

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• Administered by the PCI SSC:

  The PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) owns, manages, and maintains the PCI DSS, though the major card brands are responsible for enforcement. 

   

   
• Aims to Protect Cardholder Data:

  The primary objective is to safeguard cardholder data from breaches, cyberattacks, and fraudulent activities. 

   

   
• Focuses on Data Security:

  Compliance involves implementing controls such as firewalls, strong passwords, encryption, malware protection, and secure network segmentation. 

   

   
• Annual Validation:

  Organizations must validate their compliance annually, which may involve self-assessment questionnaires, vulnerability scans, or third-party audits depending on the organization’s size and data handling. 

   

   
• Consequences of Non-Compliance:

  Failure to comply can lead to significant consequences, including financial penalties, increased transaction fees, reputational damage, and the loss of the ability to process credit card payments.