6 Steps to Simplify PCI Compliance

In an ultra-competitive marketplace, how do you turn the need to protect sensitive cardholder data into a business advantage? You can start by following these six steps from the PCI Security Standards Council to simplify PCI DSS compliance and streamline your business operations.

1. Build and maintain a secure network
   • Deploy a secure firewall
   • Avoid using vendor defaults
   • Micro-segment cardholder data from other types of data
2. Protect cardholder data
   • Avoid storing cardholder data directly on your network
   • Implement the latest cryptography tools
   • Encrypt all in-transit and stored cardholder data
3. Maintain a vulnerability management program
   • Use the latest anti-virus software to prevent malware attacks
   • Regularly update your operating systems
   • Tightly secure all networks, systems, and applications
4. Implement strong access control measures
   • Limit employee access to cardholder data on a need-to-know basis
   • Identify and authenticate all access to system components
   • Restrict physical access to cardholder data systems
5. Regularly monitor and test your networks
   • Monitor access to network resources and cardholder data
   • Regularly test your security systems and processes
   • Ensure that you have a clear audit trail
6. Maintain an information security policy
   • Show employees and contractors how to protect cardholder data
   • Deploy clear security policies for all personnel
   • Conduct ongoing security awareness training

To discover additional insights for protecting cardholder data and reducing business risk, check out the PCI Security Standards Council website.

To learn more about protecting your business from ransomware and other cyberthreats, contact us.