- Additional Requirements for Service Providers
PCI-DSS 4.0 introduces additional requirements for service providers to enhance the security of payment card data further. These requirements are designed to ensure that service providers, who play a crucial role in processing, storing, or transmitting cardholder data, adhere to higher security standards. Here are more examples of these additional requirements and how they might be implemented:
Example 4: Increased Penetration Testing
Requirement: Execute additional penetration testing procedures after significant changes.
Implementation: Develop a protocol for conducting penetration tests not only annually but also following any significant infrastructure or application update. This could involve external and internal tests to simulate known and emerging attack vectors, ensuring that new changes do not introduce vulnerabilities.
Example 5: Critical Service Provider Documentation
Requirement: Maintain a documented description of the cryptographic architecture.
Implementation: Service providers should create and regularly update a detailed description of their cryptographic infrastructure, including data flows, encryption methods used for data at rest and in transit, key management practices, and the roles and responsibilities of managing cryptographic keys.
Example 6: Executive Responsibility
Requirement: Service providers must assign a high-level executive to take responsibility for the protection of cardholder data.
Implementation: Designate a C-level executive, such as a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), who will oversee the company’s compliance with PCI-DSS requirements, ensuring that payment data protection is integrated into the business strategy and that security policies are enforced across the organization.
These additional requirements underscore the PCI Security Standards Council’s focus on not just maintaining but continuously improving the security posture of service providers involved in the payment ecosystem. By addressing specific areas such as documentation, testing, monitoring, and management accountability, PCI-DSS 4.0 aims to elevate the level of security and resilience against data breaches and cyber threats within the payment card industry.
