What is PCI Compliance?
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), introduced in 2006, is a set of requirements that ensure that all companies that process, store, and transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment.
Each year, businesses across the UK are required to complete the PCI DSS questionnaire, a key component of the compliance process. This questionnaire is a detailed self-assessment tool that helps businesses evaluate their security practices and identify any areas that need improvement. It covers a wide range of security measures, including network security, access control, encryption, and vulnerability management. However, the PCI DSS questionnaire is often perceived as complex and time-consuming. The intricate nature of the questions, combined with the technical language used, can leave many business owners feeling lost and unsupported.
At BMS, a dedicated Account Manager can help you with the questionnaire, navigating the complexities for you and ensuring your business is compliant so that you can focus on what really matters.
Is Compliance Important?
PCI compliance is one of the most important aspects of a modern business. The importance of being compliant is ever-growing particularly with the transition to a more cashless society.
However, despite it’s importance, 80% of UK businesses are not compliant. Failure to demonstrate compliance can result in a costly monthly fine of between £4000 to £80,000.
Furthermore, data breaches that are found to be the result of inadequate data protection can lead to severe GDPR fines.
How do I manage my PCI compliance?
To be PCI compliant, businesses need to demonstrate that they meet each of the twelve PCI principles. The 12 Principles are:
- Installing and maintaining a firewall configuration to protect Cardholder data
- Avoiding vendor-supplied defaults for system passwords and other security parameters
- Protecting stored cardholder data
- Encryption transmission of cardholder data across open, public networks
- Protecting all systems against malware and regularly updating anti-virus software and programmes
- Developing and maintain secure systems and applications
- Restricting access to cardholder data
- Identifying and authenticating access to system components
- Restricting physical access to cardholder data
- Tracking and monitoring all access to network resources and cardholder data
- Regularly testing security systems and processes
- Maintaining a policy that addresses information security for all personnel
How can BMS help you?
At Bespoke Merchant Solutions, we can source a trusted compliance manager who will work with you to understand your business. Your compliance manager will fill out the PCI compliance form for you and keep on top of compliance management, leaving you to get on with what you do best.
Contact us today using the form below if you have any concerns about your businesses PCI compliance, and our team of experts will be happy to help.
