PCI DSS Compliance Services
With the ever-evolving PCI Data Security Standard, it’s important to prepare your organization for version 4.0.1 with CyberCrest's expert guidance. We will help you navigate complex DSS controls, secure your systems, and ensure robust cybersecurity to protect your enterprise and reputation.
Our PCI DSS Compliance Methodology
We’ve developed a clear 4-step compliance methodology to take you all the way to a successful PCI DSS compliance attestation. As a PCI DSS compliance company, CyberCrest will help you navigate the complexities of the standard efficiently.
Gap Assessment
We conduct a PCI DSS gap assessment and develop a path towards compliance.
Remediation Support
We assist in developing documentation and implementing controls to help achieve a state of compliance.
Attestation
We will issue a ROC (report on compliance) detailing the level of compliance.
Audit
We will conduct a formal audit to assess the level of compliance.
YOUR STEPS TO COMPLIANCE
Our PCI DSS Consulting Services
From a readiness assessment to developing a targeted action plan and certification-ready evaluation to satisfy PCI DSS requirements, CyberCrest’s PCI DSS consultants will ensure your controls are robust, help you avoid non-compliance penalties and build confidence with customers and partners.
PCI DSS Readiness Assessment
CyberCrest’s PCI DSS Readiness Assessment is a proactive, high-level evaluation designed to determine your organization’s current compliance with PCI DSS standards. Our experts review your existing policies, processes, and security controls to assess how well you meet the core security requirements of the PCI DSS framework. The assessment identifies critical areas that require improvement before undergoing a formal audit. Key deliverables include an executive summary, a prioritized list of remediation actions, and actionable recommendations tailored to your unique cardholder data environment.
PCI DSS Gap Analysis
Our PCI DSS Gap Analysis is an in-depth, technical review that pinpoints specific deficiencies that may exist between your current security practices and the requirements outlined in the PCI DSS. CyberCrest’s QSA team conducts comprehensive interviews, documentation reviews, and technical testing to identify gaps and security vulnerabilities in your cardholder data environment. The resulting report clearly maps each gap to its corresponding PCI requirement, complete with risk ratings and detailed recommendations for remediation. This service not only highlights what is missing but also guides your organization on how to achieve compliance efficiently.
PCI DSS Assessments
CyberCrest’s PCI DSS Assessment services are formal, end-to-end evaluation conducted by our experienced auditors to verify that your organization meets all PCI DSS requirements. This comprehensive assessment covers both technical and administrative controls across your cardholder data environments. Our team collects and reviews evidence, interviews key personnel, and tests security controls to ensure adherence to the PCI DSS framework. The final deliverable is a detailed Report on Compliance (ROC) and Attestation of Compliance (AOC) that highlights strengths, identifies areas for improvement, and provides an overall compliance status.
Achieve PCI DSS Compliance with CyberCrest
PCI DSS certification and attestation can be daunting, and the complexities of the framework certainly pose a challenge, but CyberCrest’s team of seasoned Qualified Security Assessors (QSA) are here to help. Speak with a QSA here to begin your compliance journey.
Why Choose CyberCrest?
With deep expertise in cybersecurity and regulatory compliance, our PCI DSS consultancy is well-positioned to guide your organization through the complexities of achieving and maintaining PCI compliance. Our team of seasoned QSAs ensures that you meet all framework requirements while strengthening your cybersecurity resilience.
Client-First Strategies
Our PCI DSS compliance consultants will always put your organization’s needs and business goals first when assisting you on the way to maturing your security program. We make your priorities central to our strategy without sacrificing quality.
Technology Driven
We use specialized audit and compliance software to streamline and enhance your compliance journey. Our consultants are also trained and have hands-on experience with the top compliance platform vendors.
Tailored Solutions
We provide tailored solutions, ensuring that you not only achieve compliance but also enhance your overall security posture against evolving threats. Our proposed compliance strategy will take into account your current objectives, digital environment, existing security controls and compliance requirements.
Remediation Support
We support remediation efforts within any network and information security implementation. From technical to administrative tasks, we ensure our client’s cybersecurity excellence without compromising best practices and requirements.
TESTIMONIALS
Hear from Our Clients
I have worked with CyberCrest on multiple compliance engagements over the past several years including HITRUST, NIS 2 and ISO 27001. Without exception, CyberCrest has consistently exceeded expectations for my clients through a combination of highly experienced consultants, and a practical approach to achieving compliance. They are willing to roll up their sleeves and help organizations fully understand and address their compliance challenges, not just function as external auditors.
“I have used the CyberCrest team for a variety of critical information security compliance engagements over the years including successfully attaining ISO 27001 and HITRUST certifications. All of our engagements have exceeded expectations!”
"We have worked with CyberCrest on multiple penetration testing and cybersecurity risk and maturity assessments. The CyberCrest team has consistently produced high quality deliverables at fair prices. We give their client prospects our strongest recommendation."
I have worked with CyberCrest on multiple compliance engagements over the past several years including HITRUST, NIS 2 and ISO 27001. Without exception, CyberCrest has consistently exceeded expectations for my clients through a combination of highly experienced consultants, and a practical approach to achieving compliance. They are willing to roll up their sleeves and help organizations fully understand and address their compliance challenges, not just function as external auditors.
“I have used the CyberCrest team for a variety of critical information security compliance engagements over the years including successfully attaining ISO 27001 and HITRUST certifications. All of our engagements have exceeded expectations!”
"We have worked with CyberCrest on multiple penetration testing and cybersecurity risk and maturity assessments. The CyberCrest team has consistently produced high quality deliverables at fair prices. We give their client prospects our strongest recommendation."
About PCI DSS
Maintaining PCI DSS compliance is required for companies that store, transmit or process credit card data. To become PCI DSS compliant, organizations must implement and maintain security practice standards. As your PCI DSS provider, CyberCrest can help your organization attain PCI compliance with our proven methodology and hands-on support model.
PCI DSS 4.0.1 is the latest evolution of the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, designed to address emerging threats and modernize security controls in an increasingly digital landscape that demands security surrounding payments. This updated version builds upon earlier iterations such as 3.2.1 and 4.0 while incorporating a more flexible, risk-based approach.
The DSS now allows organizations to tailor their security measures to fit their specific risk environments, either by following the defined standard controls or by adopting a customized approach — provided they can demonstrate that their alternative controls effectively meet the security intent of the standard.
Risk-based methodology
One major change in PCI DSS 4.0.1 is the emphasis on a risk-based methodology. Rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all set of controls, the standard now offers organizations the flexibility to develop and document their own security measures that address their unique environments. This means that businesses with sophisticated security programs can innovate and implement advanced solutions that go beyond the baseline requirements, while those with simpler environments can adhere to the established practices. In either case, rigorous documentation, regular risk assessments, and clear evidence of control effectiveness are required, ensuring that the customized controls maintain a strong security posture.
Authentication and access management
Authentication and access management have also received significant updates in PCI DSS 4.0.1; most notably, multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all privileged access. Organizations must implement robust controls that ensure only authorized users can access critical systems and sensitive data. Additionally, enhanced requirements for session management — such as setting appropriate session timeouts and automatically terminating inactive sessions — help to reduce the risk of unauthorized access, further reinforcing the overall security of payment environments.
Continuous security training and awareness
The updated standard also reinforces the importance of continuous security training and awareness. Recognizing that human error is often a major contributor to security breaches, PCI DSS 4.0.1 requires organizations to conduct regular training sessions for all personnel involved in handling payment data. This training should cover the latest security threats, proper handling of sensitive authentication data and other information, and the specific policies and procedures established by the organization. By cultivating a culture of security awareness, organizations can reduce the risk of breaches caused by careless or uninformed behavior.
Testing and validation procedures
Testing and validation procedures in PCI DSS 4.0.1 have been refined as well. Organizations must now provide detailed evidence of their security controls through comprehensive documentation and regular assessments. Whether an organization follows the defined approach or adopts a customized method, it is essential to maintain a transparent audit trail that demonstrates the continuous effectiveness of its security measures. This increased focus on evidence-based validation helps to ensure that all controls are not only in place but are actively managed and improved over time.
PCI DSS as a strategic imperative
PCI DSS 4.0.1 represents a significant advancement in payment card security. By offering a flexible, risk-based approach, it allows organizations to align their security practices with their specific operational needs, while still adhering to robust, industry-standard protections. For any business involved in processing, storing, or transmitting payment card data, this standard is both a regulatory requirement and a strategic imperative. It not only helps protect sensitive customer information but also strengthens the organization’s overall cybersecurity posture, ensuring business continuity in the face of evolving threats.
Adopting PCI DSS 4.0.1 may require an initial investment in updating systems and processes, but the long-term benefits — in terms of improved security, reduced risk, and enhanced customer trust — make it well worth the effort. Organizations that proactively embrace these changes will be better positioned to mitigate future threats, comply with regulatory demands, and maintain a competitive edge in today’s dynamic digital marketplace. Working with an experienced PCI DSS company like CyberCrest can greatly reduce the stress and anxiety surrounding the implementation of PCI. Let us help your organization meet PCI compliance requirements; speak with a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) today.
RELATED SERVICES
Beyond PCI DSS Compliance Consulting
Looking for more than just PCI DSS compliance? CyberCrest offers a wide range of cybersecurity and compliance services, including SOC 2, ISO 27001, HITRUST, CMMC, and more. Our expert team helps your organization meet industry standards, strengthen security, and navigate complex regulatory requirements. Let us help you achieve comprehensive compliance today.
Frequently asked questions
What is PCI-DSS?
PCI-DSS, or Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, is a set of security standards designed to ensure that all companies that accept, process, store, or transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment. PCI-DSS was created by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC), which was founded in 2006 by the major credit card brands (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and JCB) to establish a unified security standard for cardholder data.
PCI-DSS applies to all organizations that accept credit card payments, including merchants, processors, acquirers, issuers, and service providers. The standard includes a set of requirements and best practices to help organizations protect sensitive cardholder data and prevent data breaches. The requirements are organized into six categories, or control objectives:
- Build and Maintain a Secure Network and Systems
- Protect Cardholder Data
- Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program
- Implement Strong Access Control Measures
- Regularly Monitor and Test Networks
- Maintain an Information Security Policy
The requirements are further broken down into 12 specific requirements that must be met in order to comply with PCI-DSS. These requirements cover everything from securing network infrastructure and protecting stored cardholder data to restricting access to cardholder data and monitoring network activity.
PCI-DSS compliance is not a certification, but rather a self-assessment or an assessment conducted by an independent Qualified Security Assessor (QSA). Organizations that are found to be non-compliant with PCI-DSS requirements may be subject to fines, restrictions on credit card acceptance, and other consequences.
PCI-DSS compliance is important for all organizations that accept credit card payments. It helps to protect against data breaches and fraud, and can help to build trust with customers and business partners. Implementing PCI-DSS requirements can also help organizations improve their overall security posture and reduce the risk of cyber attacks.
What does PCI DSS Compliance Mean?
PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) compliance refers to an organization’s adherence to a set of security standards developed by major payment card companies including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and JCB International. These standards are intended to ensure the protection of sensitive cardholder data during payment card transactions.
Achieving PCI DSS compliance means that an organization has implemented a set of security controls designed to protect cardholder data from theft, loss, or unauthorized access. The security controls are divided into six categories or control objectives:
- Build and Maintain a Secure Network
- Protect Cardholder Data
- Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program
- Implement Strong Access Control Measures
- Regularly Monitor and Test Networks
- Maintain an Information Security Policy
PCI DSS compliance is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that requires continuous monitoring, testing, and improvement of security controls. Organizations must maintain compliance by regularly assessing their security posture, updating their policies and procedures, and implementing new security controls as needed.
PCI DSS compliance is important because it helps to protect the reputation of the organization, prevent financial losses due to fraud and data breaches, and maintain customer trust. Failure to achieve and maintain compliance can result in financial penalties, damage to the organization’s reputation, and potential legal action.
At CyberCrest, we understand the importance of PCI DSS compliance and the complexities of achieving it. Our team of experts will work with you to assess your organization’s compliance status, implement best practices, and ensure that your payment card data security controls are designed and operating effectively in accordance with PCI DSS standards. With our comprehensive range of services, you can rest assured that your organization is fully compliant with PCI DSS and ready to do business.
Is PCI DSS a Certification?
PCI-DSS is not a certification, but a set of security standards that organizations must follow to protect credit card data. The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) is a set of requirements that applies to any organization that accepts credit card payments. The PCI-DSS standards were created by major credit card companies to ensure that credit card data is protected against theft and fraud.
Organizations that handle credit card data must comply with the PCI-DSS standards to ensure that the data is secure. Compliance with the PCI-DSS standards is enforced by the credit card companies, and organizations must undergo regular audits and assessments to ensure compliance.
While PCI-DSS compliance is not a certification, organizations can obtain a Report on Compliance (ROC) or an Attestation of Compliance (AOC) to demonstrate their compliance with the standards. A ROC is issued by a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) after an assessment of an organization’s compliance with the PCI-DSS standards. An AOC is a self-assessment performed by the organization itself, which must be validated by a QSA.
In summary, PCI-DSS is not a certification, but rather a set of security standards that organizations must comply with to protect credit card data. Organizations can obtain a ROC or an AOC to demonstrate their compliance with the standards.
What are the benefits of PCI DSS Compliance?
PCI DSS compliance offers many benefits to organizations that handle credit card information, including:
Protecting Customer Data: PCI DSS compliance helps to safeguard sensitive credit card information and protects the organization’s reputation from data breaches or other security incidents. This can increase customer trust and loyalty, leading to increased business.
Avoiding Penalties and Fines: Non-compliance with PCI DSS can result in substantial fines and penalties from card issuers or regulatory bodies. Compliance helps to mitigate this risk and avoid costly consequences.
Meeting Legal Requirements: Compliance with PCI DSS may be required by law in certain jurisdictions, depending on the organization’s size and industry.
Improving Operational Efficiency: The processes and controls required for PCI DSS compliance can help to improve operational efficiency and reduce the risk of errors or fraudulent activity.
Gaining Competitive Advantage: PCI DSS compliance can provide a competitive edge in the market by demonstrating a commitment to security and protecting customer data.
Enhancing Business Reputation: Compliance with PCI DSS can enhance an organization’s reputation and establish trust with customers, partners, and stakeholders.
Overall, achieving PCI DSS compliance can have a significant positive impact on an organization’s security posture, business operations, and reputation.
What is the difference between a PCI DSS ROC and AOC?
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of security standards created by major credit card companies to ensure the security of payment card data. As part of the compliance process, organizations must undergo a PCI DSS assessment, which can result in two different types of reports: a Report on Compliance (ROC) and an Attestation of Compliance (AOC).
A ROC is a comprehensive report that details an organization’s compliance with all of the requirements of the PCI DSS. The report is typically prepared by a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA), an independent auditor who is certified by the PCI Security Standards Council. The ROC includes an executive summary, an overview of the organization’s payment card environment, a detailed description of the organization’s security controls, and an assessment of the effectiveness of those controls. The ROC is submitted to the acquiring bank or payment card brand as proof of compliance.
An AOC, on the other hand, is a shorter form document that attests to an organization’s compliance with the PCI DSS. The AOC is also prepared by a QSA and is submitted along with the ROC to the acquiring bank or payment card brand. The AOC summarizes the organization’s compliance status and certifies that the organization has undergone a PCI DSS assessment and is in compliance with the standard.
In summary, the main difference between a PCI DSS ROC and AOC is the level of detail included in the report. The ROC is a comprehensive report that details an organization’s compliance with all of the PCI DSS requirements, while the AOC is a shorter form document that attests to an organization’s compliance status. Both the ROC and AOC are important documents for demonstrating PCI DSS compliance and maintaining a secure payment card environment.
