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Close-up of hands interacting with a digital interface featuring a secure padlock symbol, representing PCI DSS compliance and data protection for safeguarding customer information and business security

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS)

PCI DSS Compliance: Protect your customers, safeguard your business.

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Achieving PCI DSS compliance can be a complex process, especially for organisations without in-house expertise. Whether you're navigating the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) for the first time or preparing for the latest PCI DSS 4.0 requirements, our team is here to help.

 

We provide tailored support, guiding you through the entire process  from initial assessment to full PCI compliance. Ensure your business is secure and your customers' data is protected. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards PCI DSS compliance

A business transaction at a retail point of sale, where a customer hands over a payment card to a cashier. The payment terminal prominently displays "Secure Transaction PCI DSS," indicating compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. In the background, digital security icons such as a lock and shield emphasise the importance of data protection in payment processing, ensuring the safety of sensitive cardholder information during the transaction

More info

PCI DSS isn't a law mandated by the UK government, but it's incredibly important due to contractual obligations.  PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) is a set of comprehensive security requirements designed to protect sensitive cardholder data throughout the entire payment process. It applies to any business that stores, processes, or transmits cardholder information, regardless of size or transaction volume.

A person working at a desk on a computer displaying the "PCI DSS Data Security Standard," surrounded by digital security icons such as padlocks and shields, representing the execution of PCI DSS compliance measures to protect sensitive payment card data

The goal of PCI DSS is to prevent fraud and data breaches, safeguarding customer trust and financial information. Compliance isn't a legal requirement in itself, but it's enforced through contracts with payment brands like Visa and Mastercard. Non-compliant businesses can face hefty fines by banks, increased processing fees, and even lose the ability to process card payments.

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A data breach involving cardholder data could trigger penalties under both PCI DSS and GDPR.

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The specific PCI DSS requirements and validation methods applied to UK businesses depend on their transaction volume.

an administrator completing a PCI DSS compliance report. The scene is set in a professional office, with the administrator seated at a desk, focused on a laptop. The desk has documents and checklists related to PCI DSS compliance, along with a coffee cup and office supplies. The background includes elements such as filing cabinets and a wall clock, reflecting a serious and diligent atmosphere.

Our Solutions

PCI DSS compliance involves implementing the 12 main requirements across these areas:

Build and Maintain a Secure Network and Systems

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Protect Cardholder Data

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Data minimisation: Collecting only the necessary data.Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program

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Implement Strong Access Control Measures Regularly Monitor and Test Networks

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Maintain an Information Security Policy

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Restrict Access to Cardholder Data by Business Need-to-Know

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Identify and Authenticate Access to System Components

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Track and Monitor All Access to Network Resources and Cardholder Data​

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Regularly Test Security Systems and Processes

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Maintain a Policy That Addresses Information Security for All Personnel

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Here's how OCM can assist:

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Gap Analysis and Roadmap: OCM conducts a thorough assessment of your current systems and processes against the PCI DSS requirements. This identifies areas of non-compliance and provides a detailed roadmap for remediation.

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Technical Implementation: Implement security solutions like firewalls, encryption, access controls, and intrusion detection/prevention systems to meet PCI DSS standards.

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Vulnerability Scans and Patch Management: Perform regular vulnerability scans to proactively identify potential security weaknesses, along with timely patch management to keep your systems up to date.

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Policy Development and Review: Create and update essential security policies, including incident response plans, ensuring alignment with PCI DSS.

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Employee Training: Provide customised security awareness training to educate employees on PCI DSS best practices, how to recognise potential threats, and ways to protect cardholder data.

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Ongoing Monitoring and Support: Provide continuous monitoring of networks and systems, alerting you to potential security incidents and assisting with incident response if a breach occurs.

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Audit Preparation: Should you need a formal audit, we help you prepare by gathering documentation and addressing any last-minute gaps.

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Benefits of Partnering with OCM for PCI Compliance

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Cost-effectiveness: Outsourcing PCI tasks to an OCM is often more affordable than hiring and training in-house security specialists.

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Compliance Expertise: We have deep PCI DSS knowledge and stay updated on the latest regulations and best practices.

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Peace of Mind: Knowing experts are handling your security reduces stress and allows you to focus on your core business.

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Reduced Risk: OCM help minimise the likelihood and impact of data breaches, protecting your reputation and avoiding costly fines.

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Take the stress out of PCI DSS. Partner with experts. OCM provides a free initial consultation.

Learn More About Our PCI DSS Level 4 Compliance Services – Contact Us Today to Secure Your Business!
  • Firewalls
    Create a security filter between the internet and your network. Firewalls are essential for protecting your internet connection. They act as a barrier between your internal network and external networks (such as the internet), preventing unauthorised access to your systems and data. Organisations must ensure that all devices that connect to the internet are protected by a properly configured firewall.
  • Secure Configuration
    Secure configuration involves setting up computers and network devices to reduce vulnerabilities. This includes changing default settings, disabling unnecessary features, and ensuring that only essential software is installed and running. Organisations need to ensure that devices and software are configured securely from the outset to minimise security risks.
  • User Access Control
    User access control ensures that only authorised individuals have access to systems and data. This involves implementing user accounts with appropriate privileges and using strong, unique passwords. It also includes restricting administrative privileges to only those who need them for their role.
  • Malware Protection
    Malware protection involves deploying anti-malware solutions to detect and prevent malicious software from infecting systems. This includes using antivirus software and other security tools to scan and protect against malware. Organisations must ensure that their anti-malware software is up-to-date and configured to scan for malware regularly
  • Software Security Updates
    Security update management, or patch management, ensures that software and devices are kept up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates. This reduces vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. Organisations need to implement a process to regularly update and patch systems to protect against known threats.
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