Compliance with PCI DSS
If you process, store, or transmit cardholder data, PCI DSS is a mandatory requirement. We help you define the scope and successfully pass certification.
pci.readiness
live
Scope (CDE)
72%
Segmentation
58%
Encryption
84%
Logs and monitoring
46%
ASV scans
90%
12
Requirements
4×
ASV / year
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CONTROL // 01
Scope and Segmentation
We define the Cardholder Data Environment (CDE) and network-isolate it to reduce audit scope and compliance costs.
CONTROL // 02
Encryption and Storage
Encryption in transit and at rest, tokenization, key management, and data retention rules—we do not store anything that isn't necessary.
CONTROL // 03
Access Control
Unique identifiers, least privilege access, MFA for all administrative and remote access, and physical security of the environment.
CONTROL // 04
Logs and Monitoring
Centralized logging, daily reviews, File Integrity Monitoring (FIM), alerting, and a minimum 12-month retention period as required.
CONTROL // 05
Security Testing
Quarterly ASV scans, internal vulnerability scans, and annual penetration tests, including segmentation testing.
CONTROL // 06
Policies and Procedures
Information security policy, vendor management, incident response plan, and annual staff training.
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How PCI DSS is validated
SAQ
Self-Assessment- Choosing the right SAQ type
- Preparing evidence
- ASV scans
- Signing the Attestation of Compliance (AoC)
Deadline
6–12 weeks
ROC / QSA
QSA Audit- Full compliance review of all requirements
- Preparation of technical evidence
- Support during the audit
- Remediation of identified non-conformities
Deadline
3–6 weeks
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How we work on the project
01
Scope Definition
We trace the flow of cardholder data across systems, people, and vendors, and map out the CDE.
02
Gap Analysis
We compare your environment against every applicable PCI DSS requirement and prioritize gaps by risk and effort.
03
Scope Reduction and Implementation of Controls
Segmentation, tokenization, MFA, log management, and hardening — a smaller scope means more cost-effective compliance.
04
Validation (SAQ or QSA)
We prepare the evidence, complete the SAQ, or accompany you through the QSA audit until a signed AoC is achieved.
05
Maintaining Compliance
We maintain compliance through periodic checks, ASV scans, log reviews, and annual preparation for re-validation.
// WHY PCI DSS
Why organizations invest in PCI DSS
PCI DSS is a contractual obligation to card brands—and at the same time, the most practical framework for protecting payment data.
Mandatory for card payments
Non-compliance leads to monthly fines and the risk of losing the right to accept card payments.
Partner requirement
Banks, PSPs, and corporate clients require a valid AoC before doing business with you.
Lower risk
Reduces the likelihood of card data compromise and financial loss.
Foundation for other standards
Many controls overlap with ISO 27001, NIS2, and information security best practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Who is PCI DSS mandatory for?
PCI DSS applies to organizations that process, store, or transmit payment card data. This includes banks, payment institutions, payment service providers (PSPs), fintech companies, online casinos, bookmakers, and other organizations involved in card payment processing. For online stores, specific requirements depend on how they accept payments and whether card data passes through their infrastructure.
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What is the difference between an SAQ and a QSA audit?
An SAQ is a Self-Assessment Questionnaire for merchants with lower transaction volumes, accompanied by ASV scans and an Attestation of Compliance. Higher tiers and most service providers require a Report on Compliance (RoC) prepared by a Qualified Security Assessor following a full audit of all requirements.
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How long does it take to achieve PCI DSS compliance?
Typically between 2 and 6 months. Scope reduction through segmentation and the implementation of logging, monitoring, and access management take the most time—the documentation itself is the final and shortest part.
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What is a CDE and why is scope so important?
The CDE (Cardholder Data Environment) consists of people, processes, and technology that store, process, or transmit cardholder data, as well as any connected systems. The smaller the CDE, the fewer systems fall under the requirements—which is why segmentation is the most effective way to reduce compliance costs.
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What is an Attestation of Compliance (AoC)?
An Attestation of Compliance (AoC) is the official document that certifies an organization has successfully completed the PCI DSS validation process. Banks, payment operators, and business partners often require this document as proof of compliance.
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What happens after successful validation?
PCI DSS compliance is not a one-time project. It requires ongoing maintenance of controls, ASV scans, vulnerability management, log reviews, and periodic re-validation. CyPro offers a subscription service to maintain compliance year-round.