What is PCI Compliance?
PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) is a set of security requirements that protect cardholder data wherever it is stored, processed, or transmitted. Any merchant, service provider, or payment processor handling credit card data must meet these standards
- Reduce breach and fraud risk
- Build trust with customers and partners
- Align with industry mandates and contracts
PCI DSS Requirements (12)
1
Install and maintain network security controls
2
Apply secure configurations to all system components
3
Protect stored account data
4
Protect cardholder data with strong cryptography during transmission
5
Protect systems and networks from malicious software
6
Develop and maintain secure systems and software
7
Restrict access to system components and cardholder data
8
Identify users and authenticate access
9
Restrict physical access to cardholder data
10
Log and monitor all access to system components and data
11
Test security of systems and networks regularly
12
Support information security with organizational policies and programs
Levels of PCI Compliance
Level | Annual Transactions | Validation | Typical Orgs |
Level 1 | >6M transactions/year | Annual on-site QSA assessment + quarterly ASV scans | Large merchants, service providers |
Level 2 | 1M – 6M | Annual SAQ or QSA + quarterly ASV scans | Mid-size merchants |
Level 3 | 20k – 1M (e-commerce) | Annual SAQ + quarterly ASV scans | Online merchants |
Level 4 | < 20k (e-commerce) or up to 1M total | Annual SAQ + quarterly ASV scans (as required) | Small merchants |
How We Get You PCI Compliant
Assess
Scope your cardholder data environment (CDE), map data flows, and identify gaps
Remediate
Prioritize fixes, harden systems, and implement the required controls
Report
Complete SAQ or QSA assessment and provide merchant bank attestation
Benefits of PCI DSS Certification
Reduced fraud and chargebacks | Demonstrable trust with customers | Competitive Advantage in RFPs |
Improved incident response readiness | Documented security program | Better vendor and partner alignment |
Ready to Secure Payments?
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About CISPOINT
Since 2010, CISPOINT has been the trusted Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) for small and mid-sized businesses across the Baltimore–Washington DC metro area. We specialize in rightsizing your IT — delivering tailored technology solutions that align with your unique needs, not oversized systems or one-size-fits-all approaches.
Whether you're battling slow systems, security vulnerabilities, or constant downtime, our expert IT team is here to eliminate the hassle. With proactive support, top-tier cybersecurity, and a deep commitment to customer care, we make sure your business runs smarter, faster, and safer — every day.