PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) Compliance with SCF Connect
Use SCF Connect to map your security controls to PCI DSS, assess maturity, and achieve audit readiness — all from a single GRC platform built on the Secure Controls Framework.
What Is PCI DSS?
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of security requirements designed to ensure that all organizations that accept, process, store, or transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment. Version 4.0.1 is the current release, introducing a customized approach alongside the traditional defined approach, and adding requirements around multi-factor authentication, e-commerce security, and continuous security monitoring.
PCI DSS is organized into 12 principal requirements spanning six goals: Build and Maintain a Secure Network, Protect Cardholder Data, Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program, Implement Strong Access Control Measures, Regularly Monitor and Test Networks, and Maintain an Information Security Policy. Compliance is validated through Self-Assessment Questionnaires (SAQs) or on-site assessments by Qualified Security Assessors (QSAs), depending on transaction volume.
SCF Connect maps the full PCI DSS 4.0.1 standard plus all SAQ variants (A, A-EP, B, B-IP, C, C-VT, D Merchant, D Service Provider, and P2PE) to the Secure Controls Framework. This lets you scope the exact SAQ or full ROC requirements that apply, assess control maturity, and cross-map to other frameworks like SOC 2, NIST CSF, and ISO 27001.
Who Needs PCI DSS Compliance?
- Merchants that accept credit or debit card payments
- Payment processors and payment gateways
- Service providers storing or transmitting cardholder data
- E-commerce platforms and online retailers
- Financial institutions issuing payment cards
How SCF Connect Helps with PCI DSS
Automatic Control Mapping
SCF Connect maps SCF controls directly to PCI DSS requirements. Select the framework and your required controls are identified instantly.
Maturity Assessment
Assess each control against the SCF Capability Maturity Model (SP-CMM) to understand your current posture and track improvement over time.
Evidence Collection
Generate Evidence Request Lists (ERLs) specific to your PCI DSS controls. Know exactly what documentation you need for your audit.
Gap Analysis
Use the SCRMS methodology to identify gaps between your compliance requirements and your actual security posture, then prioritize remediation.
Compliance Reporting
Generate detailed reports showing your PCI DSS compliance status, control maturity scores, and evidence collection progress.
Multi-Framework Support
Already mapped to another framework? Add PCI DSS and see how your existing controls satisfy additional requirements — no duplicate work.
Frequently Asked Questions About PCI DSS
What is PCI DSS?
PCI DSS is a global security standard for organizations that handle payment card data. It includes 12 requirements covering network security, data protection, vulnerability management, access control, monitoring, and security policy. Compliance is mandated by the major payment card brands (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB).
What is new in PCI DSS 4.0?
PCI DSS v4.0 introduced a customized approach that lets organizations meet security objectives using alternative controls, strengthened MFA and password requirements, added e-commerce and phishing protections, and increased focus on continuous security processes rather than point-in-time compliance.
Which SAQ do I need?
The SAQ type depends on how you handle card data. SAQ A is for merchants that fully outsource payment processing. SAQ D is for merchants and service providers that store, process, or transmit cardholder data directly. Your acquiring bank or QSA can help determine the appropriate SAQ for your environment.
How does SCF Connect help with PCI DSS?
SCF Connect maps PCI DSS 4.0.1 and all SAQ variants to the Secure Controls Framework. Select your applicable SAQ or the full standard, and the platform identifies required controls, tracks maturity assessments, and generates evidence requests. Controls you implement for PCI DSS automatically map to overlapping requirements in other frameworks.