While PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards) has been around for just over two decades, its relevance has never been more crucial for us to understand.
The idea behind payment security standards is simple; each time your business processes a credit card, debit card, or other form of electronic payment, card issuers and connecting banks rely on your security system to transmit that data to them as securely as possible.
As the nature of cyber threats continuously evolve, protecting customer financial data from fraud is not just considered best practice, thanks for PCI DSS v4.0 it has become a requirement.What changed in PCI DSS v4.0?
As of March 31, 2025, all future-dated requirements outlined in PCI DSS v4.0 became effective. This means that the changes between v.3.2.1 and v4.0 are now not simply considered best practice – they are crucial for protecting you from compromising payment data, facing fines, and an untrustworthy reputation.
Continuing to adhere to security requirements
Some of the most basic changes made by moving to v4.0 involve meeting the security needs of data security standards. This includes changes to multifactor authentication requirements, advanced password requirements, and updates to phishing resistance measures.
Seeing payment security as an ongoing, continuous process
A few changes related to technology flexibility were incorporated into PCI DSS v4.0, including changes to shared and generic accounts, frequencies for analyzing targeted risks, and other innovative methods for achieving security objectives.
Changes to reporting options for transparency
Lastly, there was improved alignment between information on compliance reports and self-assessment questionnaires (SAQ) requirements.
What if the complexities of PCI DSS compliance were handled for you?
With so many requirements and security standards for ensuring secure payments with your business, it can be daunting to manage on your own. In fact, many businesses unknowingly fail to comply to PCI standards or have just been paying non-compliance fees anyways.
Now that PCI DSS v4.0 is fully in effect, it's time to do better than what might be considered "best practice." Our comprehensive payment security solution identifies and mitigates risks, making PCI compliance a breeze for your business. Contact us today to see how it works!