In 2017, over 14 million credit cards were exposed by data breaches. Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliance refers to a set of standards that businesses must adhere to ensure that their customers’ credit card data is protected. PCI compliance is vital if you want to keep your customers’ information safe. It will also put their minds at ease knowing that you are following these standards. Read on as we look at some key tips for ensuring that your business is PCI compliant.
1. Keep Your Systems Updated
The methods used by hackers when trying to access data are becoming ever more sophisticated. It is vital that you ensure all of your systems are up to date so that any newly discovered vulnerabilities are quickly patched. If you don’t make regular updates, you leave your data vulnerable. It’s like leaving a broken lock on your front door. Keeping all your systems up to date can be a full-time job. It may be worth outsourcing this task to ensure you are always up to date.
2. Only Store Necessary Data
One of the simplest ways to minimize the risk to your customers’ data is to only store the data you really need. Never store information such as CVV2 card security codes in any format as that would open your customers up to fraudulent usage if that data was breached. Any data you store must be properly encrypted. In addition, only employees for whom the data is vital for their work should ever have access to that data.
3. Train your Employees
A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. By the same token, a system is only as secure as its weakest component. So you must ensure that every member of your team is fully aware of the importance of PCI compliance, and the standards that they should be following. The best way to ensure this is by having regular training for all employees. That way you’re all on the same page.
4. Have a Response Plan
If the worst happens, it’s still possible to minimize the damage if you act quickly. That’s why it’s vital to have a response plan in place. If there is a data breach, know exactly what steps you need to take to stem the flow of data as quickly as possible. The faster you react, the less damage is likely to be caused. Everyone should know exactly what actions they need to take should a breach occur.
Looking for Help with Your PCI Compliance?
If you’re looking for support with your PCI compliance, then we’re here to help. Our Platinum Managed Support includes an annual PCI compliance audit. We scan your network to provide you with a concise PCI compliance evaluation, helping you to ensure that you’re fully compliant with the regulations. We also include semi-annual employee training to make sure everyone is up to speed.
Contact us for a free quote today.