This year, the use of digital payments is likely continue to soar. Following a 40% growth in 2021, digital payment transactions are likely to continue to grow. Because of this, merchants and payment processors must assure the security and privacy of every transaction. To safeguard the entire payment card value chain, the PCI DSS was developed. Everything from storing cardholder data to accessing private payment data is covered by the PCI DSS regulations.

As dangers and technology change, so do PCI DSS requirements. The new PCI DSS 4.0 requirements should be known by those who handle cardholder data. Our PCI DSS 4.0 compliance checklist may assist with everything from data encryption to network security and monitoring.

Requirements of PCI DSS — 12 Checklist Rules
PCI DSS compliance is required for all businesses that store, handle, or transfer cardholder data. The PCI Standards Security Council has set ambitious targets for PCI v4.0, including:

• Ensuring that PCI security standards continue to satisfy industry needs.
• Supporting alternative payment options increases payment security.
• Ensuring cardholder data safety is a continuous concern.
• Improved validation to speed up certification.

Under PCI DSS 4.0, updates may include:

• Updated password guidance
• Advanced monitoring requirements
• Improved multi-factor authentication requirements

According to PCI DSS 4.0, organisations can better protect customer data by incorporating modern security controls, policies, and restricted access.

The 12 PCI DSS Standards — Step-by-Step

1. Install and maintain a firewall.
A firewall is the first line of defense, blocking unauthorized network traffic. Only approved and required access should be permitted.

2. Remove vendor defaults.
Never use default usernames, passwords, or configurations. PCI requires hardened configurations for all devices and applications.

3. Protect stored cardholder data.
Only store required data, encrypt it, and never expose full PAN numbers — only the first six or last four digits.

4. Encrypt cardholder data during transmission.
Use secure transmission methods and enforce encryption for data sent through public networks.

5. Maintain and update antivirus protection.

6. Secure all systems and applications.

7. Restrict data access to need-to-know only.

8. Assign unique user IDs.

9. Restrict physical access to stored data.

10. Track and monitor all access.

11. Regular testing of systems and security.

12. Maintain an updated security policy.

PCI DSS Compliance Checklist

Before hiring a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA), ensure you meet requirements such as:

• Firewall configuration and maintenance
• Vendor default removal
• Data encryption and secure transmission
• Updated antivirus and system patching
• Restricted access and MFA enforcement
• Logging, monitoring, audits, and secure disposal
• Employee policy, training, and documentation

Non-compliance penalties can reach $5,000–$10,000 per month and may also damage business reputation after a breach.

The Future of PCI Compliance
While core PCI DSS principles remain consistent, evolving payment technologies require enhanced validation and flexibility. Organisations must evaluate both technology and internal processes to achieve compliance effectively.

Updated PCI DSS v4.0 guidelines and assistance can be found through Extreme Compute. For most businesses, partnering with a certified PCI compliance expert ensures faster compliance and reduced risk.