PCI DSS Guides
Complete guides to PCI DSS compliance for fintech and SaaS companies handling payment card data.
What is PCI DSS?
If you're building a fintech product or any software that touches payment card data, you've likely encountered PCI DSS. This guide explains what PCI DSS actually is, when compliance is required, and how to approach it strategically for your business.
PCI DSS Requirements Explained
PCI DSS v4.0 contains 12 high-level requirements organized into six control objectives. This guide breaks down each requirement, explains what it means in practice, and highlights the key sub-requirements that matter most for SaaS and fintech companies.
PCI DSS vs SOC 2: Differences Explained
Both PCI DSS and SOC 2 are security frameworks that enterprise customers ask about. But they serve fundamentally different purposes and aren't interchangeable. This guide explains the key differences, when you need each, and how to approach them efficiently if you need both.
PCI DSS Levels and SAQ Types
PCI DSS compliance requirements vary based on how many card transactions you process and how you handle card data. Understanding compliance levels and Self-Assessment Questionnaires (SAQs) is crucial for right-sizing your compliance program.
PCI DSS for SaaS Companies
SaaS companies face unique PCI DSS considerations. You're likely not a traditional merchant accepting payments in a store, and you're probably not a payment processor. But if your product has any payment functionality, you have PCI DSS obligations.
PCI DSS Compliance Checklist
This checklist provides a practical, actionable guide to achieving PCI DSS compliance. It's organized by the 12 PCI DSS requirements with specific tasks for each. The checklist is most relevant for organizations pursuing SAQ A-EP or SAQ D; if you're using hosted payment forms (SAQ A), your requirements are significantly reduced.
PCI DSS Penetration Testing Requirements
Penetration testing is a core requirement of PCI DSS, mandated under Requirement 11.4. Unlike vulnerability scanning, penetration testing involves actively exploiting vulnerabilities to demonstrate real-world attack impact. This guide explains what PCI DSS requires, how to plan your tests, and common pitfalls to avoid.
PCI DSS Scope Reduction Strategies
The most effective way to simplify PCI DSS compliance is to reduce your scope. Less scope means fewer systems to secure, fewer controls to implement, and lower compliance costs. This guide covers proven strategies for minimizing your Cardholder Data Environment (CDE) while maintaining business functionality.
PCI DSS for Fintech Startups
Fintech startups face unique PCI DSS challenges. You're innovating in financial services, which means payment card data is often core to your product. Unlike traditional e-commerce where payments are just a checkout step, fintech products often involve storing, processing, or transmitting card data as a fundamental part of the value proposition.
PCI DSS Audit Process
Understanding the PCI DSS audit process helps you prepare effectively and avoid surprises. Whether you're completing a Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) or undergoing a full Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) assessment, knowing what to expect makes the process smoother.
Ready to get PCI DSS certified?
Let our experts guide you through PCI DSS certification. We'll handle the complexity so you can focus on your business.
Talk to an expert