Visa's CISP (Cardholder Information Security Program) and MasterCard's SDP (Site Data Protection) programs are security initiatives that require merchants to safeguard card data. Visa and MasterCard, along with the other card brands, have adopted common industry security requirements referred to as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS).

Customers and businesses using electronic forms of payment expect their cardholder data to be stored securely and privately. PinnaclePay Merchant Services along with Chase Paymentech, in partnership with the Card Brands, data security firms and national Issuing Banks, helps educate its merchants on the basics of data security and the mandatory industry requirements around the protection of data throughout the payment transaction process.

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS)

The PCI DSS are summarized below. Detailed standards are available at Visa's Cardholder Information Security Program Tools & FAQ (select PCI Data Security Standard under Document/Resource Downloads).

            Build and Maintain a Secure Network

1.    Install and maintain a firewall configuration to protect data

2.    Do not use vendor-supplied defaults for system passwords and other security parameters

Protect Cardholder Data

3.    Protect stored data

4.    Encrypt transmission of cardholders data sensitive information across public networks

Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program

5.    Use and regularly update anti-virus software

6.    Develop and maintain secure systems and applications

Implement Strong Access Control Measures

7.    Restrict access to data by business need-to-know

8.    Assign a unique ID to each person with computer access

9.    Restrict physical access to cardholder data

Regularly Monitor and Test Networks

10.  Track and monitor all access to network resources and cardholder data

11.  Regularly test security systems and processes

Maintain an Information Security Policy

12.  Maintain a policy that addresses information security