What It Is

PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) is a contractual security framework for protecting cardholder data (CHD) and sensitive authentication data (SAD). Managed by the PCI Security Standards Council, it mandates technical/operational controls for merchants and service providers handling card payments globally. Control-based approach with 12 requirements under 6 objectives.

Key Components

• 12 core requirements spanning network security, data protection, vulnerability management, access controls, monitoring, and policies.
• Over 300 sub-requirements in v4.0 (mandatory post-2024).
• Merchant levels (1-4) and service provider levels determine validation (SAQ/ROC).
• Defined/customized implementation paths; annual audits via QSAs/ASVs.

Why Organizations Use It

• Contractual obligation enforced by card brands/acquirers; non-compliance risks fines, bans.
• Reduces breach costs ($37/record avg.), builds customer trust.
• Enhances risk management, fraud prevention; competitive edge in payments.

Implementation Overview

• Scoping CDE, gap analysis, remediation, validation (3-12 months typical).
• Applies to all card-handling entities; ongoing quarterly scans/pentests. (178 words)

What It Is

The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), is a state regulation establishing consumer privacy rights for California residents. It applies to for-profit businesses meeting thresholds like $25M revenue or handling 100,000+ consumers' data. The primary purpose is empowering consumers over personal information via rights-based approach, with risk-based obligations including data minimization and security.

Key Components

• Core consumer rights: know/access, delete, opt-out of sale/sharing, correct, limit sensitive data use
• Business duties: notices at collection, privacy policies, vendor contracts, DSAR handling within 45 days
• Enforcement by CPPA and Attorney General; fines up to $7,500 per violation
• Built on broad personal information definition, including inferences and devices; no formal certification, compliance via audits

Why Organizations Use It

Mandatory for qualifying entities to avoid fines, litigation from breaches ($100-$750 per consumer). Enhances trust, data governance efficiency, market access; aligns with GDPR-like regimes for strategic advantage and risk reduction.

Implementation Overview

Phased: scoping/gap analysis (0-3 months), policies/contracts (1-4 months), technical controls (2-6 months), operationalization/audits (ongoing). Targets tech/retail/finance; global firms with CA data; requires cross-functional teams, automation for DSARs/opt-outs.