PCI DSS
Global standard protecting payment cardholder data security
NIS2
EU directive for cybersecurity resilience in critical sectors
Quick Verdict
PCI DSS mandates payment card security via 12 requirements for global merchants, while NIS2 enforces broad risk management for EU critical sectors. Companies adopt PCI DSS for contract compliance and fraud reduction; NIS2 to avoid massive fines and ensure resilience.
PCI DSS
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard v4.0
Key Features
- 12 requirements across 6 control objectives protecting CHD
- 300+ granular sub-requirements for technical security
- Contractual obligation with merchant/service provider levels
- Quarterly ASV scans and annual penetration testing
- Network segmentation and data minimization for scope reduction
NIS2
Network and Information Systems Directive 2 (NIS2)
Key Features
- Expanded scope to essential/important entities across 18 sectors
- Strict multi-stage incident reporting (24h early warning, 72h details)
- Direct senior management and board accountability for compliance
- Continuous risk management with supply chain security requirements
- Fines up to 2% global turnover or €10M for non-compliance
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
PCI DSS Details
What It Is
PCI DSS v4.0 (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) is an industry framework mandating security for organizations handling cardholder data (CHD). Its primary purpose is protecting CHD and sensitive authentication data (SAD) via 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 with testing procedures.
- Built on Assess-Repair-Report cycle; compliance via SAQ/ROC levels.
Why Organizations Use It
- Contractual mandate from payment brands to avoid fines, bans.
- Reduces breach risks/costs ($37/record avg.); builds trust.
- Enhances security hygiene, vendor oversight.
Implementation Overview
- Gap analysis, scoping CDE, remediation, validation (QSA/ASV).
- Applies to all card-handling entities globally; 6-12 months typical; ongoing quarterly scans.
NIS2 Details
What It Is
NIS2 Directive (Directive (EU) 2022/2555) is an EU regulation expanding the original NIS Directive to achieve high cybersecurity levels across member states. It targets essential and important entities in 18 sectors using a risk-based, size-cap approach (e.g., >50 employees or €10M turnover).
Key Components
- Four pillars: risk management, corporate accountability, incident reporting, business continuity.
- Requires ongoing risk assessments, supply chain security, access controls, encryption, incident response plans.
- Standardized reporting: early warning (24h), notification (72h), final report (1 month).
- Leverages standards like ISO 27001, NIST CSF; enforced via national CSIRTs with spot checks.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory compliance avoids fines up to €10M or 2% global turnover.
- Builds resilience against threats, ensures service continuity.
- Enhances trust, supports cross-border cooperation, provides competitive edge in sectors like energy.
Implementation Overview
- Member states transpose by Oct 2024; grace periods (e.g., 12-18 months in Germany).
- Applies to EU medium/large entities in critical sectors.
- Involves gap analysis, governance setup, training, continuous monitoring—no formal certification.
Key Differences
| Aspect | PCI DSS | NIS2 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Payment card data protection (CHD/SAD) | Critical infrastructure/digital services resilience |
| Industry | Payment processing/merchants globally | Essential/important EU sectors (energy, transport) |
| Nature | Contractual standard, voluntary certification | Mandatory EU regulation with fines |
| Testing | Quarterly ASV scans, annual QSA ROC/SAQ | Continuous risk assessments, spot checks |
| Penalties | Fines, card processing bans via contracts | Up to 2% global turnover or €10M fines |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about PCI DSS and NIS2
PCI DSS FAQ
NIS2 FAQ
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