PCI-DSS Compliance: The Complete Guide
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS v4.0.1) for organizations handling payment card data.
What is PCI-DSS?
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS v4.0.1) for organizations handling payment card data.
Who needs PCI-DSS?
E-commerce platforms, payment processors, fintech companies, and SaaS vendors that store, process, or transmit cardholder data, including organizations using third-party payment processors where PCI shared responsibility still applies.
Cost & timeline
Scope-dependent: SAQ A programs may cost $5,000–$15,000 annually; full Level 1 assessments can exceed $100,000. AuditOak identifies your likely SAQ path during scoping and generates an aligned control checklist.
Control categories
| Category | Controls | Learn more |
|---|---|---|
| Build and maintain secure networks | ~2 | N/A |
| Protect cardholder data | ~4 | N/A |
| Maintain vulnerability management | ~6 | N/A |
| Implement strong access controls | ~8 | N/A |
| Monitor and test networks | ~5 | N/A |
| Maintain information security policy | ~1 | N/A |
The honest answers
AuditOak's scoping questionnaire asks about your card-data handling and recommends the right SAQ type before generating your checklist.
You still have PCI responsibilities even with Stripe. Scope is usually reduced (often SAQ A or A-EP) but not eliminated.
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