PCI Security Standards Council

The PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) is a global organization dedicated to enhancing payment card security. Established in 2006, the Council was founded by major credit card brands including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and JCB. Its primary mission is to develop and promote security standards for payment card transactions, ensuring that all stakeholders in the payment ecosystem can protect sensitive cardholder data.

One of the Council’s key initiatives is the creation of the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), which provides a framework for securing payment card information. This standard is essential for any organization that processes, stores, or transmits cardholder data, helping to mitigate the risk of data breaches and fraud.

The PCI SSC also offers various resources, including training programs, tools, and best practices, to assist organizations in achieving compliance with PCI standards. By fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders, the Council aims to create a secure payment environment for consumers and businesses alike.

In addition to PCI DSS, the Council develops other standards such as the Payment Application Data Security Standard (PA-DSS) and the PIN Transaction Security (PTS) requirements, which further enhance the security of payment systems.

With a commitment to continuous improvement, the PCI Security Standards Council regularly updates its standards to address emerging threats and technological advancements. The Council also engages in outreach efforts to educate businesses about the importance of payment security and compliance.

Headquartered in the UK, the PCI SSC operates globally, working with a diverse range of stakeholders, including merchants, service providers, and financial institutions. Through its collaborative approach, the Council strives to build trust in electronic payments and safeguard the integrity of the payment card ecosystem.