Security bankcard data security and compliance can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. With the right tools and knowledge, you can keep your customers' sensitive information safe and secure.
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of guidelines that helps protect bankcard data. It requires merchants to implement various security measures, such as encrypting cardholder data and using secure protocols for transmission.
To simplify compliance, many businesses turn to Payment Application Data Security Standard (PA-DSS) compliant payment applications. These apps are designed to meet the security requirements of the PCI DSS and reduce the risk of data breaches.
By following these guidelines and using secure payment applications, you can ensure your customers' bankcard data is protected and your business remains compliant with industry regulations.
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Protecting Sensitive Data
Protecting sensitive data is crucial when it comes to bankcard security. You must not store sensitive authentication data, such as the full content of any track on the back of a card's magnetic stripe, the three or four digit code from the back of the card (CVV2 / CVC2 / CAV2 / CID), or PIN or encrypted PIN blocks.
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Storing this information after a transaction has been authorized is a direct violation of the card association rules. This means that even if you're just storing card information for recurring payments, you need to do it securely.
To safely store full card information, you should consider using a PCI DSS compliant third-party. This way, the card information is encrypted and stored securely, and you can still enjoy the benefits of storing cards without the risk of data breaches.
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Protect Sensitive Data
Protecting sensitive data is crucial, and it's not just about credit cards. You must not store sensitive authentication data after a transaction has been authorized. The card brands refer to this data as Prohibited Data.
Storing the full content of any track on the back of a card's magnetic stripe, the three or four digit code from the back of the card (CVV2 / CVC2 / CAV2 / CID), or PIN or encrypted PIN blocks is a direct violation of the card association rules.
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Here are the specific items you must not store:
- Full content of any track on the back of a card's magnetic stripe
- Three or four digit code from the back of the card (CVV2 / CVC2 / CAV2 / CID)
- PIN or encrypted PIN blocks
Boston University is required by the Card Associations to be compliant with the Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standards, and it's a good idea for any business to follow suit. This includes securely processing, storing, transmitting, and disposing of cardholder data.
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) were created by the card associations to foster safe processing environments. All merchants that process credit cards, even just one or two a year, are required to meet the standards.
Cardholder Data/Payment Card Data includes personally identifiable data about the cardholder, such as account number, expiration date, and other electronic data gathered by the merchant.
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Create Profile
To create a secure profile for your sensitive data, start by creating a strong password. Experts advise making up anything you want for your security questions, as long as you can remember the answers.
Having a mobile phone backup is also a great idea, especially for debit card holders who want to add an extra layer of security.
Debit card holders should be cautious when making financial transactions on e-commerce sites that don't have the "s" following HTTP, as in HTTP://, as this indicates a lower level of security.
Payment Industry Standards
Boston University is required by the Card Associations to be compliant with the Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standards. This ensures a secure environment for customers to protect against both loss and fraud.
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) is a set of requirements for securely processing, storing, transmitting, and disposing of cardholder data. PCI DSS aims to protect against both cardholder data exposure and compromise.
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCIDSS) is a result of collaboration among major card brands to create common industry security requirements. It offers a single approach to safeguarding sensitive data for all card brands.
Here are the programs that incorporate PCIDSS:
Other card companies operating in the U.S. have also endorsed the PCIDSS within their respective programs.
Payment Industry Data Standards
Boston University is required to be compliant with the Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standards to protect against loss and fraud.
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCIDSS) is a result of collaboration among major card brands to create common industry security requirements.
The PCIDSS offers a single approach to safeguarding sensitive data for all card brands, and other card companies operating in the U.S. have endorsed it within their respective programs.
Cardholder data, also known as payment card data, includes personally identifiable information about the cardholder, such as account numbers, expiration dates, and other electronic data gathered by merchants or agents.
Here are some examples of programs that incorporate PCIDSS:
Cardholder data also includes other personal insights gathered about the cardholder, such as addresses, telephone numbers, magnetic stripe data, and CVC2/CVV2.
Key Takeaways
To stay safe while using debit cards, it's essential to check your bank statements regularly and report any suspected fraudulent activity to the bank immediately.
Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
- Use ATMs associated with your bank to minimize the risk of "skimming" at locations like gas stations and deli kiosks.
- Report a lost or stolen debit card to your bank right away and cancel the missing card.
- Change your identification number (PIN) and password every few months to maintain account security.
Remember, staying vigilant and taking proactive steps can help prevent financial loss and identity theft.
PCI Compliance
PCI compliance is a must for any business that handles credit or debit card transactions. All merchants and service providers that store, process, or transmit cardholder data must comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS).
The level of compliance required depends on the number of transactions processed in a year. If your agency processes more than 6 million transactions in one card brand, you're considered a Level 1 merchant.
There are four levels of PCI compliance, and each has its own set of requirements. Here's a quick rundown:
If your agency is considered a Level 4 merchant, you'll need to complete an annual PCI Self-Assessment Questionnaire and have an Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV) conduct a quarterly network vulnerability scan.
To maintain PCI compliance, you'll need to restrict access to card data by business need to know, keep paper documents containing cardholder data in a secure environment, and transmit cardholder data securely. You'll also need to install and maintain a firewall and router configuration to protect cardholder data, and use and regularly update anti-virus software.
Security Risks and Prevention
Storing sensitive data is a major security risk. You must not store the full content of any track on the back of a card's magnetic stripe, the three or four digit code from the back of the card (CVV2 / CVC2 / CAV2 / CID), or PIN or encrypted PIN blocks after a transaction has been authorized.
To protect your PIN number, don't give it to anyone who asks, and don't keep it written down anywhere. Don't use your PIN at the gas pump, and instead use your card in credit purchase function to avoid someone seeing it.
Regularly updating your system software is crucial to prevent data breaches. Almost 25% of companies were using outdated browsers in a 2017 survey, and those companies were twice as likely to experience a data breach. Installing updates as they become available will help address security threats and protect yourself and your business.
Here are some common security risks and prevention tips:
- POS Skimming: Monitor your POS device for signs of skimming, and don't give fraudsters a window to tamper with your device or copy card information.
- Credit Card Fraud: Use Address Verification Service (AVS) to verify that the billing address matches what the card issuer has on file, and call the customer-provided phone number to verify details.
- ATM Skimming: Only use ATMs at a bank, as they have a lower risk of having a skimming device attached.
- Public Wireless Access: Avoid using public wireless access for financial transactions, and use a password-protected wireless signal instead.
Protect Your PIN
Don't give your personal identification number (PIN) to anyone who asks. This is a crucial aspect of protecting your financial security.
Storing your PIN or encrypted PIN blocks is a direct violation of card association rules, so never write it down or store it in your wallet.
Make it a habit to review your bank account online regularly, at least once a week or even daily, to catch any unauthorized transactions quickly.
Using your debit card in credit card mode may offer you extra liability protection, depending on your bank. This can be a good option when making transactions, especially if you're using an ATM.
Don't use your PIN at the gas pump, as it can be easily seen by others. Instead, use your card in the credit purchase function to avoid this risk.
Here are some key tips to keep in mind:
- Don't share your PIN with anyone.
- Don't store your PIN or encrypted PIN blocks.
- Use your debit card in credit card mode when possible.
- Don't use your PIN at the gas pump.
Outdated System Software
Outdated system software is a major security risk, and it's not just a matter of convenience. Almost 25% of companies surveyed in 2017 were using outdated browsers, making them twice as likely to experience a data breach.
You've probably seen those notifications on your computer, reminding you to install updates. It's easy to put them off, but it's crucial to stay up-to-date to protect yourself and your business.
Installing updates as they become available can help prevent security threats. In fact, technology can even make this process easier by notifying you when an update is available.
Remember, updates are rolled out to address security threats, not just to annoy you with another thing to do.
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Best Practices for Security
Being mindful of your debit card usage is crucial to preventing a damaging experience. Constantly using a debit card can be convenient, but it won't be so convenient if someone drains your checking account.
A little vigilance can go a long way in preventing a debit card disaster. Simply keeping an eye on your account balance can help you catch any suspicious activity early on.
It's essential to develop new habits to protect your debit card. This includes regularly checking your account statements for any unauthorized transactions.
Monitoring your account regularly can help you detect any issues before they become major problems.
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Security Awareness and Education
Reviewing your bank statements regularly is crucial for catching any suspicious activity. It's recommended to check your account online at least once a week, or even daily, to ensure timely fraud protection from your bank.
Familiarizing yourself with your bank's security measures is essential for making informed decisions about your financial safety. Your bank may offer full fraud protection if you report any suspicious activity promptly.
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To stay on top of your financial security, make it a habit to review your bank account regularly. This will help you identify any discrepancies or unusual transactions that may indicate a security issue.
Being aware of your bank's security policies and procedures will help you navigate any potential security threats. For example, you should know how your bank handles suspicious activity and what steps to take if you suspect a security breach.
Regularly reviewing your bank statements will also help you detect any unauthorized transactions or account takeovers. This can help prevent financial losses and minimize the impact of a security breach.
By staying vigilant and informed about your bank's security measures, you can protect your financial information and prevent potential security threats.
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Sources
- https://fiscal.treasury.gov/cas/rules-and-security-requirements.html
- https://www.bu.edu/cfo/controller/departments/cashier/resources/pci-data-security-standards/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Card_security_code
- https://www.barharbor.bank/resources/financial-education/top-5-security-risks-in-credit-card-payments--and-how-to-conquer-them-
- https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/0312/how-to-keep-your-debit-card-transactions-safe.aspx
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