Security check

PCI DSS technical security requirements: protect cardholder data, concretely

If you handle card payments you're covered by PCI DSS. We review the technical requirements — encryption, exposure, access control and vulnerability handling — and show where your cardholder data environment falls short before a QSA or attacker does.

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Relates to: PCI DSS · v4.0 — technical requirements GDPR · art. 32 — security of processing ISO 27001 · A.8 technical controls

What we check

We map the technical PCI DSS requirements to measurable reality: encryption of cardholder data in transit (TLS), exposed systems in or near the cardholder data environment, vulnerability handling and patching, access control and secrets, and secure development — what determines whether cardholder data is actually protected.

Why it matters

PCI DSS is contractually binding via the card networks and a cardholder data breach is both costly and notifiable. Many gaps are technical and measurable — weak encryption, exposed systems, insecure development — and they can be found and closed in advance.

How Security Guru tests it

Common mistakes

  • Weak or outdated TLS on services touching cardholder data
  • Exposed systems on the same network as the cardholder data environment
  • Vulnerability handling without prioritisation or follow-up
  • Leaked keys with access to payment/card systems

What you get in the report

  • Technical PCI DSS status mapped to relevant requirements
  • Where the cardholder data environment falls short, prioritised by risk
  • Concrete actions per finding
  • Input ahead of a QSA assessment or SAQ

FAQ

Is this a formal PCI DSS audit?

No — we deliver the technical evidence and gap analysis. The formal assessment is done by a QSA or via SAQ depending on your level.

Do you touch actual cardholder data?

No — the check is technical and non-intrusive; we don't touch cardholder data but assess the protection around it.

Does PCI relate to GDPR?

Yes technically — they overlap in encryption, exposure and access. Our review serves both.

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