Now that you have a better understanding of the PCI Compliance regulations and their impact on your business and your customers, you must implement these standards.
There are both technical and administrative tasks associated with implementing PCI Compliance standards in your business. Here are some tips for you to make the process easier:
Clear business policies for your employees regarding the processing of credit/debit and payroll card data. Many security breaches actually happen within an organization, so it is critical that your policies are clear to your employees. Don't just send an e-mail to the employees who will be involved in these transactions. Instead, have meetings and issue printed information. Getting all employees to sign a statement that they understand the policies is also a good idea.
Update your employees regularly with new or different measures being used to ensure PCI Compliance. Don't rest on your laurels. Make sure that you keep your employees up-to-date on any changes made that affect the security of the data you store or transmit.
Keep excellent back-up records of all aspects of how your business is complying and validating the PCI standards. Remember that you will be audited and keeping good records will assure that your company will remain in good standing with the credit card companies.
Be involved in all IT decisions regarding how your organization will comply with the regulations. Don't depend on lower-level managers to make the decisions that, if wrong, can cost your company thousands of dollars and many lost work hours.
Do not use default passwords. Lists of passwords for common programs are on the Internet and can be used by hackers or other criminals. Though this is one of the regulations in the PCI Compliance regulations, it's just common sense business practice.
Choosing A Authorized PCI Compliance Scanning Company
Choosing a properly certified PCI compliance scanning company is critical. Properly certified scanning companies go through a rigorous process to be certified with the credit card companies. They must submit a lengthy report and have their systems audited. Choosing the wrong company can cost your organization much time and money.
Find a PCI compliance scanning company with excellent customer service. Customer service is important for you and your employees. Selecting a PCI scanning company with live customer service representatives means your questions will be answered when you need the answers. Don't be afraid to call clients currently using the service.
Pick a financially sound PCI compliant scanning company with a good reputation. Ask for references. Look for a company with a stable financial history.
Look for the following services from a PCI Compliance scanning company: