ISO 27001 is a general information security management standard. PCI DSS is specific to protecting payment card data. If you handle card data, PCI DSS is mandatory even if you have ISO 27001.

SOC 2 Type II reports on control effectiveness over time for the Trust Services Criteria. PCI DSS is a prescriptive payment security standard with defined requirements, testing procedures, and validation (SAQ/ROC).

Cost depends on your scope (CDE size), merchant/service provider level, whether you need SAQ or ROC, tooling gaps, and whether segmentation/tokenization can reduce scope. We estimate after a payment flow + CDE scoping call.

PCI DSS is typically demonstrated through an Attestation of Compliance (AOC) and either an SAQ (self-assessment) or anROC (QSA assessment). Many acquirers accept AOC + supporting evidence rather than a “certificate.”

Request their AOC (and ROC summary if applicable), confirm scope dates, validation method, and ensure their compliance covers the services you use (not a different environment).

PCI DSS is managed by the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC); enforcement is typically through payment brands and acquiring banks via contractual requirements.

We reduce scope first, implement controls with engineers (not just documents), and build an evidence pack that makes validation predictable—so you stay compliant year-round.

PCI DSS isn’t a one-time badge—compliance requires continuous controls, regular scanning/testing, and evidence. Most “failures” result from scope creep, weak change control, and insufficient evidence.

There isn’t one universal “PCI phone number.” Compliance is handled via your acquirer/processor and (if needed) a QSA/ASV. If you share your processor, we can tell you the usual validation route.

Requirement 5 focuses on protecting systems from malware (anti-malware controls, updates, monitoring, and response). We validate endpoint coverage, update cadence, exclusions, alerting, and evidence.

PCI DSS is organized into 12 high-level requirements with detailed testing procedures and sub-requirements.

Banks often operate as service providers with a broader scope (CDE, connected systems, third parties). They typically need a ROC, strong segmentation, robust monitoring, secure SDLC, and strict access governance.

They’re commonly summarized as: build/maintain secure networks, protect card data, maintain vulnerability management, implement strong access control, monitor/test networks, and maintain security policies.

Merchant levels are generally based on transaction volume (Level 1 highest). Requirements vary by acquirer/brand, but Level 1 typically requires a QSA to provide a ROC.

PCI DSS v4.0 is the current major version, with transition timelines and ongoing updates managed by PCI SSC.

Individuals can earn training/certifications (e.g., PCI SSC training, QSA/ISA tracks through employers), but “PCI compliant” applies to organizations/environments, not a person.

Service providers have additional responsibilities and typically require broader monitoring, stronger evidence, and often ROC validation, depending on level and contracts.

Usually refers to PCI-related assessors and services: QSA (Qualified Security Assessor) firms, ASVs (Approved Scanning Vendors), and compliant payment processors/platforms.