The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of requirements that protect credit card information from potential fraud. This global standard applies to any organization that processes, stores, or transmits cardholder data or sensitive authentication data obtained during transactions. Currently, version 4.0, which contains 12 requirements for businesses to comply with the Data Security Standard (DSS), has been in effect since March 2024, but is not currently being enforced.

However, after March 31, 2025, the version 4.0 standard will be enforced, which means businesses must meet all 12 of the requirements or they could face penalties, including fines, termination of card partnership, or increased transaction fees.

PCI DSS and DMARC

The new requirements, specifically the first requirement Install and Maintain Network Security Controls, highlights that DMARC will satisfy requirements 1.4.2 and 1.4.3 because DMARC ensures network connections between trusted and untrusted networks are controlled. By setting up DMARC for your business email, your company will have easily met one of the PCI DSS certification requirements.

PCI DSS Frequently Asked Questions

What Does PCI DSS Do?

PCI DSS helps reduce credit and debit card fraud and personal data breaches of consumers.

What Are PCI DSS Requirements?

PCI DSS requirements include protecting personal card data, keeping credit and debit card information shielded from fraud, and using strong passwords.

Who Enforces PCI DSS?

The PCI Security Standards Council oversees the administration of PCI DSS. The council was founded by popular credit card organizations, including:

• Visa Inc.
• American Express Company
• Mastercard Inc.
• Discover Financial Services
• JCB Company, Ltd.

Who Must Comply to PCI DSS?

PCI DSS applies to merchants/businesses that accept credit and debit cards as payment, all card processors, acquirers, and issuers, plus service providers. If your company completes credit or debit card orders of any kind, PCI DSS 4.0 applies to you. If your business does NOT comply, penalties include fines, termination of your card partnership, and increased transaction fees.

What Are PCI DSS Best Practices?

Some best practices are developing an internal compliance program, continual monitoring and testing of security systems, teaching security awareness to staff, and creating up-to-date documentation.

As mentioned, setting up DMARC with a strong "reject" policy is also an important part of PCI DSS compliance. Implementing DMARC can be difficult, but MxToolbox's Delivery Center simplifies the process for you.