Everything you Wanted to Know About PCI SAQ (Self-Assessment Questionnaire)

 

The growing popularity of card-based and online transactions has been a boon for retail merchants, making it extremely convenient for consumers to conduct transactions. However, this convenience has come at a cost. With the rise of cashless transactions, there has been a corresponding increase in instances of fraud, identity theft, and other cyber crimes.

To combat these threats, the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) mandates that every merchant or service provider who stores, processes, and/or transmits cardholder data (credit, debit, or prepaid card) must be PCI DSS compliant if they handle more than 6 million transactions annually. While some merchants may view PCI DSS compliance as an unnecessary burden, it is crucial for their own protection and the security of their customers’ data.

For those handling fewer than 6 million transactions annually, PCI DSS offers the option of Self-Assessment Questionnaires (PCI SAQ). These self-validation questionnaires help businesses assess whether they meet compliance guidelines, ensuring the security of their operations and cardholder data. Compliance not only safeguards your business but also builds customer trust, which is essential for long-term relationships.

Types of PCI SAQs and Their Applicability

There are nine types of PCI SAQs available, each suited to different payment and transaction scenarios. Selecting the correct one is crucial, and SISA can assist in making this choice.

• SAQ A: For merchants handling card-not-present transactions (excluding face-to-face channels) who outsource all payment processing to PCI DSS validated third-party service providers.
• SAQ A-EP: Applicable for e-commerce channels with websites that do not directly receive sensitive data and have outsourced all payment processing to third-party service providers.
• SAQ B: For merchants using standalone, dial-out terminals, and imprint machines that do not store electronic cardholder data.
• SAQ B-IP: For merchants using standalone, PTS-approved payment terminals with an IP connection to the payment processor and no cardholder data storage.
• SAQ C: For merchants with payment application systems connected to the internet and no electronic cardholder data storage.
• SAQ C-VT: For merchants manually entering transaction data into virtual terminal solutions provided by a PCI DSS validated third-party service provider.
• SAQ P2PE-HW: For merchants using only PCI SSC-listed P2PE solution validated hardware payment terminals with no electronic cardholder data storage.
• SAQ D for Merchants: For merchants not covered by the above categories.
• SAQ D for Service Providers: For service providers defined by a Payment Card Brand.

Completing the Self-Assessment Questionnaire

Once you identify the appropriate SAQ, the next step is to download and complete it annually as mandated by PCI SSC. The questionnaire is a simple Yes/No format. If you answer No to any questions, you must take additional steps to become compliant. After meeting all compliance requirements, an Attestation of Compliance must be completed.

Getting Started with Your Self-Assessment Questionnaire

Choosing the right questionnaire and ensuring it is accurately completed often requires the assistance of a qualified QSA (Qualified Security Assessor). Working with a QSA like SISA can simplify the self-assessment process, helping you select the appropriate SAQ and ensuring a smooth journey to submitting your Attestation of Compliance.

At SISA, we proactively assess risks using an effective information security framework to devise a robust security strategy. If the current assessment identifies any red flags, we recommend remedial actions to achieve full SAQ compliance.

Protecting data should be a top priority for any organization. By being proactive about compliance and security, you can secure your information assets effectively. This not only helps maintain continuous operations but also preserves client trust and strengthens your brand. The PCI SAQ is a vital step towards achieving compliance and enhancing your security infrastructure.

Connect with us if you need any guidance on the Self-Assessment Questionnaire (PCI SAQ).