Vini Merlin
Product Manager
Published on
September 25, 2024
As PCI DSS 4.0 rapidly approaches, it's clear that this is not just an update but a game-changer. Forbes calls it the most transformative change to the standard since version 2.0, and with over 200 updates, it promises significant impacts on your business. The deadline is set for March 31, 2024, and failure to comply could lead to costly fines and compliance delays.
Launched in 2006, the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) provides a framework to protect cardholder data (CHD) and sensitive authentication data (SAD). The standard applies to all entities involved in processing, storing, or transmitting CHD/SAD, including merchants, processors, acquirers, issuers, and service providers. Version 4.0, effective from March 2024, will introduce new requirements that become mandatory after March 31, 2025.
PCI DSS 4.0 places significant emphasis on non-human identities—system and application accounts that perform automated tasks and often require elevated privileges. Key requirements include:
The scope now includes new technologies such as source code repositories and deployment tools. Staying updated on these changes is essential for effective future planning.
Each PCI requirement now has associated roles. Implement formal policies or procedures to ensure clear accountability across your organization.
Organizations must independently verify PCI scope, including data flows, storage, and third-party connections. This proactive approach reduces reliance on external assessments.
Although some PCI DSS 4.0 requirements won’t be mandatory until 2025, starting your preparations now is crucial. Work with Non-Human Identity Management experts to navigate these changes and develop a detailed compliance plan. Early preparation will help ensure that you meet the standards and avoid potential issues.
With the introduction of PCI DSS 4.0, managing non-human identities—such as system and application accounts—has become increasingly critical. As PCI DSS 4.0 shifts the focus towards comprehensive identity management, relying solely on human account security is no longer enough. To align with these new requirements, follow these three essential steps:
✦ Visibility: Gain a comprehensive understanding of your environment and identities beyond your Identity Provider (IdP). Incorporate multiple sources of information for deeper insights into identity usage.
✦ Security: Develop tailored security policies using advanced analytics to identify potential gaps. Implement continuous review and assessment processes to enhance your security posture.
✦ Governance: Streamline lifecycle management with efficient, policy-based automation. Move beyond slow, email-based remediation processes to orchestrate workflows seamlessly across your infrastructure.
✦ Reporting: Implement automatic compliance posture monitoring to track system access, hygiene, and privileges, complemented by automated reporting for efficient auditing. This ensures accountability and supports adherence to regulatory standards.
Implementing a robust strategy for managing non-human identities is now a top priority. By focusing on visibility, security, and governance, you can navigate PCI DSS 4.0 effectively and ensure your organization remains compliant and secure. Prepare now to stay ahead of the curve and safeguard your business against evolving threats. Contact us to discover how Oasis can help you navigate new NHI regulations effectively.