What does PCI DSS stand for in the context of compliance?

The acronym PCI DSS stands for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. This framework is crucial for organizations that handle credit cards and payment information, as it establishes a set of security requirements designed to protect cardholder data from theft and fraud.

The standard provides a baseline for secure handling of payment card information, ensuring that businesses comply with specific security measures, such as encryption, access control, and regular security testing. Compliance with PCI DSS is essential for maintaining consumer trust and protecting sensitive financial information.

This comprehensive security standard is widely recognized and mandated by major card brands, making it a fundamental aspect of payment processing for businesses of all sizes.