Understand PCI Compliance Levels
Overview
This visual guide illustrates the different PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) compliance levels for both merchants and service providers, with transaction thresholds and key requirements.
Merchant Documentation
- Level 1 Merchant PCI Compliance
- Level 2 Merchant PCI Compliance
- Level 3 Merchant PCI Compliance
- Level 4 Merchant PCI Compliance
Service Provider Documentation
Detailed Compliance Requirements
Key Requirements Legend
- ROC: Report on Compliance
- QSA: Qualified Security Assessor
- SAQ: Self-Assessment Questionnaire
- ASV: Approved Scanning Vendor
- ISA: Internal Security Assessor
- AOC/AoC: Attestation of Compliance
- DESV: Designated Entities Supplemental Validation
Important Notes
- The AOC for Level 2 merchants and service providers should be signed by an authorized company executive. However, due to varying requirements from different payment brands, it's essential to verify whether additional signatures from a QSA or ISA are necessary for compliance.
- Compliance requirements may change over time as the PCI Security Standards Council updates the standards
- Some card brands may have additional requirements beyond the standard PCI DSS requirements
- Businesses should consult with qualified security assessors for the most current compliance information
- The classification levels may vary slightly between different card brands (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, etc.)
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