Can we pass PCI DSS?

Questions CTOs ask

What are the 12 PCI DSS requirements?

The 12 PCI DSS requirements cover: installing firewalls, changing vendor defaults, protecting stored cardholder data, encrypting data in transit, using antivirus software, developing secure systems, restricting data access by need-to-know, assigning unique user IDs, restricting physical access, tracking network access, regularly testing systems, and maintaining an information security policy. PCI DSS 4.0 reorganizes these into more outcome-focused goals while maintaining backward compatibility.

Does PCI DSS apply if we use Stripe or a payment processor?

Yes, but your scope is dramatically reduced. Using a PCI-compliant payment processor like Stripe means cardholder data never touches your servers, reducing your compliance level to SAQ A or SAQ A-EP (the simplest tiers). You still must complete a Self-Assessment Questionnaire annually, ensure your payment pages use TLS, and maintain basic security controls. The key is ensuring no cardholder data is logged, cached, or stored anywhere in your infrastructure.