FinTech
What is PCI DSS compliance and who needs it?
PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) is a set of security requirements for any organization that stores, processes, or transmits credit card data. If your application accepts card payments, you need some level of PCI compliance. Using a payment processor like Stripe or Adyen that handles card data directly reduces your scope to the simplest level (SAQ-A), but doesn't eliminate compliance obligations entirely.
Key Considerations
- Compliance levels range from SAQ-A (simplest, ~20 requirements for merchants who fully outsource card handling) to Level 1 (full audit for >6M transactions/year)
- Using Stripe Elements, Adyen Drop-in, or hosted payment pages keeps card data off your servers and dramatically reduces scope
- Even at SAQ-A level, you must maintain secure HTTPS, access controls, and vulnerability management
- PCI compliance is validated annually — maintain documentation and evidence collection year-round, not just before audits
- Non-compliance penalties range from $5,000–$100,000/month plus potential loss of ability to accept card payments