Question #1
Which of the following is true regarding internal vulnerability scans?
- A . They must be performed after a significant change.
- B . They must be performed by an Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV).
- C . They must be performed by QSA personnel.
- D . They must be performed at least annually.
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Comprehensive Detailed Step by Step Explanation with All PCI DSS and Qualified Security Assessor V4 References
Relevant PCI DSS Requirement: Internal vulnerability scans are discussed under PCI DSS Requirement
A
Explanation:
Comprehensive Detailed Step by Step Explanation with All PCI DSS and Qualified Security Assessor V4 References
Relevant PCI DSS Requirement: Internal vulnerability scans are discussed under PCI DSS Requirement
Question #1
Which of the following is true regarding internal vulnerability scans?
- A . They must be performed after a significant change.
- B . They must be performed by an Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV).
- C . They must be performed by QSA personnel.
- D . They must be performed at least annually.
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Comprehensive Detailed Step by Step Explanation with All PCI DSS and Qualified Security Assessor V4 References
Relevant PCI DSS Requirement: Internal vulnerability scans are discussed under PCI DSS Requirement
A
Explanation:
Comprehensive Detailed Step by Step Explanation with All PCI DSS and Qualified Security Assessor V4 References
Relevant PCI DSS Requirement: Internal vulnerability scans are discussed under PCI DSS Requirement
Question #3
An entity wants to use the Customized Approach. They are unsure how to complete the Controls Matrix or TRA. During the assessment, you spend time completing the Controls Matrix and the TRA, while also ensuring that the customized control is implemented securely.
Which of the following statements is true?
- A . You can assess the customized control, but another assessor must verify that you completed the TRA correctly.
- B . You can assess the customized control and verify that the customized approach was correctly followed, but you must document this in the ROC.
- C . You must document the work on the customized control in the ROC, but you can not assess the control or the documentation.
- D . Assessors are not allowed to assist an entity with the completion of the Controls Matrix or the TRA.
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Customized Approach Overview:
Under PCI DSS v4.0, entities can use a Customized Approach to meet requirements by implementing
controls tailored to their environment. This allows flexibility while still achieving the intent of the
security requirement.
Role of Assessors:
Assessors (QSAs) are responsible for evaluating both the implementation of customized controls and ensuring these controls fulfill the security objectives of the PCI DSS requirements.
QSAs must document the evaluation, evidence reviewed, and results in the Report on Compliance (ROC).
Controls Matrix and Targeted Risk Analysis (TRA):
The Controls Matrix and TRA are key components of the Customized Approach. QSAs assist in verifying the accuracy and completeness of these tools during assessments. Documenting in the ROC:
The ROC must include a narrative explaining the assessor’s findings regarding the customized control,
validation methods, and any evidence collected.
Relevant PCI DSS v4.0 Guidance:
Appendix D and E of the PCI DSS v4.0 ROC Template emphasize that QSAs can evaluate and confirm adherence to the Customized Approach provided this is documented comprehensively in the ROC.
B
Explanation:
Customized Approach Overview:
Under PCI DSS v4.0, entities can use a Customized Approach to meet requirements by implementing
controls tailored to their environment. This allows flexibility while still achieving the intent of the
security requirement.
Role of Assessors:
Assessors (QSAs) are responsible for evaluating both the implementation of customized controls and ensuring these controls fulfill the security objectives of the PCI DSS requirements.
QSAs must document the evaluation, evidence reviewed, and results in the Report on Compliance (ROC).
Controls Matrix and Targeted Risk Analysis (TRA):
The Controls Matrix and TRA are key components of the Customized Approach. QSAs assist in verifying the accuracy and completeness of these tools during assessments. Documenting in the ROC:
The ROC must include a narrative explaining the assessor’s findings regarding the customized control,
validation methods, and any evidence collected.
Relevant PCI DSS v4.0 Guidance:
Appendix D and E of the PCI DSS v4.0 ROC Template emphasize that QSAs can evaluate and confirm adherence to the Customized Approach provided this is documented comprehensively in the ROC.
Question #4
Security policies and operational procedures should be?
- A . Encrypted with strong cryptography.
- B . Stored securely so that only management has access.
- C . Reviewed and updated at least quarterly.
- D . Distributed to and understood by ail affected parties.
Correct Answer: D
D
Explanation:
Requirement Context:
PCI DSS Requirement 12.5 mandates that security policies and operational procedures are not only documented but also distributed to relevant parties to ensure clarity and compliance. Importance of Distribution and Awareness:
All affected parties, including employees, contractors, and third parties with access to the cardholder data environment (CDE), must receive and understand the policies. This ensures they adhere to the security measures.
Review and Updates:
Security policies must be kept up to date and reviewed at least annually or after significant changes in the environment. While other options such as encryption or restricted access are important for security, the critical focus is on distribution and awareness to ensure operational effectiveness. Testing and Validation:
During assessments, QSAs validate the implementation by examining training records, communication logs, and acknowledgment forms signed by affected parties. Relevant PCI DSS v4.0 Guidance:
Section 12.5.1 of PCI DSS v4.0 outlines that the dissemination of policies must ensure that all personnel understand their roles in securing the environment.
D
Explanation:
Requirement Context:
PCI DSS Requirement 12.5 mandates that security policies and operational procedures are not only documented but also distributed to relevant parties to ensure clarity and compliance. Importance of Distribution and Awareness:
All affected parties, including employees, contractors, and third parties with access to the cardholder data environment (CDE), must receive and understand the policies. This ensures they adhere to the security measures.
Review and Updates:
Security policies must be kept up to date and reviewed at least annually or after significant changes in the environment. While other options such as encryption or restricted access are important for security, the critical focus is on distribution and awareness to ensure operational effectiveness. Testing and Validation:
During assessments, QSAs validate the implementation by examining training records, communication logs, and acknowledgment forms signed by affected parties. Relevant PCI DSS v4.0 Guidance:
Section 12.5.1 of PCI DSS v4.0 outlines that the dissemination of policies must ensure that all personnel understand their roles in securing the environment.
Question #5
Which of the following is true regarding compensating controls?
- A . A compensating control is not necessary if all other PCI DSS requirements are in place.
- B . A compensating control must address the risk associated with not adhering to the PCI DSS requirement.
- C . An existing PCI DSS requirement can be used as compensating control if it is already implemented.
- D . A compensating control worksheet is not required if the acquirer approves the compensating control.
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
Compensating Controls Definition and Purpose
A compensating control is an alternate measure that satisfies the intent of a specific PCI DSS requirement and provides an equivalent level of security.
The rationale and risk mitigation must be explicitly documented using the Compensating Control Worksheet (CCW).
Mandatory Documentation
PCI DSS v4.0 mandates the use of a CCW when implementing compensating controls. This applies regardless of acquirer approvals.
The CCW requires detailed documentation including:
Constraints preventing the original requirement from being implemented.
Justification for the compensating control.
Description of the control and evidence of its effectiveness.
Using Existing Requirements
If an existing PCI DSS requirement (e.g., Requirement 5 for antivirus) is already implemented and can mitigate the risks of not meeting another requirement, it may qualify as a compensating control. Approval and Review Process
QSAs must validate the implementation, effectiveness, and appropriateness of compensating controls during the assessment process
B
Explanation:
Compensating Controls Definition and Purpose
A compensating control is an alternate measure that satisfies the intent of a specific PCI DSS requirement and provides an equivalent level of security.
The rationale and risk mitigation must be explicitly documented using the Compensating Control Worksheet (CCW).
Mandatory Documentation
PCI DSS v4.0 mandates the use of a CCW when implementing compensating controls. This applies regardless of acquirer approvals.
The CCW requires detailed documentation including:
Constraints preventing the original requirement from being implemented.
Justification for the compensating control.
Description of the control and evidence of its effectiveness.
Using Existing Requirements
If an existing PCI DSS requirement (e.g., Requirement 5 for antivirus) is already implemented and can mitigate the risks of not meeting another requirement, it may qualify as a compensating control. Approval and Review Process
QSAs must validate the implementation, effectiveness, and appropriateness of compensating controls during the assessment process
Question #6
Where an entity under assessment is using the customized approach, which of the following steps is the responsibility of the assessor?
- A . Monitor the control.
- B . Derive testing procedures and document them in Appendix E of the ROC.
- C . Document and maintain evidence about each customized control as defined in Appendix E of PCI DSS.
- D . Perform the targeted risk analysis as per PCI DSS requirement 12.3.2.
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Customized Approach Overview
Appendix E of PCI DSS v4.0 outlines the customized approach, which allows entities to demonstrate their control effectiveness using methods that differ from the defined approach.
Assessor Responsibilities QSAs must document and maintain detailed evidence for each customized control implemented by the entity.
Evidence must support how the customized control meets the security objectives of the original requirement.
Testing and Validation
The QSA must perform validation to confirm the customized control’s adequacy and effectiveness and ensure it sufficiently addresses the requirement’s intent. Documentation
All findings, testing procedures, and conclusions must be recorded in the Report on Compliance (ROC) Appendix E, providing traceability and transparency.
C
Explanation:
Customized Approach Overview
Appendix E of PCI DSS v4.0 outlines the customized approach, which allows entities to demonstrate their control effectiveness using methods that differ from the defined approach.
Assessor Responsibilities QSAs must document and maintain detailed evidence for each customized control implemented by the entity.
Evidence must support how the customized control meets the security objectives of the original requirement.
Testing and Validation
The QSA must perform validation to confirm the customized control’s adequacy and effectiveness and ensure it sufficiently addresses the requirement’s intent. Documentation
All findings, testing procedures, and conclusions must be recorded in the Report on Compliance (ROC) Appendix E, providing traceability and transparency.
Question #7
Which statement is true regarding the PCI DSS Report on Compliance (ROC)?
- A . The ROC Reporting Template and instructions provided by PCI SSC should be used for all ROCs.
- B . The assessor may use either their own template or the ROC Reporting Template provided by PCI SSC.
- C . The assessor must create their own ROC template tor each assessment report.
- D . The ROC Reporting Template provided by PCI SSC is only required for service provider assessments.
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Mandatory ROC Template
PCI DSS v4.0 mandates the use of the PCI SSC-provided ROC Template for all Reports on Compliance. This ensures standardization, completeness, and accuracy in documenting compliance assessments. Sections of the ROC Template
The ROC includes mandatory sections:
Assessment Overview: General details, scope validation, and assessment findings.
Findings and Observations: Detailed compliance status per requirement.
Prohibited Practices
Assessors cannot use self-created ROC templates. Deviation from the PCI SSC-approved template
may result in rejection of the report.
Key Changes in v4.0
Enhanced focus on the integrity of reporting and inclusion of specific findings to ensure alignment with PCI DSS objectives.
Added support for the customized approach within the ROC structure.
A
Explanation:
Mandatory ROC Template
PCI DSS v4.0 mandates the use of the PCI SSC-provided ROC Template for all Reports on Compliance. This ensures standardization, completeness, and accuracy in documenting compliance assessments. Sections of the ROC Template
The ROC includes mandatory sections:
Assessment Overview: General details, scope validation, and assessment findings.
Findings and Observations: Detailed compliance status per requirement.
Prohibited Practices
Assessors cannot use self-created ROC templates. Deviation from the PCI SSC-approved template
may result in rejection of the report.
Key Changes in v4.0
Enhanced focus on the integrity of reporting and inclusion of specific findings to ensure alignment with PCI DSS objectives.
Added support for the customized approach within the ROC structure.
Question #8
Which of the following statements Is true whenever a cryptographic key Is retired and replaced with a new key?
- A . The retired key must not be used for encryption operations.
- B . Cryptographic key components from the retired key must be retained for 3 months before disposal.
- C . Anew key custodian must be assigned.
- D . All data encrypted under the retired key must be securely destroyed.
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Key Management Requirements:
PCI DSS Requirement 3.6.5 specifies that when a cryptographic key is retired, it must no longer be used for encryption operations but may still be retained for decryption purposes as needed (e.g., to decrypt historical data until it is re-encrypted with the new key).
Secure Key Retirement:
Retired keys should be securely stored or destroyed based on the organization’s key management
policy to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.
Reference in PCI DSS Documentation:
Section 3.6.5 emphasizes that retired keys must be rendered inactive for further encryption while allowing use for decryption, ensuring data continuity and compliance.
A
Explanation:
Key Management Requirements:
PCI DSS Requirement 3.6.5 specifies that when a cryptographic key is retired, it must no longer be used for encryption operations but may still be retained for decryption purposes as needed (e.g., to decrypt historical data until it is re-encrypted with the new key).
Secure Key Retirement:
Retired keys should be securely stored or destroyed based on the organization’s key management
policy to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.
Reference in PCI DSS Documentation:
Section 3.6.5 emphasizes that retired keys must be rendered inactive for further encryption while allowing use for decryption, ensuring data continuity and compliance.
Question #9
Which of the following statements Is true whenever a cryptographic key Is retired and replaced with
a new key?
- A . The retired key must not be used for encryption operations.
- B . Cryptographic key components from the retired key must be retained for 3 months before disposal.
- C . Anew key custodian must be assigned.
- D . All data encrypted under the retired key must be securely destroyed.
Correct Answer: A
A
Explanation:
Key Management Requirements:
PCI DSS Requirement 3.6.5 specifies that when a cryptographic key is retired, it must no longer be used for encryption operations but may still be retained for decryption purposes as needed (e.g., to decrypt historical data until it is re-encrypted with the new key).
Secure Key Retirement:
Retired keys should be securely stored or destroyed based on the organization’s key management
policy to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.
Reference in PCI DSS Documentation:
Section 3.6.5 emphasizes that retired keys must be rendered inactive for further encryption while allowing use for decryption, ensuring data continuity and compliance.
A
Explanation:
Key Management Requirements:
PCI DSS Requirement 3.6.5 specifies that when a cryptographic key is retired, it must no longer be used for encryption operations but may still be retained for decryption purposes as needed (e.g., to decrypt historical data until it is re-encrypted with the new key).
Secure Key Retirement:
Retired keys should be securely stored or destroyed based on the organization’s key management
policy to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.
Reference in PCI DSS Documentation:
Section 3.6.5 emphasizes that retired keys must be rendered inactive for further encryption while allowing use for decryption, ensuring data continuity and compliance.
Question #10
In the ROC Reporting Template, which of the following Is the best approach for a response where the requirement was "In Place’?
- A . Details of the entity’s project plan for implementing the requirement.
- B . Details of how the assessor observed the entity’s systems were compliant with the requirement.
- C . Details of the entity’s reason for not implementing the requirement
- D . Details of how the assessor observed the entity’s systems were not compliant with the requirement
Correct Answer: B
B
Explanation:
PCI DSS Reporting Expectations:
When documenting that a requirement is "In Place," the ROC must clearly describe how compliance was validated by the assessor. This involves detailing the evidence observed, such as system configurations, documentation, and personnel interviews.
ROC Documentation Guidelines:
The ROC Reporting Template specifies that each "In Place" response must include evidence demonstrating compliance with the requirement, such as testing observations and validation of implemented controls.
Eliminating Incorrect Options:
A: Project plans are not sufficient to demonstrate current compliance.
C/D: Responses discussing non-implementation or non-compliance are irrelevant when the requirement is "In Place."
PCI DSS v4.0 ROC Template Guidance:
Appendix sections in the ROC provide specific instructions for assessors to document the testing performed, evidence reviewed, and results.
B
Explanation:
PCI DSS Reporting Expectations:
When documenting that a requirement is "In Place," the ROC must clearly describe how compliance was validated by the assessor. This involves detailing the evidence observed, such as system configurations, documentation, and personnel interviews.
ROC Documentation Guidelines:
The ROC Reporting Template specifies that each "In Place" response must include evidence demonstrating compliance with the requirement, such as testing observations and validation of implemented controls.
Eliminating Incorrect Options:
A: Project plans are not sufficient to demonstrate current compliance.
C/D: Responses discussing non-implementation or non-compliance are irrelevant when the requirement is "In Place."
PCI DSS v4.0 ROC Template Guidance:
Appendix sections in the ROC provide specific instructions for assessors to document the testing performed, evidence reviewed, and results.
Question #11
What should the assessor verify when testing that cardholder data Is protected whenever It Is sent over open public networks?
- A . The security protocol Is configured to accept all digital certificates.
- B . A proprietary security protocol is used.
- C . The security protocol accepts only trusted keys.
- D . The security protocol accepts connections from systems with lower encryption strength than required by the protocol.
Correct Answer: C
C
Explanation:
Requirement for Secure Transmission:
PCI DSS Requirement 4.1 mandates that cardholder data sent over open public networks must be
protected with strong cryptographic protocols. Accepting only trusted keys ensures data integrity and
prevents unauthorized access.
Key Validation Practices:
Trusted keys and certificates are verified to ensure authenticity. Using untrusted keys compromises
the security of the encrypted communication.
Prohibited Practices:
A/D: Configuring protocols to accept all certificates or lower encryption strength violates PCI DSS encryption guidelines.
B: Proprietary protocols are not inherently compliant unless they meet strong cryptographic standards.
Testing and Verification:
Assessors verify the implementation of trusted keys by examining encryption settings, reviewing certificate chains, and conducting tests to confirm only trusted connections are accepted.
C
Explanation:
Requirement for Secure Transmission:
PCI DSS Requirement 4.1 mandates that cardholder data sent over open public networks must be
protected with strong cryptographic protocols. Accepting only trusted keys ensures data integrity and
prevents unauthorized access.
Key Validation Practices:
Trusted keys and certificates are verified to ensure authenticity. Using untrusted keys compromises
the security of the encrypted communication.
Prohibited Practices:
A/D: Configuring protocols to accept all certificates or lower encryption strength violates PCI DSS encryption guidelines.
B: Proprietary protocols are not inherently compliant unless they meet strong cryptographic standards.
Testing and Verification:
Assessors verify the implementation of trusted keys by examining encryption settings, reviewing certificate chains, and conducting tests to confirm only trusted connections are accepted.