GDPR vs. PCS DSS

Attribute	GDPR	PCS DSS
Scope	EU data protection regulation	Global payment card security standard
Compliance Requirement	Mandatory for organizations handling EU citizen data	Mandatory for organizations handling payment card data
Focus	Privacy and data protection	Payment card security
Penalties	Fines up to 4% of global annual turnover or €20 million	Fines determined by payment brands
Applicability	Applies to all organizations processing EU citizen data	Applies to all organizations handling payment card data

Introduction

Both the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) are regulations designed to protect sensitive data. While GDPR focuses on personal data protection, PCI DSS is specific to payment card data security. In this article, we will compare the attributes of GDPR and PCI DSS to understand their similarities and differences.

Scope

GDPR applies to all organizations that process personal data of individuals residing in the European Union, regardless of the organization's location. On the other hand, PCI DSS is applicable to any organization that accepts, stores, processes, or transmits cardholder data. While GDPR has a broader scope in terms of the type of data it covers, PCI DSS is more specific to payment card data.

Compliance Requirements

GDPR requires organizations to implement measures such as data encryption, pseudonymization, and regular data protection impact assessments to ensure compliance. In contrast, PCI DSS mandates the implementation of security controls such as firewalls, encryption, and access controls to protect cardholder data. Both regulations require organizations to conduct regular audits and assessments to maintain compliance.

Penalties

Non-compliance with GDPR can result in fines of up to 4% of the organization's annual global turnover or €20 million, whichever is higher. On the other hand, PCI DSS non-compliance can lead to fines imposed by payment card brands, as well as the suspension or termination of the organization's ability to process card payments. The penalties for non-compliance with both regulations can have significant financial implications for organizations.

Data Protection Principles

GDPR is based on seven key principles of data protection, including lawfulness, fairness, and transparency in data processing. PCI DSS, on the other hand, focuses on six goals for securing cardholder data, such as building and maintaining a secure network and systems, and regularly monitoring and testing security systems and processes. While the principles of GDPR are more focused on data processing, PCI DSS emphasizes the security of payment card data.

Implementation Challenges

Organizations may face challenges in implementing GDPR due to the complexity of data protection requirements and the need for ongoing compliance monitoring. Similarly, PCI DSS implementation can be challenging for organizations, especially those that handle large volumes of payment card transactions, as it requires the implementation of specific security controls and regular assessments. Both regulations require a commitment to data security and compliance from organizations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while GDPR and PCI DSS have different focuses and requirements, they both aim to protect sensitive data and ensure the security and privacy of individuals. Organizations that are subject to both regulations must carefully assess their data processing and security practices to ensure compliance with GDPR and PCI DSS requirements. By understanding the similarities and differences between GDPR and PCI DSS, organizations can develop robust data protection strategies that meet the requirements of both regulations.