Frequently Asked Question
![](https://www.pcisecuritystandards.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/FAQs-alt.jpg)
Should cardholder data be encrypted while in memory?
If the cardholder data is stored in non-persistent memory (e.g. RAM), encryption of cardholder data is not required. However, proper controls must be in place to ensure that memory maintains a non-persistent state. For example, if the data in memory is being written to a file, then appropriate PCI DSS requirements are applicable to that file.
Data should be removed from volatile memory once the business purpose (for example, the associated transaction) is complete. In the case that data storage becomes persistent, all applicable PCI DSS requirements will apply, including encryption of stored data.
PCI SSC recommends engaging a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) for guidance as to whether a specific implementation will satisfy this requirement. For a list of QSAs, please visit: https://listings.pcisecuritystandards.org/assessors_and_solutions/qualified_security_assessors
Related
-
What is the scope of a PCI DSS assessment for service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Does PCI DSS apply to service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Can service providers use eligibility criteria from a merchant Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) to determine applicable PCI DSS requirements for the service provider’s assessment?
Featured FAQ Articles
Featured
-
Do PCI DSS requirements for keyed cryptographic hashing apply to previously hashed PANs?
-
Is the PCI DSS Attestation of Compliance intended to be shared?
-
How does an entity report the results of a PCI DSS assessment for new requirements that are noted in PCI DSS as best practices until a future date?
-
Where do I direct questions about complying with PCI standards?
-
Can SAQ eligibility criteria be used for determining applicability of PCI DSS requirements for assessments documented in a Report on Compliance?
Most Popular
-
What is the scope of a PCI DSS assessment for service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Does PCI DSS apply to service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Can service providers use eligibility criteria from a merchant Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) to determine applicable PCI DSS requirements for the service provider’s assessment?
-
What does “console access” mean for PCI DSS Requirements 8.4.1 and 8.4.2?
-
What evidence is a TPSP expected to provide to customers to demonstrate PCI DSS compliance?
Most Recently Updated
-
How do I contact the payment card brands?
-
What is the scope of a PCI DSS assessment for service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Does PCI DSS apply to service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Can service providers use eligibility criteria from a merchant Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) to determine applicable PCI DSS requirements for the service provider’s assessment?
-
Which version of the P2PE Standard should be used for a P2PE assessment?