How often are internal and external vulnerability scans required to be conducted?

Internal and external vulnerability scans are essential components of maintaining a secure payment environment under the PCI DSS requirements. They help identify vulnerabilities in the network and systems that could be exploited by malicious actors.

According to PCI DSS standards, these scans must be performed at least on a quarterly basis to ensure that organizations continuously monitor and manage risks to cardholder data. This frequency ensures that any new vulnerabilities introduced due to changes in the environment, configurations, or new systems are detected and mitigated promptly.

Conducting vulnerability scans quarterly allows organizations to remain proactive in their defense strategies, making sure that they address potential weaknesses before they can be exploited. This requirement reflects the ever-evolving nature of security threats and the necessity for regular assessment to protect sensitive information effectively.

The other frequencies listed would not meet the PCI DSS requirements for vulnerability scanning, as they either occur too infrequently or not within the specified time frame that ensures ongoing security maintenance.