How often must PCI DSS compliance be verified?

PCI DSS compliance verification must occur annually. This requirement is crucial to ensure that organizations continuously meet the standards set forth by the PCI Security Standards Council, which are designed to protect cardholder data. By conducting an annual assessment, organizations can identify vulnerabilities and take necessary steps to mitigate risks throughout the year.

The annual requirement helps organizations maintain a consistent level of security and compliance, ensuring that any changes in infrastructure, processes, or technology that could affect security are taken into account. It also reinforces accountability, as organizations must regularly demonstrate their adherence to PCI DSS standards through official documentation and, in many cases, an assessment conducted by a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA).

While some organizations might perform additional reviews and updates more frequently, the foundational expectation set by the PCI DSS is that compliance is formally assessed on an annual basis. This annual check also allows organizations to stay aligned with any updates or changes in the standards over time.