What does Requirement 2 of PCI DSS emphasize?

Requirement 2 of the PCI DSS emphasizes avoiding vendor-supplied defaults for security settings, which is crucial for maintaining the security of cardholder data. This requirement recognizes that default settings, which are often provided by hardware and software vendors, are typically well-known and can be exploited by attackers. By eliminating these default settings, organizations minimize their exposure to potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited.

The requirement calls for changing default passwords and other system parameters to ensure they are unique and complex, thereby reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Proper configuration is essential as many breaches occur due to poor default security practices not being addressed.

This emphasis on securing configurations is fundamental to establishing a robust security posture and protecting sensitive cardholder data from compromise.