What is the purpose of Goal 5 in PCI DSS?

The purpose of Goal 5 in PCI DSS is to maintain a vulnerability management program. This goal emphasizes the need for organizations to protect their networks from known vulnerabilities, which can include leveraging antivirus software, conducting regular patch management, and employing secure coding practices. The focus is on ensuring that any potential vulnerabilities are identified, remediated, and monitored to prevent exploitation by malicious entities.

Regular monitoring and testing of networks, while vital for maintaining security, falls under a different goal. The processes covered by Goal 5 emphasize proactive identification and handling of weaknesses in the system that could be exploited to compromise cardholder data.

Establishing an effective vulnerability management program is critical for minimizing risks associated with cardholder data and ensuring compliance with PCI DSS standards. This overarching strategy not only enhances security posture but also helps organizations stay ahead of evolving threats.