What is the purpose of Requirement 2 in PCI DSS?

Requirement 2 of PCI DSS focuses on the importance of not using vendor-supplied defaults for system passwords and other security parameters. This requirement is critical because default settings are often well known and documented, making them vulnerable to exploitation by attackers. By changing these defaults, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive payment card data.

Adhering to this requirement not only involves changing passwords but also customizing security parameters that may come pre-configured in software and network devices. Failure to do so leaves systems open to attack, as attackers can easily gain access using default credentials or configurations. By ensuring these defaults are changed, organizations create a more secure environment for handling payment card information.

The other options, while relevant to security practices, do not align with the specific focus of Requirement 2. Regularly updating security measures and training employees are important components of an overall security strategy but are addressed in different parts of the PCI DSS framework. Data encryption is similarly crucial but pertains to data protection rather than the management of system passwords and configurations.