Cardholder Data Environment Vulnerability Research Project

Payment Security Research InstituteInformation Security12 months

Project Objective

Conduct comprehensive research on emerging vulnerabilities affecting cardholder data environments, develop mitigation strategies, and create educational resources for payment industry stakeholders.

Methodologies & Approach
  • Systematic review of vulnerability databases for payment-related vulnerabilities
  • Analysis of breach reports and attack patterns targeting payment systems
  • Laboratory testing of common payment system configurations
  • Development of vulnerability classification system specific to payment environments
  • Creation of mitigation guidance and best practices
  • Collaboration with payment application vendors on security improvements
  • Development of educational materials and training modules
Tools & Technologies
Vulnerability scanning platforms
Penetration testing tools
Virtualized payment system environments
Threat intelligence platforms
MITRE ATT&CK framework
CVE database
OWASP resources
Outcomes & Results
  • Identified 27 previously undocumented vulnerabilities specific to payment applications
  • Developed comprehensive vulnerability database categorized by PCI DSS control domains
  • Created detailed mitigation guidance for the top 50 payment system vulnerabilities
  • Published quarterly vulnerability trend reports adopted by 200+ organizations
  • Developed training program on payment system security implemented by 30+ companies
  • Contributed to 5 CVE entries for payment application vulnerabilities
  • Established collaborative vulnerability disclosure program with major payment vendors
  • Research findings incorporated into PCI SSC information supplements
Key Insights & Lessons Learned
  • Early stakeholder engagement is critical for successful PCI DSS initiatives to ensure buy-in and alignment with business objectives.
  • A risk-based approach to implementation allows for more efficient resource allocation and prioritization of activities.
  • Clear documentation and evidence collection processes are essential for successful PCI DSS assessments.
  • Integration with existing business processes is essential for sustainable compliance programs.
  • Continuous monitoring and testing are key to maintaining compliance between formal assessments.
PCI DSS Requirements Addressed

Requirement 1

Network Security

Requirement 2

System Configuration

Requirement 3

Data Protection

Requirement 4

Transmission Security

Requirement 5

Malware Protection

Requirement 6

Secure Development

Requirement 7

Access Control

Requirement 8

Authentication

Requirement 9

Physical Security

Requirement 10

Logging & Monitoring

Requirement 11

Security Testing

Requirement 12

Security Policy

Project Details
Company:

Payment Security Research Institute

Information Security
Year:

2020

Duration:

12 months

PCI DSS Focus Areas
PCI DSS v4.0.1
Compliance
Security Controls
Assessment
Vulnerability Management