PCI compliance is required for merchants accepting credit cards for business. Failing to comply with PCI DSS standards can result in hefty fines, especially if sensitive data is compromised. But how do you attest your compliance?

As a business owner and credit card merchant, protecting customers’ sensitive credit card data is critical to keeping your business safe. That is why, starting in July, all merchants now must be sure their payment processing equipment and technology is PCI compliant. While some merchants may be concerned over the immediate costs associated with certain PCI compliant security features, it is important to realize that if credit card information is compromised, merchants are held responsible.

In a recent interview with CNET News, Bob Russo of the PCI Security Standards Council discussed what it means to be PCI compliant. Key points addressed in the interview include how the council was formed, as well as industry standards and the consequences of not being PCI compliant.