What is PCI DSS Service Providers?
There are various merchants and agents that provide a part or the whole service for processing, storing and transmitting different forms of information across various databases and units. This can be in the form of organizations or individuals. that play an important role in safeguarding the security and privacy of the customers.
Unlike popular belief, obtaining the PCI-DSS certification does not suffice. The services provided by the service providers of PCI-DSS is essential for companies to grow and increase their revenue along with successfully implementing the guidelines of PCI-DSS. However, the PCI DSS service providers are classified into two different levels depending on the service they provide and the volume of payments they manage.
The levels of service provider available:
Level 1 Service Provider
The level 1 service providers deal with accumulating, analysing, processing and transmitting over 3 lakh credit and debit card transactions and payments made on e-commerce sites.
Level 2 Service Provider
The level 2 service providers deal with accumulating, analysing, processing and transmitting less than 3 lakh credit and debit card transactions and payments made on e-commerce sites.
How can companies select their PCI-DSS service provider?
The most effective way for companies to decide on their service provider would be by checking their PCI-DSS compliance certification and updated status. As businesses expand, they would need to include different form of online payment method to cater to the growing consumer base and their different choices. Organizations must only select those PCI-DSS service providers who have met all the criterions of the PCI-DSS guidelines. However, companies must run a background check before they entrust their customer’s privacy into the hands of these service providers. This also ensures the merchants are experienced in handling various types of transactions and well informed and compliant with the PCI-DSS norms.
