PCI DSS: a bite-size guide to protecting your team from phishing attacks

To help organisations transition from PCI V3.2.1 to PCI V4.0 and maintain PCI compliance, Securious has developed a series of articles explaining how to implement the evolved requirements of the standard. 

PCI DSS v4.0 has placed greater importance on anti-phishing measures compared to v3.2.1, specifically addressing the need for anti-phishing mechanisms to protect staff from phishing attacks.

This is because phishing attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated and targeted. Attackers are constantly coming up with new methods to trick users into revealing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links. 

In fact, many data breaches involve some form of social engineering, often through phishing attacks. By targeting employees with phishing emails, attackers can gain access to credentials or systems that store cardholder data. 

PCI DSS v4.0 acknowledges the risk of phishing attacks and emphasises the need for user awareness and technical safeguards to mitigate phishing risks.

Why Phishing Attacks Are a PCI DSS Threat

Phishing attacks pose a significant risk to PCI DSS compliance for several reasons:

• If a phishing email tricks an employee into revealing their login credentials or granting access to a system that stores CHD, attackers can steal this sensitive data.
• Phishing emails often contain malicious attachments or links that, when clicked, can install malware on a user’s device. This malware can then steal data, spy on user activity, or disrupt critical systems.
• Phishing emails can be used to trick employees into taking actions that compromise internal security measures. For instance, an email might convince someone to disable security software or bypass firewalls.

How to make sure you meet the anti-phishing requirements of PCI DSS v4.0 

Prioritise user education and training

Employees need to be trained on how to identify phishing attempts. This training should cover common phishing tactics, red flags to look for in emails, and what to do if they suspect a phishing attempt.

Design a training program that educates employees on various phishing tactics, including common red flags to look for in emails, phone calls, SMS messages, and social media.

Consider the level of access employees have to cardholder data and tailor training accordingly. Employees with higher access might require more in-depth training on phishing techniques targeting business email compromise (BEC).

Schedule regular training sessions to keep employees informed about evolving phishing tactics. Consider incorporating simulated phishing attacks (phishing tests) to assess employee awareness and identify areas for improvement.

Implement anti-phishing solutions

While PCI DSS v4.0 doesn’t specify exact technical solutions, it highlights the need for automated systems to help prevent phishing attacks.

Research and implement an email filtering solution that can identify and block phishing emails before they reach employee inboxes. Look for solutions that use advanced techniques like content analysis, sender reputation checks, and real-time threat intelligence.

Explore URL filtering solutions that can block access to known phishing websites. These solutions can be integrated with your network security infrastructure or implemented through browser extensions.

Consider security awareness training platforms[link to KnowBe4 page] that offer simulated phishing attacks. These simulations can test employee preparedness and identify areas where additional training is needed.

Continuous Improvement

Track phishing attempts identified by your email filtering solution or reported by employees. Analyse the methods used in these attempts to update your training materials and adjust your filtering rules if necessary.

Regularly review your anti-phishing mechanisms and training programs to ensure they remain effective against evolving phishing tactics.

If you lack internal expertise, consider seeking guidance from cyber security professionals or managed security service providers (MSSPs) to implement and maintain robust anti-phishing solutions.

To summarise 

While technical safeguards are essential, user awareness is also an important line of defence against phishing attacks. By educating your employees and implementing robust security practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to a phishing scam and compromising your PCI DSS compliance.

For additional information on PCI DSS compliance or to discuss how Securious can help you protect your organisation from phishing attacks, contact us today using the form below.