How SMEs Can Use Exception Control to Support PCI-DSS Compliance
For SMEs processing credit card transactions, compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) is mandatory. Yet many smaller businesses struggle to keep up with technical requirements such as network segmentation, strong encryption, and patch management. Here's where exception control becomes an essential tool.
The PCI-DSS Challenge for SMEs
Unlike large enterprises, SMEs may lack the budget for dedicated compliance teams. This often leads to temporary deviations from PCI requirements, such as:
- Allowing remote access without multi-factor authentication.
- Using outdated point-of-sale systems.
- Storing cardholder data longer than required.
Role of Exception Control
Exception control helps SMEs:
1. Identify Compliance Gaps
(e.g., lack of MFA)
2. Document Why the Gap Exists
(e.g., vendor upgrade pending)
3. Mitigate Risk During the Exception Period
(e.g., strict monitoring, limited access)
4. Plan Corrective Actions with Clear Timelines
Set specific dates for remediation and follow-up reviews.
Practical Steps
Adopt a Lightweight System
Use a lightweight system for tracking PCI-related exceptions. Even Excel can work if well-structured.
Involve Your Payment Processor
Many providers offer compliance support and can recommend safer workarounds.
Review Exceptions Quarterly
PCI-DSS requires continuous validation, so lingering exceptions could flag non-compliance.
The Business Value
Benefits of Exception Control
By documenting and managing PCI exceptions, SMEs reduce the risk of penalties, improve audit readiness, and demonstrate to banks and partners that they take security seriously.