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PCI SSC QSA_New_V4 Exam Syllabus Topics:
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NEW QUESTION # 19
Which scenario meets PCI DSS requirements for restricting access to databases containing cardholder data?
- A. User access to the database is only through programmatic methods.
- B. User access to the database is restricted to system and network administrators.
- C. Application IDs for database applications can only be used by database administrators.
- D. Direct queries to the database are restricted to shared database administrator accounts.
Answer: A
Explanation:
PerRequirement 7.2.5and8.2.2, PCI DSS recommends thatonly application-layer accessbe allowed to databases storing cardholder data, preventing users from issuing direct SQL queries or accessing the database via administrative tools.
* Option A:#Correct. Restricting database access toprogrammatic (application-layer) methodsis strongly preferred and aligns with PCI DSS guidance.
* Option B:#Incorrect. Admins should not have unrestricted access unless justified and monitored.
* Option C:#Incorrect. Application IDs must not be used interactively by individuals (Requirement 8.6.1).
* Option D:#Incorrect. Shared accounts are disallowed (Requirement 8.2.1).
NEW QUESTION # 20
An organization has implemented a change-detection mechanism on their systems. How often must critical file comparisons be performed?
- A. Periodically as defined by the entity
- B. At least weekly
- C. At least monthly
- D. Only after a valid change is installed
Answer: B
Explanation:
PCI DSS Requirement for File Integrity Monitoring (FIM):
* Requirement 11.5 mandates the use of file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes to critical files, and comparisons must be performed at least weekly unless otherwise defined and justified in the entity's risk assessment.
Purpose of Weekly Comparisons:
* Ensures timely detection of unauthorized modifications, reducing the risk of compromise.
Invalid Options:
* B/D:These timeframes are not specific to PCI DSS unless documented as part of a risk-based approach.
* C:Comparisons must occur regularly, not just after changes are installed.
NEW QUESTION # 21
Passwords for default accounts and default administrative accounts should be?
- A. Configured to expire in 30 days.
- B. Changed before installing a system on the network.
- C. Reset to the default password before installing a system on the network.
- D. Changed within 30 days after installing a system on the network.
Answer: B
Explanation:
According toRequirement 2.2.6,default passwords must be changed before systems are installed on the network. The use of default credentials (such as "admin/admin") presents a major security risk and is a well- known vector for breaches.
* Option A:#Incorrect. Changing within 30 days is not soon enough per PCI DSS.
* Option B:#Incorrect. Resetting to default would defeat the purpose of secure configuration.
* Option C:#Correct. The requirement is to change default passwordsprior to network connection.
* Option D:#Incorrect. Password expiration policies are a separate topic under Requirement 8.
References:
PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Requirement 2.2.6;
PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Guidance for Requirement 2.2.6.
NEW QUESTION # 22
A network firewall has been configured with the latest vendor security patches. What additional configuration Is needed to harden the firewall?
- A. Configure the firewall to permit all traffic until additional rules are defined.
- B. Synchronize the firewall rules with the other firewalls in the environment.
- C. Disable any firewall functions that are not needed in production.
- D. Remove the default "Firewall Administrator account and create a shared account for firewall administrators to use.
Answer: C
Explanation:
Firewall Hardening:
* Requirement 1.2 mandates that firewalls should be configured with only the necessary functionality to reduce attack surfaces. Disabling unused functions eliminates potential vulnerabilities.
Explanation of Other Options:
* A:Shared accounts violate Requirement 8.1.5, which prohibits shared or generic accounts.
* B:Allowing all traffic initially violates Requirement 1.2.1, which requires a restrictive firewall policy.
* C:Synchronization of rules may not always be necessary, especially for firewalls with different scopes or roles.
NEW QUESTION # 23
Could an entity use both the Customized Approach and the Defined Approach to meet the same requirement?
- A. No, because a single approach must be selected.
- B. No, because only compensating controls can be used with the Defined Approach.
- C. Yes, if the entity uses no compensating controls.
- D. Yes, if the entity is eligible to use both approaches.
Answer: D
Explanation:
PCI DSS allows an entity touse both Defined and Customized Approaches, including for different sub- requirements of the same primary requirement,as long as they are eligible and justified. Entities might use the Defined Approach for standard controls and the Customized Approach where flexibility is needed.
* Option A:Incorrect. PCI DSS explicitly allows mixed use per Requirement 8 guidance.
* Option B:Incorrect. Compensating controls are separate from the Customized Approach.
* Option C:Incorrect. Eligibility is not based solely on the absence of compensating controls.
* Option D:Correct. Mixed approaches are allowed if eligibility requirements are met.
Reference:PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Appendix D and Requirement 8 overview.
NEW QUESTION # 24
Which of the following meets the definition of "quarterly" as indicated in the description of timeframes used in PCI DSS requirements?
- A. On the 15th of each third month.
- B. Occurring at some point in each quarter of a year.
- C. At least once every 95-97 days.
- D. On the 1st of each fourth month.
Answer: B
Explanation:
According toSection 7 - Description of Timeframes Used in PCI DSS Requirements, the PCI DSS defines
"quarterly" as:
"An activity performed once per calendar quarter (i.e., one time in each three-month period), or as close as reasonably possible to the calendar quarter."
* Option A:#Correct. This aligns precisely with PCI DSS's definition -once in each three-month calendar quarter.
* Option B:#Incorrect. PCI DSS doesnotdefine quarterly by a fixed number of days.
* Option C & D:#Incorrect. Specific dates or months are not prescribed.
NEW QUESTION # 25
An organization wishes to implement multi-factor authentication for remote access, using the user's individual password and a digital certificate. Which of the following scenarios would meet PCI DSS requirements for multi-factor authentication?
- A. Change control processes are in place to ensure certificates are changed every 90 days.
- B. Certificates are assigned only to administrative groups, and not to regular users.
- C. Certificates are logged so they can be retrieved when the employee leaves the company.
- D. A different certificate is assigned to each individual user account, and certificates are not shared.
Answer: D
Explanation:
PCI DSSRequirement 8.4.2requiresmulti-factor authentication (MFA)to consist of two or moreindependent authentication factors. MFA must alsonot involve shared credentials, so each certificate must be tied to a specific individual.
* Option A:#Incorrect. MFA must apply toall applicable users, not just admins.
* Option B:#Correct. This meets PCI DSS: unique credentials per user and non-shared certificates.
* Option C:#Incorrect. Retaining certificates post-employment is a risk, not a compliance action.
* Option D:#Incorrect. PCI DSS doesn't mandate 90-day certificate rotation; rather, secure usage and revocation are key.
Reference:PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Requirement 8.4.2 and 8.6.1.
NEW QUESTION # 26
A network firewall has been configured with the latest vendor security patches. What additional configuration is needed to harden the firewall?
- A. Configure the firewall to permit all traffic until additional rules are defined.
- B. Synchronize the firewall rules with the other firewalls in the environment.
- C. Disable any firewall functions that are not needed in production.
- D. Remove the default "Firewall Administrator" account and create a shared account for firewall administrators to use.
Answer: C
Explanation:
PerRequirement 2.2.5, allinsecure and unnecessary services, protocols, daemons, or functionsmust be disabled. This includes unnecessary features on firewalls and other devices. Disabling unneeded functions reduces the attack surface and aligns with secure configuration principles.
* Option A:#Incorrect. Shared accounts violateRequirement 8.2.1, which mandatesunique IDs.
* Option B:#Incorrect. Allowing all traffic is a violation ofRequirement 1.2.1, which requires "deny all unless explicitly allowed".
* Option C:#Incorrect. Synchronizing rules may be useful but does not directly relate to hardening.
* Option D:#Correct. Disabling unused firewall features aligns with secure configuration.
References:
PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Requirement 2.2.5
PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Requirement 1.2.1 (deny-all approach)
NEW QUESTION # 27
Which scenario describes segmentation of the cardholder data environment (CDE) for the purposes of reducing PCI DSS scope?
- A. A network configuration that prevents all network traffic between the CDE and out-of-scope networks.
- B. Virtual LANs that route network traffic between the CDE and out-of-scope networks.
- C. Routers that monitor network traffic flows between the CDE and out-of-scope networks.
- D. Firewalls that log all network traffic flows between the CDE and out-of-scope networks.
Answer: A
Explanation:
True segmentation, as defined inPCI DSS Scope Guidance, requiresenforcing isolationsuch thatno network traffic is allowed between the CDE and out-of-scope systems, unless explicitly permitted and secured. This is the only way toreduce assessment scopereliably.
* Option A:#Incorrect. Monitoring alone does not restrict or prevent access.
* Option B:#Incorrect. Logging without restriction doesnot isolatethe CDE.
* Option C:#Incorrect. VLANs may be part of segmentation, but routing traffic alone doesn't reduce scope.
* Option D:#Correct. This describesproper segmentation: no uncontrolled traffic into the CDE.
Reference:PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Section 4.2;Guidance on Scoping and Network Segmentation- Section 3.1 and
3.2.
NEW QUESTION # 28
What must be included in an organization's procedures for managing visitors?
- A. Visitors retain their identification (for example, a visitor badge) for 30 days after completion of the visit.
- B. Visitors are escorted at all times within areas where cardholder data is processed or maintained.
- C. Visitor badges are identical to badges used by onsite personnel.
- D. Visitor log includes visitor name, address, and contact phone number.
Answer: B
Explanation:
According toRequirement 9.4.2.2, visitors must beescorted at all timesin areas where cardholder data is stored or processed. This is a key component of physical access control and is intended to prevent unauthorised access or tampering.
* Option A:#Correct. Escorts aremandatoryfor visitors in sensitive areas.
* Option B:#Incorrect. Visitor badgesmust be distinguishablefrom employee badges.
* Option C:#Incorrect. PCI DSS requires name and firm represented, butnot full address or phone.
* Option D:#Incorrect. Visitor badges must besurrendered or deactivatedimmediately after the visit ends.
References:
PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Requirements 9.4.2.1 to 9.4.2.3.
NEW QUESTION # 29
What is the intent of classifying media that contains cardholder data?
- A. Ensuring that media containing cardholder data is moved from secured areas on a quarterly basis.
- B. Ensuring that media is clearly and visibly labeled as "Confidential" so all personnel know that the media contains cardholder data.
- C. Ensuring that media is properly protected according to the sensitivity of the data it contains.
- D. Ensuring that all media is consistently destroyed on the same schedule, regardless of the contents.
Answer: C
Explanation:
Requirement 9.6.1mandates theclassification of mediaso that appropriatehandling, storage, and disposalprocedures are applied based on thesensitivity of the data. This ensures that media storing cardholder data is not treated the same as media containing non-sensitive content.
* Option A:#Correct. Classifying media enablesrisk-appropriate protections.
* Option B:#Incorrect. Movement schedules are not mandated.
* Option C:#Incorrect. Labeling is a recommended control but not the primary intent.
* Option D:#Incorrect. Destruction must bebased on data classification, not uniform timing.
Reference:PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Requirement 9.6.1.
NEW QUESTION # 30
Which of the following statements is true regarding track equivalent data on the chip of a payment card?
- A. It is not applicable for PCI DSS Requirement 3.2.
- B. It is sensitive authentication data.
- C. It is allowed to be stored by merchants after authorization, if encrypted.
- D. It is out of scope for PCI DSS.
Answer: B
Explanation:
Track equivalent data- whether from a magnetic stripe or embedded chip - falls underSensitive Authentication Data (SAD)and mustnot be stored after authorisation, even if encrypted. This is covered underRequirement 3.3.1and Table 3 in PCI DSS v4.0.1.
* Option A:#Incorrect. SADmust not be stored after authorisation, regardless of encryption.
* Option B:#Correct. Track equivalent data is explicitly defined asSAD.
* Option C:#Incorrect. SAD is fullyin-scopefor PCI DSS.
* Option D:#Incorrect. Requirement 3.2 and 3.3 specifically address SAD.
References:
PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Table 3: Account Data Element Storage Requirements; Requirements 3.3.1, 3.3.2.
NEW QUESTION # 31
An internal NTP server that provides time services to the Cardholder Data Environment is?
- A. Only in scope if it stores, processes or transmits cardholder data.
- B. Only in scope if it provides time services to database servers.
- C. In scope for PCI DSS.
- D. Not in scope for PCI DSS.
Answer: C
Explanation:
Scope definition in PCI DSS v4.0.1 (Section 4)includesany system that can impact the security of the CDE.
Time synchronization servers such asNTParecritical to log integrity(Requirement 10.6), and if they provide services to CDE systems,they are in scopeeven if they do not directly process cardholder data.
* Option A:#Incorrect. Scope is broader than just databases.
* Option B:#Incorrect. Time serversimpact log security, so they are in scope.
* Option C:#Incorrect. PCI DSS scope includes systems thataffect the securityof CDE, not just those storing card data.
* Option D:#Correct. Internal NTP servers providing services to the CDE arein scope.
References:
PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Section 4: Scope of PCI DSS Requirements;
Requirement 10.6.1.1.
NEW QUESTION # 32
Which of the following file types must be monitored by a change-detection mechanism (e.g., a file-integrity monitoring tool)?
- A. Files that regularly change
- B. System configuration and parameter files
- C. Application vendor manuals
- D. Security policy and procedure documents
Answer: B
Explanation:
PCI DSSRequirement 11.5.2mandates the use of file-integrity monitoring (FIM) or change-detection tools to monitorcritical filessuch as system binaries, configuration files, and system parameters.
* Option A:#Incorrect. Manuals are not critical system files.
* Option B:#Incorrect. Regularly changing files (e.g., logs or temp files) are typically excluded.
* Option C:#Incorrect. Policies and procedures are reviewed but not subject to FIM.
* Option D:#Correct. System config and parameter files must bemonitored for unauthorised changes.
NEW QUESTION # 33
An organization wishes to implement multi-factor authentication for remote access, using the user's individual password and a digital certificate. Which of the following scenarios would meet PCI DSS requirements for multi-factor authentication?
- A. Change control processes are in place to ensure certificates are changed every 90 days.
- B. Certificates are assigned only to administrative groups, and not to regular users.
- C. Certificates are logged so they can be retrieved when the employee leaves the company.
- D. A different certificate is assigned to each individual user account, and certificates are not shared.
Answer: D
Explanation:
PCI DSSRequirement 8.4.2requiresmulti-factor authentication (MFA)to consist of two or moreindependent authentication factors. MFA must alsonot involve shared credentials, so each certificate must be tied to a specific individual.
* Option A:#Incorrect. MFA must apply toall applicable users, not just admins.
* Option B:#Correct. This meets PCI DSS: unique credentials per user and non-shared certificates.
* Option C:#Incorrect. Retaining certificates post-employment is a risk, not a compliance action.
* Option D:#Incorrect. PCI DSS doesn't mandate 90-day certificate rotation; rather, secure usage and revocation are key.
NEW QUESTION # 34
Which statement is true regarding the PCI DSS Report on Compliance (ROC)?
- A. The ROC Reporting Template provided by PCI SSC is only required for service provider assessments.
- B. The assessor must create their own ROC template tor each assessment report.
- C. The assessor may use either their own template or the ROC Reporting Template provided by PCI SSC.
- D. The ROC Reporting Template and instructions provided by PCI SSC should be used for all ROCs.
Answer: D
NEW QUESTION # 35
A sample of business facilities is reviewed during the PCI DSS assessment. What is the assessor required to validate about the sample?
- A. Every facility where cardholder data is stored is reviewed.
- B. The number of facilities in the sample is at least 10 percent of the total number of facilities.
- C. It includes a consistent set of facilities that are reviewed for all assessments.
- D. All types and locations of facilities are represented.
Answer: D
Explanation:
PerSection 6 - Sampling for PCI DSS Assessments, the assessor must ensure the sample of business facilitiesincludes all types and locations, reflecting different operational environments. The goal is to cover variations that might affect compliance, such as data centers vs. call centers, or regional differences.
* Option A:Incorrect. Each assessment may require a different sample depending on the environment.
* Option B:Incorrect. There is no fixed 10% requirement for facility sampling.
* Option C:Incorrect. A full review of every facility isn't required if representative sampling is used appropriately.
* Option D:Correct. The samplingmust include all types and locationsof facilities to be valid.
Reference:PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Section 6: Sampling for PCI DSS Assessments.
NEW QUESTION # 36
Which of the following statements Is true whenever a cryptographic key Is retired and replaced with a new key?
- A. Cryptographic key components from the retired key must be retained for 3 months before disposal.
- B. All data encrypted under the retired key must be securely destroyed.
- C. Anew key custodian must be assigned.
- D. The retired key must not be used for encryption operations.
Answer: D
Explanation:
Key Management Requirements:
* PCI DSS Requirement 3.6.5 specifies that when a cryptographic key is retired, it must no longer be used for encryption operations but may still be retained for decryption purposes as needed (e.g., to decrypt historical data until it is re-encrypted with the new key).
Secure Key Retirement:
* Retired keys should be securely stored or destroyed based on the organization's key management policy to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.
Reference in PCI DSS Documentation:
* Section 3.6.5 emphasizes that retired keys must be rendered inactive for further encryption while allowing use for decryption, ensuring data continuity and compliance.
NEW QUESTION # 37
At which step in the payment transaction process does the merchant's bank pay the merchant for the purchase, and the cardholder's bank bill the cardholder?
- A. Authorization
- B. Settlement
- C. Clearing
- D. Chargeback
Answer: B
Explanation:
Settlement in the Payment Process
* Settlement is the stage where the merchant's bank pays the merchant for the transaction, and the cardholder's bank debits the cardholder's account.
* PCI DSS does not explicitly describe the settlement process but emphasizes the protection of data during all stages.
Transaction Stages
* Authorization:Approves the transaction.
* Clearing:Data is sent to the cardholder's bank.
* Settlement:Funds are transferred between banks.
* Chargeback:Disputes are handled, and funds might be reversed.
NEW QUESTION # 38
Where an entity under assessment is using the customized approach, which of the following steps is the responsibility of the assessor?
- A. Monitor the control.
- B. Document and maintain evidence about each customized control as defined in Appendix E of PCI DSS.
- C. Perform the targeted risk analysis as per PCI DSS requirement 12.3.2.
- D. Derive testing procedures and document them in Appendix E of the ROC.
Answer: D
Explanation:
Under theCustomized Approach, assessors are responsible forderiving and documenting the testing proceduresinAppendix E of the Report on Compliance (ROC). The assessor must ensure the controlmeets the requirement objectiveand validate it throughcustom testing.
* Option A:#Incorrect. Ongoing monitoring is the entity's responsibility, not the assessor's.
* Option B:#Correct. The assessor must derive anddocument testingin Appendix E.
* Option C:#Incorrect. The entity documents control details; the assessor documents test results.
* Option D:#Incorrect. Theentitymust perform the targeted risk analysis, not the assessor.
NEW QUESTION # 39
A retail merchant has a server room containing systems that store encrypted PAN data. The merchant has implemented a badge access-control system that identifies who entered and exited the room, on what date, and at what time. There are no video cameras located in the server room. Based on this information, which statement is true regarding PCI DSS physical security requirements?
- A. Data from the access-control system must be securely deleted on a monthly basis.
- B. The badge access-control system must be protected from tampering or disabling.
- C. The merchant must install video cameras in addition to the existing access-control system.
- D. The merchant must install motion-sensing alarms in addition to the existing access-control system.
Answer: B
Explanation:
According toRequirement 9.3.1and9.4.1.2, physical access control mechanisms - including badge readers - must beprotected against tampering or disablingto prevent unauthorized access and maintain the integrity of access logs.
* Option A:Correct. Physical access control systems must be protected from tampering.
* Option B:Incorrect. Video cameras are requiredonly where appropriate; badge access may suffice.
* Option C:Incorrect. Access logs must beretained for at least three months, not deleted monthly (see
9.4.1.3).
* Option D:Incorrect. Motion sensors are not specifically required.
NEW QUESTION # 40
What is the intent of classifying media that contains cardholder data?
- A. Ensuring that media containing cardholder data is moved from secured areas on a quarterly basis.
- B. Ensuring that media is clearly and visibly labeled as "Confidential" so all personnel know that the media contains cardholder data.
- C. Ensuring that media is properly protected according to the sensitivity of the data it contains.
- D. Ensuring that all media is consistently destroyed on the same schedule, regardless of the contents.
Answer: C
Explanation:
Requirement 9.6.1mandates theclassification of mediaso that appropriatehandling, storage, and disposalprocedures are applied based on thesensitivity of the data. This ensures that media storing cardholder data is not treated the same as media containing non-sensitive content.
* Option A:#Correct. Classifying media enablesrisk-appropriate protections.
* Option B:#Incorrect. Movement schedules are not mandated.
* Option C:#Incorrect. Labeling is a recommended control but not the primary intent.
* Option D:#Incorrect. Destruction must bebased on data classification, not uniform timing.
NEW QUESTION # 41
An LDAP server providing authentication services to the cardholder data environment is?
- A. In scope only if it stores, processes or transmits cardholder data.
- B. In scope only if it provides authentication services to systems in the DMZ.
- C. In scope for PCI DSS.
- D. Not in scope for PCI DSS.
Answer: C
Explanation:
According toPCI DSS Scope Definitions (Section 4.2.1), any system thatcan impact the security of the CDEisin scope, even if it doesn't store cardholder data. An LDAP server providing authentication to systems in the CDEdirectly affects access control, so it'sin scope.
* Option A:#Correct. Systems providingauthentication services to the CDEarein scope.
* Option B:#Incorrect. LDAP does not need to store card data to be in scope.
* Option C:#Incorrect. Influence over access security makes it in scope regardless of data processing.
* Option D:#Incorrect. Scope isn't limited to DMZ-linked systems.
Reference:PCI DSS v4.0.1 - Section 4.2.1 (System Components In Scope).
NEW QUESTION # 42
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