PCI SSF
Ensure your payment software is secure, compliant, and trusted from development to deployment in PCI SSF Compliance.
Service Overview
The PCI Secure Software Framework is a set of standards created by the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) to ensure the security of payment software. It applies to any programs or applications that store, process, or transmit payment data. If software meets that definition, it must comply.
PCI SSF replaces the older Payment Application Data Security Standard (PA-DSS) and introduces broader coverage. It comprises two complementary standards:
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Secure Software Standard: governs the deployment of payment software
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Secure Software Lifecycle (SLC) Standard : governs the development of payment software
Together, they ensure that payment applications are both built and maintained securely across their entire lifecycle.
Strengthen Compliance
Achieving PCI Secure Software Framework (SSF) compliance requires aligning software development and deployment practices with strict control objectives. This includes securing sensitive data, minimizing vulnerabilities, and embedding governance into the software lifecycle.
Working with a trusted Advisor streamlines the process, reduces assessment costs, and helps organizations sustain compliance long term.
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How to Achieve PCI SSF Compliance
Achieving compliance with the PCI Secure Software Framework (SSF) requires more than a technical checklist, it’s about embedding security into both the software you deliver and the processes you use to build it. From initial assessments through formal validation and ongoing maintenance, organizations must align with the Secure Software and Secure SLC Standards to ensure payment applications remain secure and trustworthy.
Preparatory Assessment
Begin with a readiness or gap assessment. Advisors review your payment software and development processes to identify risks and compare them against PCI SSF standards.
Gap Remediation
Address vulnerabilities by implementing stronger security controls, streamlining development practices, and ensuring your processes align with Secure Software and/or Secure SLC requirements.
Framework Alignment
Work with advisors to map your environment against the Secure Software Standard (deployment) and Secure SLC Standard (development). Tailor controls to fit your organization’s software lifecycle and business needs.
Assessor Engagement
Engage a certified PCI SSF Assessor to perform the formal evaluation. This includes reviewing technical controls, policies, and development practices against SSF standards.
Validation & Reporting
Upon successful review, your organization receives a Report on Validation (ROV). Depending on the scope, validated software may be eligible for listing on the PCI SSC website.
Continuous Maintenance
PCI SSF isn’t one-and-done. Regular updates, monitoring, and secure development practices ensure that your software remains compliant as threats, technologies, and standards evolve.
“The PCI Software Security Framework (SSF) recognizes this evolution with an approach that supports both traditional and modern payment software. It provides a new methodology for validating software security and a separate secure software lifecycle qualification for vendors with robust security development practices.
- PCI Security Standards Counsil
Why Choose PCI SSF Compliance?
PCI SSF compliance protects payment software from compromise, ensuring payment transactions and sensitive cardholder data remain secure. It also provides assurance that software has been developed responsibly, fostering confidence among end users and business partners.
Non-compliance can result in:
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Loss of trust from clients and consumers
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Legal and contractual exposure
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Higher risk of breaches and financial penalties
Organizations pursue PCI Secure Software Framework (SSF) compliance not only to meet requirements but also to protect their customers, preserve their reputation, and reduce risk across the payment ecosystem.
Benefits of PCI SSF Advisory
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Your Compliance Partner
RSI Security is a trusted leader in cybersecurity and compliance services. With extensive experience across the PCI ecosystem, our team delivers the guidance and support payment software vendors need to align with the PCI Secure Software Framework (SSF).
We prepare you for every stage of the process, from gap assessments and remediation planning to assessor coordination and readiness reviews. Acting as your partner and liaison, we simplify compliance while strengthening your overall security posture.
Our proven track record spans multiple frameworks and regulations, including PCI SSF, PCI DSS, HIPAA, CMMC, NIST, and ISO 27001. This broad expertise allows us to deliver practical, efficient solutions tailored to your business.
