QSA_New_V4 Exam Dumps - Qualified Security Assessor V4 Exam

ï‚· Customized Approach Overview:

Under PCI DSS v4.0, entities can use a Customized Approach to meet requirements by implementing controls tailored to their environment. This allows flexibility while still achieving the intent of the security requirement.

ï‚· Role of Assessors:

Assessors (QSAs) are responsible for evaluating both the implementation of customized controls and ensuring these controls fulfill the security objectives of the PCI DSS requirements​​.

QSAs must document the evaluation, evidence reviewed, and results in the Report on Compliance (ROC).

ï‚· Controls Matrix and Targeted Risk Analysis (TRA):

The Controls Matrix and TRA are key components of the Customized Approach. QSAs assist in verifying the accuracy and completeness of these tools during assessments​​.

ï‚· Documenting in the ROC:

The ROC must include a narrative explaining the assessor’s findings regarding the customized control, validation methods, and any evidence collected​.

ï‚· Relevant PCI DSS v4.0 Guidance:

Appendix D and E of the PCI DSS v4.0 ROC Template emphasize that QSAs can evaluate and confirm adherence to the Customized Approach provided this is documented comprehensively in the ROC​.

Requirement 1.3.7andRequirement 3.3.1emphasise thatdatabases storing cardholder data must not be directly accessible from the Internet or untrusted networks. The database must be behind firewalls and accessible only via controlled, authorised connections.

Option A:❌Incorrect. Combining servers may violate the one-function-per-server rule (Requirement 2.2.1).

Option B:✅Correct. The database must be protected fromdirect public access.

Option C:❌Incorrect. Web servers often reside in the DMZ; moving them internally could increase risk.

Option D:❌Incorrect. Network performance is not a PCI DSS concern —security isolation is.

ï‚· Compensating Controls Definition and Purpose

A compensating control is an alternate measure that satisfies the intent of a specific PCI DSS requirement and provides an equivalent level of security.

The rationale and risk mitigation must be explicitly documented using the Compensating Control Worksheet (CCW).

ï‚· Mandatory Documentation

PCI DSS v4.0 mandates the use of a CCW when implementing compensating controls. This applies regardless of acquirer approvals​​.

The CCW requires detailed documentation including:

Constraints preventing the original requirement from being implemented.

Justification for the compensating control.

Description of the control and evidence of its effectiveness.

ï‚· Using Existing Requirements

If an existing PCI DSS requirement (e.g., Requirement 5 for antivirus) is already implemented and can mitigate the risks of not meeting another requirement, it may qualify as a compensating control​​.

ï‚· Approval and Review Process

QSAs must validate the implementation, effectiveness, and appropriateness of compensating controls during the assessment process​

ï‚· Requirement for Secure Transmission:

PCI DSS Requirement 4.1 mandates that cardholder data sent over open public networks must be protected with strong cryptographic protocols. Accepting only trusted keys ensures data integrity and prevents unauthorized access​​.

ï‚· Key Validation Practices:

Trusted keys and certificates are verified to ensure authenticity. Using untrusted keys compromises the security of the encrypted communication.

ï‚· Prohibited Practices:

A/D:Configuring protocols to accept all certificates or lower encryption strength violates PCI DSS encryption guidelines.

B:Proprietary protocols are not inherently compliant unless they meet strong cryptographic standards.

ï‚· Testing and Verification:

Assessors verify the implementation of trusted keys by examining encryption settings, reviewing certificate chains, and conducting tests to confirm only trusted connections are accepted​​.

There areseparate Attestation of Compliance (AOC) templatesfor different use cases, specifically formerchantsandservice providers, and forSAQsversusROCs. Each template is tailored to match the reporting needs of that assessment type.

Option A:✅Correct. PCI SSC publishes distinct AOC templates depending on whether the entity is a merchant or service provider, and depending on whether they are completing an SAQ or ROC.

Option B:❌Incorrect. The AOC is not signed by PCI SSC. It must be signed by the assessed entity and, where applicable, the QSA or ISA.

Option C:❌Incorrect. ROCs and SAQs use different AOC formats.

Option D:❌Incorrect. Both the entity and the assessor (if applicable)mustsign.