For small online businesses that are not technically required to become involved with PCI Scanning, it could be a huge benefit to look into it and see what it’s all about. Many small businesses don’t realize that even though it’s not required they can still comply with the PCI Data Security Standard which can end up being a great investment for them. It is important to look at all sides when getting involved with something like this and definitely make sure you can afford the cost.

When getting involved with something that is a big step like this can be quite the undertaking and can often times be overwhelming. That is why you must do your research and look closely at PCI Scanning and make sure you understand what is involved in becoming certified with the PCI Data Security Standards before you make your decision on whether PCI Scanning is right for you. One thing I like to do when I am making a big decision is make a list of the pros and cons and then compare them and decide what I think is best. I have done some of the work for you here and created a basic list of the pros and cons of PCI Data Security Standard.

Pros

1. increased security on your website
2. security for all cardholder data
3. increased customer trust
4. more sales
5. help prevent credit card fraud
6. prevent hacking
7. help with other security threats

Cons

1. the costly price
2. the yearly self assessment questionnaire
3. the quarterly or daily scans

If you are a small online business and want to work on getting PCI Certified make sure you find a PCI ASV (Approved Scanning Vendor) who specialized in helping small businesses get certified. Most ASV’s are focused on the larger businesses since they are required to get certified, but if you do your research and look around you will be able to find an ASV that can help you with your specific needs while getting certified with the PCI Data Security Standard.