PCI DSS Compliance for Your Ecommerce Site

Selling online is easy, right? When it comes to eCommerce guidelines, the answer is complicated: yes and no. While our digital world has made it easier than ever to set up an online store and sell products, there are specific rules and regulations that need to be followed. Knowing your applicable eCommerce guidelines can easily mean the difference between a thriving eCommerce operation and a never-ending series of headaches and hassles. Cut yourself a break by picking up the right knowledge as you prepare to open your online store. When you build an eCommerce site, you’re responsible for customer security. That includes protecting customers’ transactions and payment information. Best practices roll up into an industry-standard commonly referred to as PCI compliance. PCI compliance refers to following standards set by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council for data security standards (DSS), as well as eCommerce guidelines for ensuring your customer's data and credit card information is being used responsibly. The account data you need to protect is broken into two sections: cardholder data and sensitive authentication data. The latter refers to the information on the card, card number, security code, pins, etc. Most eCommerce platforms have this compliance built-in, so you don’t need to worry about anything. However, when working with software like Magento or BigCommerce, you might need to hire someone to ensure you’re compliant; these platforms aren’t always ready for out-of-the-box use. For an easy-to-understand breakdown of these rules and regulations, head to PCI’s Maintaining Payment Security publication. They use graphics and outlines to make this understandable for even the newest sellers. Keep these eCommerce guidelines and regulations in mind before you add your first product for sale online. While many merchant platforms deal with them for you, it’s important to do your due diligence. There are penalties associated with non-compliance, including fines, replacement costs, and expensive forensic audits. Don’t get started on the wrong foot. Keep these details in mind so you can build the flourishing and successful eCommerce business you’ve envisioned. The Journey is what everyday entrepreneurs, like you, need to follow in the pursuit of online success. Our experienced GoDaddy Guides are here to take you through all the steps, both big and small, that you encounter every day.