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As consumers become more aware of the risks of data breaches, businesses must take steps to protect their customers' information. The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a comprehensive set of security requirements to protect this vital data.
More About PCI-DSS v4.0: Are You Ready for the Changes?
To ensure compliance with PCI DSS, all organizations that accept, transmit, or store cardholder data must implement appropriate security measures and train their employees on these measures.
This blog post will explore the cost of PCI training, factors that influence pricing, and why training is an essential investment for any business that wants to avoid the hefty consequences of non-compliance.
Visit our Business Guide to PCI-DSS Compliance Training for more information
What Determines the Cost of PCI Training
The cost of PCI training can vary depending on several factors. You can build a compliance-focused secure code training program to meet your needs.
When choosing a training format, there are a few things to consider.
- In-person training is the most personalized experience, but it is also the most expensive
- Virtual instructor-led training provides a balance between affordability and live instruction
- eLearning is the most budget-friendly option, allowing for self-paced learning at your convenience
The trainer's expertise can also influence the cost. Trainers with PCI Professional credentials or those affiliated with reputable security firms may charge more due to their specialized knowledge.
The content of the training will depend on who you're training. Specialized training for technical staff dives deeper into technical security controls and PCI compliance requirements and often costs more than general awareness programs designed for all employees.
Finally, the size and complexity of your organization can impact the cost. Larger businesses with intricate payment systems may require more comprehensive training programs than smaller businesses.
PCI Training on the Security Journey
Requirement 6 in the latest version of PCI-DSS compliance standards should not be overlooked. Continuous secure coding training will help you meet Requirement 6 and protect your customers.
Security Journey offers a tiered pricing structure for PCI training to help you easily meet the needs of PCI-DSS v4.0 Requirement 6, catering to different business needs. Our Essentials Package covers general PCI awareness training for all employees, while our Enterprise Package includes training for technical staff and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities in your systems.
See More About Security Journey Pricing
By incorporating training into a larger PCI compliance strategy, you can potentially save costs in other areas. For example, identifying and fixing vulnerabilities through training can reduce the need for expensive external penetration testing.
The Cost of NOT Being PCI Compliant
Failing to comply with PCI can lead to significant financial penalties, ranging from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars per month, depending on the severity of the non-compliance.
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Your organization can suffer consequences of non-compliance from a multitude of sources, including:
- Acquiring Bank and Card Brand Fines
- Payment Card Brand Fines
Beyond these direct fines, data breaches resulting from non-compliance can have a devastating impact on your business. Customers who lose trust due to a security incident may take their business elsewhere, leading to lost revenue.
In contrast, the cost of PCI training seems like a small price to pay for the peace of mind and significant cost savings that come with compliance.
Read More About The True Cost of PCI-DSS Non-Compliance
Is PCI Training Worth the Investment?
PCI compliance isn't optional for businesses that handle cardholder data. A data breach can be a financial nightmare, with fines, lost revenue, and legal fees.
More Pricing Resources: Free vs. Paid PCI Training: Which Is Best For Your Organization?
Think of PCI training as an investment in security - a way to safeguard your business from these potentially devastating costs. Compare the training price to the potential financial losses you could face if you're not compliant.
The math is straightforward: PCI training is a wise investment that pays off in the long run.
How Much Should PCI Training Cost?
PCI training costs depend on several factors, but it's a crucial investment for any business that handles cardholder data.
When considering training costs, remember that even the most expensive program pales in comparison to the financial repercussions of a data breach. Choose a reputable training provider that offers programs tailored to your business needs and employee skill levels to get the most value.
Explore options available on Security Journey, and don't hesitate to seek guidance from security professionals to ensure you're making the best choice for your organization.
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