If you accept credit card payments, PCI DSS compliance is mandatory. For enterprise WooCommerce stores, this means implementing specific security controls. This guide covers what you need to know.

What Is PCI DSS?

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard is a set of security requirements for businesses that handle credit card data. Non-compliance can result in fines, higher processing fees, or losing the ability to accept cards.

Compliance Levels

Your compliance level depends on transaction volume:

• Level 1: 6M+ transactions/year – requires annual audit
• Level 2: 1-6M transactions – requires SAQ and quarterly scans
• Level 3: 20K-1M transactions – requires SAQ
• Level 4: Under 20K transactions – requires SAQ

Reducing Scope with Payment Gateways

The easiest way to reduce PCI burden is to never touch card data. Use payment gateways that handle card collection:

Hosted Payment Pages

Customer is redirected to payment provider (like PayPal). Card data never touches your server. Lowest PCI scope.

iFrame/JavaScript Integration

Stripe Elements, Braintree Drop-in collect card data in secure iframe. Your server never sees card numbers. Low PCI scope.

Direct API

Your server receives and transmits card data. Highest PCI burden. Avoid unless absolutely necessary.

WooCommerce Security Controls

SSL/TLS Everywhere

All pages must use HTTPS, not just checkout. Use TLS 1.2 or higher.

Secure Configuration

• Strong admin passwords
• Two-factor authentication
• Limited user access
• Regular security updates

Server Security

• Firewall configuration
• Intrusion detection
• Security patching
• Access logging

Required Documentation

Maintain documentation of: security policies, access controls, incident response plan, and regular security assessments.

Regular Requirements

• Quarterly vulnerability scans by approved vendor
• Annual penetration testing (Level 1 and 2)
• Annual self-assessment questionnaire

Need help with PCI compliance? Contact our security team.