The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a security framework that defines requirements for protecting payment card data and reducing fraud risk.
Research organizations may encounter PCI DSS obligations when collecting payments for services, managing participant stipends via card systems, or processing credit card transactions for research-related fees. Compliance requires controls such as encryption, access restriction, vulnerability management, and continuous monitoring of card data environments. While separate from FDA data integrity standards, PCI DSS strengthens overall cybersecurity governance where financial data intersects with research operations. Clear segmentation and documented controls reduce breach risk and support enterprise compliance readiness.