A tailored course, built for your situation
Mastering PCI DSS for Data Protection Operations Practitioners
Turn compliance rigor into strategic influence across security workflows.
$199 one-time
24-hour access provisioning
30-day money-back guarantee
Hand-built implementation playbook
12 modules. 12 chapters per module. 144 chapters total.
12 modules, each with 12 chapters (144 chapters total), text-based, plus downloadable templates and a hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access.
Delivering controls is table stakes. Being asked to shape them is the next tier.
The situation this course is for
Strong performers implement well, but top-tier practitioners get pulled into design, vendor selection, and control architecture because they speak the language of influence fluently.
Who this is for
Senior compliance and security practitioners in financial services who execute control frameworks daily and are poised to lead design and decision-making.
Who this is not for
Entry-level auditors, consultants without domain immersion, or professionals outside regulated data environments.
What you walk away with
- Lead PCI DSS control discussions with documented rationale and precedent
- Own the vendor-review track end to end, from scoping to sign-off
- Anticipate auditor questions and align evidence proactively
- Translate technical controls into business-risk narratives for cross-functional teams
- Drive consensus on control design without escalation
The 12 modules (with all 144 chapters)
Module 1. PCI DSS Scope Definition in Dynamic Environments
Learn how to map PCI DSS scope accurately across hybrid data flows, identify in-scope systems, and document boundaries that hold up under audit scrutiny.
12 chapters in this module
- Defining Cardholder Data Environment
- Identifying Connected Systems
- Data Flow Diagramming
- Scope Boundary Documentation
- Third-Party Inclusion Rules
- Cloud Integration Scoping
- Virtualization Considerations
- Scope Reduction Tactics
- Legacy System Handling
- Scope Validation Checklist
- Stakeholder Alignment Process
- Version Control for Scope Docs
Module 2. Secure Network Configuration Fundamentals
Build foundational knowledge in network security controls required by PCI DSS, including firewall rules, segmentation, and default setting management.
12 chapters in this module
- Firewall Baseline Configuration
- Rule Justification Logging
- Default Deny Implementation
- Router Access Controls
- Secure Configuration Templates
- Change Management Sync
- Wireless Network Exclusion
- Network Diagram Updates
- Remote Access Policies
- Admin Session Encryption
- Time-Sync Enforcement
- Network Control Audit Trail
Module 3. Protecting Stored Cardholder Data
Implement encryption, tokenization, and data retention policies that satisfy PCI DSS requirements for sensitive data at rest.
12 chapters in this module
- Data Classification Framework
- Encryption Key Inventory
- Tokenization Architecture
- Masking Standards
- Retention Policy Design
- Secure Archival Process
- Decryption Access Controls
- Key Rotation Schedule
- Data Minimization Proof
- Legacy Data Discovery
- Compensating Controls Evaluation
- Storage Audit Evidence
Module 4. Encryption in Transit for Card Data
Ensure compliance with transmission security standards, including TLS configuration, certificate management, and prohibited protocols.
12 chapters in this module
- TLS Version Requirements
- Certificate Authority Validation
- End-to-End Encryption Design
- SSH Key Management
- FTP Prohibition Workarounds
- Wireless Encryption Standards
- API Communication Security
- Session Timeout Enforcement
- Credential Transmission Checks
- Protocol Deprecation Plan
- Encryption Exception Logging
- Monitoring for Cleartext
Module 5. Vulnerability Management Programs
Develop a repeatable process for identifying, prioritizing, and remediating vulnerabilities in PCI environments.
12 chapters in this module
- Internal Scanning Schedule
- External Scanning Providers
- Patch Management Alignment
- Critical vs High Severity Rules
- False Positive Documentation
- Remediation SLA Tracking
- Malware Prevention Controls
- Anti-Virus Update Verification
- Root Cause Analysis Process
- Scan Reporting Templates
- Exception Request Workflow
- Scanner Placement Strategy
Module 6. Access Control Principles for PCI Systems
Design role-based access controls that meet PCI DSS requirements while supporting operational efficiency.
12 chapters in this module
- Role Definition Process
- Least Privilege Enforcement
- Segregation of Duties Rules
- Emergency Access Procedures
- Access Review Frequency
- User Provisioning Workflow
- Termination Process Sync
- Shared Account Justification
- Physical Access Logging
- Privileged Session Monitoring
- Access Revocation Triggers
- Multi-Factor Enforcement Points
Module 7. Monitoring and Logging for PCI Compliance
Deploy effective logging practices that capture required events and support forensic investigations.
12 chapters in this module
- Event Type Requirements
- Log Retention Duration
- Clock Sync Across Systems
- Centralized Logging Design
- Log Integrity Protections
- Event Correlation Rules
- Failed Login Tracking
- File Integrity Monitoring
- Change Detection Alerts
- Log Review Procedures
- Retention Verification
- Audit Trail Accessibility
Module 8. Regular Testing of Security Controls
Implement a sustainable program for regular testing of PCI DSS controls, including penetration testing and configuration reviews.
12 chapters in this module
- Pen Test Scheduling
- Scope Definition for Pen Tests
- Internal vs External Testing
- Remediation Follow-Up
- Configuration Compliance Checks
- Review Frequency Standards
- Automated Testing Tools
- Results Documentation
- Third-Party Assessment
- Test Coverage Mapping
- Executive Summary Creation
- Corrective Action Tracking
Module 9. Information Security Policy Development
Create and maintain PCI DSS-aligned policies that reflect actual practice and withstand auditor scrutiny.
12 chapters in this module
- Policy vs Procedure Definition
- Annual Review Process
- Policy Distribution Proof
- Role-Based Acceptance
- Security Awareness Content
- Training Frequency Requirements
- Phishing Simulations
- Policy Exception Workflow
- Update Notification Process
- Version Control System
- Retirement Process
- Cross-Department Alignment
Module 10. Building the ROC and SoA
Master the creation of the Report on Compliance and Self-Assessment of Responsibility.
12 chapters in this module
- ROC Submission Timeline
- Entity Type Classification
- Attestation Requirements
- Control Implementation Status
- Evidence Collection Process
- Third-Party Validation Needs
- Examiner Communication Protocol
- SoA Accuracy Checks
- Version Reconciliation
- Sign-Off Workflow
- Distribution List Management
- Archive and Retention
Module 11. Managing Third-Party Risk in PCI Context
Extend PCI DSS requirements to vendors, service providers, and connected entities.
12 chapters in this module
- Vendor Categorization
- Contractual Requirements
- DSS Responsibility Allocation
- Sub-Service Provider Oversight
- Attestation Collection
- Risk Tiering Model
- Due Diligence Questionnaire
- Onsite Assessment Planning
- Remote Audit Coordination
- Remediation Escalation
- Termination Triggers
- Annual Review Enforcement
Module 12. Driving Strategic Influence from Operational Excellence
Translate technical mastery into trusted advisory status and decision-making authority.
12 chapters in this module
- From Implementer to Advisor
- Building Credibility Through Accuracy
- Vendor Selection Participation
- Architecture Review Input
- Policy Design Authority
- Cross-Functional Representation
- Stakeholder Mapping
- Influence Without Authority
- Documenting Precedent
- Creating Reusable Playbooks
- Mentoring Junior Staff
- Positioning for Leadership
How this maps to your situation
- Implementing security controls
- Supporting audits
- Managing compliance workflows
- Shaping control design
Before vs. after
Before
Responsible for implementing controls and supporting audits, following established procedures.
After
Recognized as the go-to authority for PCI DSS decisions, shaping vendor selection, policy, and design.
What's included with your purchase
- 12 modules with 12 chapters each (144 chapters total)
- Downloadable templates and worked examples for every module
- Hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Delivery and format
- Course and learning environment access provisioned within 24 hours of purchase
- Hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access
Format: Text-based modules and chapters in the Art of Service learning environment, plus downloadable templates and worked examples for every chapter, plus the hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access.
Time investment: Approximately 45 minutes per module, designed for integration into regular workflow without disruption.
If nothing changes
Without sharpening your influence trajectory, your expertise remains execution-bound, even as peers with equivalent knowledge gain seats in strategic design forums.
How this compares to the alternatives
Unlike generic compliance overviews or certification prep courses, this program focuses exclusively on translating PCI DSS execution into decision-making authority, no theory, only actionable playbooks used by practitioners in regulated financial environments.
Frequently asked
Is this course focused on PCI DSS 4.0?
Yes, the course covers PCI DSS 4.0 requirements with backward mapping for organizations still on 3.2.1.
How is the course structured?
12 modules, each containing 12 chapters (144 chapters total).
Can I use this for team training?
The course is designed for individual mastery, but license options are available for teams upon request.
$199 one-time. Approximately 45 minutes per module, designed for integration into regular workflow without disruption..
Within 24 hours your account in the learning environment is provisioned and the tailored implementation playbook is delivered alongside it.
30-day money-back guarantee·
144 chapters·
Hand-built playbook included·
Account access within 24 hours