PCI QSA_New_V4 Exam Practice Test Instant Access

Question 1

An LDAP server providing authentication services to the cardholder data environment is_____________?

Ain scope for PCI DSS.

Bnot In scope for PCI DSS.

Cin scope only if it stores, processes or transmits cardholder data.

Din scope only if it provides authentication services to systems in the DMZ.

Answer : A

Scope of PCI DSS:

PCI DSS applies to all systems that store, process, or transmit cardholder data (CHD), as well as systems that can impact the security of the CDE. An LDAP server providing authentication services is considered a connected system that could impact the security of CHD and is therefore in scope.

Clarifications on Scope:

Systems like LDAP servers that do not directly handle CHD but provide critical services to the CDE (e.g., authentication) are in scope for PCI DSS.

Invalid Options:

B/C/D: Scoping is not limited to direct storage, processing, or transmission of CHD but includes systems that could affect the CDE's security.

Question 2

A retail merchant has a server room containing systems that store encrypted PAN dat

a. The merchant has Implemented a badge access-control system that Identifies who entered and exited the room, on what date, and at what time. There are no video cameras located in the server room. Based on this information, which statement is true regarding PCI DSS physical security requirements?

AThe badge access-control system must be protected from tampering or disabling.

BThe merchant must Install video cameras in addition to the existing access-control system.

CData from the access-control system must be securely deleted on a monthly basis.

DThe merchant must install motion-sensing alarms In addition to the existing access-control system.

Answer : A

Physical Security Requirements:

PCI DSS Requirement 9.1.1 mandates that physical access control systems (like badge readers) must be protected against tampering or disabling to ensure continuous security.

Current Implementation:

The merchant's badge access-control system provides essential logging of access events but must also be protected against tampering to comply with PCI DSS.

Invalid Options:

B: Video cameras are recommended but not explicitly required if access controls effectively ensure security.

C: Secure deletion of access-control logs is not a PCI DSS requirement; logs must be retained as per retention policies.

D: Motion-sensing alarms are not mandatory under PCI DSS physical security requirements.

Question 3

Which statement about the Attestation of Compliance (AOC) is correct?

AThere are different AOC templates for service providers and merchants.

BThe AOC must be signed by both the merchant/service provider and by PCI SSC.

CThe same AOC template is used W ROCs and SAQs.

DThe AOC must be signed by either the merchant/service provider or the QSA/ISA.

Answer : A

Attestation of Compliance (AOC):

The AOC is a document that confirms an entity's compliance with PCI DSS requirements. It is signed by the entity (merchant or service provider) and the Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) if a QSA is involved.

Different AOC Templates:

PCI DSS provides distinct templates for service providers and merchants, tailored to their respective roles and responsibilities within the cardholder data environment (CDE).

Invalid Options:

B: PCI SSC does not sign AOCs; they are signed by the merchant/service provider and the QSA.

C: AOCs differ between ROCs and SAQs, so the same template is not universally used.

D: Both the merchant/service provider and the QSA/ISA (Internal Security Assessor) must sign the AOC when applicable.

Question 4

An entity wants to know if the Software Security Framework can be leveraged during their assessment. Which of the following software types would this apply to?

AAny payment software In the CDE.

BOnly software which runs on PCI PTS devices.

CValidated Payment Applications that are listed by PCI SSC and have undergone a PA-DSS assessment.

DSoftware developed by the entity in accordance with the Secure SLC Standard.

Answer : D

Software Security Framework Overview

PCI SSC's Software Security Framework (SSF) encompasses Secure Software Standard and Secure Software Lifecycle (Secure SLC) Standard.

Software developed under the Secure SLC Standard adheres to security-by-design principles and can leverage the SSF during PCI DSS assessments.

Applicability

The framework is primarily for software developed by entities or third parties adhering to PCI SSC standards.

It does not apply to legacy payment software listed under PA-DSS unless migrated to SSF.

Incorrect Options

Option A: Not all payment software qualifies; it must align with SSF requirements.

Option B: PCI PTS devices are subject to different security requirements.

Option C: PA-DSS-listed software does not automatically meet SSF standards without reassessment.

Question 5

The Intent of assigning a risk ranking to vulnerabilities Is to?

AEnsure all vulnerabilities are addressed within 30 days.

BReplace the need for quarterly ASV scans.

CPrioritize the highest risk items so they can be addressed more quickly.

DEnsure that critical security patches are installed at least quarterly

Answer : C

Intent of Risk Ranking

PCI DSS Requirement 6.3.2 requires that entities assign a risk ranking to vulnerabilities to prioritize remediation efforts.

This ensures that the most critical vulnerabilities are addressed in a timely manner, reducing the risk to the CDE.

Practical Implementation

Vulnerabilities are assessed based on potential impact and likelihood of exploitation, typically using industry-standard frameworks like CVSS.

High-risk vulnerabilities may require immediate attention, while lower-priority issues are remediated per schedule.

Incorrect Options

Option A: PCI DSS does not mandate a 30-day remediation window for all vulnerabilities; remediation timelines depend on risk.

Option B: Quarterly ASV scans are still required even with risk ranking.

Option D: Installing patches quarterly does not align with the dynamic prioritization of risks.

Question 6

An entity wants to use the Customized Approach. They are unsure how to complete the Controls Matrix or TR

ADuring the assessment, you spend time completing the Controls Matrix and the TRA, while also ensuring that the customized control is implemented securely. Which of the following statements is true?

AYou can assess the customized control, but another assessor must verify that you completed the TRA correctly.

BYou can assess the customized control and verify that the customized approach was correctly followed, but you must document this in the ROC.

CYou must document the work on the customized control in the ROC, but you can not assess the control or the documentation.

DAssessors are not allowed to assist an entity with the completion of the Controls Matrix or the TRA.

Answer : B

Customized Approach Overview:

Under PCI DSS v4.0, entities can use a Customized Approach to meet requirements by implementing controls tailored to their environment. This allows flexibility while still achieving the intent of the security requirement.

Role of Assessors:

Assessors (QSAs) are responsible for evaluating both the implementation of customized controls and ensuring these controls fulfill the security objectives of the PCI DSS requirements.

QSAs must document the evaluation, evidence reviewed, and results in the Report on Compliance (ROC).

Controls Matrix and Targeted Risk Analysis (TRA):

The Controls Matrix and TRA are key components of the Customized Approach. QSAs assist in verifying the accuracy and completeness of these tools during assessments.

Documenting in the ROC:

The ROC must include a narrative explaining the assessor's findings regarding the customized control, validation methods, and any evidence collected.

Relevant PCI DSS v4.0 Guidance:

Appendix D and E of the PCI DSS v4.0 ROC Template emphasize that QSAs can evaluate and confirm adherence to the Customized Approach provided this is documented comprehensively in the ROC.

Question 7

Which of the following is true regarding internal vulnerability scans?

AThey must be performed after a significant change.

BThey must be performed by an Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV).

CThey must be performed by QSA personnel.

DThey must be performed at least annually.

Answer : A

Comprehensive Detailed Step by Step Explanation with All PCI DSS and Qualified Security Assessor V4 References

Relevant PCI DSS Requirement: Internal vulnerability scans are discussed under PCI DSS Requirement 11.3.1, which requires organizations to perform internal vulnerability scanning as part of their regular vulnerability management process.

Frequency and Trigger for Internal Scans:

PCI DSS v4.0 explicitly states that internal vulnerability scans should be conducted at least quarterly and after any significant change.

A 'significant change' can include modifications such as infrastructure upgrades, addition of new systems or software, and configuration changes that may impact security.

Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV):

Internal scans do not require an Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV). ASVs are specifically used for external vulnerability scans.

Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) Involvement:

QSAs are not mandated to perform internal scans. Organizations can use internal teams or trusted third-party resources for this purpose, provided the scans meet PCI DSS criteria.

Annual Scanning Misconception:

While annual compliance reports may include details of scanning activities, the requirement for internal scans is at least quarterly and event-triggered, not annually.

Reference Verification:

Requirement 11.3.1 (PCI DSS v4.0): Clearly outlines the need for quarterly scans and post-significant-change scans.

ROC and SAQ Templates: Reinforce the requirement that scans are both regular and reactive to environmental changes.

PCI QSA_New_V4 Qualified Security Assessor V4 Exam Practice Test