QSA_New_V4 Qualified Security Assessor V4 Exam Question and Answers

ï‚·Role of the Assessor in Verifying Segmentation

PCI DSS v4.0 requires assessors to confirm that segmentation controls (firewalls, ACLs, etc.) effectively isolate the CDE from out-of-scope networks​​.

Proper configuration and functionality testing ensure that only authorized traffic can access the CDE.

ï‚·Testing Requirements

Methods include network scans, configuration reviews, and traffic analysis to verify the segmentation is functioning as intended​​.

ï‚·Incorrect Options

Option A: Verifying traffic flow is part of the task but not the primary goal.

Option B: Payment brands do not approve segmentation controls.

Option C: Use of specific devices is not mandated for segmentation.

ï‚·Restricting Database Access

PCI DSS Requirement 7.2 specifies that access to cardholder data, including databases, must be restricted by business need-to-know.

Restricting access to programmatic methods minimizes the risk of unauthorized queries and data breaches​​.

ï‚·Eliminating Direct Access

Direct database access by end-users or administrators poses significant risk unless strictly controlled and monitored. Programmatic methods (e.g., via applications with role-based access controls) align with security best practices.

ï‚·Incorrect Options

Option B: Administrators might need access, but access should not be limited to system/network administrators.

Option C: Application IDs should not be used directly by individuals, as this circumvents accountability.

Option D: Shared accounts are discouraged due to a lack of traceability.

ï‚·Scope of Anti-Malware Requirements

PCI DSS Requirement 5 mandates the use of anti-malware solutions on all in-scope systems unless the system is specifically documented as not being at risk from malware.

Examples of systems not at risk include those using operating systems that do not support anti-malware tools, provided proper justifications and alternative controls are implemented​​.

ï‚·Assessment Considerations

QSAs must verify and document why a system is considered "not at risk."

Systems storing, processing, or transmitting cardholder data or that could impact the CDE are generally in-scope for anti-malware​​.

ï‚·Incorrect Options

Option A: While CDE systems and connected systems require protection, the requirement applies specifically to systems at risk from malware.

Option B: Portable electronic storage is not explicitly called out for universal anti-malware but must be controlled in line with overall security policies.

Option C: Systems storing PAN are only a subset of in-scope systems.

ï‚·Settlement in the Payment Process

Settlement is the stage where the merchant’s bank pays the merchant for the transaction, and the cardholder’s bank debits the cardholder's account.

PCI DSS does not explicitly describe the settlement process but emphasizes the protection of data during all stages​​.

ï‚·Transaction Stages

Authorization:Approves the transaction.

Clearing:Data is sent to the cardholder’s bank.

Settlement:Funds are transferred between banks.

Chargeback:Disputes are handled, and funds might be reversed.

ï‚·Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA requires at least two factors from different categories: something you know (password), something you have (digital certificate), or something you are (biometric).

PCI DSS Requirement 8 mandates that credentials like certificates must be unique to each user​​.

ï‚·Secure Certificate Use

Certificates must not be shared and should be assigned individually to ensure accountability and prevent unauthorized access.

ï‚·Incorrect Options

Option A: Limiting certificates to administrative groups does not fulfill PCI DSS for all users.

Option C: Logging certificates for retrieval is unrelated to security requirements.

Option D: Certificates do not have a mandatory 90-day change requirement.

ï‚·Audit Log Access Control:

PCI DSS Requirement 10.7 restricts access to audit logs to individuals with a job-related need to protect the integrity and confidentiality of the logs​​.

ï‚·Rationale for Job-Related Need:

Limiting access reduces the risk of tampering, accidental modification, or exposure of sensitive information.

ï‚·Invalid Options:

A:Individuals who performed the activity should not necessarily view logs unless required.

B/C:Read/write access or administrator privileges are not prerequisites for log viewing.

ï‚·Firewall Hardening:

Requirement 1.2 mandates that firewalls should be configured with only the necessary functionality to reduce attack surfaces. Disabling unused functions eliminates potential vulnerabilities​.

ï‚·Explanation of Other Options:

A:Shared accounts violate Requirement 8.1.5, which prohibits shared or generic accounts.

B:Allowing all traffic initially violates Requirement 1.2.1, which requires a restrictive firewall policy.

C:Synchronization of rules may not always be necessary, especially for firewalls with different scopes or roles.

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​​.

ï‚·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.

ï‚·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)​​.

ï‚·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.