Organizations developing payment software must meet PCI SSF security requirements. One of the key components of PCI SSF is the Secure Software Lifecycle (Secure SLC) standard, which focuses on the security of the software development process. This blog post will explore Secure SLC assessments, their role in PCI SSF compliance, and what organizations need to know to achieve certification.
What is Secure SLC in PCI SSF?
Secure SLC is one of the two PCI SSF standards, alongside the Secure Software Standard (SSS). While SSS evaluates payment application security, Secure SLC certifies that organizations have structured, security-driven software development processes, policies, and controls throughout the software development lifecycle (SDLC). This includes secure design principles, development methodologies, risk management practices, and ongoing security maintenance.
Organizations that achieve Secure SLC compliance demonstrate that they have implemented a structured and security-focused SDLC, reducing risks associated with vulnerabilities and insecure coding practices. They must integrate security at every stage, from requirements gathering and threat modeling to deployment and post-release monitoring. Version 1.1 of the Secure SLC Program Guide expanded eligibility beyond payment software vendors to include software vendors developing products for the payment card industry, broadening the framework’s applicability and reinforcing the need for a comprehensive, industry-wide approach to secure software development.
Key Components of a Secure SLC Assessment
A Secure Software Lifecycle (SLC) assessment ensures that an organization’s software development lifecycle meets PCI SSF security standards. The assessment evaluates six core components:
1. Security Governance
To pass a Secure SLC assessment, organizations must adopt structured security governance, integrating it into business strategy and regulatory compliance. Key elements include:
- Security Policies and Procedures: Define, document, and communicate security policies to relevant personnel.
- Roles and Responsibilities: Assign clear security-related responsibilities to ensure accountability.
- Security Awareness and Training: Provide ongoing security training for all involved in software development.
Strong governance fosters a culture of security throughout the software development lifecycle.
2. Threat Identification and Risk Mitigation
Organizations must proactively identify, assess, and mitigate security threats to prevent vulnerabilities in payment software. Key strategies include:
- Threat Modeling: Identify attack vectors and software weaknesses.
- Risk Assessments: Evaluate the likelihood and impact of threats.
- Mitigation Plans: Develop and implement strategies to address risks.
Effective risk management minimizes security breaches and strengthens software resilience.
3. Secure Software Development
Security must be embedded in software development by:
- Implement Secure Coding Practices: Follow industry standards to reduce vulnerabilities.
- Conduct Security Testing: Perform static and dynamic analysis throughout development.
- Use Secure Components: Ensure third-party libraries and software dependencies are up-to-date.
Embedding security in development reduces vulnerabilities at release.
4. Vulnerability Management
Security doesn’t end at deployment. Organizations must:
- Monitor for Vulnerabilities: Continuously scan for security issues.
- Manage Patches: Deploy security patches promptly with minimal disruption.
- Respond to Incidents: Maintain a structured incident response plan.
A strong vulnerability management program ensures long-term software security.
5. Security Testing and Validation
To meet PCI Secure Software Framework (SSF) requirements, organizations must:
- Conduct Internal Testing: Perform penetration testing and vulnerability scans before release.
- Undergo External Validation: Have software reviewed by a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) or Secure Software Assessor (SSA).
Comprehensive testing ensures compliance and strengthens software security.
6. Software Maintenance and End-of-Life
Security must be maintained throughout the software’s lifecycle, including post-deployment. Organizations must:
- Provide Ongoing Support: Deliver updates and security patches throughout the software’s lifecycle.
- Securely Decommission Software: Properly retire software and destroy sensitive data when it reaches end-of-life.
Maintaining security throughout the software lifecycle helps protect payment data and ensures compliance.
Secure SLC Assessment Process
To achieve Secure SLC certification, organizations undergo an official assessment by a PCI-approved Secure SLC Assessor Company. The process includes:
- Vendor Initiation: The vendor selects a Secure SLC Assessor Company from the PCI SSC website and negotiates agreements and costs for the assessment.
- Scope Determination: The vendor and Secure SLC Assessor Company define the assessment scope, outlining relevant processes and controls.
- Formal Assessment: The Secure SLC Assessor evaluates security policies, SDLC processes, and technical controls, including development, testing, implementation, maintenance, and patching.
- Report on Compliance (ROC) Preparation: If the vendor meets all Secure SLC requirements, the Secure SLC Assessor Company prepares a Report on Compliance (ROC) and an Attestation of Compliance (AOC) and submits them to PCI SSC.
- PCI SSC Review: PCI SSC reviews the ROC, test results, and supporting evidence to confirm that all requirements are met. The vendor must pay an invoice before PCI SSC begins the review.
- Listing on PCI SSC Website: Upon successful review and acceptance, PCI SSC lists the vendor as a Secure SLC Qualified Vendor on the PCI SSC website.
Validity and Maintenance: Secure SLC qualification remains valid for three years, provided the vendor maintains compliance through annual attestations and meets all ongoing program requirements.
Figure Source: PCI Security Standards Council. (n.d.). Secure software life cycle (SLC) program guide v1.
Figure Source: PCI Security Standards Council. (n.d.). Secure software life cycle (SLC) program guide v1. Retrieved from https://listings.pcisecuritystandards.org/documents/Secure-Software-Life-Cycle-(SLC)-Program-Guide-v1.pdf
Become PCI SSF Compliant today
Secure SLC assessments play a crucial role in PCI SSF compliance by ensuring that payment software development follows strong security practices. Organizations aiming for certification must implement robust governance, secure coding, risk management, and testing processes. By achieving Secure SLC compliance, businesses can enhance security, protect payment data, and maintain trust in the payment ecosystem.
For expert guidance on achieving Secure SLC certification, contact RSI Security today.
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