PCI QSA_New_V4 Exam Practice Test Instant Access

Question 1

Which of the following statements Is true whenever a cryptographic key Is retired and replaced with a new key?

AThe retired key must not be used for encryption operations.

BCryptographic key components from the retired key must be retained for 3 months before disposal.

CAnew key custodian must be assigned.

DAll data encrypted under the retired key must be securely destroyed.

Answer : A

Key Management Requirements:

PCI DSS Requirement 3.6.5 specifies that when a cryptographic key is retired, it must no longer be used for encryption operations but may still be retained for decryption purposes as needed (e.g., to decrypt historical data until it is re-encrypted with the new key).

Secure Key Retirement:

Retired keys should be securely stored or destroyed based on the organization's key management policy to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.

Reference in PCI DSS Documentation:

Section 3.6.5 emphasizes that retired keys must be rendered inactive for further encryption while allowing use for decryption, ensuring data continuity and compliance.

Question 2

Which systems must have anti-malware solutions?

AAll CDE systems, connected systems. NSCs, and security-providing systems.

BAll portable electronic storage.

CAll systems that store PAN.

DAny in-scope system except for those identified as 'not at risk' from malware.

Answer : D

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.

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.

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.

Question 3

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 4

Which statement is true regarding the PCI DSS Report on Compliance (ROC)?

AThe ROC Reporting Template and instructions provided by PCI SSC should be used for all ROCs.

BThe assessor may use either their own template or the ROC Reporting Template provided by PCI SSC.

CThe assessor must create their own ROC template tor each assessment report.

DThe ROC Reporting Template provided by PCI SSC is only required for service provider assessments.

Answer : A

Mandatory ROC Template

PCI DSS v4.0 mandates the use of the PCI SSC-provided ROC Template for all Reports on Compliance.

This ensures standardization, completeness, and accuracy in documenting compliance assessments.

Sections of the ROC Template

The ROC includes mandatory sections:

Assessment Overview: General details, scope validation, and assessment findings.

Findings and Observations: Detailed compliance status per requirement.

Prohibited Practices

Assessors cannot use self-created ROC templates. Deviation from the PCI SSC-approved template may result in rejection of the report.

Key Changes in v4.0

Enhanced focus on the integrity of reporting and inclusion of specific findings to ensure alignment with PCI DSS objectives.

Added support for the customized approach within the ROC structure.

Question 5

Which of the following file types must be monitored by a change-detection mechanism (for example, a file-integrity monitoring tool)?

AApplication vendor manuals

BFiles that regularly change

CSecurity policy and procedure documents

DSystem configuration and parameter files

Answer : D

Scope of Change-Detection Mechanisms

PCI DSS v4.0 requires the implementation of a change-detection mechanism (e.g., file-integrity monitoring) to monitor unauthorized changes to critical files.

Critical files include system configuration and parameter files, application executable files, and scripts used in administrative functions.

Intent of Monitoring System Files

These files often control security settings and operational parameters of systems within the Cardholder Data Environment (CDE). Unauthorized changes could compromise system security.

Exclusions

Documents like application vendor manuals and security policies do not qualify as files requiring integrity monitoring since they do not directly impact the security posture or operational functions of systems in the CDE.

Question 6

Which of the following meets the definition of "quarterly" as Indicated In the description of timeframes used In PCI DSS requirements?

AOccurring at some point in each quarter of a year.

BAt least once every 95-97 days

COn the 15th of each third month.

DOn the 1st of each fourth month.

Answer : A

Definition of Quarterly:

PCI DSS defines 'quarterly' as occurring once within each calendar quarter. This means the activity must happen at least once in Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4, with no rigid restrictions on specific days.

Clarification on Other Options:

B: While 95--97 days approximates a quarter, it is not mandated as a rigid timeframe.

C/D: Fixed dates (e.g., 15th or 1st of specific months) are not prescribed in PCI DSS.

Question 7

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.

PCI QSA_New_V4 Qualified Security Assessor V4 Exam Practice Test