PCI QSA_New_V4 Exam Practice Test Instant Access

Question 1

Could an entity use both the Customized Approach and the Defined Approach to meet the same requirement?

ANo, because a single approach must be selected.

BNo, because only compensating controls can be used with the Defined Approach.

BYes, if the entity uses no compensating controls.

DYes, if the entity is eligible to use both approaches.

Answer : D

Dual Approach Flexibility:

PCI DSS allows entities to use both the Defined Approach and the Customized Approach for the same requirement if eligible and documented appropriately. This can provide flexibility in addressing complex environments.

Clarifications on Valid Options:

A: Entities are not restricted to a single approach.

B: Compensating controls are unrelated to the choice of approach.

C: Entities can use compensating controls if applicable and justified.

Documentation and Assessment:

Both approaches must be properly documented and validated in the Report on Compliance (ROC), with clear evidence demonstrating compliance.

Question 2

In the ROC Reporting Template, which of the following Is the best approach for a response where the requirement was "In Place'?

ADetails of the entity's project plan for implementing the requirement.

BDetails of how the assessor observed the entity's systems were compliant with the requirement.

CDetails of the entity's reason for not implementing the requirement

DDetails of how the assessor observed the entity's systems were not compliant with the requirement

Answer : B

PCI DSS Reporting Expectations:

When documenting that a requirement is 'In Place,' the ROC must clearly describe how compliance was validated by the assessor. This involves detailing the evidence observed, such as system configurations, documentation, and personnel interviews.

ROC Documentation Guidelines:

The ROC Reporting Template specifies that each 'In Place' response must include evidence demonstrating compliance with the requirement, such as testing observations and validation of implemented controls.

Eliminating Incorrect Options:

A: Project plans are not sufficient to demonstrate current compliance.

C/D: Responses discussing non-implementation or non-compliance are irrelevant when the requirement is 'In Place.'

PCI DSS v4.0 ROC Template Guidance:

Appendix sections in the ROC provide specific instructions for assessors to document the testing performed, evidence reviewed, and results.

Question 3

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 4

Which scenario meets PCI DSS requirements for critical systems to have correct and consistent time?

AEach Internal system Is configured to be Its own time server.

BAccess to time configuration settings is available to all users of the system.

CCentral time servers receive time signals from specific, approved external sources.

DEach internal system peers directly with an external source to ensure accuracy of time updates.

Answer : C

Time Synchronization Standards:

PCI DSS Requirement 10.4 mandates that all critical systems use a centralized time server to ensure time accuracy across systems. Approved external sources provide a reliable and consistent time signal.

Correctness and Consistency of Time:

Using a central time server ensures uniformity of timestamps, which is critical for forensic analysis, log correlation, and monitoring activities.

Invalid Options:

A: Internal systems acting as their own servers could lead to inconsistent timestamps.

B: Allowing all users access to time settings poses a security risk.

D: Peering directly with external sources bypasses centralized control, violating consistency requirements.

Question 5

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 6

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 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 Qualified Security Assessor V4 QSA_New_V4 Exam Practice Test