Information Security

What is the AIS Program?

The Account Information Security (AIS) Program was introduced by Visa for Latin America and the Caribbean in the year 2000. The program establishes that all Members (Issuers or Acquirers), Agents, Merchants, and service providers storing, processing or transmitting cardholder and transaction information are required to comply with Information Security Standards.

In summary, the AIS Program provides:

  • Information Security Standards
  • Criteria to validate compliance
  • Guides and help tools

Security Standards

In 2004, the AIS Program incorporated the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) resulting from a cooperative effort between Visa and MasterCard to create common industry security requirements.

Effective September 7, 2006 the PCI Security Standard Council (SSC) owns, maintains and distributes the PCI DSS and all its supporting documents. The council was founded by the top 5 payment card companies. Visa Inc. , however , continues to manage all data security compliance enforcement and validation initiatives.

The standards consist of 12 basic requirements grouped into 6 categories:

 

Build and Maintain a Secure Network

1. Install and maintain a firewall configuration to protect data

2. Do not use vendor-supplied defaults for system passwords and other security parameters

 

Protect Cardholder Data

3. Protect stored data

4. Encrypt transmission of cardholder data and sensitive information across public networks

 

Maintain a Vulnerability Management Program

5. Use and regularly update anti-virus software

6. Develop and maintain secure systems and applications

 

Implement Strong Access Control Measures

7. Restrict access to data by business need-to-know

8. Assign a unique ID to each person with computer access

9. Restrict physical access to cardholder data

 

Regularly Monitor and Test Networks

10. Track and monitor all access to network resources and cardholder data

11. Regularly test security systems and processes

 

Maintain an Information Security Policy

12. Maintain a policy that addresses information security

 

For additional information in regards to PCI Data Security Standards and other PCI documents, visit: www.PCISecurityStandards.org .