PCI Compliance

PCI Compliance refers to adhering to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), which is a set of security standards for organizations that handle credit card information. If a dealership accepts credit card payments for vehicle purchases, service, or parts, it must ensure that card data (whether stored, processed, or transmitted) is secure. This means not storing card numbers unnecessarily, using encrypted payment terminals, regularly scanning for vulnerabilities, and following procedures like never emailing credit card numbers. In Canada, PCI DSS isn’t a law but a contractual obligation from payment processors; non-compliance can lead to fines or liability if a breach occurs. Dealerships need to work with their payment service providers to maintain compliance, train staff on proper handling of customer card data (e.g., shredding any documents where card numbers were written), and pass periodic self-assessment questionnaires or audits. Achieving PCI compliance protects both the dealership and its customers from fraud related to card payments.