PCI Penetration Testing Services
Retail & Payment Card Industry
Why PCI Penetration Testing Matters
The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) mandates regular penetration testing to protect sensitive cardholder data. Raxis delivers comprehensive PCI penetration testing tailored to your environment, ensuring compliance with PCI DSS Requirement 11.4 and peace of mind for your business.
- Build Customer Trust: Demonstrate to your customers and partners that you take payment security seriously, reinforcing your reputation as a trustworthy business.
- Reduce Breach Risk: Our expert-led PCI penetration testing uncovers vulnerabilities before attackers do, dramatically lowering your risk of costly breaches.
- Prevent Fraud: By proactively identifying and remediating weaknesses, you help prevent payment fraud and protect your bottom line.
- Ensure Compliance: Meet and exceed PCI DSS requirements with audit-ready reports and clear remediation guidance.
- Safeguard Your Reputation: Avoid the negative headlines and customer churn that follow a security incident.
Our Approach
Raxis employs a blend of manual and automated testing techniques to uncover vulnerabilities that automated tools alone might miss. Our process includes:
- Scoping and Planning: We work closely with you to define the scope of your cardholder data environment, ensuring all critical systems and networks are tested.
- Testing Methodologies: Choose from black-box (no prior system knowledge), white-box (full system access), or gray-box (partial knowledge) testing to suit your needs.
- Detailed Reporting: Receive actionable reports with clear remediation steps to address vulnerabilities and achieve compliance.
- Remediation Support: Our team guides you through fixing identified issues and offers retesting to confirm resolution.
Black Box Penetration Testing
Our Black Box penetration testing simulates real-world external attacks on your public-facing assets—web applications, networks, APIs, and more—without prior knowledge or internal access. Raxis ethical hackers identify perimeter weaknesses that automated tools miss, providing expert insight into your external security posture.
Grey Box Penetration Testing
Grey Box testing blends limited system knowledge with external attack methods. Raxis specialists use partial information—like user credentials or network diagrams—to simulate targeted breaches, efficiently uncovering vulnerabilities from both misconfigurations and external exploits. This approach delivers realistic risk assessments and actionable remediation for your organization.
White Box Penetration Testing
White Box testing gives Raxis full access to your source code, configurations, and architecture, enabling a thorough assessment from an insider’s perspective. Our experts simulate advanced threats to uncover every vulnerability, making this approach ideal for organizations needing comprehensive security testing for compliance standards like PCI DSS, HIPAA, or SOC 2.
We Use Industry-Standard Methodologies
- OWASP Testing Guide: Focuses on web application security, providing detailed guidance for each phase of testing.
- OSSTMM: Covers operational security across physical, human, wireless, telecommunications, and data networks, using structured modules and the STAR methodology for reporting.
- PTES (Penetration Testing Execution Standard): Defines seven phases (Pre-engagement, Intelligence Gathering, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Analysis, Exploitation, Post-Exploitation, Reporting) and provides technical guidelines and tool recommendations.
The Importance of PCI Segmentation Testing
Network segmentation is a powerful tool for reducing the scope of PCI compliance by isolating the CDE from other networks.
- Map Data Flows: Identify all systems and network segments involved in cardholder data processing.
- Identify and Classify Components: Categorize devices, applications, and network segments as in-scope or out-of-scope for PCI DSS.
- Design Segmentation Strategy: Implement firewalls, VLANs, and access controls to enforce separation.
- Port Scanning: Use Tenable.io, Nessus, Nmap or similar tools to scan from out-of-scope segments to the CDE and vice versa.
- Configuration Review: Audit firewall rules, VLAN ACLs, and router ACLs to ensure proper isolation.
- Manual Testing: Simulate attacks from out-of-scope systems to verify no unauthorized access to the CDE.
- Documentation: Provide evidence of segmentation effectiveness, including scan results and configuration reviews.
our Step-by-Step PCI Penetration Testing Process
- Scoping and Planning
- Objective: Define the boundaries of the Cardholder Data Environment (CDE) and identify all systems, networks, and applications that store, process, or transmit cardholder data.
- Method: Collaborate with your team to map data flows, identify critical systems, and clarify testing conditions.
- Industry Standards: Aligns with PTES Pre-engagement and OWASP Planning phases.
- Reconnaissance and Discovery
- Objective: Gather intelligence about the target environment, including IP addresses, domains, system architecture, and public-facing assets.
- Method: Use open-source intelligence (OSINT) and automated tools to enumerate assets.
- Tools: Nmap (network mapping), WHOIS, DNS enumeration tools.
- Industry Standards: PTES Intelligence Gathering, OWASP Information Gathering.
- Vulnerability Assessment
- Objective: Identify known vulnerabilities in systems and applications within the CDE.
- Method: Automated scans and manual review of configurations, patch levels, and security controls.
- Tools: Nessus, OpenVAS, OWASP ZAP, Burp Suite.
- Industry Standards: PTES Vulnerability Analysis, OWASP Configuration Analysis.
- Exploitation
- Objective: Simulate real-world attacks to exploit identified vulnerabilities and determine potential impact.
- Method: Manual and automated exploitation, including SQL injection, buffer overflows, and privilege escalation.
- Tools: Metasploit, Burp Suite, and many various open source custom scripts.
- Industry Standards: PTES Exploitation and Post-Exploitation, OWASP Input Validation Testing.
- Reporting
- Objective: Document findings, including vulnerabilities, risk ratings, remediation steps, and proof-of-concept exploits.
- Method: Comprehensive, audit-ready reports tailored for PCI assessors.
- Industry Standards: PTES Reporting, OWASP Documentation.
- Remediation
- Objective: Address identified vulnerabilities through software updates, configuration changes, or new controls.
- Method: Guided remediation support from Raxis, including consultation and best practices.
- Industry Standards: OWASP Remediation, PTES Post-Engagement.
- Retesting
- Objective: Validate that vulnerabilities have been effectively remediated and no new issues have been introduced.
- Method: Re-execute targeted tests using the same tools and techniques as the initial assessment.
- Tools: Nmap, OWASP ZAP, Metasploit, Wireshark.
- Industry Standards: PTES Post-Exploitation, OWASP Retesting.
- Value: Ensures compliance, reduces risk, and supports continuous improvement.
- Continuous Scanning and Improvement
- Objective: Maintain ongoing security by integrating vulnerability scanning and testing into CI/CD pipelines and regular security reviews.
- Method: Raxis Attack powered automated tools for continuous monitoring and periodic manual testing.
- Industry Standards: OSSTMM Continuous Security Metrics, OWASP Continuous Testing.
Differences Between PCI and Standard Penetration Testing
While PCI penetration testing and standard penetration testing share similar methodologies, they differ significantly in scope, compliance requirements, reporting, and frequency. Understanding these distinctions helps you choose the right approach for your organization.
Scope and Focus
- PCI Penetration Testing: Focuses specifically on the Cardholder Data Environment (CDE), including systems, networks, and applications that store, process, or transmit cardholder data, as mandated by PCI DSS.
- Standard Penetration Testing: Covers a broader scope, potentially including the entire IT infrastructure, applications, or even non-technical elements like social engineering, based on organizational needs.
Compliance Requirements
- PCI Penetration Testing: A mandatory requirement under PCI DSS Requirement 11.4, ensuring adherence to strict standards for protecting cardholder data.
- Standard Penetration Testing: Considered a best practice but not always mandatory, unless required by other frameworks or organizational policies.
Reporting and Remediation
- PCI Penetration Testing: Reports are tailored for PCI assessors, detailing compliance with PCI DSS, vulnerabilities impacting cardholder data, remediation steps, and often segmentation test results. Retesting is typically required to validate fixes.
- Standard Penetration Testing: Reports are less prescriptive, focusing on general security improvements, with remediation and retesting varying based on organizational goals.
Frequency
- PCI Penetration Testing: Required at least annually or after significant changes to the infrastructure or applications, as per PCI DSS.
- Standard Penetration Testing: Frequency depends on the organization’s risk appetite, budget, or internal security roadmap.
Customized Testing Scenarios
Every organization faces unique security challenges. Raxis offers specialized assessments for PCI DSS compliance and segmentation validation.
Compliance Requirements
Raxis helps meet or exceed requirements for various standards including NIST 800-171/CMMC, PCI, HIPAA, GLBA, ISO 27001, and SOX.
Pivot and Escalate
The Raxis storyboard meticulously details how our penetration testing experts simulate sophisticated insider threats, demonstrating the potential path of system compromise and privilege escalation.
Audit Approved Methodology
Unlike competitors who rely solely on automated scans, our approach remains compliant, as we provide proof-of-concept exploits and follow the NIST SP 800-115 standard.
Cost and Duration Considerations
Understanding the cost and timeline of PCI penetration testing is essential for organizations aiming to achieve and maintain compliance while effectively managing resources. PCI penetration testing requirements are designed to identify vulnerabilities that could expose cardholder data, and the process must be thorough, systematic, and aligned with the latest PCI DSS standards.
Cost Estimates
PCI penetration testing costs typically range from $5,000 to $50,000, depending on several factors:
- Environment Complexity: Larger or more intricate cardholder data environments require more extensive testing, increasing costs.
- Testing Scope: Testing internal networks, external systems, or both impacts pricing.
- Methodology Choice: Black-box testing is often more cost-effective due to minimal prior research, while white-box testing, though more comprehensive, may increase costs due to its depth.
- Additional Services: Optional services like social engineering, wireless testing, or application-specific assessments can affect the overall price.
For precise budgeting, we recommend requesting a custom quote. Our team will assess your specific requirements and provide a clear, upfront cost estimate.
Project Duration
The duration of a PCI penetration test typically ranges from three days to several weeks, influenced by:
- Environment Size: Larger networks or complex systems take longer to assess thoroughly.
- Testing Methodology: Black-box testing is generally faster, while white-box testing requires more time for in-depth analysis.
- Scope of Engagement: Testing multiple systems or including additional assessments (e.g., segmentation testing) extends the timeline.
Our experts work efficiently to minimize disruption while ensuring comprehensive testing. We’ll provide a detailed timeline during the scoping phase.
Ongoing and Hidden Costs
Achieving PCI DSS compliance doesn’t end with the initial test. Consider these potential ongoing costs:
- Remediation Efforts: Addressing vulnerabilities may require software updates, configuration changes, or new security controls.
- Retesting: After remediation, retesting is often necessary to verify fixes and maintain compliance.
- Compliance Maintenance: Ongoing staff training, system monitoring, and periodic testing are essential to stay compliant, particularly for smaller organizations with limited resources.
Raxis offers post-test support and flexible retesting options to help you manage these costs effectively.
Transparent Communication
Raxis prioritizes upfront communication. Before starting any project, we discuss your goals, scope, and budget to ensure clarity. Our custom quotes are tailored to your unique environment, and we keep you informed throughout the testing process.
PCI Is More Than a Checkbox—It’s a Business Driver
- Boost Customer Loyalty: Customers are more likely to do business with companies that prioritize data security.
- Reduce Financial Losses: Avoid the direct and indirect costs of breaches, including fines, legal fees, and lost revenue.
- Enable Growth: Confidently expand your payment operations, knowing your security foundation is strong.
- Streamline Operations: Our actionable insights help you focus resources where they matter most, improving operational efficiency.
PCI DSS v4.0.1 PENETRATION TEST REQUIREMENTS
PCI DSS 4.0.1 is the current and only active standard effective March 31, 2025
11.4.1 Define company standards for internal and external penetration testing and review findings every 12 months.
11.4.2 Perform internal penetration testing at least annually and after any significant infrastructure or application upgrade or modification (such as an operating system upgrade, a sub-network added to the environment, or a web server added to the environment).
11.4.3 Perform external penetration testing at least annually and after any significant infrastructure or application upgrade or modification (such as an operating system upgrade, a sub-network added to the environment, or a web server added to the environment).
11.4.4 Correct any findings from penetration testing activities as recommended and repeat penetration testing.
11.4.5 If segmentation is used to isolate the CDE from other networks, perform penetration tests at least annually and after any changes to segmentation controls/methods to verify that the segmentation methods are operational and effective and that they isolate all out of scope systems from systems in the CDE.
11.4.6 For service providers, if segmentation is used to isolate the CDE from other networks, perform penetration tests at least every six months and after any changes to segmentation controls/methods to verify that the segmentation methods are operational and effective and that they isolate all out of scope systems from systems in the CDE.
The Realities of PCI Compliance
Achieving and maintaining PCI DSS compliance is no small feat. Organizations face:
- Complex Requirements: PCI DSS is detailed and frequently updated, requiring specialized expertise to interpret and implement.
- Resource Demands: Compliance can strain internal teams, especially when juggling other IT and security priorities.
- Cost Considerations: Security investments are essential, but so is maximizing ROI and minimizing unnecessary spend.
- Continuous Change: Evolving threats and new technologies mean compliance is a moving target.
Raxis simplifies the process—guiding you through every step and helping you turn compliance challenges into business opportunities.
Raxis Attack Is Continuous PTaaS
PCI DSS compliance isn’t a one-time project—it’s a continuous process. Raxis Attack, our unlimited Penetration Testing as a Service solution, provides an ongoing view of your security posture while meeting PCI requirements.
- Ongoing Testing & Validation: Regular penetration testing and segmentation validation to keep you secure and compliant year-round.
- Continuous Improvement: Actionable recommendations and retesting to ensure every fix is effective.
- Long-Term Partnership: We’re here to support your security journey, helping you adapt to new challenges as your business grows.
F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions