Frequently Asked Question
In what circumstances is multi-factor authentication required?
As described in PCI DSS Requirement 8.3, multi-factor authentication (previously referred to as two-factor authentication) is required for all remote network access that originates from outside the entity's own network, where that remote access could lead to access to the cardholder data environment (Requirement 8.3.2). This typically applies where the access originates either from the Internet or from an "untrusted" network or system; for example, access from a third party location or access by personnel from a portable computer over the Internet.
As of PCI DSS v3.2, multi-factor authentication (MFA) is also required for non-console connections to the CDE for personnel with administrative access (Requirement 8.3.1). This includes connections that originate from within the company's internal, "trusted" network. Refer to the PCI DSS and PA-DSS Glossary of Terms, Abbreviations, and Acronyms for further guidance on "administrative access" and 'non-console access'.
The requirement to use multi-factor authentication for non-console administrative access to the CDE is limited to individuals with administrative privileges. It does not apply to non-administrative users nor does it apply to machine accounts, such as system or application accounts performing automated tasks.
As of PCI DSS v3.2, multi-factor authentication (MFA) is also required for non-console connections to the CDE for personnel with administrative access (Requirement 8.3.1). This includes connections that originate from within the company's internal, "trusted" network. Refer to the PCI DSS and PA-DSS Glossary of Terms, Abbreviations, and Acronyms for further guidance on "administrative access" and 'non-console access'.
The requirement to use multi-factor authentication for non-console administrative access to the CDE is limited to individuals with administrative privileges. It does not apply to non-administrative users nor does it apply to machine accounts, such as system or application accounts performing automated tasks.
March 2020
Article Number: 1078
Related
-
What evidence is a TPSP expected to provide to customers to demonstrate PCI DSS compliance?
-
Does PCI SSC consider guidance from other standards organizations when making updates to PCI standards?
-
If an organization provides software or functionality that runs on a consumer's device (for example, smartphones, tablets, or laptops) and is used to accept payment account data, can the organization store card verification codes for those consumers?
Featured FAQ Articles
Featured
-
Do PCI DSS requirements for keyed cryptographic hashing apply to previously hashed PANs?
-
Is the PCI DSS Attestation of Compliance intended to be shared?
-
How does an entity report the results of a PCI DSS assessment for new requirements that are noted in PCI DSS as best practices until a future date?
-
Where do I direct questions about complying with PCI standards?
-
Can SAQ eligibility criteria be used for determining applicability of PCI DSS requirements for assessments documented in a Report on Compliance?
Most Popular
-
What evidence is a TPSP expected to provide to customers to demonstrate PCI DSS compliance?
-
Does PCI SSC consider guidance from other standards organizations when making updates to PCI standards?
-
If an organization provides software or functionality that runs on a consumer's device (for example, smartphones, tablets, or laptops) and is used to accept payment account data, can the organization store card verification codes for those consumers?
-
Do PCI DSS requirements for keyed cryptographic hashing apply to previously hashed PANs?
-
Can a compensating control be used for requirements with a periodic or defined frequency, where an entity did not perform the activity within the required timeframe?
Most Recently Updated
-
Where can I find the current version of PCI DSS?
-
Why are there multiple PCI DSS Self-assessment Questionnaires (SAQs)?
-
What is a PCI DSS Self-Assessment Questionnaire?
-
Are Mobile Payments on COTS (MPoC) solutions, Software-based PIN Entry on COTS (SPoC)™ solutions, or Contactless Payments on COTS (CPoC™) solutions eligible for a P2PE Solution approval?
-
How can an entity meet PCI DSS requirements for PAN masking and truncation if it has migrated to 8-digit BINs?