About the PCI Security Standards Council
The PCI Security Standards Council is an open global forum, launched in 2006, that is responsible for the development, management, education, and awareness of the PCI Security Standards, including: the Data Security Standard (DSS), Payment Application Data Security Standard (PA-DSS), and Pin-Entry Device (PED) Requirements.
All of the five founding members have agreed to incorporate the PCI DSS as the technical requirements of each of their data security compliance programs. Each founding member also recognizes the QSAs and ASVs certified by the PCI Security Standards Council as being qualified to validate compliance to the PCI DSS.
A Limited Liability Corporation (LLC) chartered in Delaware, USA, the PCI Security Standards Council was founded by American Express, Discover Financial Services, JCB International, MasterCard, and Visa Inc.. All five payment brands share equally in the council's governance, have equal input to the PCI Security Standards Council and share responsibility for carrying out the work of the organization. Other industry stakeholders are encouraged to join the group and review proposed additions or modifications to the standards.