PCI DSS 2.1.2: Assign Secure Configuration Roles
Control 2.1.2 requires your organization to formally document and assign roles and responsibilities for all activities related to PCI DSS Requirement 2 (secure configuration). Without clear ownership, configuration management becomes fragmented and vulnerabilities slip through. This control ensures accountability and consistent execution across your secure configuration program.
What this means
PCI DSS 2.1.2 mandates that your organization explicitly define who is responsible for managing, implementing, and maintaining secure configurations of systems in scope. This means documenting job titles, team members, or departments responsible for configuration activities, and ensuring all stakeholders understand their specific duties. Clear role assignment prevents gaps, eliminates duplicate work, and creates accountability when configuration standards are violated or not maintained.
How to comply
- 1.Identify all roles involved in Requirement 2 activities (e.g., system administrators, security team, network engineers, procurement)
- 2.Document each role with specific responsibilities for configuration management, change control, and baseline maintenance
- 3.Create a RACI matrix or responsibility chart mapping individuals or teams to configuration duties
- 4.Communicate assigned roles and responsibilities to all relevant personnel in writing
- 5.Ensure management reviews and approves the documented role assignments
- 6.Incorporate role descriptions into job descriptions and onboarding documentation
- 7.Periodically review and update role assignments as organizational structure changes
Evidence auditors look for
- Documented job descriptions or role checklists for configuration management responsibilities
- RACI matrix showing who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed for Requirement 2 activities
- Written role assignments distributed to staff with acknowledgment of understanding
- Organizational chart or responsibility matrix identifying configuration owners by system or asset category
- Management approval documentation for assigned roles and responsibilities
- Meeting minutes or memos confirming team members understand their configuration duties
- Policy documents defining Requirement 2 ownership and escalation procedures
Frequently asked questions
When will FAQs be available?
The FAQ for this control is currently being prepared.
GRCWatch automatically maps and tracks Requirement 2 role assignments across your team, sends reminders when roles are unassigned, and surfaces gaps during audits—eliminating the spreadsheet juggling and ensuring accountability is always documented.
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