PCI DSS 6.4.2: Deploy Automated Web Application Defense
Public-facing web applications are constant targets for cyber attacks. PCI DSS 6.4.2 requires organizations to implement automated technical solutions that continuously detect and prevent web-based attacks in real-time. This control is essential for protecting customer data and maintaining PCI compliance.
What this means
This control mandates deploying an automated web application firewall (WAF) or similar defense system for any web application accessible from the internet. The solution must operate continuously to identify and block common attack vectors including SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), cross-site request forgery (CSRF), and other web-based threats before they compromise your systems.
How to comply
- 1.Identify all public-facing web applications that process, store, or transmit cardholder data
- 2.Select and deploy an automated web application firewall (WAF) solution appropriate for your environment
- 3.Configure the WAF with rulesets designed to detect common web attack patterns
- 4.Enable continuous monitoring and logging of all traffic to the WAF
- 5.Establish processes to review WAF alerts and respond to detected threats
- 6.Regularly update WAF rules and signatures to address emerging threats
- 7.Document the WAF solution, configuration, and maintenance procedures
- 8.Test the WAF effectiveness through regular security assessments and penetration testing
Evidence auditors look for
- WAF deployment documentation and architecture diagrams
- WAF configuration files showing active security rules and policies
- Logs demonstrating continuous traffic inspection and threat detection
- Alert and incident response records from detected web-based attacks
- WAF rule update and maintenance schedules with completion records
- Security assessment reports validating WAF effectiveness
- Change management records for WAF configuration updates
- Vendor documentation confirming real-time detection capabilities
Frequently asked questions
When will FAQs be available?
The FAQ for this control is currently being prepared.
GRCWatch automates WAF deployment verification and maintains ongoing evidence of rule updates and threat detection logs, eliminating manual auditing of your web application defense controls.
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