The new PCI Software Security Framework (SSF) sets a higher standard for embedding security into modern software development.
PCI’s updated approach replaces PADSS and emphasizes secure design, development, and lifecycle management to address the realities of agile, DevOps, and continuous delivery environments.
What Is the PCI Software Security Framework?
The SSF includes standards for secure software development and lifecycle practices, supported by a validation framework.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Secure Software Standard | Validates individual software products for embedded security practices |
| Secure Software Lifecycle (SLC) | Assesses how security is integrated into the vendor’s SDLC |
| Validation Framework | Defines assessment process, evidence requirements, and timelines |
Why Did PCI Launch a New Framework?
The SSF was created to modernize compliance and promote built-in security across fast-paced development workflows.
Key drivers include:
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Incompatibility of PADSS with agile and DevOps
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Lack of mandated secure development practices in prior standards
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A shift to outcome-focused objectives over checklist-based rules
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Broad industry collaboration to define scalable best practices
Who Must Comply—and Why It Matters to Others
While initially scoped to payment application vendors, SSF sets a precedent that may influence multiple industries.
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Vendors validating applications through PADSS must transition
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Future application may extend to PCI DSS-compliant companies
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Industries like healthcare, critical infrastructure, and finance may adopt similar standards
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PCI’s previous adoption of OWASP Top 10 sparked widespread industry awareness
5 Practical Tips for SSF Compliance
Complying with SSF requires cultural and technical changes to embed continuous, proactive security.
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Integrate security early: Embed secure design, threat modeling, and secure coding into every phase—not just at test time.
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Clarify ownership: Define and document roles across product security activities to ensure accountability.
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Automate security requirements: Use tools to generate and manage security requirements and threats without slowing down teams.
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Enable continuous testing: Move beyond annual scans to ongoing, integrated security testing across builds and releases.
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Communicate security externally: Provide clients with clear security deployment documentation and response channels.
Why Start Now If the Standard Isn’t Final?
Delaying implementation may leave organizations with too little time for the deep process changes SSF requires.
Implementing secure SDLC practices:
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Requires buy-in from multiple teams
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Takes time to train, pilot, and refine
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Can impact developer productivity if rushed
Early adopters will avoid last-minute disruptions and gain a competitive advantage.
How SD Elements Helps with SSF Compliance
Security Compass’ SD Elements platform streamlines the SSF compliance process through automation and integration.
| Requirement | SD Elements Capability |
|---|---|
| Threat identification | Automated threat modeling based on app context |
| Security control generation | Auto-mapped to development tasks in Jira/TFS |
| Testing traceability | Links security tests to requirements for audit readiness |
| Audit and reporting | Real-time dashboards and compliance exports |
| Role-based training | Embedded just-in-time and certificate-based training |
Additional Resources from Security Compass
Security Compass offers:
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A PCI SSF policy template to jumpstart compliance documentation
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Role-based e-learning for developers and AppSec teams
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Just-in-time training embedded directly into developer workflows
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Advisory services for SDLC integration and secure software assessments
Final Thoughts
The PCI SSF is a bold step toward more secure digital payment ecosystems—and a model other industries will likely follow.
Whether you’re directly impacted today or simply building resilient software, aligning with SSF practices now positions your organization for better security, compliance, and agility in the future.