Episode 13 — Prepare ROC and AOC submissions that actually pass
Report on Compliance (ROC) and Attestation of Compliance (AOC) packages succeed when they align evidence to requirements clearly, trace scope decisions, and leave no ambiguity about responsibilities. This episode breaks down the submission anatomy from an exam perspective: scoping narrative and diagrams that delineate the cardholder data environment and segmentation; an asset and system inventory tied to data flows; testing procedures for each requirement family with methods and samples; results that show pass/fail with remediation notes; and attestation language that matches the assessed services and entities. You will learn why consistency across documents matters—network diagrams, inventories, test results, and narratives must tell one coherent story—and how timing affects validity, including policy revision dates, test windows, and change approvals.
We extend to practical preparation practices: pre-collection of artifacts with metadata (owner, date, system, and requirement mapping), change control screens that prove secure configuration baselines, and log samples that demonstrate monitoring outcomes. Troubleshooting covers common pitfalls such as scope creep discovered late in testing, compensating controls documented without rigorous risk analysis and approval, and providers whose AOCs do not match the services consumed. We address communication plans for delivering the AOC to acquirers and customers, and the importance of governance sign-off to confirm accountability. On exam day, correct answers prioritize complete scope articulation, precise evidence mapping, and attestations that align to reality, not optimistic claims, producing a submission that withstands review without rounds of clarification. Produced by BareMetalCyber.com, where you’ll find more cyber audio courses, books, and information to strengthen your educational path. Also, if you want to stay up to date with the latest news, visit DailyCyber.News for a newsletter you can use, and a daily podcast you can commute with.
