Episode 7 — Define cardholder and sensitive authentication data precisely
Precise data definitions drive scope, storage rules, and control selection on the exam, so this episode locks in terminology and consequences. Cardholder data centers on the Primary Account Number (PAN) and may include name, expiration date, and service code; once PAN is present, the entire record is in scope. Sensitive authentication data includes full track data (magstripe or equivalent on a chip), card verification values (e.g., CVV2/CVC2/CID), PINs, and PIN blocks. The key rule to remember: storage of sensitive authentication data after authorization is prohibited, even if encrypted. You will review what “rendered unreadable” means for stored PAN (strong cryptography, truncation, tokenization, or irreversible hashing with additional safeguards) and how masking differs from truncation when displaying PAN on screens and receipts.
Scenarios ground these terms so you can answer with confidence: a help desk ticket that accidentally captures full track data (must not be retained), a log file that records PAN in clear text (violates storage protection), or a database that stores only the last four digits for operational reference (not cardholder data if no other PAN element exists). Best practices include redaction controls on logs, DLP rules tuned for PAN patterns, and validation that tokenization truly removes PAN from the environment holding the token. Troubleshooting addresses partial PAN in analytics exports, screenshots attached to support tickets, and third-party plugins that capture form fields before transmission. The exam favors choices that apply the definitions consistently and cite verifiable evidence, such as data discovery results, configuration screenshots, and retention policies, rather than vague “encrypt everything” language. 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.
