What is considered cardholder data?

Cardholder data specifically refers to the information that can be used to identify a cardholder and authorize transactions. The correct answer encompasses the components that are critically needed for payment processing. The full primary account number (PAN), along with the cardholder name, expiration date, and service code, are essential for verifying and executing transactions securely.

The full PAN is a unique identifier for the card and is indispensable for any transaction processing. The cardholder's name connects the PAN to the specific individual, while the expiration date ensures that the card is valid and serves as an additional security measure. The service code indicates the card's usage or restrictions, further contributing to the security and verification processes involved in handling card transactions.

In contrast, while the cardholder name and expiration date alone can provide some insight, they do not offer the complete context needed to authorize a transaction securely. Similarly, a card number accompanied by the CVV (Card Verification Value) lacks the additional identifiers necessary for thorough transaction verification and, thus, would not represent the full suite of cardholder data required by security standards. Credit history and financial status are unrelated to cardholder data and pertain to different aspects of a person's financial profile, making them irrelevant in this context.