What is the purpose of a Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) in PCI DSS?

The purpose of a Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) in PCI DSS is to provide merchants with a structured method to validate their compliance status with PCI DSS requirements. The SAQ serves as a self-evaluation tool designed specifically for different types of merchants based on their payment processing methods and the volume of transactions they handle. By completing the SAQ, merchants can assess their adherence to the necessary security standards laid out in the PCI DSS framework and identify areas where they may need to improve their compliance posture.

This self-validation process allows businesses, especially smaller merchants that may not be able to afford extensive audits, to demonstrate their commitment to protecting cardholder data and maintaining secure payment environments. Thus, the SAQ is crucial for those looking to affirm their compliance and is a foundational element in the overall PCI DSS compliance effort.