What should an organization do if it is unable to meet a specific PCI DSS requirement?

When an organization is unable to meet a specific PCI DSS requirement, implementing a compensating control is the appropriate course of action. Compensating controls are alternative measures that can effectively mitigate the risk associated with the unmet requirement. These controls should provide an equivalent level of security and must be documented thoroughly, justifying why the original requirement could not be met and how the compensating control achieves the desired outcome.

Using compensating controls allows organizations to maintain compliance with PCI DSS while still addressing security concerns. It recognizes that there can be valid reasons for non-compliance with specific requirements, and instead of ignoring the requirement or taking no action, organizations can demonstrate a proactive approach to maintaining a secure environment.

The other options do not provide a viable path toward compliance or risk mitigation. Ignoring the requirement falls short of addressing the risks involved. While seeking legal advice might be necessary in certain situations, it does not directly resolve the compliance issue. Reporting to PCI SSC would not contribute to meeting the requirements but could be a part of the audit process if the organization is justifying its compliance status.