What type of merchant is categorized under SAQ C-VT?

The correct choice identifies merchants using virtual payment terminals as those categorized under SAQ C-VT. This designation is significant because it defines a specific type of merchant environment concerning the handling and processing of cardholder data.

Merchants using virtual payment terminals typically process transactions via web-based applications or software, where cardholder data is input directly into the terminal interface. This method minimizes the risk of compromising card data, as the payment process is managed through a secure portal without storing sensitive information on the merchant’s systems.

This category is distinguished from others because it acknowledges the particular controls and mitigations that apply to merchants who rely on virtual environments for processing payments. Such merchants are not directly integrated into a complex system with hardware terminals that could be more vulnerable to certain types of attacks, which differentiates them from those using dial-out terminals or standalone payment applications.

Understanding these distinctions is key for compliance with PCI DSS, as different types of merchants face varying levels of risk and thus have tailored requirements for securing cardholder data.