What is the primary purpose of PCI DSS?

The primary purpose of PCI DSS is to secure and protect cardholder data during and after a transaction. This standard was developed to enhance the security of payment card transactions and to protect cardholders from data theft. By implementing a set of comprehensive security requirements, PCI DSS aims to ensure that organizations that handle credit card information maintain a secure environment, thus reducing the risk of data breaches and ensuring the safety of sensitive information.

This involves various security measures such as maintaining a secure network, conducting regular security assessments, encrypting data, and restricting access to cardholder data. These practices are essential for building trust with consumers and ensuring that their payment information is managed securely throughout the transaction process.