ASV (Approved Scanning Vendor)

ASV stands for "Approved Scanning Vendor," a designation given to companies that have been authorized by the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) to conduct external vulnerability scanning services. These vendors play a critical role in the PCI compliance process for organizations that handle credit card information. An ASV performs regular scans of networks and systems to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers, ensuring that protective measures are up to date and effective. The certification of these vendors by the PCI SSC ensures that they meet stringent standards for accuracy, reliability, and proficiency in the field of security scanning. This approval is essential for maintaining the trust and security foundational to the payment card industry.