"PCI DSS" refers to Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, a set of security protocols developed to ensure that credit card information is handled securely by organizations. Its main goal is to protect cardholder data during transactions, minimizing the risk of data breaches and fraud. Compliance is mandatory for all entities that accept, process, store, or transmit credit card information. Adhering to these standards helps maintain customer trust and can prevent significant financial repercussions resulting from data theft.