Scope Statement
Clear definition of systems, networks, and third parties in scope, including segmentation boundaries and excluded components to avoid scope drift during review.
A concise, accurate form establishes what was assessed, who is responsible, and when controls were validated, reducing uncertainty during audits and vendor reviews.
Teams and individuals typically involved in preparing or approving the form vary by organization size and structure.
Final signers should be authorized representatives who can attest to the accuracy of technical and administrative controls.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Signature Authentication | Email link or SMS OTP; use stronger auth for executive signers. |
| Evidence Attachments | Embed ASV reports, scan screenshots, and third‑party AOCs as required. |
| Role Order | Set signer sequence: preparer → security approver → authorized officer. |
| Retention Policy | Auto‑archive signed records to secure storage for the retention period. |
Choose a platform that preserves tamper‑evident copies, detailed audit trails, and secure storage.
Ensure the chosen solution complies with legal e‑signature frameworks and retains metadata needed for audits.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | Yes, 7‑day free trial | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Bulk Send | Yes (Business Premium) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Clear definition of systems, networks, and third parties in scope, including segmentation boundaries and excluded components to avoid scope drift during review.
Cross‑reference each PCI DSS requirement to implemented controls, evidence artifacts, and owners to simplify auditor verification and reduce follow‑up requests.
Indexed attachments such as ASV scan reports, penetration test summaries, and third‑party AOCs with filenames and dates for reproducible review.
Describe compensating controls where full technical compliance is impractical, including justification, risk assessment, and timeframe for remediation.
Result overview: compliant, not compliant, or partial; include high‑risk findings, remediation status, and next assessment date.
Name, title, signature, and date of the authorized officer attesting to the accuracy of the form and the period covered by the assessment.
SAQ or QSA report completed once per compliance year
ASV scans required at least quarterly with passing results
Reassess scope when architecture or providers change
Notify acquirer/card brand per contract timelines
Document deadlines for high‑risk finding closures