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PCI Software Security Framework (SSF): Replacing PA-DSS

PCI Software Security Framework (SSF) — Secure Software Standard and lifecycle themes replacing PA-DSS for payment software.

Published: September 2026 Compliance · PCI DSS 8–12 min read

The PCI Software Security Framework (SSF) modernises how payment software is validated, moving beyond PA-DSS toward secure software and secure SLC (software lifecycle) concepts.

Vendors should track listing requirements buyers expect; merchants should ask software providers which SSF validation they hold.

Hedge: Confirm current SSF programme documents on PCI SSC — acceptance timelines versus legacy PA-DSS listings evolve.

What SSF covers

Secure software design/build expectations and lifecycle processes for payment software producers.

Merchant/buyer actions

Update vendor questionnaires to ask for SSF validation status and scope.

Vendor actions

Map SDLC to SSF controls, retain evidence, and plan listing maintenance.

How CyberSilo Helps

Talk to CyberSilo

Map evidence and operations with CyberSilo CSA and ThreatHawk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PA-DSS still accepted?

Depends on brand/acquirer timelines — verify current acceptance.

Does SSF equal DSS for merchants?

No — different audiences.

SSDF overlap?

NIST SSDF practices help engineering maturity alongside SSF.

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