7.2 Establish an access control system for systems components that restricts access based on a user’s need to know, and is set to “deny all” unless specifically allowed. This access control system must include the following:
7.2 Examine system settings and vendor documentation to verify that an access control system is implemented as follows:
Without a mechanism to restrict access based on user’s need to know, a user may unknowingly be granted access to cardholder data. An access control system automates the process of restricting access and assigning privileges. Additionally, a default “deny-all” setting ensures no one is granted access until and unless a rule is established specifically granting such access.
Note: Some access control systems are set by default to “allow-all,” thereby permitting access unless/until a rule is written to specifically deny it.