**Document Title:** Extended Color Coding Standard for PCI DSS Diagrams, Drawings, and Documentation **Version:** 1.4 **Effective Date:** [insert effective date] **Review Cycle:** Bi-annually, or upon significant changes to the network environment. **Approver:** [insert role] **Document Owner:** [insert role] --- **1. Introduction** This document introduces an expanded color coding standard used for PCI DSS required and suggested diagrams, drawings, and documentation. The standard facilitates the visual distinction of various elements within our organization's systems and networks. This includes the Cardholder Data Environment (CDE), support networks, wireless networks, corporate networks, external connections, data flow (encrypted and non-encrypted), data stores, processes, network security controls, demilitarized zones (DMZ), cloud components, and other crucial network elements. --- **2. Scope** Applies to all employees, contractors, and third-party service providers who prepare, review, or interpret diagrams and documentation related to the Cardholder Data Environment (CDE) and associated networks. --- **3. Color Coding Standard** - **Cardholder Data Environment (CDE):** Dark Red (#990000). The color denotes environments where cardholder data is stored, processed, or transmitted. - **Support Network:** Light Blue (#66CCFF). This color represents the systems that support the CDE, but don't process cardholder data themselves. - **Corporate Network:** Light Green (#99FF99). This color is used for networks used for general corporate activities outside the CDE. - **External Entities:** Purple (#9933FF). This color represents third-party entities that interact with the organization's network. - **Data Flows:** Dark Gray (#666666). This color illustrates the path of data moving within and between network components. - **Data Stores:** Light Gray (#CCCCCC). This color indicates locations where data is stored, such as databases or file servers. - **Processes:** Light Yellow (#FFFF99). This color denotes computational processes or services within the network. - **Network Security Controls:** Light Red (#FFCCCC). This color represents security measures, such as firewalls or intrusion detection systems. - **Clear Network Transmission:** Light Blue (#66CCFF). This color is used for indicating data transmissions that are not encrypted. - **Encrypted Transmission:** Dark Blue (#000099). This color is used to highlight data transmissions that are encrypted. - **Demilitarized Zone (DMZ):** Dark Green (#006400). This color is designated for DMZs in the network diagram, serving as a protective layer between the internet and an organization's private network. - **Cloud Components:** Sky Blue (#87CEEB). This color is used for all components that are located in a cloud environment, whether public, private, or hybrid. - **Applications (Non-Cardholder Data):** Light Brown (#D2B48C) for applications that don't process cardholder data. - **Applications (Cardholder Data):** Dark Brown (#8B4513) for those that do process cardholder data. - **User Access Levels:** Deep Pink (#FF1493) for administrative users, Medium Purple (#9370DB) for general users, Pale Green (#98FB98) for external users. - **Risk Levels:** Use a gradient from Light Green (#90EE90) to Dark Red (#8B0000) to indicate low to high risk. - **Data Classification:** Cadet Blue (#5F9EA0) for confidential data, Light Cyan (#E0FFFF) for public data. - **Physical/Virtual Devices:** Forest Green (#228B22) for physical devices, Medium Aquamarine (#66CDAA) for virtual machines. - **Critical Assets:** Identify critical systems or data stores with a unique color like Crimson (#DC143C). - **IoT Devices Integration:** Introduce a new color code for Internet of Things (IoT) devices, which are increasingly being used in modern network environments. Suggested color: Olive Green (#808000). - **Advanced Persistent Threats (APT) Identification:** Implement a color code to identify network segments or assets that are more susceptible to APTs. Suggested color: Deep Orange (#FF8C00). - **Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Pathways:** Designate a color for network paths where MFA is enforced to strengthen access control measures. Suggested color: Teal (#008080). - **Zero Trust Architecture Components:** Introduce a color code for elements that are part of a Zero Trust network architecture, highlighting the shift towards more stringent access controls. Suggested color: Indigo (#4B0082). - **Enhanced Privacy Data Flows:** For data flows that include enhanced privacy data as per GDPR or other privacy regulations, use a distinct color. Suggested color: Plum (#DDA0DD). - **Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Systems:** For networks that integrate AI/ML systems for security or data processing, introduce a specific color code. Suggested color: Gold (#FFD700). - **Blockchain-Enabled Transactions:** If blockchain technology is utilized for transaction processing or data storage, assign a color to represent these components. Suggested color: Copper (#B87333). - **Quarantine or Isolated Areas:** For areas of the network designated for quarantine or isolation in case of security incidents, introduce a specific color. Suggested color: Maroon (#800000). - **Integration with Third-Party APIs:** Assign a color code for network segments that interact with third-party APIs, especially those handling sensitive data. Suggested color: Coral (#FF7F50). - **Legacy Systems Identification:** Legacy systems often pose unique security challenges. Introduce a color code to easily identify these systems. Suggested color: Sienna (#A0522D). --- **4. Implementation Guidelines** - Compliance with this color coding standard is mandatory for all PCI DSS-related diagrams. - Include a key or legend in diagrams for clarity. - Prioritize higher security levels in overlapping network segments. --- **5. Exceptions** Exceptions require written approval from [insert role], including justification and risk assessment. --- **6. Enforcement** Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions. --- **7. Review and Updates** The document will be reviewed bi-annually and updated as required. Changes follow the Change Control Process in Section 12. --- **8. Change Control Process** 1. **Request:** Formal request with justification by an authorized person. 2. **Review:** Stakeholder review. 3. **Approval/Rejection:** Comprehensive review and decision. 4. **Implementation:** Implement and update the document. 5. **Communication:** Notify all affected parties. --- **9. Document History** - Version 1.0: [insert date and description] - Version 1.1: [insert date and description] - Version 1.2: [insert date and description] - Version 1.3: [insert date and description] - Version 1.4: [insert date and description of new additions] --- *End of Document* **Approval:** [Approver's Name, Role] [Date] **Revision History:** | Version | Date | Description of changes | Updated by | |---------|------|------------------------|------------| | 1.0