Failure to comply with PCI-DSS can lead to which consequence?

The consequence of failing to comply with PCI-DSS is significant, particularly in how it affects customer trust. The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) establishes a set of requirements designed to ensure that all companies that accept, process, store, or transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment. Noncompliance can lead to data breaches, which not only expose sensitive customer information but also damage the reputation of the business involved.

When a data breach occurs due to inadequate compliance with these standards, customers are likely to feel vulnerable and distrustful of the organization. They may fear that their personal and financial information is at risk, leading to a decline in customer confidence and loyalty. This can result in customers choosing to take their business elsewhere, directly impacting the company's revenue and brand reputation.

In contrast, increased revenue, enhanced functionality, and faster transaction speeds are generally positive outcomes associated with effective data security practices and compliance. Noncompliance tends to lead to adverse impacts rather than benefits in these areas. Hence, the loss of customer trust emerges as a critical consequence of PCI-DSS noncompliance.