According to requirement 3, which data is specifically noted for protection?

The primary account number (PAN) is a critical piece of information specifically noted for protection according to requirement 3, which focuses on the safeguarding of cardholder data. The PAN is the number found on payment cards, such as credit and debit cards, and is essential for conducting card transactions.

Protecting the PAN is crucial because, if compromised, it can lead to unauthorized transactions and identity theft. As a fundamental element of the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), the requirement emphasizes the need to secure the PAN, including encryption, truncation, or masking techniques during its storage and transmission.

Although the other data elements listed—such as the secondary account number, Social Security number, and address data—are sensitive and require protection, it is the PAN that is directly referenced and emphasized in the context of credit and debit card transactions under PCI DSS requirements. Thus, understanding the criticality associated with the PAN helps organizations implement appropriate security measures to mitigate the risk of data breaches.