What must be verified by the assessor when testing the protection of cardholder data sent over the Internet?

When testing the protection of cardholder data sent over the Internet, it is crucial for the assessor to verify that the encryption used is appropriate for the technology in use. This is because encryption plays a fundamental role in securing sensitive data during transmission. Proper encryption ensures that even if the data is intercepted during its transit, it remains unreadable to unauthorized parties. It is essential to verify that the encryption methods employed meet current standards, are robust enough to withstand various types of attacks, and are compatible with the communication protocols and technologies deployed by the organization.

While options regarding secure database storage, access control mechanisms, and firewall configurations are important components of overall security, they are not the primary focus during the transmission of cardholder data over the Internet. These elements address different aspects of data security management; for instance, secure database practices relate to data at rest, and access control and firewall configurations pertain to controlling access to networks and systems. However, in the context of data being transmitted, the adequacy and appropriateness of encryption directly impact the confidentiality and integrity of the cardholder data in transit. This makes verifying encryption standards a key responsibility for the assessor in safeguarding cardholder data sent over the Internet.