When is storing track data "long term" permitted?

Storing track data "long term" is permitted when it is stored by issuers, as issuers are specifically authorized to maintain such information to fulfill their business responsibilities. This allowance is in line with regulations, such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), which provides guidelines for how payment data can be handled and stored to ensure security.

Issuers typically have robust systems and security measures in place to protect this sensitive information from unauthorized access. They are required to adhere to specific compliance regulations when it comes to managing customer data, which includes appropriate encryption and access controls.

The other options present scenarios that either violate security protocols or assign data management responsibilities to entities that do not have the same level of oversight and security requirements, which is why they are not considered acceptable for long-term storage of track data. For example, consumers storing this information could lead to security risks, while storing data in an unsecured manner or as plain text compromises the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive data.