ISO 27001

What is ISO 27001?

ISO 27001 is a globally renowned security standard that outlines guidelines for an Information Security Management System (ISMS), allowing all businesses to establish and manage information security in a regulated, monitored, and documented manner. ISO 27001 establishes a defined set of criteria and methods to reduce risk, comply with legislation, and improve responsiveness in the case of a cyber security breach. It was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). ISO has members from over 162 countries and 786 technical committees. 

ISO 27001

What is ISO 27001 Certification?

ISO 27001 certification is a stamp of approval that verifies ISO 27001 guidelines have been met. Therefore, any organization that seeks to formalize and improve business procedures around information security, privacy, and securing its information assets should obtain ISO 27001 certification. By obtaining ISO 27001 certification, your company can show that its people, processes, tools, and systems follow a well-defined framework that is internationally recognized. 

How do I Start Implementing ISO 27001 in my Organization?

The ISO 27001 implementation process is complex and requires careful planning. There are many aspects of ISO 27001 to consider when beginning this process, as outlined below: 

Risk Analysis

Conduct a risk analysis that will help define the scope of ISO 27001 implementation procedures. One must first determine what information assets need ISO 27001 controls implemented on them. 

Documentation

Ensure that all information systems are ISO 27001 compliant by creating policies, procedures, and standards that will control who gains access to what information assets and how that information is used. ISO 27001 policies, procedures, and standards should cover the following: 

  • Access control
  • Physical security of ISO 27001 assets
  • ISO 27001 asset disposal
  • ISO 27001 documentation control
  • ISO 27001 risk analysis and management
  • ISO 27001 education and awareness training for employees.

Gap Analysis

Conduct a gap analysis to determine ISO 27001 compliance and establish a timeline for ISO 27001 implementation. A gap analysis will help define the ISO 27001 procedures that have been implemented, the ISO 27001 procedures being used, and the ISO 27001 procedures gaps that need to be addressed in order to meet ISO criteria. 

Internal Audit

Ensure ISO 27001 conformance by conducting an ISO 27001 internal audit to monitor ISO 27001 compliance with ISO 27001 policies, procedures, and standards. 

Apply for ISO 27001 Certification

After forming an Information Security Management System following the above steps, your organization may consider getting ISO 27001 certification by hiring a certification body like IAS. ISO 27001 certification is not mandatory, but it is one of the best ways to effectively implement ISO 27001 standards in your organization. The ISO 27001 certification process requires your organization to undergo external audits by a third-party certification body. These external audits will determine if your organization is successfully implementing ISO 27001 standards and following the guidelines issued by ISO. 

The Importance of Implementing ISO 27001

Implementing ISO 27001 shows all stakeholders that your organization is serious about information security and goes to considerable measures to: 

  • Conduct extensive risk assessments in a realistic manner.
  • Reducing the identified hazards to a bearable level is essential.
  • Manage cyber security concerns effectively.

Some of the benefits of adopting the ISO 27001 standard include:

  • ISO 27001 reduces threats to your company’s data security and privacy 
  • ISO 27001 assists in acquiring new clients and retaining existing customers while saving time and resources
  • ISO 27001 improves your company’s global reputation.
  • ISO 27001 allows for improved customer confidence, improved business processes, and can help attract new customers. 

ISO 27001 Training Programs

It is important to keep ISO 27001 employees up-to-date on ISO 27001 policies, procedures, and standards for designing and implementing an effective information security management system. There are several ISO 27001 training programs available both in-classroom and online: 

ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Training

ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Training is a voluntary certification course developed for professionals or individuals with sufficient expertise who wish to become ISO 27001 Lead Auditor certified. Delegates who attend the ISO 27001 Lead Auditor Training course will gain a better understanding of the International Standards’ requirements. Participants will learn how to conduct a First Party Audit (Internal Audit), a Second Party Audit (Supplier Audit), and a Third Party Audit (External Audit).

ISO 27001 Internal Quality Auditor Training

ISO 27001 Internal Auditor Training is provided to process owners and managers so that they can conduct ISO 27001 audits as planned and documented in the relevant areas of activity. In order for a company to pass third-party certification audits, internal audits must be conducted. Internal auditors must understand the internal control framework as well as ISO 27001 requirements. As a result, ISO 27001 Internal Auditor Training is essential for them to fully comprehend what they are auditing. ISO 27001 Internal auditors are responsible for auditing the actions of businesses in conformity with ISO 27001 standards.

ISO 27001 Awareness Training

ISO 27001 Awareness Training is designed to raise awareness of ISO 27001 standards, its concepts, and application strategies. All personnel of an organization who are in the early stages of implementing ISO 27001, or who have recently joined an organization where the ISO 27001 standard is already in use, should receive awareness training.

Contact IAS today to learn more about ISO 27001, or visit our ISO 27001 frequently asked questions page!