How to find a SOC 2 auditor is a major concern for any organization that processes, stores, or transmits client or partner data. SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2) was developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) as a cybersecurity framework for organizations of all sizes. An effective SOC 2 audit process helps businesses securely and smartly manage customer data. It all begins with choosing a SOC 2 auditor and knowing what to look for. The right auditor can guide you through a sometimes complex process with ease.
A SOC 2 audit will provide a thorough report on your organization’s overall security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and data privacy. This SOC 2 readiness assessment can determine how you are doing when it comes to cybersecurity, compliance, and data management.
When Do You Need a SOC 2 Audit?
SOC 2 is often required by customers, potential business partners, or regulatory bodies. Needing an audit is actually a sign of your business’s maturity and growth. It shows that others trust you with sensitive customer data.
“If you’re being required or asked to do this, you’re at a certain tier of maturity … congratulations are in order,” noted Jim Goldman, strategic advisor for Trava Security.
While a SOC 2 audit does require time and effort, it is a positive milestone for any company.
Who Can Perform a SOC 2 Audit?
Not just anyone is qualified to manage a SOC 2 audit. The AICPA is the accrediting body for SOC 2 certifications, licensing certified public accountant (CPA) firms to perform audits. Not every CPA has the certification required to perform SOC 2 audits. It is also important to have an auditor who is independent of your organization. This will ensure unbiased, reliable audit results and action items.
“Just because someone is a CPA, that doesn’t automatically make them qualified to do a SOC 2 audit. CPA firms that do this must pass rigorous certification standards,” Goldman added, encouraging businesses to take the time to verify an auditor’s credentials.
How to Choose the Right SOC 2 Auditor
“What are you looking for? You’re looking for consistency in your team. How long have they been in business? Customer recommendations?” said Ben Phillips, director of IT Risk Advisory at Katz, Sapper & Miller.
Your SOC 2 compliance checklist should include the following:
- Experience in cybersecurity audits
- An auditor who has worked with companies in your industry
- A CPA firm committed to communication and transparency that sets clear expectations for the process and provides guidance before and after the audit
- Positive testimonials from previous clients
- A firm that is well-regarded in the cybersecurity community
How to Prepare for a SOC 2 Audit
To begin preparations for an upcoming SOC 2 audit, your business should follow these steps:
- Conduct an internal risk assessment before hiring an auditor. This will provide a solid launching point for the audit.
- Perform a readiness assessment (sometimes called an “internal audit”). This assessment will serve as a practice audit for your organization.
- Address any gaps before the official audit starts.
All of this prep work will make your audit more impactful and meaningful. “It’s a journey to get certified to SOC 2,” Goldman said. “A good interim step, almost like a checkpoint, is an assessment.”
What to Expect During the SOC 2 Audit
There are two different types of SOC 2 audits: Type 1 and Type 2. SOC 2 Type 1 focuses on the controls your business has in place, while Type 2 examines the effectiveness of those controls. SOC 2 Type 2 is more common and comprehensive.
The typical SOC 2 timeline will encompass several months, up to half a year, depending on your scope.
“There’s an expiration date on that certificate,” Goldman shared. “Once you get that first one, you’re never done.” Indeed, SOC 2 is a continuous process, rather than a one-time event. Ongoing compliance is critical to your current operations and future success.
Red Flags When Selecting an Auditor
Choosing the right SOC 2 auditor is the first big step in your audit process. While vetting candidates, be on the lookout for these red flags:
- Lack of specific experience with SOC 2
- No clear audit process or guidance
- Poor communication and lack of transparency
Simply put, “If the auditor doesn’t communicate expectations upfront, there’s a high probability of things going off track,” Phillips concluded.
Trava Excels at SOC 2 Certification
Trava Security delivers experience and excellence when it comes to SOC 2 certification and audits. We support your company’s ongoing, everyday commitment to cybersecurity and compliance. If you’re interested in learning more about SOC 2 audits and cybersecurity compliance, schedule a call today with Trava Security to learn more.