ISO 27001 is arguably the world’s best-known standard for information security management systems (ISMS). It covers many parts of infosec management. This includes compliance for SaaS. It covers from setup to improvement of ISMS in an org. In this sense, the ISO 27001 requirements ensure every organization is implementing adequate measures to protect their information assets.
Did you know that Trava Security is ISO 27001 certified? Learn about our process and key takeaways ⬇️
What Are the Key Elements of ISO 27001?
One big question companies ask is, “What is the purpose of ISO 27001?” Well, with cybercrime at an all-time high and new threats constantly emerging, it may seem almost a challenging task to manage cyber risks. In such uncertain times, the ISO 27001 standard is a crucial tool to help your organization become risk-aware and proactively identify and address weaknesses, lest you are caught flat-footed.
The key parts of ISO 27001 requirements also promote a whole approach to info security. This includes vetting employees and partners and using key policies and technology. Here is a list of the top elements of ISO 27001:
Risk Analysis
The standard requires organizations to do security risk analysis often. They must do this especially when proposing or making big changes. To do this analysis correctly, companies must set risk acceptance criteria. They must also define how they will measure the risks. It should also assess the potential consequences of the risks, the probability of their occurrence, and their severity.
Top Management Commitment
ISO 27001 requirements also involve the senior management demonstrating their commitment to ISMS. This includes playing an active role in managing security. It also includes ensuring all crucial resources for system deployment are available and allocated correctly. In a nutshell, the top management is obligated to guide employees to ensure their ISMS is truly efficient.
Definition of Goals and Strategies
During planning, the organization should clearly state its security goals and the strategies to help it achieve them. Remember, the objectives should not be generic but unique to the specific organization. They should also be measurable and consider safety requirements.
Resource and Competencies
The organization should also ensure that the resources for ISMS are available. They are needed for implementation and system upkeep. Additionally, they should establish the needed skills in their workforce. They should also ensure that qualified people are responsible. They should have supporting documents.
Documenting Information
The standard also requires that all info on security management be well-documented. It must include IDs, definitions, and formats. The information should also be updated whenever changes in initial definitions of the project are introduced.
Tracking the Performance
At some point, the objectives defined in previous steps must be measured and monitored using key indicators. This step allows an analysis of the efficiency of the system.
Continuous Improvement
Once the company achieves the system goals, it should implement and maintain a system of constant improvement to rectify all non-conformities. Management reviews and internal audits should inform us of such modifications.
What Three Critical Aspects of Information Does ISO 27001 Protect?
As per ISO 27001 requirements, the basic goal of ISMS is to protect three key aspects of information, namely:
- Confidentiality: The standard requires organizations to impose strict regulations on information access. As such, only authorized persons have the right to access information.
- Integrity: It seeks to safeguard the accuracy and completeness of information and processing methods. Specifically, organizations should ensure that only authorized persons can change the information.
- Availability: The standard also mandates organizations to ensure the information is accessible to authorized personnel whenever needed.
How to Create an ISO 27001 Checklist
You also need a clear ISO 27001 checklist to implement the standard’s requirements and ensure quick certification. A checklist can also be a crucial step-by-step guide that directs your information teams to practical information regarding what they need to prepare for certification.
Here is a typical ISO 27001 checklist to get you started:
- Assign roles
- Conduct a gap analysis
- Develop and document parts of your ISMS required for certification
- Undertake an internal risk assessment
- Create a statement of applicability(SOA)
- Implement your security controls
- Train the internal team on your ISMS and security controls
- Perform an internal audit
- Hire an accredited ISO 27001 lead auditor to conduct the ISO 27001
- Plan for maintaining certification
How Much Does an ISO 27001 Document Cost?
Meeting all ISO 27001 certification requirements attracts some costs. These costs vary a lot. They are based on several factors. These factors include the size of the organization and the complexity of its ISMS. They also include the certifying organization and external auditor you choose. However, expect the total expenses to range from $6000 for small organizations to more than $40,000 for large businesses with complex systems. Learn more about ISO 27001 certification cost.
Contact Trava for Effective Cybersecurity Solutions
Conforming with ISO 27001 requirements means you have built a solid system. It tackles risks for the security of data owned or handled by your company. ISO 27001 certification helps you protect your information. It operates through a systematic, cost-efficient approach. It also boosts customer trust and confidence. This makes the organization more attractive to potential clients.
At Trava, we can help you achieve effective and timely certifications with our custom compliance and cybersecurity advisory solutions. Let us guide you through your ISO 27001 compliance journey with expertise and a personal touch. Contact us today.