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What Is the Difference between SOC 1 and SOC 2?

In today’s digital landscape, ensuring compliance for SaaS (Software as a Service) platforms is paramount, specifically compliance for SaaS. Understanding the nuances between SOC 1 and SOC 2 certifications is crucial for businesses operating in this space. Let’s delve into the differences between SOC 1 and SOC 2 to shed light on their significance.

What Is SOC 1 vs SOC 2?

In the context of SaaS providers and cybersecurity, SOC 1 and SOC 2 certifications serve distinct purposes. While SOC 1 focuses on controls relevant to financial reporting, SOC 2 assesses controls related to security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.

What Is an Example of a SOC 1 and SOC 2 Certification?

Consider a scenario where a company provides payroll processing services. A SOC 1 report would evaluate the controls over financial reporting, such as accuracy and completeness of payroll transactions. Meanwhile, a SOC 2 report would assess the security measures in place to protect sensitive payroll data from unauthorized access or breaches.

What Is SOC Type 1 Certification?

SOC Type 1 certification focuses on evaluating the design and implementation of controls at a specific point in time. It provides assurance regarding the effectiveness of internal controls related to financial reporting. SOC 1 Type 1 reports are valuable for understanding a service organization’s control environment and its impact on financial statements.

Who Needs a SOC 1 Report?

While SOC 1 closely relates to an organization’s financial reporting, the applicability of SOC 1 controls is wider than just financial institutions. As noted by Pricewaterhouse Coopers, “SOC 1 reports are ideally suited for businesses that handle financial or non-financial information for their clients that impact the customer financial statements or internal controls over financial reporting.”

For example, “IT infrastructure, payroll proceeds, plan recordkeepers, investment advisors, custodians and loan servicers SOC 1 reports are often provided to service organizations, customers and their auditors.”

What Is a SOC 2 Report Used For?

A SOC 2 report is utilized by service organizations to demonstrate their commitment to security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. These reports provide valuable insights to stakeholders, including customers, regulators, and business partners, regarding the effectiveness of controls implemented by the service provider. By obtaining a SOC 2 report, organizations can instill trust and confidence in their SaaS offerings.

What Are SOC 2 Type 1 Controls?

SOC 2 Type 1 controls relate to the policies, procedures, and safeguards put in place by service organizations to achieve the objectives of the Trust Services Criteria. These controls are assessed based on their design and implementation at a specific point in time. Common SOC 2 Type 1 controls include access controls, encryption mechanisms, incident response procedures, and monitoring activities.

SOC 1 vs SOC 2: Why the Difference Matters

Ultimately, by addressing the differences between SOC 1 and SOC 2 certifications, businesses can enhance their understanding of compliance requirements and strengthen their risk management strategies.

Going a step further, understanding the distinctions between SOC 1 and SOC 2 certifications is essential for navigating the complex landscape of compliance.

How Do Businesses Typically Achieve SOC 1 and SOC 2 Compliance?

There are a few key activities an organization must undertake as they begin their SOC 1 and SOC 2 compliance journeys.

  1. The process often begins with a readiness assessment. This evaluation covers the attestation framework, identification of gaps or vulnerabilities, and recommendations for improvement. This assessment sets the foundation for the work that follows.

  2. Next, a company will need to produce a SOC report, which isn’t just for internal use or recordkeeping—it’s an important element of transparency and building trust with customers.

  3. When applicable, a custom SOC 2 report is the next requirement. The content of this report depends on which regulatory frameworks apply—NIST and HIPAA are among the most common standards.

SOC 1 or SOC 2: With Trava, It’s Just Easier

Whether you’re seeking SOC 1 compliance, SOC 2 compliance, or both, following the basic process described in this article can help provide order and structure to the process. Trava provides comprehensive compliance solutions designed to help organizations evaluate their current cybersecurity posture, address vulnerabilities, and achieve their compliance goals. 

As you embark on your compliance journey, our platform can help you assess your readiness, evaluate your current cybersecurity and transparency, and uphold the integrity of your SaaS offerings. Contact our team today to book an intro call today.

Questions?

We can help! Talk to the Trava Team and see how we can assist you with your cybersecurity needs.