ISO 27001 is an international standard that defines requirements for an information security management system (ISMS). An ISMS is a framework of controls; policies, procedures legal, physical and technical controls, to manage, and where possible to reduce, risk to an organisation’s information assets.
This internationally recognised standard integrates well with other ISO Standards and data protection systems. The design and implementation of an ISMS is influenced by an organisation's needs and objectives, security requirements, the process employed and the size and structure of the organisation. Therefore, ISO 27001 does allow flexibility for organisations to assess their whole business or to limit the scope to a particular function.
Contracts, particularly where the end client is a government body or one which holds sensitive information, are increasingly requiring certification to this ISO Standard. Add to this the frequent loss of data and the negative media attention this attracts, implementing robust processes using this framework are becoming a must whether certification is desired or not.
By implementing an ISO 27001 management system you benefit from:
- Reduced risk of security incidents
- Confidence in information protection
- Reduced risk of fines
- Protection of the organisation's reputation
- Improved client and investor confidence
