At least 90% of global security breaches happen within small businesses, which is the primary reason companies are prioritizing globally recognized data security efforts. Two widely recognized frameworks for information security management are ISO 27001 and SOC 2. While both enhance data protection practices, their focus, requirements, and specific applications differ.
Considering that both certifications help build a stronger cybersecurity infrastructure, healthcare organizations find it challenging to determine the most appropriate certification for their business. To help drive this decision, it would help to know the difference between SOC 2 and ISO 27001, their objectives, what they offer, and the certification process.
The Difference Between ISO 27001 and SOC 2
Mapping the controls between ISO 27001 and SOC 2 can help streamline compliance efforts, especially for healthcare organizations that must meet multiple standards. While the two have some overlap, they also differ in terminology and focus, which can make direct ISO 27001 vs SOC 2 mapping challenging.
It can seem daunting to determine which certification suits your business operations, but the first step in deciding between the two is to understand the difference between SOC 2 and ISO 27001. SOC 2 is an audit report that assesses how well an organization is adhering to its security controls over a period of time. It focuses on proving that you’ve actually taken steps to protect your client’s data. On the other hand, ISO 27001 is the design and implementation of an information security management system (ISMS).
ISO 27001 deters cybersecurity threats and provides a systematic approach for managing information within your information security program over time. Overall, ISO 27001 helps organizations implement and continuously manage a robust ISMS, whereas SOC 2 emphasizes how security principles actively handle and mitigate risk.
Considering the Objectives of ISO 27001/SOC 2 Type 2 Certification
ISO 27001 covers an organization’s entire information security management system. It acts as a framework for how companies should manage their data while also proving that they have a fully operational ISMS.
In comparison, SOC 2 focuses on how service providers handle customers’ data. Its objectives help organizations understand where their sensitive data is located, focus on risk assessment processes, and implement different controls.
Which Option Makes the Most Sense for Your Business?
Between the ISO 27001/SOC 2 Type 2 certification, which option makes the most sense for your organization? To pinpoint the most appropriate choice, consider your global reach, operational focus, and target market. If your primary focus is to build a comprehensive, internationally recognized security management system, ISO 27001 may be the better choice. ISO 27001 would also be recommended if you have a large international book of business. In comparison, SOC 2 is considered the compliance standard in North America, so if your target market falls primarily within the U.S., SOC 2 may be the more appropriate option.
It’s also possible to pursue both certifications. The simplest way to do this is by using a software solution designed to streamline the entire process, helping you implement SOC 2 controls while mapping them to ISO 27001 requirements.
ISO 27001 vs SOC 2 Mapping: What to Consider
You can take these steps to better meet the standards of both certifications and simplify mapping between the two.
Conduct a Gap Analysis
Businesses can start by identifying where current security controls meet the requirements of both ISO 27001 and SOC 2. Use a software solution to automate this process by assessing your existing SOC 2 controls and determining where they map to ISO 27001.
Align Risk Assessment Processes
While one framework may require more use of ongoing risk assessments and proactive risk treatment plans, both would benefit from this. This means that you should perform risk assessments regularly and then add the documentation of the results as part of the ISMS.
Automate Compliance Audits
Both frameworks involve extensive auditing, which provides room for implementing automated processes. Audits for SOC 2 will typically occur annually, while those for ISO 27001 may need to be ongoing. There is room for automating the audit trail as well.
Simplifying ISO 27001 vs SOC 2 Certification Processes
When deciding between ISO 27001 and SOC 2, consider your organization’s specific needs, industry requirements, global reach, and long-term goals. Ultimately, the right choice depends on what you require to align the certification with your organization’s strategic objectives as well as your risk management priorities.
To simplify the process, opt for a centralized solution designed to streamline mapping and maintenance.
