What is ISO 27001?
ISO 27001, officially known as ISO/IEC 27001:2022, is regarded as the global standard for information security management. Jointly published by the International Standards Organization and the International Electrotechnical Commission in 2005, the framework specifies the requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an information security management system within the context of an organization.
ISO 27001 helps mitigate risks, enhance credibility, and reduce long-term costs associated with security incidents. By achieving certification against it, organizations can also facilitate compliance with regulations, build trust with clients, partners, and stakeholders, and demonstrate a commitment to securing sensitive information.
The ISO/IEC 27001:2022 standard: What's changed from 2013?
Staying updated with ISO standards is crucial for maintaining your organization's information security and compliance. The latest version of ISO/IEC 27001:2022 was published on October 25, 2022, so it's time to understand the changes and prepare for a smooth transition.
Key Updates in ISO/IEC 27001:2022
The 2022 version introduces moderate revisions to the previous ISO 27001:2013 standard. Most changes focus on updates to the Annex controls, aligning them with ISO/IEC 27002:2022, published earlier that year. These updates ensure the standard remains relevant and effective in addressing current security challenges.
Transition Timeline
The International Accreditation Forum (IAF) has set a three-year transition period, allowing businesses to prepare and provide a smooth process. With less than a year remaining until the ISO 27001:2013 standard expires, organizations must transition to ISO 27001:2022 by October 31, 2025. Transitioning before that deadline will reduce the risk of compliance gaps that could affect your certification status.
ISO 27001:2022 guidance for organizations
First-time certification: While organizations can get certified against ISO 27001:2013 until April 2024, we recommend opting for ISO/IEC 27001:2022 for first-time certification to ensure long-term compliance.
Currently certified companies: Organizations already certified against ISO/IEC 27001:2013 must undergo a recertification audit against ISO/IEC 27001:2022 by October 31, 2025.
The benefits of effective ISO 27001 implementation:
• Enhanced information asset protection: Strengthens your ability to protect information assets against cyber threats.
• Improved IT security operations: Optimizes IT service activities, ensuring better security practices.
• Reputation: Certification enhances your organization's reputation and demonstrates a commitment to best practices in security.
• Regulatory compliance: Ensures ongoing compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements, reducing legal and financial risks.
Recommended steps to compliance
1. Conduct a gap analysis: Identify the areas where your current information security practices fall short of ISO 27001 requirements.
2. Develop an ISMS (Information Security Management System): Establish a comprehensive ISMS that aligns with ISO 27001 standards.
3. Risk assessment and treatment: Perform a thorough risk assessment to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities and implement appropriate risk treatment plans.
4. Define security policies and procedures: Create and document security policies and procedures that comply with ISO 27001 requirements.
5. Implement security controls: Put the necessary security controls in place to mitigate identified risks and protect your information assets.
6. Internal audits: Regularly conduct internal audits to assess your ISMS's effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
7. Continuous improvement: Monitor, review, and improve your ISMS to adapt to changing threats and business needs.
8. Certification audit: Finally, undergo a certification audit by an accredited certification body to achieve ISO 27001 certification.
In conclusion, it's crucial to act now. After October 31, 2025, only ISO 27001:2022-compliant certifications will be recognized, rendering ISO 27001:2013 certificates invalid. Transitioning ahead of the deadline will help you avoid disruptions and maintain your compliance status.
With over 70,000 certificates reported to have been issued across 150 countries, this framework is a win-win for organizations and the future of information security.
About the author
Senior Consultant & ISO 27001 Service Lead, NCC Group
Isaac has spent many successful years implementing Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) for small, medium, and large organizations, helping businesses attain ISO 27001, conducting information security risk assessments, and consulting on other compliance programs.
He holds a master's degree with distinction in cyber security and a BSc in Computer Forensics (2:1). Notably, he is either a Lead Auditor, Lead Implementor, or both for standards including ISO 27001, ISO 9001, ISO 27701, ISO 2001-1, and ISO 22301. Additionally, Isaac is a SWIFT Attestation Assessor, a PCI DSS QSA, and a PCI Card Production & Provisioning Security Assessor.
NCC Group's guided approach to ISO/IEC 27001 certification
We take organizations through the entire ISO 27001 certification process, whether you are pursuing certification for the first time or need to update an existing certification.
Our expert support helps you understand the standard's requirements, implement necessary controls, and prepare for a successful audit. For those transitioning to the latest version, we provide tailored services to ensure a smooth update process, helping you align with the 2022 standard and meet recertification deadlines.
- Expert-led evaluation: You'll be working with seasoned professionals with extensive ISO 27001 and cyber security expertise.
- Tailored assessments: We customize our evaluations to your specific ISO 27001 needs.
- Clear improvement priorities: Our assessments provide precise, prioritized recommendations.
- Actionable insights: We deliver practical, actionable steps for improving ISO 27001 compliance.
- Ongoing support and updates: We offer continuous support to keep your ISMS effective and up to date with evolving cyber threats and regulatory changes.
- Comprehensive reporting: Receive detailed assessments, including an executive summary, findings, and recommendations.
ISO/IEC 27001:2022 made easy.
Our information security experts are here to help with even your most challenging ISO 27001 questions or concerns. Reach out today to begin the conversation.