ISO 27001 certification: the journey and impact for online businesses

Information has always been among the most valuable resources, and as we dive further into the digital age, protecting it has become even more crucial. This is where (and why) ISO 27001 steps in - an international standard for information security management that provides a thorough and systematic method for handling and securing organizations’ data assets.

We have been through a demanding process to meet this security and compliance standard successfully. We are now sharing the key milestones of our journey and shedding light on why this achievement is valuable for us and our clients and partners.

ISO 27001 certification represents the international standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS),  covering scope definition, risk management, internal audits, and a culture of continuous improvement to meet the standard’s guidelines and ensure ongoing compliance. It's recognized globally for managing risks related to a company's information security and applies to all types and sizes of organizations.

Key highlights in ISO 27001 audit journey

Crafting the ISMS blueprint

The Information Security Management System (ISMS) outlines the design and construction details that ensure our system can handle any security challenge. We zero in on areas that take sensitive information - this includes our servers, digital assets, and financial data we protect for our clients - ecommerce and fintech players. Here’s how the journey looks in Nethone’s case. 

Risk assessment: We map potential threats to our information security. These could range from cyber threats to insider risks. We consider how likely each risk is and how much damage it could potentially cause.

Risk mitigation: Once we identify what risks we are facing, we decide how to control or mitigate them. As a fraud prevention company, this could involve anything from upgrading our security systems to implementing advanced data encryption methods.

Policy and objective setting: With a clear picture of our risk landscape, we devise a set of policies and objectives to establish how we will handle our information security risks, keeping ourselves and our clients safe from potential threats.

Resource allocation: We then plan for the necessary resources - be it technical staff, security software, or financial resources - to ensure an effective operation and improvement of the ISMS in place.

Implementation: Once everything's in place, we bring our policies, procedures, and controls into action.

Sticking to the status quo can't guarantee safety in a dynamic field like fraud prevention. So, Nethone's ISMS isn't just set in stone. We regularly review and upgrade our systems, keeping pace with evolving threats. Regular audits confirm that our processes stay relevant and effective in the ever-changing world of information security. 

Once the certification has been achieved, the journey does not end. We subject ourselves to a yearly evaluation administered by an accredited certification body to oversee compliance and guarantee continuous adherence to the standard’s stipulations. This year, we've successfully renewed our certification, once again demonstrating our commitment to protecting the confidential information of our clients, employees, and business partners.

We adopt a systematic approach to ensure the highest level of security for our clients and partners. Each security control is implemented and thoroughly documented to provide a reference for audits and continuous improvement.

With this certification, our existing and future clients can have peace of mind knowing that we operate according to globally recognized standards for information security. This means ensuring the protection of both client and internal data by implementing thorough security controls and measures based on data sensitivity and classification.

Our commitment to renew this certification annually isn't just about staying within the rules but about offering a fraud prevention solution that evolves ahead of the threats. While our clients focus on running their businesses, we've got the responsibility and dedication to keep the data they share with us secure.

What is the ISO 27001 standard?

ISO 27001 is the international standard for information security, providing a framework for establishing and managing an information security management system (ISMS). It addresses people, processes, and technology to help organizations manage their information security effectively.

What are the key aspects of ISO 27001?

ISO 27001 involves protecting information by maintaining its confidentiality, integrity, and availability, employing a risk management approach, and offering a structured framework and directives for establishing, implementing, and overseeing an ISMS). This systematic approach ensures that an organization's information security is effectively managed.

What is ISO 27001 certification?

ISO 27001 certification means that a company has achieved full compliance with the ISO 27001 standard, demonstrating dedication to information asset protection and continuous improvement.

How is ISO 27001 implemented?

ISO 27001 is implemented by creating an ISMS, regular risk assessments, control implementation, staff training, and a culture of continuous improvement. 

What are the benefits of ISO 27001 certification for solution providers?

ISO 27001 certification offers benefits such as consolidating stakeholder trust, providing a competitive edge, protecting an organization's reputation, mitigating regulatory fines, and attracting new clients.