In this article, we share tips for creating an effective authorization matrix as part of the company’s information security policy.

What is an authorization matrix?

An authorization matrix is a document that links the various roles and responsibilities within an organization to specific access rights. It provides a structured overview of who may perform what actions and what data he or she may access or share.

The importance of an authorization matrix

Having a well-thought-out authorization matrix has several benefits:

1. Information security

By allowing only the right people to access specific information, an authorization matrix minimizes the risk of inadvertent or malicious access to sensitive data.

2. Compliant with regulations

An authorization matrix helps your entire organization to comply with laws and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (AVG). It ensures that only authorized individuals have access to personal data.

3. Efficiency in work processes

By clearly defining who is allowed to perform which tasks, you streamline the processes within your organization. This increases efficiency.

4. Transparency of responsibilities

An authorization matrix provides transparency within an organization. Everyone knows what rights and responsibilities belong to each role, leading to better collaboration and communication.

7 Tips for creating an authorization matrix

Here are 7 tips for creating an effective authorization matrix:

1. Analyze the roles within the organization

Identify all functions and roles within the organization that require access rights. Consider department heads, team leaders, employees with specific tasks, and any external parties.

2. Link specific tasks to each role

Determine which tasks and actions belong to each role. Use input from the relevant employees to get as accurate a picture as possible.

3. Define the access rights needed

For each role, identify the data and systems required to perform the function. Document these access rights accurately, including any restrictions or exceptions.

4. Establish responsibilities

Clearly describe who is responsible for maintaining and updating the authorization matrix. For example, this could be a specific department or person.

5. Involve all stakeholders

Ensure that all relevant parties are involved in creating the authorization matrix. Think of IT staff, HR staff, and executives. This way you will create support for its content and you won’t overlook important input.

6. Take into account changes in roles and functions

Organizations are dynamic and roles can change. Make sure the authorization matrix is flexible enough to accommodate changes quickly without compromising security and compliance.

7. Evaluate regularly

Schedule regular review moments to verify that the authorization matrix is still current and meets the needs of your organization. Adjust it as needed.

Conclusion

By following the above tips, you can create a solid authorization matrix that ensures secure, efficient, and transparent data access control within your organization.

Having an up-to-date authorization matrix is part of ISO 27001 – 2022 certification. This certification provides a solid framework for complying with all laws and regulations and taking data protection to the next level.

Need help implementing ISO 27001 certification?

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In this article, we will take a closer look at what these policies include and why they are so important for information security in the workplace.

Why is a Clean Desk Policy important?

A Clean Desk Policy is important because it contributes to an organized and efficient work environment. A tidy workplace makes it easy for employees to find what they need and this increases productivity. In addition, a clean workplace also contributes to the professional appearance of the company.

A Clean Desk Policy also helps ensure the privacy and security of sensitive information. By removing or storing documents and other physical materials when they are not in use, you reduce the risk of theft or unwanted access to confidential information.

Why is a Clear Screen Policy important?

A Clear Screen Policy is just as important as a Clean Desk Policy. Enforcing this policy ensures that computer and phone screens are locked or turned off when employees leave their workstations. This is essential to ensure data privacy and security.

An open or unsecured screen can inadvertently expose sensitive information to unauthorized parties. This leaves the company vulnerable to data breaches or cyber-attacks. A Clear Screen Policy ensures that employees are more aware of this risk and take responsibility for protecting company information.

Tips for implementing a Clean Desk Policy and Clear Screen Policy

1. Communicate clearly

Make sure all employees are aware of the Clean Desk Policy and Clear Screen Policy. Communicate regularly about the benefits and expectations surrounding these policies.

2. Offer training

Provide employees with training on how to organize their workstations and how to lock or disable their screens.

3. Make tidying up easy

Provide plenty of storage options, such as filing cabinets, drawers, and digital storage space. This allows employees to easily store items when not in use.

4. Motivate with rewards

Establish rewards for employees who consistently comply with the policy. This can range from small incentives to recognition within the company.

5. Monitor and enforce

Monitor policy compliance regularly and intervene when necessary. Make sure there are consequences for not following the policy.

6. Provide technical support

Make sure employees have the right tools to quickly lock or disable their screens. Consider hotkeys or automatic locking after a certain period of inactivity.

7. Involve management

Management should lead by example by maintaining a tidy workplace themselves and consistently adhering to policies.

8. Evaluate and improve

Regular evaluation of the effectiveness of the policy is essential. Gather feedback from employees and adjust where necessary to ensure continuous improvement.

9. Promote awareness

Organize awareness campaigns about the importance of the policy. Use posters, newsletters, or intranet to regularly remind employees of the policy.

10. Be flexible but clear

Adapt the policy to the specific needs of your organization, but make sure it is clear and enforceable.

Also read: Tips for creating information security policies

Conclusion

Implementing a Clean Desk Policy and Clear Screen Policy may take some getting used to for employees. But with proper communication, training, and support, it will contribute to better organization, productivity, and safety within your company.

A Clean Desk Policy and Clear Screen Policy are part of ISO 27001 – 2022 certification. This certification provides a solid framework for complying with all laws and regulations and taking data protection to the next level.

Need help implementing ISO 27001 certification?

Need help taking steps to comply with ISO 27001 certification? ISOPlanner prevents financial and reputational damage by providing an approachable way to help organizations comply with increasingly complex laws and regulations. Start a free trial of our software or contact us, we are happy to help!

A statement of applicability (SoA) is a document used to establish the relevance and degree of compliance with certain norms and standards within an organization. It is often prepared as part of certification processes, such as ISO certifications.

How does it differ from a conformity statement?

A conformity statement refers to compliance with specific legal or regulatory requirements. While a SoA focuses more on voluntary norms and standards.

For example, a conformity statement is issued by a manufacturer to demonstrate that its product meets all relevant safety and quality requirements.

But a SoA is used to demonstrate that an organization meets specific requirements regarding information security, environmental management, or quality management.

When is a statement of applicability needed?

A SoA is particularly relevant in situations where an organization seeks certification to certain norms and standards. It then functions as a tool to evaluate the organization’s current situation against the requirements of the standard. And to identify possible gaps in compliance.

Based on this evaluation, it is then easier to take action to meet all requirements.

Which organizations benefit from a statement of applicability?

A statement of applicability is particularly relevant to organizations seeking certification to specific norms and standards. These include both small and large companies, operating in different sectors, such as IT, healthcare, manufacturing, services, and other industries.

Establishing a SoA makes it easier to demonstrate to customers, partners, and other stakeholders that the organization meets specific standards. As such, it is a valuable tool for increasing confidence in the organization and creating new business opportunities.

In addition, a declaration of applicability helps identify and manage risks within the organization, making it better prepared for potential threats.

The relationship between a SoA and ISO 27001 certification

The SoA plays an essential role in achieving ISO 27001 certification. Creating and implementing a detailed statement of applicability enables organizations to demonstrate compliance with all relevant requirements of the ISO 27001 standard.

It also helps demonstrate that the ISMS is effective in identifying, assessing, and addressing information security risks.

During an ISO 27001 audit, a certifying agency thoroughly examines the organization’s compliance with all requirements of the standard. A well-presented and well-reasoned statement of applicability increases the chances of successful certification.

Also read: What are the benefits of ISMS software?

Tips on implementing a statement of applicability

Here are 10 tips to help you successfully implement a SoA.

1. Know the relevant norms and standards

Before you begin drafting a statement of applicability, it is essential to be familiar with the applicable norms and standards within your industry.

Consider ISO certifications, privacy regulations such as GDPR or AVG, and specific industry standards.

2. Determine the scope

A statement of applicability should clearly indicate which parts or processes are covered within your organization. Therefore, define the scope accurately before you start implementing.

3. Assemble a project team

Implementing a SoA is often a complex process that affects several departments and disciplines within your organization.

Therefore, put together a project team with representatives from all relevant domains to ensure that your team properly considers all aspects.

4. Map the current situation

Before making any changes, it is important to understand the current situation within your organization. Conduct a thorough audit to determine where improvements are needed and which processes already meet the set standards.

5. Identify risks and opportunities

A statement of applicability can also help identify risks and opportunities within your organization. Map these clearly and develop measures to control risks or exploit opportunities.

Also read: Tips on asset risk management through ISO 27001

6. Implement appropriate measures

After you have identified the risks and opportunities, it is time to implement appropriate measures. Make sure these measures are effective in achieving the set goals.

7. Communicate and train employees

To successfully implement the SoA, it is important to inform and train all employees on the changes. This increases staff awareness and commitment.

8. Monitor and measure performance

A statement of applicability is not a one-time action, but an ongoing process. Implement a system to monitor performance and regularly measure whether you are still meeting the set standards.

9. Ensure continuous improvement

Regularly evaluate whether there is room for improvement in your processes and measures. Strive for continuous improvement to meet all requirements as efficiently as possible.

10. Get certified

As a final step, consider getting your organization certified according to the applicable norms and standards in your statement of applicability. A certification helps build trust with customers and stakeholders.

Also read: ISO 27001 Certification: Step-By-Step Guide

Conclusion

A statement of applicability is a document that demonstrates that an organization complies with specific norms and standards. It differs from a conformity statement in that it focuses more on voluntary standards rather than legal requirements.

A SoA is especially relevant to organizations seeking certification and can help improve trust, risk management, and business opportunities.

Need help implementing ISO 27001 certification?

Need help taking steps to comply with ISO 27001 certification? ISOPlanner prevents financial and reputational damage by providing an approachable way to help organizations comply with increasingly complex laws and regulations. Start a free trial of our software or contact us, we are happy to help!

To minimize these risks, more and more organizations are opting for an Information Security Management System (ISMS). Here, we discuss what an ISMS is, the benefits of ISMS software, and which organizations benefit from its use.

What is an Information Security Management System?

An Information Security Management System (ISMS) is a framework that helps ensure information security within an organization. It covers all aspects related to information security, including policies, procedures, and guidelines.

An ISMS ensures that controls are in place to ensure that sensitive information is stored and processed securely.

A well-designed ISMS allows organizations to maintain full control over their information and manage potential risks. It also provides transparency to customers and other stakeholders about how the organization handles their data.

What are the benefits of ISMS software?

Implementing an ISMS manually takes a lot of time. Fortunately, several software solutions exist today that simplify the installation of an ISMS.

Here are the benefits of ISMS software:

1. Efficiency

With ISMS software, you automate the process of information security, increasing efficiency and saving time.

2. Usability

Good ISMS software is easy to use and provides an intuitive interface that allows you and your employees to perform tasks quickly and easily.

3. Reporting

With ISMS software, you easily generate reports on the status of information security within your organization.

4. Auditing

If an audit takes place, you can use the software to quickly retrieve all the necessary documents to demonstrate compliance with the relevant laws and regulations.

5. Cost savings

Using ISMS software leads to cost savings because less time and resources are needed for manual processes.

Which organizations benefit most from ISMS software?

ISMS software is appropriate for all types of organizations, regardless of size or industry. Implementing an ISMS is especially important for organizations that work with sensitive information. Examples include financial institutions, government agencies, healthcare facilities, and companies that process personal data.

In some sectors, an ISMS implementation is mandatory. For example, local governments are required by the BIO standard to implement an ISMS.

ISMS software and ISO certification

Many organizations want to take their information security to the next level, so they opt for ISO certification. An ISO certification is an international standard that indicates that an organization meets certain criteria in the field of information security.

The most widely used standard in the field of information security is ISO 27001. To achieve this certification, the organization must have implemented a documented ISMS that meets all the requirements of the standard. Using ISMS software helps implement and maintain this standard.

Tips for implementing ISMS software

Because manually implementing an ISMS can be pretty challenging, here are some tips to help you have a successful implementation.

1. Determine your objectives

Before you begin implementation, it is important to set clear goals. Think, for example, from meeting legal requirements to improving overall information security. By setting clear goals, you ensure the effective use of your ISMS software and achieve measurable results.

2. Involve all stakeholders

Successful implementation requires commitment and involvement from all stakeholders within your organization. Including management, IT staff and other users involved in managing sensitive data.

Make sure all stakeholders are aware of the benefits the ISMS software provides and how it helps them in their day-to-day operations.

3. Make use of a project plan

A project plan helps you plan and manage the implementation of your ISMS software. The plan should include information on goals, tasks, responsibilities and timelines, among other things.

By using a project plan, you ensure that all stakeholders are aware of the implementation process. And that each step in the process can be accurately tracked.

4. Provide training and support

It is important to ensure that all users are properly trained in using the ISMS software. For example, provide workshops or training sessions, explaining how the software works and the benefits it provides.

Also offer support to users if they have questions or encounter problems using the software.

5. Work with a trusted vendor

Choose a vendor that has proven expertise in information security and has references within your industry. It is also important to consider factors such as price, functionality, and support.

6. Ensure regular evaluations

You should evaluate ISMS software regularly to ensure that it continues to meet the needs of your organization. And to address any issues or challenges.

By evaluating regularly, you ensure that the software remains effective and that it contributes to the continuous improvement of information security within your organization.

7. Create a culture of information security

Successful implementation of an ISMS does not depend on technology alone. Creating a culture of information security within your organization is just as important.

This means that all employees must be aware of the importance of information security. And that they take responsibility for protecting sensitive data.

8. Work according to the PDCA cycle

Maintain and improve information security within your organization using the PDCA cycle.

• Plan – have all potential internal and external threats and risks been identified? Can you transfer, avoid or accept risks?
• Do – realize measures to control relevant risks.
• Check – check whether the measure taken
• Act – take additional measures if security is inadequate. And if incidents or findings emerge from audits, reduce the likelihood of new incidents by taking action again.

Conclusion

Implementing an ISMS can be a worthwhile investment for organizations looking to improve their information security.

Set clear goals, involve all stakeholders, and use a project plan, training and support. Also, work with a trusted vendor, conduct regular reviews, and create a culture of information security. 

This way, you will ensure a successful implementation and the ISMS will contribute to the overall security and integrity of data within your organization.

Need help implementing ISO 27001 certification?

Need help taking steps to comply with ISO 27001 certification? ISOPlanner prevents financial and reputational damage by providing an approachable way to help organizations comply with increasingly complex laws and regulations. Start a free trial of our software or contact us, we are happy to help!

In these modern times when businesses and organizations depend on technology, information security is essential. Cloud service companies deal with large amounts of sensitive information stored in the cloud. It is therefore important that they ensure that this information is secure and cannot be stolen or lost.

To achieve this, many cloud service providers have chosen to implement the ISO 27001 standard. After all, this is often required in (government) tenders and procurement. Moreover, ISO 27001 certification helps build stakeholder trust.

But what exactly does this standard entail? And what are the benefits of implementing it for cloud service companies?

What is the ISO 27001 standard?

The ISO 27001 standard is an international standard that focuses on information security. This standard contains requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continuously improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS). Its purpose is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information through risk management.

ISO 27001 covers various aspects such as policies, procedures, guidelines, controls and other measures to ensure security. An important part of this is conducting risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities that could lead to unauthorized access to data.

Also read: Tips for creating information security policies

Why is information security essential for cloud service companies?

Cloud service providers have access to vast amounts of their customers’ personal and sensitive information. It is therefore essential that they ensure that this information is secure and cannot be stolen or lost.

When information is stored in the cloud, there are several risks that can occur. One of the biggest risks involves a cyber attack. Hackers then try to gain access to data through phishing emails, malware attacks or other forms of hacking.

In addition, errors in software development sometimes lead to security breaches. This then results in accidentally opening up access to personal data to unauthorized parties.

Another risk faced by cloud service companies is the loss of data due to technical failures, natural disasters or human error. Consider a major fire, the electricity going out or the sharing of login credentials.

Examples of companies offering cloud services are:

• Software as a Service (SaaS)
• Hosting services
• Telecom, VOIP and videoconferencing
• Platform as a Service (PaaS)
• Netwerkarchitecture and maintenance
• Co-locating services
• Infrastructuur as a Service (IaaS)

Benefits of ISO 27001 certification for cloud service companies

Implementing the ISO 27001 standard for a cloud service company can be challenging. To help you assess whether ISO 27001 certification is worthwhile, here we give you the benefits of ISO 27001 certification for cloud companies.

1. ISO 27001 certification and cyber attacks

Cyber attacks are a reality today and any organization can be affected by them. However, cloud service providers have the added risk of having access to a large amount of customers’ confidential data, making them an attractive target for hackers. Having ISO 27001 certification means that procedures and protocols are already built in to deal with such attacks.

Implementing the requirements from the ISO 27001 standard allows you as a cloud service provider to proactively protect against potential threats through risk management plans and procedures. This means that your organization regularly checks itself for potential vulnerabilities or weaknesses in its infrastructure. And then addresses these before malicious actors take advantage of them. This way, you prevent breaches. And if they do occur, you can respond more quickly and effectively to limit the damage.

2. ISO 27001 certification and security breaches

Even though cloud service providers are often very aware of security risks, it can happen that a security breach occurs. In such cases, it is important to respond quickly and effectively to prevent further damage. ISO 27001 certification ensures that a plan exists for how everyone should handle such a situation and that all employees know their role in this process.

In addition, the standard has requirements for reporting and communication procedures, making timely notification of all relevant parties better and faster. This sometimes makes just the difference in restoring trust with customers by being transparent about the situation and the actions you take.

3. ISO 27001 certification and technical failures

Cloud service providers depend on technology that sometimes does not work as expected. A failure can have serious consequences for customers by potentially depriving them of access to their data or systems. By certification to the ISO 27001 standard, you as an organization have thought about and built in protocols for continuity management. We also call this business continuity management. Because of this preparation, plans are already in place for when such problems arise.

This means that, as an organization, you can react more quickly to solve the problem and restore services. Having such a plan in place also helps minimize the impact of outages, so customers are less inconvenienced and can get back to business faster.

4. ISO 27001 certification and natural disasters

There are times when natural disasters such as floods or earthquakes, lead to system failures and downtime at cloud service providers. This can have serious consequences for customers. ISO 27001 certification has requirements for emergency procedures, including emergency continuity management. This is also called emergency management continuity planning. This means that as an organization you have plans ready in case such a situation occurs.

This preparation ensures that you as an organization can respond quickly to emergencies and that services are restored as quickly as possible. By following these procedures, you avoid being disabled for long periods of time or even going out of business altogether.

5. ISO 27001 certification and human error

Human error is inevitable and can have major consequences for cloud service companies. An employee accidentally leaking confidential information or accidentally disabling a critical system component can cause serious damage. ISO 27001 certification ensures that procedures and protocols are in place to mitigate these risks.

By implementing training and employee awareness programs, organizations minimize the risk of human error. In addition, the standard places requirements on access control procedures, meaning that only authorized individuals have access to confidential information. This helps prevent inadvertent or intentional leaks of confidential information.

Conclusion

ISO 27001 certification is thus an important tool for cloud service providers to ensure they meet international information security standards. The certification gives customers confidence that their data is safe with the company and that procedures and protocols are in place to respond quickly to problems. By implementing the ISO 27001 standards, you provide your customers with the best possible service while ensuring the security and protection of their data.

Need help implementing ISO 27001 certification?

Need help taking steps to comply with ISO 27001 certification? ISOPlanner prevents financial and reputational damage by providing an approachable way to help organizations comply with increasingly complex laws and regulations. Start a free trial of our software or contact us, we are happy to help!

In addition to those management system requirements, there is also an appendix that identifies a set of control measures. Those control measures are actually topics, such as “cryptography. It doesn’t say exactly what you have to do with cryptography. Just that you have to think about and describe what you do with cryptography.

One of the requirements is that the organization use the control measures from that appendix to check that they haven’t forgotten any topics when coming up with their own measures to control risk.

Also read: When do you need ISO 27001 certification?

Two perspectives on business assets

If information security is needed, the question of where that information is located soon follows. And therefore how, as an organization, you deal with the systems that hold that information. Both the information and the systems could be called business assets.

The ISO 27001 standard has two perspectives when it comes to naming assets.

1. The first is in risk assessment (standard requirement 6.1.2). It says there that it should focus on identifying risks related to information. So it makes sense, for each risk you identify, to also name what information the risk relates to.
2. The second perspective comes from a management measure, number 5.9. This concerns the inventory of information and other related assets.

This states that an organization must have an inventory of assets and maintain them. Where each asset has an owner. The idea behind this is that if you don’t know what assets (including information) you have, you can’t protect them.

Overview of business assets linked to risks

When it comes to the question of how to record information and other assets, it is best to consider the two aspects mentioned above separately. It’s fine to name the information to which each risk relates. And somewhere else keep one or more lists of assets.

In other words, the information named under risks need not be linked to the total overview of assets in which the owners are also named.

But of course this can be done. If you create an overview of information and other assets to which risks can be linked, this will provide additional structure and overview. You can then see even better which risks are linked to a certain asset.

It is even better if you can also indicate the relationship between assets. For example: customer data is in a CRM system running on a certain server. Combined with the classification of information, you can deduce how information assets should be protected.

ISOPlanner contains everything you need to properly record company assets. Want to know exactly how? Then watch this video: https://isoplanner.app/videos/assets/

Need help implementing ISO 27001 certification?

Need help taking steps to comply with ISO 27001 certification? ISOPlanner prevents financial and reputational damage by providing an approachable way to help organizations comply with increasingly complex laws and regulations. Start a free trial of our software or contact us, we are happy to help!