The new 2024 comes with an unprecedented level of cyber threats. As more organizations move to cloud platforms, it's important to understand the best approach to cloud security and the benefits that ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 certifications bring to organizations. Both aim to promote security in the cloud. Although they share a common goal, they differ in scope and focus. ISO 27017 provides the foundation for a secure cloud environment, while ISO 27018 focuses on protecting personal data.
We have asked Georgi Tsekov, CEO of Daticum, to share some advice on preventing and protecting corporate and user data when a company uses cloud services.
What are the new business challenges related to information security and cyber threats in 2024?
All types of businesses know that the world of cybersecurity is constantly evolving, and any delay in protecting the cybersecurity of your assets can cost a lot of money. This year, the European Union introduces mandatory prescriptions of the NIS2 Directive (updated regulation to enhance information security). The main aim is to strengthen cybersecurity measures among European countries by extending the rules to a wide range of sectors and entities.
This regulation provides the framework for improving the overall level of cybersecurity in vital sectors such as energy, transport, finance, healthcare and digital infrastructure. Businesses in these sectors must implement appropriate measures to address cyber security threats and report serious incidents.
In this regard, cloud and digital service providers must establish procedures and implement protocols for compliance and adherence to security and notification requirements during cyber threats and incidents. And this is where Daticum's certification with ISO 27017 and 27018 cloud security standards ensures the highest level of protection for businesses' user data and their end customers.
Could you elaborate on how Daticum's ISO 27017/18 certification contributes to the security of cloud users?
Investing in ISO certifications is expensive for a business, even though it is critical to ensuring the security of cloud services and protecting personal information. However, there is a way for one company to benefit from the certification done for another. What Daticum has done for our customers so far is to go through the certification process for ourselves and provide them with an extra layer of protection via the Daticum cloud platform.
At the end of 2023, Daticum was one of the few companies in Bulgaria, certified according to both standards. This is an ultimate competitive advantage for customers of our cloud services provided through Daticum Cloud Platform. This extra layer of protection is part of the cloud service that we offer to companies and that they provide to their end users. They benefit from the robust process guaranteed by Daticum's ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 certification audit. Together, these certifications provide a strong defence against various security challenges associated with cloud computing, ensuring overall cloud security and privacy.
What are the main differences between both certificates?
So, let's explain what both ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 certifications involve. ISO 27017 focuses exclusively on cloud security, providing a comprehensive set of controls tailored to the unique challenges of cloud computing. It ensures cloud service providers adhere to best practices, creating a secure ecosystem for user data based on the principles of confidentiality, integrity, and availability. By adopting ISO 27017, organisations demonstrate their commitment to a strong cloud security posture and earning user trust.
ISO 27018, on the other hand, focuses on protecting personal data in the cloud. This certification emphasises the importance of data protection and prescribes guidelines for the responsible handling of personal data by cloud service providers. ISO 27018 introduces a nuanced approach to privacy that emphasises transparency and control. It outlines measures for the responsible processing of personal data, assuring users that their information is handled with the utmost care in the cloud environment.
In a nutshell, these two certifications are distinct, but they often go hand in hand. ISO 27017 sets the stage for secure cloud operations, while ISO 27018 provides a granular focus on personal data protection. Together, they ensure a powerful defence against the many challenges of cloud security. Daticum clients that use our innovative cloud platform enjoy all the advantages we provide to protect their corporate and end-user data in the cloud.
Can you outline the main benefits for the enterprises?
One of the main benefits of enhanced data privacy measures is that they fortify user data against unauthorized access and usage. ISO 27018 has a specific emphasis on personal data, while ISO 27017 covers a broader spectrum. Together, they ensure that user information is protected, especially in online stores and other online platforms with registered user models. To provide users with the assurance that their data and profiles are secure, online store providers and e-commerce platforms must use Cloud providers like Daticum, which are ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 certified.
Certifications like ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 signify a commitment to a higher security standard, which means improved cloud service security. They provide a shield against cyber threats and vulnerabilities that may compromise data integrity, such as hacker attacks and phishing.
Customer trust is paramount, especially at a time when data breaches dominate the headlines. ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 certifications are powerful trust-building tools. They communicate to users that their data is stored and protected with an unwavering commitment to security and privacy. This is particularly important for online businesses that involve digital payments, e-commerce, and customer data protection.
What are your recommendations in conclusion?
Organizations seeking certification must first conduct thorough risk assessments and then implement robust security controls that align with ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 criteria. Although certifications are essential, they pose challenges, such as the constantly evolving nature of cyber threats.
Daticum, one of the leading regional cloud service providers, can help businesses overcome these challenges through its innovative cloud platform. We continuously comply and adapt to emerging threats, including regular audits, updating security protocols, and staying up to date with industry developments. With our ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 certifications, we ensure secure cloud infrastructure and privacy protection, positioning organizations as guardians of consumer trust in the digital age.