Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) are required to adhere to the international standard ISO/IEC 27001. An extensive audit is part of the certification process and is performed by an established certifying authority. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get certified :-
- Understand the Standard: Understanding the ISO/IEC 27001 standard, its principles, and requirements is crucial before beginning the certification process. Reading the standard in its entirety or taking training sessions can help you achieve this.
- Perform a Gap Analysis: This initial assessment will show where your organisation stands in relation to the standard. To follow ISO/IEC 27001, you must first identify the areas that require improvement.
- Implement the ISMS: According to the specifications of the ISO/IEC 27001 standard, develop your information security management system. As part of this, the scope must be established, followed by the relevant policy and procedures being written, risk management techniques being put into action, and controls being established.
- Conduct Internal Audits: Conduct internal audits after implementing your Information Security Management System (ISMS) in place to evaluate the system’s performance and find any areas that need improvement. This will assist you in getting ready for the external audit.
- Management Review: For continued appropriateness, sufficiency, and effectiveness, top management should assess the Information Security Management System (ISMS) at predetermined intervals.
- Choose a Certification Body: Choose a recognised certification body to carry out your external audit. Verify if they have received national accreditation from a reputable organisation.
- External Audits: An external audit will be conducted by the certification body. This normally involves two stages: Stage 1 is a preliminary, informal review of the Information Security Management System (ISMS) and Stage 2 is a more in-depth, formal review.
- Address Any Non-Conformities: You won’t be able to be certified unless you fix any non-conformities that the auditor finds.
- Certification: You will be granted your ISO/IEC 27001 certification if you successfully complete the external audit and rectify non-conformities if received.
- Continuous Improvement: Your Information Security Management System (ISMS) must be continually improved to comply with ISO/IEC 27001. This requires regular reviews and audits to maintain continuous compliance and to find areas for improvement.
