ISO/IEC 27001 is a prominent, globally recognized standard designed to administer and enhance the information security management system. When an organization decides to embark on its ISO 27001 certification journey, it agrees to adhere to a systemic approach to manage sensitive company information, ensuring secure exchange and protection of data. The standard is applicable to businesses across all industries, regardless of their size or the nature of their data. Read on to learn the key ISO 27001 requirements ahead of your organization’s audit. 

What are the ISO 27001 requirements?  

The ISO 27001 requirements are designed to provide a clear and rigorous framework for protecting and managing valuable data and information assets. These carry inherent business risks if not protected adequately. The standard encompasses key aspects of business, such as risk management, compliance, legal requirements, physical and technical controls around data access, usage, and transmission. All these facets collectively reflect the organization’s commitment to a higher level of data integrity, availability and confidentiality.  

If you’re planning on getting your business ISO 27001 certified, the ISO 27001 requirements are more than just getting a badge of honor. Achieving the ISO 27001 certification signals to clients, stakeholders, and regulators that your business has implemented an internationally accepted and independently validated information security management system. Furthermore, it offers a basis for legal compliance, demonstrating your commitment to information security and data privacy.   

What exactly are the ISO 27001 requirements? This standard is divided into clauses and annex controls. The former establishes a set of business procedures and processes necessary for managing an organization’s ISMS. The latter consists of 93 controls categorized into 4 groups, which provide guidelines on how to manage specific areas of information risk. Annex A is a comprehensive list of the controls to be considered during risk assessment, applicable based on the nature of the business.  

The requirements include, but are not limited to:  

Setting up an information security policy  

Establishing a clear and comprehensive information security policy is a foundational element to earning ISO 27001 certification. This element of ISO 27001 requirements should outline overarching objectives, principles, and responsibilities for safegaurding sensitive data. 

Defining an approach to risk assessment and treatment  

A structured approach to risk assessment and treatment is crucial for identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential security threats. This involves recognizing vulnerabilities, determining their likelihood and potential impact, and implementing appropriate risk treatment measures. By continuously monitoring and updating this process, organizations can adapt to evolving threats and maintain robust information security and meet ISO 27001 requirements. 

Implementing data masking and web filtering controls  

ISO 27001 requirements mandate implementing data masking and web filtering controls to enhance the security of sensitive information and protect against unauthorized access. Data masking obscures sensitive data elements, reducing exposure during processing or testing, while web filtering restricts access to potentially harmful or inappropriate websites.  

Executing training and awareness programs  

Organizations must also execute training and awareness programs as part of ISO 27001 requirements. By educating employees about security policies, potential threats, and best practices, organizations can minimize human error and reinforce a proactive security culture. Ongoing awareness initiatives help keep information security top of mind and ensure everyone understands their role in protecting the organization’s assets. 

Gathering and analyzing information about threats  

Proactively gathering and analyzing information about potential security threats enables organizations to identify and respond to risks before they become a problem. This involves staying informed about emerging vulnerabilities, monitoring threat intelligence sources, and analyzing data to detect patterns or anomalies. 

Monitoring systems and implementing incident response procedures  

Continuous monitoring of systems and implementing effective incident response procedures are critical components of ISO 27001 requirements. Real-time system monitoring helps detect security incidents promptly, while a well-defined incident response plan ensures swift and coordinated action to mitigate impact.  

Deep dive into ISO 27001 requirements  

The ISO 27001 standard is a globally recognized information security standard that establishes the best practices for ISMS. Meeting ISO 27001 requirements and earning a certification offers various advantages, from improving efficiency to building stakeholder trust, underscoring the need to grasp and apply these standards.  

The ISO 27001 requirements are composed of foundational requirements essential for the effective functioning of an ISMS. These requirements, referred to as controls, are derived from ISO 27002 and found within ISO 27001 Annex A, and typically align with the organization’s information security risks. However, the organization retains the liberty to decide which controls apply to their specific circumstances and document the same accordingly.  

An imperative component of the ISO 27001 requirements is the set of mandates for logging and monitoring. These stipulations lay the groundwork for detecting, analyzing, and mitigating potential security incidents. ISO 27001 requirements ask organizations to document significant events and continually scrutinize system activities. This continuous monitoring and logging of activities aim to detect abnormalities quickly, allowing for immediate corrective actions.  

Starting from security policy and organization of information security to access control and incident management, the ISO 27001 requirements list is extensive and inherently interrelated. Therefore, stringent adherence and a deep understanding of these standards can fortify information security, thereby qualifying the organization for ISO 27001 certification.  

Gaining a comprehensive knowledge of the ISO 27001 requirements is pivotal for organizations pursuing robust information security governance and a strong culture of security. The articulated requirements and stipulations, including specifics like logging and monitoring, offer a holistic blueprint for an effective ISMS. Customizing and implementing these requirements, coupled with continuous monitoring, can lead an organization toward enhanced information security and ISO 27001 certification.  

AI is here to stay, making it crucial for organizations to build out their AI compliance strategies. Wondering where to start? The answer is ISO/IEC 42001:2023.  

ISO 42001 provides a comprehensive framework with clear guidelines and best practices for AI compliance. We’ve created this guide to provide you with everything you need to know about this standard, including a list of questions to ask when choosing the right auditor.  Click here to download the guide.

What is ISO 42001? 

ISO 42001 is designed to help organizations manage the risks associated with AI and ensure that their AI systems are developed and used responsibly. This standard provides a framework for organizations that design, develop, and deploy AI systems, focusing on aspects like transparency, accountability, bias identification and mitigation, safety, and privacy. It’s not a mandatory standard, but given its significance and recognition, it’s highly likely to become the benchmark for AI management systems in the future.  

While implementing ISO 42001, top management is expected to lead and commit to the AI management system (AIMS) and establish policies and objectives aligned with the organization’s strategy. They’re expected to identify and address AI-related risks and opportunities, provide necessary resources and support, establish processes for AI system development and maintenance, monitor and evaluate AI system performance, and continuously improve the AIMS to keep it effective. 

To help organizations manage this standard effectively, ISO 42001 has several annexes (Annexes A-D) that give detailed guidance on adoption. These annexes provide direction on system development and implementation, while addressing organizational objectives, risk management, and industry-specific standards to ensure tailored AI management practices.  

Benefits of ISO 42001

From driving innovation with responsible processes to mitigating AI risks through lifecycle monitoring, ISO 42001 brings a lot of value and benefits to businesses. Below are some of the key advantages of ISO 42001: 

Stay ahead of AI regulations  

ISO 42001 provides a unified framework to adapt to a variety of new regulations. Its focus on trust, transparency, and resilience in AI systems goes well beyond meeting regulatory minimums, making it a highly viable standard. 

Build trust and transparency 

An AIMS built on ISO 42001 demonstrates trust and accountability through clear communication (Clause 7.4) and transparency (Clause 7.5), building confidence in AI systems and fostering stronger stakeholder relationships.   

Minimize financial risk 

Adoption of ISO 42001 allows organizations to protect themselves from penalties and gain a competitive edge as certifications become necessary. Through its embedded risk management system, this standard will help companies avoid vulnerabilities and prevent costly overhauls down the line. 

Boost operational efficiency  

ISO 42001 enhances efficiency by identifying and mitigating risks, improving data quality, and enhancing oversight. Its lifecycle monitoring and stakeholder collaboration boost performance and trust, while its structured risk management minimizes disruptions. It’s adaptable to various organizational sizes and AI maturity levels, allowing it to align with innovation goals.   

Strengthen AI governance 

ISO 42001 integrates seamlessly with standards like ISO 27001 and ISO 27701, creating a unified governance framework for diverse compliance needs. This combined approach enhances data security, ensures traceable data inputs and outputs, and addresses privacy risks, strengthening AI governance and operational efficiency.   

Understanding the process 

Like any certification, achieving ISO 42001 compliance comes with its own unique process. Let’s break it down.  

Prepare for ISO 42001 Certification 

Organizations should start by getting to know ISO 42001 and its clauses, annexes, critical documents, and policy requirements.  

From there, conduct a gap analysis to identify discrepancies between your existing AI governance framework and ISO 42001 requirements. Develop a step-by-step implementation roadmap to address these gaps, prioritizing areas that will have the greatest impact on your business.  

Companies should set up training sessions for the new processes and provide a way for staff to give their insights and feedback on the new AIMS. Having a centralized location for all of this feedback will make documentation more organized and efficient.  

Pro tip: Utilize ISO 42001 to clearly define the desired outcomes for your AI systems. Align these with business objectives to ensure governance efforts directly support strategic goals.   

Engage with auditors 

After your organization has prepared for certification, you’re ready to choose an auditor. Look for a quality audit partner that aligns their goals with yours.  

While evaluating auditors, come prepared with a list of questions and clarifications regarding the process, and be ready to discuss the scope of the audit in detail. We also recommend conducting a pre-audit checklist review and simulating audit scenarios to prepare your staff for the actual assessment. 

Undergo the audit process 

Designate a team member as the point of contact to streamline communication with your auditor. Your assessment will include interviews with key personnel and a review of documentation. 

After your assessment is complete, schedule a meeting to discuss key findings with the internal team and determine the action plans needed for any nonconformities based on the report. 

Ensure continuous improvement 

Establish a team designated to compliance improvement and progression post-certification. Engage with customers, investors, and partners to communicate your commitment to responsible AI governance. Use Clause 7.4 (Communication) and 7.5 (Documented Information) of ISO 42001 to ensure transparency and traceability. 

Selecting an audit partner 

Choosing the right audit partner is a crucial part of the process. Not all auditors are created equal, so let’s dive into what you need to look out for. 

Expertise  

Choose an auditor, or certification body, that is accredited with a high-quality, reputable Accreditation Body, like ANAB. This guarantees they have the expertise to navigate you through the audit process and uphold their procedures to the highest standards given the thorough review process that the certification body must also go through. It’s important to evaluate how long they’ve been operating, the experience level of their staff, their understanding of ISO 42001 compliance, and their experience with other ISO frameworks. Since there are similarities and overlaps with ISO 27001, choosing an auditor who knows ISO and the ISO process can provide valuable insights and ensure a thorough and effective audit. 

Quality  

It’s important to choose a high-quality audit partner that will align their goals with your organization’s goals. High-quality auditors have extensive experience and knowledge of ISO 42001, allowing them to address potential compliance issues effectively. This minimizes the risk of failing the assessment and ensures that your organization meets all necessary standards.  

Efficiency  

Efficiency plays a big role in the time and resources required to achieve certification. The assessment process can be complex, but some auditors offer technology to help streamline the process. This can help save time during the certification process and reduce disruptions to your operations. To boost efficiency even further, consider a firm who can handle additional frameworks like ISO 27001, SOC 2, HITRUST, and more. Using the same firm for multiple audits can streamline the process and allow you to consolidate your audits, saving time, resources and money.  

Budget  

Budget is an important consideration, and as with most things, you get what you pay for. Beware of auditors that are offering assessments for under-market value. When looking at the budget, you should balance it with other factors that are important to you. Are you willing to pay more to expedite your timeline? Is the auditor you choose known for quality? Is it worth it to spend more to work with a trusted auditor instead of a brand-new firm? 

Case study: Synthesia 

In 2024, A-LIGN issued its first ISO/IEC 42001 certification to Synthesia, making them the first AI video company to achieve ISO 42001 compliance. Synthesia is the world’s leading enterprise AI video communications platform, with more than 55,000 businesses, including half of the Fortune 100, using it to communicate efficiently and share knowledge at scale using AI avatars. 

“A-LIGN’s expertise and attention to detail helped us identify and remediate any gaps in our rigorous processes. Together, we have led the way for the rest of the industry in the adoption of this standard, fostering trust and ensuring the long-term success of AI development and use.” 

— Martin Tschammer, Head of Security

This certification sets a new benchmark in the industry, showcasing Synthesia and A-LIGN’s joint dedication to compliance innovation and high-quality security. It also highlights A-LIGN’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its role in empowering clients to achieve and maintain the highest levels of compliance in the ever-evolving AI landscape.  

Checklist: Questions to ask an ISO 42001 auditor 

Choosing an auditor is a big step in the assessment process and can impact your audit results as well as your experience. These are the key questions to ask your auditor to ensure you’re choosing the best fit for your organization: 

• What is your cybersecurity compliance experience? 
  • How many customers do you work with and how many audits have you completed? 
  • How many years have you been in business? 
  • What is your experience with ISO? 

• What is your experience with ISO 42001 assessments? 
  • How many ISO 42001 certifications have you issued? 
  • How long have you been conducting ISO 42001 audits?

• How well-versed are your auditors in ISO 42001 requirements? 
  • Do your auditors have specific certifications or training related to ISO 42001? 
  • Where are your auditors located?

• Are you accredited to conduct ISO 42001 audits? 
  • Which accreditation body did you choose and why? 

• Can you describe your audit process for ISO 42001? 
  • How do you ensure the quality and consistency of your audits? 
  • What kind of feedback and reporting can we expect from your audits?

• How much will the ISO 42001 assessment cost? 
  • What are your rates, and what do they include? 
  • Are there any additional fees we should be aware of?

• What is the timeline for the ISO 42001 assessment? 
  • What is the lead time to begin the assessment? 
  • How long do you anticipate the entire assessment process will take? 

• Do you have references and case studies from satisfied customers? 
  • Can you provide examples of similar organizations you have worked with? 

Ready to take the next step with ISO 42001? Download the guide or contact us to learn more.

With the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the forefront, questions around the future of FedRAMP have begun to circulate. The future of FedRAMP is a topic of much discussion and one that we’ve had with many customers and partners, and we’re here to help guide you through the state of uncertainty that currently exists in the market. We will continue to keep this article updated as news continues to roll in on changes. 

FedRAMP 20x

On March 24, 2025, FedRAMP announced its plans for a new assessment process for cloud service providers that will be designed by FedRAMP in partnership with industry stakeholders and agency experts. The new approach is called FedRAMP 20x.

FedRAMP 20x has five key goals:

1. Make it simple to automate the application and validation of FedRAMP security requirements.
2. Leverage existing industry investments in security by inheriting best-in-class commercial security frameworks.
3. Continuously monitor security decisions using a simple, hands-off approach.
4. Build trust between industry and federal agencies by leaning into the direct business relationships between providers and customers.
5. Enable rapid continuous innovation without artificial checkpoints that halt progress.

Over the next few months, industry and government will come together in public community working groups to discuss key topics and chart a path forward for a more efficient FedRAMP assessment process.

FedRAMP Rev5 updates

As of March 24, 2025 the current Rev5 agency authorization pipeline will remain open without significant changes. The current agency operation backlog is on track to be cleared by the end of April and then the PMO will continue to process new Rev5 agency authorizations based on demand. Until a new process is defined, FedRAMP Rev5 agency authorization remains the only active path to FedRAMP authorization.

The value of FedRAMP in the DOGE era 

We believe that FedRAMP is vital for modernizing Federal technology and software – aligned with DOGE’s vision to improve efficiency in the Federal government. We share the belief that FedRAMP has opportunities to continue improving efficiency, aligned with the vision that FedRAMP itself shared in December to improve authorization capacity designed to meet the demand that exists for authorization and create improved paths to faster and more straightforward review processes. 

FedRAMP has provided a standardized approach to security and risk assessment for cloud technologies and federal agencies, reducing duplicative effort, inconsistency, and cost inefficiency by providing agencies with a security platform that can be leveraged once across several agencies. Through the “audit once, use many times” approach, GSA has estimated that the program has saved over $700 million in costs associated with one-time assessment and authorization costs. 

Charting your path forward 

As a top 3 FedRAMP 3PAO, A-LIGN offers the following guidance to CSPs: 

1. For CSPs considering FedRAMP: We urge you to stay the course.  Security remains of critical importance, and with FedRAMP signed into law, Government Agencies are still required to only use cloud solutions with security authorizations. While we do expect changes in FedRAMP funding to evolve objectives and responsibilities, we also know that national security will continue to be a priority. Although FedRAMP process responsibilities may shift a bit, e.g., from FedRAMP to the Agencies, security authorization remains a requirement for cloud solutions that process government data.  As a result, our recommendation is to continue pursuit of FedRAMP authorization to open new routes to market and revenue. We believe DOGE’s mission is to modernize and drive efficiency in the Federal government should drive additional uptake in the use of cloud services and being prepared for that will allow your company to win new business. 

2. For CSPs who are already authorized: Your number one priority should be ensuring continuous monitoring activities are successfully demonstrated.  As the FedRAMP program continues to evolve and in discussions about the future state, we’re hearing more and more focus will be placed on Continuous Monitoring (ConMon).  In addition, with greater responsibilities shifting to the Agencies, now more than ever, ensure alignment with all your authorizing agencies to determine the right path forward for your company. 

The state of FedRAMP 

The GSA’s FedRAMP program, which evaluates the security of cloud computing services for Federal agencies, is undergoing significant changes. Although the support team at the FedRAMP Program Management Office (PMO) within GSA may be shrinking in size, the goals and objectives of the Government-wide initiative remain strong and are a focus area for automation and efficiencies. PMO staffing reductions are primarily affecting private sector contractors, with the number of contractors expected to drop to zero due to expiring contracts.  Again, this supports the shifting of responsibilities back to the Agencies who are best poised to ascertain the appropriate level of security risk acceptable for the cloud solution they’re authorizing for use.   

Despite these changes, FedRAMP continues to be a priority for the US Government. The program is being revamped to increase throughput and enhance government adoption of modern technology. In fact, a recently discussed goal is to decrease the entry barriers so that small businesses in particular are better able to enter the market.  FedRAMP’s codification into Federal law in 2022 ensures its staying power, with ongoing efforts to streamline evaluation and approval processes 

The role of 3PAOs 

While much has been said in the market about the role of the PMO and its impacts on third-party assessment requirements, 3PAOs are crucial for ensuring the security of cloud products – helping to identify risks to government agencies. 3PAOs are beholden to strict standards such as ISO 17020 and FedRAMP-specific requirements set by the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) in their R311 publication. This includes certifications for assessors, continued education, and participation in activities to ensure the integrity of the program. 

These requirements ensure that 3PAOs, like A-LIGN, can perform FedRAMP assessments that are high quality for CSPs. Concerns about 3PAO performance and quality are addressed with A2LA as the independent accreditation body, to step in. A2LA conducts a comprehensive initial audit for every candidate 3PAO, followed by a surveillance audit before a full renewal in year 3. 

Currently, the Agencies play a role in continuous monitoring, ensuring that cloud service offerings (CSOs) remain secure and compliant over time. However, with the existing cuts and uncertainty around the future of FedRAMP, there is an opportunity for 3PAOs to provide additional assurance to CSPs, government agencies, and taxpayers, to have 3PAOs conduct continuous monitoring activities in lieu of Agencies to ensure security remains fortified. 

Moving forward 

FedRAMP remains a critical component of federal technology modernization. As the program evolves, CSPs must stay informed and proactive in their compliance efforts. A-LIGN is committed to helping you navigate these changes and achieve your FedRAMP goals. 

Reach out to us today to learn more about FedRAMP and to stay up to date on the latest news in the market. 

One of the most crucial pieces of the compliance puzzle is your auditor. Finding the right auditor can mean the difference between an efficient, smooth audit experience and a long list of costly compliance and brand reputation issues.  

A-LIGN’s 2025 Compliance Benchmark Report found that report and auditor quality remain top of mind for compliance teams. Our survey revealed that the most important factors for companies when choosing an auditor are: 

• Experienced audit team 

• Report quality 

• Tech-enabled audit  

But what does “experienced” mean? Or a “quality” report? We’ll answer those questions below as we cover the six crucial factors to consider when choosing a compliance auditor. Plus, follow along with our Quality Audit Checklist to make sure you get the most from your audit experience. 

1. Experience and credentials  

When it comes to compliance audits, experience counts. In fact, it might be the most important factor of all. Here are some specific qualities to look for.  

Industry tenure and track record  

Look for auditors who have been in business for a substantial period — ideally a decade or more — and have completed many audits for the standard you need. Experienced auditors are less likely to make costly mistakes and are better equipped to handle complex compliance landscapes. 

An experienced auditor will also generally have a large team of experts with a wide variety of specialties. Auditors on these teams also generally have experience with an array of company types, making it more likely your audit team will have a deep understanding of your priorities. 

Certifications and accreditations  

Ensure your auditors hold the certifications, licenses, and accreditations required to perform the audits you need. Here are some examples:  

Certified public accounting license and registered with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants — only independent licensed CPAs can issue SOC 1 and SOC 2 attestation reports  

Accredited by ANAB, the ANSI National Accreditation Board as an ISO 27001, ISO 27701, ISO 42001 and ISO 22301 certification body   

Accredited by UKAS, the United Kingdom Accreditation Service, as an ISO 27001 certification body 

Authorized HITRUST External Assessor  

Accredited FedRAMP Third Party Assessment Organization (3PAO)   

Accredited CMMC Third Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) 

PCI Qualified Security Assessor Company   

Maintaining high standards  

Not all accreditation bodies are created equal. It’s important to seek out accreditation bodies that maintain high standards of quality. These groups often have a long track record of success and far-reaching expertise in the frameworks you’re pursuing. Plus, their teams have relevant certifications and deep industry experience. 

Industry-specific experience  

Auditors with experience in your industry will understand your organization’s unique compliance challenges and requirements better. This insight is crucial for providing relevant and effective audit services. If your auditor has experience in the healthcare sector, for example, they’d be familiar with the overlap between SOC 2 and HIPAA compliance. A combined audit could save you significant time and money.   

2. Report quality  

According to the 2025 Compliance Benchmark Report, 70% of companies deemed the quality of compliance reports extremely important. Not all reports are created equal, so finding an audit partner who will deliver a high-quality report is essential. 

Thorough, actionable reports  

If the report you get from your auditor is too short, too vague, or otherwise deficient, you’ve wasted time and money. Ask your prospective auditor detailed questions about how they prepare audit reports. Curious what questions to ask? Download our Quality Audit Checklist. High-quality audit reports should not only confirm compliance but also highlight areas for improvement and risk mitigation strategies that are specific to your organization’s security posture.   

Red flags to watch for  

Be cautious of audit firms that provide overly brief reports or fail to offer constructive feedback. Cookie-cutter statements that could apply to any company could indicate insufficient investigation into your organization’s security processes and systems. Comprehensive reports that include thought leadership and best practices are indicative of a thorough and professional audit process.  

Be sure to ask any potential auditors about their level of success and how often their reports are rejected by external vendors. Rejected reports are a red flag for report and auditor quality. 

3. Breadth of services 

An auditor with a wide breadth of services can help you combine audits, avoiding duplicate efforts later on. According to the 2025 Compliance Benchmark Report, 92% of companies pursue more than one certification or attestation, making it all the more important to choose an auditor that will grow with you and continue to meet your needs.  

Multiple frameworks   

Look for firms capable of handling a wide range of compliance standards and frameworks. Consider what certifications and assessments are common in your industry, and make sure your potential audit partner can handle those needs. Even if you only seek out one or two audits now, your auditor should be able to scale its services as your business evolves and grows — or new regulations emerge.  

Cybersecurity and risk management  

Outside of yearly audits, a full-service compliance partner should offer cybersecurity services like penetration testing and vulnerability assessment to help your organization mitigate risk year-round. Ask any prospective auditors how they can support and guide your organization on its journey to improve its overall security posture.  

Related content: The Why Behind Compliance: Building a Culture of Security 

4. Tech-enabled services  

Choosing an auditor who embraces technology isn’t about flashy bells and whistles; it’s about efficiency. An auditor who does everything manually will take longer to finish your audit, and nobody wants to spend more time on an audit than they have to.  Download the Quality Audit Checklist to learn what questions can help you understand a firm’s technology  

Software and automation  

Leverage auditors who use audit management software to streamline the audit process. This technology can simplify evidence collection and streamline communication between you and your auditor, limiting the time and resources needed to complete the audit. It also gives you a more transparent look at the process.  

Integration with GRC tools   

Choose auditors who can integrate with your existing compliance and trust management software, like Vanta, Drata, or AuditBoard. This integration can enhance the scalability and accessibility of your compliance program, making it easier to maintain high standards over time.  

5. Audit process 

Selecting a team that has wide-reaching experience and the appropriate certifications is essential, but so is alignment with the audit process. This portion of the process will take up time and resources, so be sure to understand scoping, the steps of the process, and how often you’ll be in touch with the team. 

Experienced audit teams will have a clearly defined process to help you achieve your compliance goals. Here’s what to look for in a productive, manageable process: 

• Timeline and scoping: There should be a clear timeline and scoping criteria established from the get-go. Be aware that the timeline will vary based on the framework, team availability, level of business complexity, and more. 

• Synchronize audit cycles: Identifying overlaps and harmonizing audit cycles is a green flag for an effective audit partner. It takes knowledge and experience to define an audit synchronization opportunity, and those who see it will save you time and resources. 

• Streamline the process: You shouldn’t feel like ripping your hair out during an audit cycle. The right partner will streamline the process with technology and other tools to ensure a seamless process with minimal disruptions. 

• Team communication: The frequency and style of communication your audit partner brings to the table are high priority. Consider: are you looking for a partner to keep you up-to-date each day? Do you only want periodic updates? Think about what’s important to you and choose accordingly.  

6. Reputation and references  

A qualified auditor should be well respected by its customers and the industry at large. Avoid companies that cannot back up their supposed reputation with examples and metrics.   

Client testimonials and references  

Request references from similar companies to gauge the auditor’s reliability and effectiveness. Positive feedback from these references can provide valuable insights into the auditor’s performance and process.  

Case studies and success stories  

Review the auditor’s case studies, which should clearly demonstrate the auditor’s ability to deliver successful compliance outcomes. These stories can offer concrete examples of how the auditor has helped other organizations achieve their compliance goals.  

Industry recognition  

Choose auditors who are recognized and respected in the industry. Awards, publications, and active participation in industry forums are good indicators of a firm’s credibility and expertise.  

How does A-LIGN stack up?  

“I have extensive experience with auditors, and working with A-LIGN has been refreshing. I appreciate their approach, communication, proactive team, and how seamlessly audits are conducted with a no-surprises approach,” said Rashpal Singh, Global Director of Governance, Risk, and Compliance at Menlo Security. 

Selecting the right compliance auditor can make a significant difference in maintaining a robust compliance program and building trust with your stakeholders. Combining experienced auditors and audit management technology, A-LIGN provides the widest breadth and depth of services including SOC 2, ISO 27001, HITRUST, FedRAMP, and PCI, among others. 

A-LIGN prioritizes delivering best-in-class audits for our clients, providing tailored guidance, practical recommendations, and ongoing support to maintain a successful security posture. Our 96% client satisfaction rating speaks for itself.  

Contact us to learn more about why A-LIGN is the leading provider of high-quality, efficient cybersecurity compliance programs.

The European Union is raising its bar for compliance with the roll out of NIS2, but what exactly is it and how can companies ensure they comply? We’re here to break down this regulation and share the best way for organizations to achieve compliance by following the ISO/IEC 27001:2022 framework.  

What is NIS2? 

Replacing the original NIS Directive, NIS2 sets out to redefine minimum security requirements for operators of essential services and digital service providers. This update drives broader applicability across more industries, introduces new methods for onboarding companies, establishes stricter requirements for reporting incidents, and enforces harsher penalties for non-compliance. It’s intended to strengthen cybersecurity in the EU, ensuring all companies in the scope of the NIS2 directive that provide services or carry out activities within the EU take proactive measures to create a more secure operating environment. 

Check out our article NIS2 Directive: What You Need to Know to take a deeper dive into the updates and requirements for this regulation.  

What is ISO 27001? 

ISO 27001 is an internationally recognized standard that focuses on the implementation, management, and maintenance of information security within a company. It’s a powerful framework for governance because it gives organizations flexibility to ensure that what they’re implementing aligns with their business goals. It builds a strong foundation for security practices, focusing not just on controls but on a robust management system. 

To learn more about ISO 27001, check out our article ISO 27001 Certification: Everything You Need to Know 

Using ISO 27001 as a tool for NIS2 compliance 

The NIS2 Directive does not provide a clear roadmap for how to achieve compliance, which leaves many organizations wondering how they can meet the guidelines of the directive and avoid penalties for non-compliance. While ISO 27001 is not specifically mentioned, the directive does allude to “relevant European and international standards.” Our team of experts at A-LIGN believe that NIS2 compliance can be achieved with the ISO 27001 framework, incorporating additional requirements for business continuity and incident management.  

Mapping the Overlap 

There are ten minimum security measures for NIS2 that build on and align closely with ISO 27001, adding specific business continuity requirements to enhance organizational resilience. Certifying against ISO 27001 and mapping to NIS2 controls demonstrates conformity of your Information Security Management System (ISMS) with the documented standards and provides your customers with assurance regarding the security of your systems and data. If you are already ISO 27001 compliant, mapping to NIS2 controls enhances compliance by aligning with EU-specific requirements and emphasizes incident reporting. It also gives you a competitive edge by demonstrating a robust commitment to cybersecurity. 

A-LIGN is at the forefront of ISO 27001 certification and has a team of experts ready to help you navigate the audit process and achieve compliance. Reach out to us today to get started with ISO 27001 certification for 2025.   

The European Union Artificial Intelligence Act (EU AI Act) has established a comprehensive framework for regulating AI, setting a precedent for global AI governance. As enforcement phases roll out, organizations must proactively implement compliance measures to avoid legal and operational risks. However, due to evolving regulatory interpretations and industry-specific obligations, many organizations face uncertainty regarding compliance strategies. 

ISO/IEC 42001, the AI Management System (AIMS) standard, provides a structured, risk-based approach to AI governance that aligns with the EU AI Act’s requirements. This article outlines the regulatory timeline and demonstrates how companies can leverage ISO 42001 to systematically prepare for compliance.  

What is the EU AI Act? 

The EU AI Act is a groundbreaking legislative proposal designed to regulate artificial intelligence across the European Union. Its core objective is to establish a legal framework that balances technological innovation with the protection of fundamental rights and public safety. The act classifies AI applications into four risk categories: unacceptable, high, limited, and minimal, each subject to specific rules or restrictions.  

What is ISO 42001? 

ISO 42001 is an international standard dedicated to establishing effective artificial intelligence management systems. This standard outlines a structured framework that organizations can adopt to ensure the responsible and ethical use of AI technologies. 

Published on December 18, 2023, this standard provides guidance to organizations that design, develop, and deploy AI systems on factors such as transparency, accountability, bias identification and mitigation, safety, and privacy. 

EU AI Act timeline 

The EU AI Act became legally binding on August 1, 2024. However, the requirements in the act will begin to take effect gradually over time with a phased roll out. Key milestones include: 

• February 2, 2025: Prohibitions on certain AI systems and requirements on AI literacy start to apply. 

• August 2, 2025: Rules start to apply for notified bodies, GPAI models, governance, confidentiality and penalties. 

• August 2, 2026: The remainder of the AI Act starts to apply, except for some high-risk AI systems with specific qualifications. 

• August 2, 2027: All systems, without exception, must meet obligations of the AI Act. 

February 2025 milestones 

The first major enforcement deadline—February 2, 2025—introduced two key requirements: 

• Prohibited AI practices: The Act explicitly bans AI systems that engage in manipulative behavior, social scoring, or unauthorized biometric surveillance. Organizations that have not conducted internal risk assessments to identify and eliminate these practices are already non-compliant. 

• AI literacy requirements: Organizations must ensure that employees involved in AI decision-making possess adequate training in AI risk management, explainability, and governance. This requirement applies to developers, compliance teams, and executives responsible for AI oversight. 

Organizations that have not yet implemented structured compliance mechanisms must act immediately, as future enforcement deadlines impose stricter obligations on AI transparency and risk management. 

August 2025 milestones 

The next major deadline introduces requirements for general-purpose AI (GPAI) providers, including foundational models and large-scale AI systems. 

• Transparency disclosures: AI providers must publicly disclose details about model training methodologies, datasets, and inherent risks. 

• Explainability and accountability: Organizations must ensure AI outputs are understandable, predictable, and governed by clearly defined policies. 

ISO 42001 provides a structured approach to meeting these requirements: 

• Clause 7.4 (Communication & transparency) outlines best practices for documenting and disclosing AI models and decision-making processes. 

• Clause 6.1.3 (AI system impact assessment) supports organizations in evaluating AI bias, ethical risks, and explainability, reinforcing compliance with EU AI Act transparency mandates. 

For companies developing GPAI models, establishing robust transparency mechanisms is essential to avoid regulatory penalties. 

August 2026 milestones 

By this date, high-risk AI systems defined in Annex III of the EU AI Act must fully comply with strict legal, technical, and governance requirements. These systems are deployed in sectors such as healthcare, critical infrastructure, law enforcement, and human resource management. 

Organizations must ensure high-risk AI systems: 

• Implement rigorous risk management practices 

• Include bias detection and mitigation controls 

• Maintain security and explainability safeguards 

ISO 42001 establishes a structured risk-management framework that directly aligns with high-risk AI system compliance: 

• Clause 8.2 (AI risk treatment) enables organizations to systematically identify, assess, and mitigate AI risks. 

• Clause 9 (Performance evaluation) mandates ongoing risk monitoring, bias audits, and transparency reporting, ensuring continued compliance. 

Organizations operating high-risk AI must implement structured AI governance frameworks to meet this compliance milestone. 

August 2027 milestones 

Certain high-risk AI systems integrated into pre-existing EU-regulated industries (e.g., medical devices, finance, and automotive) will be subject to an extended compliance timeline. AI systems requiring pre-market conformity assessments under sector-specific EU laws must meet full AI Act compliance by this date. 

ISO 42001 facilitates multi-standard compliance and audit readiness: 

• ISO 42001 integrates with ISO 27001 (Information Security) and ISO 13485 (Medical Devices), providing a unified compliance framework. 

• ISO 42001 supports AI conformity assessments, positioning organizations for third-party regulatory audits. 

Organizations in regulated industries should begin integrating AI governance structures now to ensure seamless compliance by 2027. 

Why ISO 42001 is essential for EU AI Act compliance 

The EU AI Act mandates an ongoing governance framework for AI risk management, transparency, and compliance. Unlike one-time risk assessments or ad hoc governance policies, ISO 42001 establishes a systematic, repeatable process for AI compliance, ensuring organizations: 

1. Proactively manage AI risks rather than responding to enforcement actions. 

2. Align AI governance with business operations using structured risk-management frameworks. 

3. Demonstrate compliance through audit-ready documentation and performance evaluation. 

ISO 42001 provides an adaptable compliance framework that evolves alongside regulatory requirements, making it an ideal foundation for AI governance.  Though it is not an approved harmonized standard for AI Act conformity, it does provide the foundation you’ll need to be successful when the final QMS conformity standard is released.  

Recommendations for EU AI Act compliance 

Organizations should take the following steps to ensure readiness for EU AI Act enforcement: 

1. Conduct an AI risk & readiness assessment: Map AI systems to EU AI Act categories and use ISO 42001’s risk framework to identify compliance gaps. 

2. Implement AI literacy programs: Ensure personnel meet EU AI Act training requirements through structured education initiatives outlined in ISO 42001 Clause 7.2 (Competence). 

3. Develop AI governance policies: Use ISO 42001 to define roles, responsibilities, and oversight mechanisms for AI compliance. 

4. Prepare for independent audits: ISO 42001 provides an audit-ready AI governance structure, ensuring organizations are prepared for third-party conformity assessments. 

The EU AI Act is now law, and enforcement will intensify over the next two years. Organizations that wait until 2026 or 2027 to implement compliance measures will face significant operational and regulatory risks. ISO 42001 provides a structured, proactive approach to AI governance, ensuring that organizations remain compliant, transparent, and resilient in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. 

The question is no longer whether AI governance will become mandatory—it already is. The real challenge is ensuring that organizations implement compliance structures that are sustainable, scalable, and aligned with industry best practices. Organizations that take action now will be best positioned to thrive in the new AI regulatory environment.

With bad actors targeting sensitive data, many organizations are looking for new ways to monitor and improve their data security — Enter: ISO/IEC 27001:2022. Earning your ISO 27001 certification is a useful way to establish credibility with stakeholders, customers, and partners, and in turn, helps demonstrate your organization’s commitment to cybersecurity.   

Of course, like most standards, the certification process can seem daunting at first glance. Here’s what you need to know before your organization decides to pursue an ISO 27001 certification.   

What is ISO 27001?  

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) originally published ISO 27001 in October 2005, revised in 2013, and again in 2022. It focuses on building a strong information security management system (ISMS) within organizations.    

As one of the most widely used security frameworks around the world, ISO 27001 is a risk-driven standard that focuses on data confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The standard aims to help organizations have a stronger, more holistic approach to data security.   

What are the benefits of ISO 27001 certification? 

• Defines responsibilities and business processes for information security  
• Builds a culture of information security and diligence  
• Reduces the potential for security incidents through implemented controls specific to your unique risks and assets  
• Meets additional security compliance requirements

Who should get a certification for ISO 27001?  

ISO 27001 isn’t a legal requirement but may be a prerequisite to customers doing business with your organization.  

Some industries are more likely to need an ISO 27001 certification because of the type of data that companies store. These industries include:  

• Information technology  

• Healthcare  

• Finance  

• Consulting  

• Telecommunications 

What is the difference between ISO 27001 and SOC 2?  

ISO 27001 and SOC 2 are two of the most popular cybersecurity assessments that verify an organization’s ability to mitigate risk and protect information. However, the two standards are not interchangeable.   

SOC, or System and Organizational Controls, is a framework developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) with the aim of providing regular, independent attestation of the controls that an organization has implemented to mitigate information-related risk. There are three types of SOC audits: SOC 1, SOC 2, and SOC 3, although SOC 2 has become the de facto standard for cybersecurity.   

Difference #1: Certification vs. attestation   

The biggest difference between ISO 27001 and SOC 2 is that ISO 27001 is an audit process that results in a certification, and SOC 2 is an audit process that results in an attestation report. In an attestation report, a third-party assessor documents a conclusion about the reliability of a written statement over a prior time period. ISO 27001 certifications, on the other hand, are issued by an accredited certification body or the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) seal and lasts for 3 years.   

Difference #2: Global reach  

ISO 27001 is an international standard that is used as the principal cybersecurity standard throughout the world. SOC 2 is an American-born standard, and although it is gaining popularity in Europe, it has yet to have the same global reach as ISO 27001.   

Difference #3: ISMS vs. Trust Service Criteria (TSC)  

ISO 27001 focuses on the development and maintenance of an Information Security Management System (ISMS). In order to earn an ISO 27001 certification, organizations must implement all of the clauses and controls of the framework within the scope of its ISMS. The organization will then be issued a pass or fail of the audit. Organizations would need to implement, maintain and continually improve the ISMS in order to achieve an ISO 27001 certification.  

SOC 2 is structured around five Trust Services Criteria (TSC): Security, Availability, Confidentiality, Processing Integrity, and Privacy. For a SOC 2 audit, organizations can mostly pick which criteria they’d like to have evaluated (Security is mandatory). The final report is not pass/fail but rather the auditor concludes an opinion based on the design and effectiveness of the operation of controls in place for each chosen TSC.  

Difference #4: Certification bodies and renewal timelines   

For SOC 2, the attestation is carried out by a licensed CPA firm. ISO 27001 certifications must be carried out by an accredited ISO 27001 certification body. 

How do ISO 27001 and ISO 42001 overlap? 

ISO 27001 provides a great foundation for ISO 42001, a new standard for AI use. But, the two are not the same. Here’s how they differ:  

• Scope: ISO 27001 focuses on ISMS and provides a framework to protect sensitive information through risk management processes. ISO 42001, however, deals with AI management systems. This standard includes responsibilities specific to AI, such as ethical considerations and impact assessments. 

• Normative references: ISO 27001 references various information security management standards. These guidelines help organizations maintain data integrity, confidentiality, and availability. ISO 42001 incorporates AI-specific standards, like ISO/IEC 22989. These references focus on ethical AI use, risk management, and system integrity. 

• Context of the organization: ISO 27001 requires organizations to understand the context of their information security needs. ISO 42001 extends this concept to AI. Organizations must understand the specific context of their AI systems, including stakeholder expectations and potential impacts. ISO 42001 also requires organizations to understand their role in the AI ecosystem as provider, producer, or user. 

Understanding the overlaps and differences between these two frameworks can streamline your compliance efforts and keep your team ahead of the curve. Learn more about ISO 42001 vs. ISO 27001. 

Preparing for your ISO 27001 audit  

The prep work is just as important as the audit when it comes to compliance. Your organization should take the time to understand the standard, define your goals, and research accredited certification bodies, or organizations. You should also consider conducting a gap assessment and understand the state of your company’s compliance journey before jumping into an ISO 27001 audit. 

Steps to ISO 27001

While the road to ISO 27001 certification is well-established, it is still a multi-pronged process that requires attention to detail and a generous time commitment. The five steps to ISO 27001 certification include:   

1. Optional Pre-Assessment    

2. The Stage 1 Audit    

3. The Stage 2 Audit    

4. A Surveillance Audit    

5. Recertification   

In order to make the ISO 27001 certification process as smooth as possible, A-LIGN offers end-to-end services, from pre-assessment to ongoing audits to recertification. Our experts ensure your organization can continue to run with minimal disruption while still helping you acquire the certification you need to strengthen your security.     

Step 1: Pre-assessment    

The pre-assessment is designed for companies that are undergoing the certification process for the first time. This assessment is only performed on an as-needed basis but is highly recommended prior to the actual audit.   

The pre-assessment involves performing a review of an organization’s scope, policies, procedures, and processes to review any gaps in conformance that may need remediation before the actual certification process begins.   

Step 2: Stage 1 audit   

During a Stage 1 audit, an auditor reviews an organization’s ISMS to confirm that it has been established and implemented in conformance with the ISO 27001 standard. This audit also checks to see if the mandatory activities of an ISMS have either been completed prior to starting Stage 2.   

Upon completion, the Stage 1 audit will reveal if an organization is ready to move forward to Stage 2 or if it needs to modify its policies, procedures, and supporting documentation before proceeding.   

Step 3: Stage 2 audit   

The Stage 2 audit tests the conformance of an organization’s ISMS against the ISO 27001 standard. Upon completion of Stage 2, A-LIGN will determine if an organization is ready for certification.   

If any nonconformities were identified during the audit, they will need to be remediated by the organization before a certificate can be issued.    

Stage 4: Surveillance audit   

The ISO 27001 certification process doesn’t simply end after a certificate has been issued. For the two years following certification, A-LIGN will conduct annual surveillance audits to ensure an organization’s ongoing compliance with the ISO 27001 standards. This step ensures your cybersecurity practices are operating at the highest possible level.   

Stage 5: Recertification   

An ISO 27001 certification is valid for three years after the certificate’s issue date. Organizations need to recertify before the certificate’s expiration date or be required to begin the certification process again. Recertification audits review the entire management system, similar to the Stage 2 audit.     

How do I choose an assessor?  

Once an organization decides to pursue an ISO 27001 certification, they must then decide which path to take toward certification. This initial step in the process means choosing a certification body (CB).   

A CB is an organization that provides certifications around a chosen standard. These organizations come in two forms: accredited and unaccredited.    

Although the process taken by both accredited and unaccredited certification bodies are similar, there are enough differences to consider the risks that come from using unaccredited certification bodies before they begin pursuing ISO 27001 certification.    

Accredited certification bodies    

Accredited certification bodies must complete a rigorous evaluation process through an accreditation body. This is done to ensure the certification audit it conducts is performed in accordance with the audit requirements.    

The evaluation process involves reviewing the competence of the audit team, the audit methodology used by the certification body, and the quality control procedures an organization has in place to ensure the audit and certificate are performed/issued accurately.  

Organizations that use an accredited certification body for certification will receive their ISO 27001 certifications with the accreditation body represented on the certificate. Additionally, for certification bodies that have entered into the IAF Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA) under their accreditation body, the IAF MLA mark will appear on the certificate as well in addition to the AB’s mark.  Accreditation granted by the IAF MLA are recognized globally for equivalent programs and recognize acceptance of certificates across global markets. Accreditation bodies are admitted to the MLA after a peer review, and their certification bodies are held to auditable requirements. Recognized accreditation bodies and scopes can be verified on the IAF website.   

Unaccredited certification bodies   

Because accreditation is not compulsory, non-accreditation does not always mean the certification body is not reputable. Accreditation, however, does provide a confirmation that the certification body is approved. An unaccredited certification body is not audited to confirm their compliance with IAF certification audit requirements.   

Oftentimes clients will only accept ISO 27001 certificates from accredited certification bodies. It is important for organizations to check if their clients have any specific accreditation requirements before they begin their certification process.  

Common pitfalls  

All certification processes come with the chance of not getting approved for certification, and ISO 27001 is no exception. Here are some of the most common ISO 27001 pitfalls organizations make, along with how you can avoid making the same missteps.    

Pitfall #1: Failing to schedule the internal audit and management review   

Both the internal audit and management review are critical to the success of the ISMS, as the internal audit feeds into the management review, and then both feed into the continuous improvement cycle.   

However, the certification process can be easily disrupted if the internal audit and management review are not scheduled within the proper time frame. Organizations should make sure their internal audit is scheduled well in advance of the certification audits in order for management review and continuous improvement activities to have enough time to be completed. The internal audit and management review of the ISMS must be completed prior to the Stage 2 audit.  

A-LIGN starts the surveillance audit approximately nine months after receiving initial certification. This means an organization would start the next internal audit six to seven months after certification.   

Pitfall #2: Changes in key personnel    

Most times, the ISMS is implemented by someone who fields many of the questions during an audit, taking overall responsibility for the ISMS. If this person leaves their role, the ISMS can fall apart.   

Organizations need to ensure they have a redundant person who has a basic understanding of the ISMS. Even if this person never has to step up and take over the process, having an established transition process ahead of time can alleviate any potential headaches down the line. Detailed documentation will be key to this transition and will help ensure the new ISMS Manager can continue carrying out the processes required.   

Pitfall #3: Failing to be vigilant   

ISO 27001 defines ongoing processes that should be in place throughout the year, not just during the audit itself. Management controls, which include periodic meetings, documented approvals for decisions, recording meeting minutes of oversight committees, etc., require maintenance for the ISMS to continue to function.    

It is easy to fall into a period of false security and let oversight slip. Organizations should make sure their ISMS is a living process that is built into their day-to-day so that it continues to function as designed after certification is received.   

Pitfall #4: Not considering environmental changes    

ISO 27001 requires that all changes in the environment must be considered through the risk assessment process. It also requires new or modified controls to be mentioned in the statement of applicability.   

The certification body you choose must also be notified and a new certificate issued if there are changes to the scope or statement of applicability.    

When changes in the environment may impact the scope of certification, it is necessary to review and update the ISMS documentation to ensure it correctly reflects the environment post-change.

What is ISO 27701?  

Acting as an extension of ISO 27001, ISO 27701 is the first international privacy standard to provide a certification path for organizations to demonstrate their privacy systems and controls.   

The ISO/IEC 27701:2019 standard was first published in 2019. It details the requirements and guidance for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continually improving a Privacy Information Management System (PIMS). Although this standard is most relevant for personally identifiable information (PII) controllers and processors, it can also be used by organizations of any kind, size, and location.  An important thing to remember is that most organizations are at the very least a controller of their employees’ data.  

To receive an ISO 27701 accredited certificate, organizations must either already have ISO 27001 certification or must undergo the ISO 27001 certification audit with the extension of ISO 27701.  

Why organizations may want to pursue ISO 27001 and ISO 27701  

Outside of simply gaining a better understanding of the PIMS implementation process, there are multiple benefits that come from pursuing ISO 27701 and ISO 27001. Combining the two certifications:    

Streamlines compliance obligations for ISO 27001 and the GDPR by integrating privacy directly into an organization’s ISMS   

Helps organizations surpass the competition and attract new customers by adding a level of increased security and privacy into the organization   

Maintains peace of mind for current customers as they know their personal identifiable information (PII) is protected   

Helps organizations avoid potential fines, especially as the enforcement of privacy protection continues to increase   

The underlying, foundational framework of ISO 27001 creates a strong ISMS. Alongside the ongoing PIMS improvement structure of ISO 27701, organizations can benefit from combining the two and ensuring a certifiable commitment to privacy controls.    

A-LIGN recognizes the complex compliance needs for businesses that require cybersecurity compliance assessments in the U.S. and EMEA region. To cater to this growing demand, A-LIGN has successfully pursued and obtained accreditation from both ANAB and UKAS specifically to the ISO 27001 and ISO 27701 standards. 

What are the ISO 27001 controls and requirements?  

What are the ISO 27001 controls and requirements? 

The ISO 27001 requirements provide a clear framework for protecting and managing valuable data and information. In the 2013 version of ISO 27001, controls were organized into 14 different domains. In the 2022 update, controls are placed into four themes instead:   

People controls (8 controls)   

Organizational controls (37 controls)   

Technological controls (34 controls)   

Physical controls (14 controls)   

Below is a summary of the new controls in ISO Annex A:  

A.5.7 Threat Intelligence: This control requires organizations to gather and analyze information about threats, so they can take action to mitigate risk.  

A.5.23 Information Security for Use of Cloud Services: This control emphasizes the need for better information security in the cloud and requires organizations to set security standards for cloud services and have processes and procedures specifically for cloud services.    

A.5.30 ICT Readiness for Business Continuity: This control requires organizations to ensure information and communication technology can be recovered/used when disruptions occur.    

A.7.4 Physical Security Monitoring: This control requires organizations to monitor sensitive physical areas (data centers, production facilities, etc.) to ensure only authorized people can access them — so the organization is aware in the event of a breach.    

A.8.9 Configuration Management: This control requires an organization to manage the configuration of its technology, to ensure it remains secure, and to avoid unauthorized changes.    

A.8.10 Information Deletion: This control requires the deletion of data when it’s no longer required, to avoid leaks of sensitive information, and to comply with privacy requirements.    

A.8.11 Data Masking: This control requires organizations to use data masking in accordance with the organization’s access control policy to protect sensitive information.    

A.8.12 Data Leakage Prevention: This control requires organizations to implement measures to prevent data leakage and disclosure of sensitive information from systems, networks, and other devices.   

A.8.16 Monitoring Activities: This control requires organizations to monitor systems for unusual activities and implement appropriate incident response procedures.    

A.8.23 Web Filtering: This control requires organizations to manage which websites users access, to protect IT systems.    

A.8.28 Secure Coding: This control requires secure coding principles to be established within an organization’s software development process to reduce security vulnerabilities.    

How does ISO 27001 relate to GDPR compliance? 

Achieving ISO 27001 certification can cover many aspects of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) but it’s impossible to fully swap a standard and a regulation. While ISO 27001 does not equal GDPR compliance, it’s a great starting point. 

How long is ISO 27001 certification valid? 

ISO 27001 certifications are valid for a three-year period with annual surveillance audits.  

What’s an example of ISO 27001 in the real world? 

Below are customer case studies in which the organization earned ISO 27001 certification to drive revenue, build customer trust, and better their security posture.  

Magic Achieves SOC 2, ISO 27001, and HIPAA Compliance with A-LIGN & Drata 

Anthology’s commitment to compliance elevates edtech standards 

Boomi showcases cybersecurity dedication with 10+ compliance certifications and attestations 

Menlo Security reduces evidence collection time by 60% with consolidated audit approach 

Getting started with ISO 27001 

ISO 27001 is a longstanding cybersecurity framework used to build an ISMS within your organization. This internationally recognized framework is a risk-driven standard focusing on the confidentiality, integrity and availability of the data in your environment.      

As an accredited ISO 27001 certification body,  A-LIGN can provide your organization with the experience and guidance needed to achieve certification.  Contact us to get started today.  

If your company is a prime or subprime contractor for the Department of Defense (DoD), you’re likely familiar with CMMC. That’s because the DoD has released the final rule for CMMC 2.0. 

What does that mean for your business, and how should you prepare? In this post, we cover everything you need to know about CMMC 2.0. 

What is CMMC 2.0? 

The first question many people have is, “What does CMMC stand for?” CMMC stands for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification. CMMC is designed to ensure that cybersecurity controls and processes adequately protect Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) that resides on Defense Industrial Base (DIB) systems and networks.  

CMMC 1.0 was finalized in 2020. CMMC 2.0 — published in October 2024 — is an updated framework with three control levels, as opposed to the five maturity levels in CMMC 1.0. 

What is a C3PAO? 

A C3PAO is a CMMC Third Party Assessment Organization, The Cyber AB authorizes a C3PAO to contract and manage CMMC assessments and only authorized C3PAOs can conduct CMMC assessments.  

Currently, less than 80 C3PAOs can assess for CMMC, and more than 80,000 organizations need assessments. That means early adopters will have their pick of C3PAOs and will be first in line to receive certification, and organizations who are slow to act may face long waitlists or delays.  

A C3PAO is an essential partner in your CMMC journey. C3PAOs follow the CMMC assessment process and conduct thorough assessments of DoD contractors. Although the Cyber AB authorizes all C3PAOs, each organization has different strengths and weaknesses, so you must choose an organization that meets your needs 

CMMC 2.0 requirements 

With the CMMC 2.0 program, the DoD introduced several changes compared to the original version of the program. Most obviously, the model has been streamlined from five to three compliance levels that each correspond with existing, widely accepted cybersecurity standards. And while many organizations will require third-party assessment, many will be able to demonstrate compliance through self-assessment, reducing costs for these organizations. Additionally, the DoD will allow companies to receive contract awards with the creation of a Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M) that describes how and when CMMC controls will be met.  

The CMMC 2.0 model 

The CMMC 2.0 framework organizes multiple cybersecurity standards and best practices into a set of practices and processes across three increasingly stringent levels. These practices and processes must be applied across 14 domains (i.e., control families): 

• Access Control (AC)
• Awareness & Training (AT)
• Audit & Accountability (AU)
• Configuration Management (CM)
• Identification & Authentication (IA)
• Incident Response (IR)
• Maintenance (MA)
• Media Protection (MP)
• Personnel Security (PS)
• Physical Protection (PE)
• Risk Assessment (RA)
• Security Assessment (CA)
• System and Communications Protection (SC)
• System and Information Integrity (SI)

What are the levels of CMMC 2.0? 

CMMC 2.0 Level 1 (“Foundational”) requirements 

This level includes basic cybersecurity appropriate for small companies using a subset of universally accepted common practices that organizations must perform. Level 1 contractors are those that handle Federal Contract Information (FCI) but not CUI. One of the more significant changes from CMMC 1.0 to 2.0 is that Level 1 is now a self-assessment only, placing this responsibility on the organization itself. Level 1 includes the same 15 controls outlined in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.204-21. 

CMMC 2.0 Level 2 (“Advanced”) requirements 

Level 2 contractors are those that handle CUI. Processes at this level are maintained and followed, and there is a comprehensive knowledge of cyber assets. The DoD has pared down the 130 practices in the original CMMC Level 3 baseline to the 110 practices outlined in the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication 800-171. “Critical” handlers of CUI will need a third-party assessment by a CMMC Third Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) for CMMC certification every three years. Level 2 processes must be documented and managed to protect CUI. 

Note: The DoD’s definition of “critical” CUI has not yet been provided. The final rule will outline what CUI qualifies as critical. 

CMMC 2.0 Level 3 (“Expert”) requirements 

Level 3 is for organizations with the highest-priority programs with CUI. The processes involved at this level include continuous improvement across the enterprise and defensive responses performed at machine speed. This level will replace what was formally known as CMMC Level 5. Level 3 will add additional requirements pulled from NIST 800-172 in addition to the Level 2 requirements. It is expected that organizations will be required to be assessed by the DoD directly every three years for Level 3 requirements. 

CMMC 2.0 vs. NIST 800-171 

CMMC 2.0 is influenced heavily by the requirements in NIST 800-171. CMMC 2.0 Level 2 essentially mirrors NIST 800-171. If your organization processes CUI and does business with the DoD, you are already required to implement NIST 800-171 under Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) Clause 252.204-7012.  

Additionally, the DFARS Interim Rule went into effect in November 2020. The interim rule requires DoD contractors to self-assess their implementation of NIST 800-171 and report their score through the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS). Performing this self-assessment and remediating any identified gaps simulates what CMMC 2.0 certification will be like.   

Who must comply with CMMC? Does the DoD require it? 

CMMC 2.0 will be mandatory for all entities doing business with the DoD at any level who store, transmit, or process information that meets the standards for FCI or CUI. Prime contractors and their subcontractors will be required to meet one of the three CMMC trust levels and demonstrate that cybersecurity has been sufficiently implemented through the completion of independent validation activities. Initial award or continuance of a DoD contract will be dependent upon CMMC compliance.   

No contractor organizations will be permitted to receive or share DoD information related to programs and projects without having completed the CMMC process. At the time that a contractor’s contract is up for renewal, they must be CMMC compliant.  

CMMC 2.0 timeline 

The Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (OUSD (A&S)) started the CMMC process in March 2019. The predicted date for the CMMC 2.0 rulemaking process to be completed has shifted several times, but the timeline below provides a history of significant milestones in the project thus far. 

• January 2020: Version 1.0 was finalized and a compliance checklist was released. 

• June 2020: CMMC began appearing in requests for information (RFIs). 

• September 2020: CMMC began appearing in requests for proposals (RFPs). 

• November 2020: The DFARS interim rule became effective; the original five-year phase-in period began.  

• March 2021: DoD initiated an internal review of CMMC 1.0. 

• November 2021: CMMC 2.0 was announced. 

• September 2022: Cyber AB, the CMMC accreditation body, established training and accreditation processes. 

• December 2023: The CMMC program proposed rule was released. 

• May 2024: DoD’s Regulatory Control Officer submitted a draft of the proposed DFARS rule to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA). 

• June 2024: 32 CFR 170, the rule finalizing the CMMC program, was submitted to OIRA for review. 

• August 2024: The proposed rule for 48 CFR, the rule implementing the enforcement of the CMMC program into contract requirements was released 

• October 2024: 32 CFR, the rule finalizing the CMMC 2.0 program, was published

Has CMMC 2.0 been released? 

The 32 CFR final rule was published in October 2024. 

When will CMMC 2.0 certifications be available? 

To obtain a CMMC Level 2 Certification, you will need to be assessed by a C3PAO. These Assessments can begin once the 32 CFR rule becomes effective. 

When will CMMC 2.0 be required for DoD contracts? 

The DoD will begin to add CMMC 2.0 requirements into contracts in a phased approach after the 48 CFR rule is finalized. As the proposed 48 CFR rule was published in August 2024, it’s anticipated that the phased rollout into contracts will begin Q2 of 2025. 

How much does CMMC certification cost? 

CMMC assessment costs are very scope-dependent as different organizations will have different sensitive data flowing through different numbers of assets. The DoD has assumed for the phased rollout of CMMC that roughly 35% of DIB contractors will require a certification assessment for Level 2, with the number of entities increasing incrementally over seven years (see p. 89085-89086 of Federal Register Vol. 88, No. 246).  

With that said, the potential loss in business is too large for most organizations to forego certification. As mentioned earlier in this article, CMMC compliance will be required for all DoD prime and subprime contractors. For contractors that fall in CMMC Levels 2 and 3 and handle critical CUI, third-party certification is mandatory to continue doing business with the DoD. 

Next steps: How to prepare for CMMC 2.0 certification 

1. Determine your organization’s CMMC level. Level 1 is for contractors and subcontractors processing FCI. Level 2 is for organizations processing CUI. Only organizations working on the DoD’s most sensitive programs will be expected to achieve Level 3 certification.  

2. Review the assessment guide for your CMMC level. The CMMC Level 1 Self-Assessment Guide and Level 2 Assessment Guide explain how contractors will be evaluated when CMMC is launched and organizations are pursuing certification. Unfortunately, there is not yet an assessment guide for CMMC Level 3. 

3. Work with a tech-enabled organization to secure your data. Cybersecurity solutions like Summit7, RISCPoint, and PreVeil can help you secure your FCI and CUI to prepare for CMMC compliance. 

4. Select a C3PAO and complete a readiness assessment. With a limited number of C3PAOs, it is important to start validating your organization’s readiness as soon as possible, as you will need time to remediate any gaps found. 

5. Sign a contract for CMMC certification ASAP. Once CMMC 2.0 certification starts showing up in DoD contracts, organizations that didn’t plan ahead will be scrambling to find a C3PAO and get in line for assessment.  

How to select a C3PAO 

Choosing the right C3PAO is crucial for a smooth and successful certification process. These are the key factors to consider when making your selection: 

• Expertise: Look for a C3PAO with experience in federal compliance frameworks like FedRAMP, NIST, and StateRAMP to ensure they can guide you effectively through the certification process. You should also consider how long the C3PAO has been in business, the experience of its employees, and its overall knowledge of cybersecurity compliance.  

• Quality: High-quality C3PAOs go beyond just checking boxes. They bring extensive experience and a deep understanding of CMMC requirements, which helps identify and address potential compliance issues effectively. They also provide thorough assessments and detailed feedback, helping you improve your cybersecurity posture and maintain compliance. 

• Efficiency: Look for a C3PAO that uses technology to streamline the certification process. This will accelerate the process and minimize disruptions. To further increase efficiency, consider a firm who can tackle additional frameworks such as SOC 2, ISO 27001, and more.    

• Timing: With CMMC requirements expected in DoD contracts by early 2026, it’s crucial to start preparing early. Since this is a new rule, most organizations will need about 6-12 months of preparation before the assessment begins. Make sure your C3PAO can accommodate your timeline and place you in the assessment queue quickly. 

• Budget: As with most things, you get what you pay for. Beware of budget C3PAOs that are offering assessments for under-market value. Balance your budget with other important factors listed above like quality, efficiency, timing, and expertise.  

Why sign a CMMC certification contract now? 

By getting under contract for CMMC certification now, you can get in the queue before other organizations rush to meet the compliance deadline. It can take up to 12 months for contractors to get ready for a CMMC assessment. In other words, once CMMC shows up in contract requirements, it will be too late to get started. 

Given the large number of organizations (roughly 80,000) that will need certification and the fact that there are only 60 C3PAOs that can perform assessments, organizations that don’t get ahead could get left behind. 

Don’t wait — get ready for CMMC 2.0 now with A-LIGN 

A-LIGN is one of only a few globally recognized cybersecurity and privacy compliance providers that offer a single-provider approach for organizations. A-LIGN is an accredited C3PAO and FedRAMP 3PAO with the ability to work with any organization, from small businesses to the largest global enterprises. With our extensive experience across NIST frameworks and 1000+ federal assessments completed, A-LIGN is the industry leader for cybersecurity compliance.  

No matter where you are in your CMMC journey, A-LIGN is here to help. Reach out today to get started and secure your spot in our CMMC certification queue. 

The 2025 HITRUST Trust Report provides a compelling look into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity assurance, with key takeaways that reinforce HITRUST’s role in driving continuous improvement, automation, and AI-driven security strategies. As a HITRUST Assessor Firm, we see this report as a roadmap for where compliance and security assurance are headed—shifting from traditional assessments to continuous, data-driven, and AI-integrated risk management. 

1. Continuous assurance is the future 

HITRUST’s move toward continuous assurance marks a significant industry shift—one that aligns with growing expectations for real-time compliance visibility. Organizations need proof of security and compliance beyond point-in-time assessments, and HITRUST is leading the charge in bridging this gap. 

• Our takeaway: Organizations should prepare now by investing in continuous monitoring capabilities and automation. 

2. AI security certification & risk management are here 

With AI adoption accelerating, HITRUST’s AI Security Certification and AI Risk Management Assessment set a precedent for establishing trust in AI-driven systems. These frameworks will be essential for organizations deploying AI models in critical operations. 

• Our takeaway: Companies should start evaluating their AI security posture today—proactive AI governance will soon become an industry expectation. 

3. A data-driven approach to risk management 

HITRUST is reinforcing data-backed decision-making in cybersecurity assurance by integrating automated risk intelligence, anomaly detection, and proactive risk assessments in its Automated Assurance Intelligence Engine. This technology is a game-changer for assessment accuracy and efficiency. 

• Our takeaway: Organizations should leverage automation not just for compliance, but for better risk insights and faster remediation. 

4. Strengthening the value of HITRUST verifications 

With 99.41% of HITRUST-certified environments reporting no security breaches, the data confirms that HITRUST assessments drive tangible security improvements. The framework’s quality mechanisms—pre-submission reviews, post-submission validation, and assessor performance monitoring—are setting a higher bar for reliability. 

• Our takeaway: HITRUST certifications continue to be a market differentiator, and organizations should leverage them to demonstrate security leadership. 

5. Evolving from static to dynamic compliance 

The traditional audit cycle is evolving. Compliance must now be adaptive, continuous, and deeply embedded into daily operations. HITRUST’s roadmap aligns with a broader industry shift toward proactive, real-time security assurance. 

• Our takeaway: Organizations must rethink their security strategies—compliance should no longer be treated as an annual exercise, but as an ongoing business function. 

6. Preparing for HITRUST CSF v12 & future enhancements 

HITRUST CSF v12 will bring further alignment with global security frameworks, reinforcing the need for scalable, risk-based controls. The addition of AI assurance support, enhanced assessment reporting, and assessor performance monitoring signals a maturing compliance ecosystem. 

• Our takeaway: Businesses should stay ahead of these changes by aligning their security programs with HITRUST’s evolving standards. 

Final thought: The next era of cybersecurity assurance 

The 2025 HITRUST Trust Report isn’t just an overview of trends, it’s a strategic roadmap for organizations to stay resilient in an era of rapid technological change. As a HITRUST Assessor Firm, we are committed to helping organizations adapt, implement, and lead in this new era of cybersecurity assurance. 

Need guidance on how these changes impact your organization? Let’s talk about how to navigate the shift toward continuous assurance, AI security, and proactive risk management. Contact us today to learn how you can get started on your HITRUST journey.