The growing importance of information security

Take a look around you and there’s a strong chance that you’ll see people using their mobile phones or similar devices. Clearly, the thirst for digital technology has never been so great. Consequently, businesses which haven’t pivoted to online operations have been left behind in the race to give customers want they want. With this, information security is a critical concern for both businesses and their customers. In fact, a study conducted by PwC in 2018 found that 92% of organisations consider cybersecurity to be one of their top three priorities. So, we would recommend that you boost your customers’ confidence with ISO 27001 certification.

Customer concerns about information security

With the rising frequency and severity of cyber-attacks, customers are more vigilant about the safety and privacy of their personal and financial information. Accordingly, in a report published by the ONS in 2019, 78% of adults in the UK were concerned about the security of their personal data online. This was the highest level of concern among all areas of crime covered in the survey. So, it is essential for businesses to adopt industry-standard practices and obtain certifications. As this demonstrates your commitment to information security and will boost your customers’ confidence.

ISO 27001 certification as a solution

One such certification is ISO 27001, an internationally recognised standard for information security management systems. Furthermore, by obtaining this certification, you can reassure your customers. Because you can evidence that you have implemented robust security measures to protect their sensitive data.

Essentially, ISO 27001 provides a systematic approach to managing sensitive information and covers a wide range of security controls. These include access control, cryptography, and physical security. Customers can be assured because the certification process involves an independent third-party assessment of the business’s information security management system. So companies which don’t pass the audit won’t be certified with the ISO 27001 standard, putting them at a competitive disadvantage.

Benefits of being ISO 27001 certified:

• It can help businesses win new customers and retain existing ones.
• Customers are more likely to do business with companies that take information security seriously. ISO 27001certification is a way of proving this.
• The certification process itself can help businesses identify and address vulnerabilities in their information security management system (ISMS). This can lead to increased efficiency, improved risk management, and better compliance with regulatory requirements.
• By obtaining ISO 27001 certification, businesses can also demonstrate their commitment to continuous improvement in information security. The standard requires businesses to conduct regular internal audits and reviews. This ensures that their security measures remain up-to-date and effective.

“ISO 27001 has, at its heart, a three-pillar approach to information security. It helps you to manage the confidentiality, integrity and availability of your data by considering your people, processes and technology. With tech-savvy customers demanding online services, this standard offers them trust and confidence that your business takes its responsibilities to their data seriously.”

Claire Howard, Director, ISO-Cert Online Limited

We hope that you have found our article on “how to boost your customers’ confidence with ISO 27001 certification” valuable.

For more information on ISO-Cert Online’s services or to discuss your requirements please contact us on 0333 014 7720 or email info@isocertonline.net.