A SOC 2 Audit is an in-depth look at a service organization’s internal controls that relate to the five Trust Services Criteria: Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy. A SOC 2 is regarded as the highest level of security compliance for an organization.
Trust Services Criteria
Each of the five criteria covers a different aspect of an organization’s security environment:
- Security: Protection of data from unauthorized access or disclosure and protection from system damage.
- Availability: System and information availability and ability to meet the organization’s objectives.
- Processing Integrity: System processing is complete and fully capable of meeting organizational goals.
- Confidentiality: Confidential information is protected from unauthorized access or disclosure.
- Privacy: Collected personal information, whether internal, client, or customer, is properly handled and secure from unauthorized access.
SOC 2 Type 1 Vs Type 2
There are two types of SOC 2 Audit:
- Type 1: Tests internal controls on the ability to meet the Trust Services Criteria at a particular point in time.
- Type 2: Tests internal controls on the ability to meet the Trust Services Criteria over 6 to 12 months.
Most organizations will complete a Type 1 Audit during their first audit and a Type 2 for future audits.
Why Become SOC Certified?
There are several reasons and benefits to becoming SOC certified: one of the most common reasons that organizations are becoming certified is if a client or third-party partner requests them to. More and more organizations are only working with partners who are SOC compliant as the cybersecurity threat grows larger. Being SOC certified also allows for you to identify any gaps in your system’s security, obtain guidance on avoiding potential risks, and bolster your sales pitch by proving to potential clients that your organization takes security seriously.
To get started on your next SOC Audit, contact us today!
