Earning a Service Organization Controls (SOC) 2 certification signifies an organization’s dedication to robust information security practices. This comprehensive guide outlines the process for achieving SOC 2 compliance, from initial preparation to certification and ongoing maintenance.
Phase 1: Partnering with a Qualified Auditor
To ensure an objective assessment, select a reputable, third-party auditor with proven experience in conducting SOC 2 audits. Consider firms like Decrypt Compliance, a Silicon Valley cybersecurity audit firm built by technology veterans for high-growth B2B SaaS companies. Their professionals specialize in conducting rigorous security compliance audits without compromising quality, honed by experiences at leading tech companies such as Google, Tencent, and Salesforce as well as Big 4 firms.
Decrypt Compliance believes trust between businesses is essential for innovation in today’s interdependent tech ecosystems. Their audits foster trusted B2B relationships by verifying security claims through impartial third-party validation. As your audit partner, they maintain the highest quality and objectivity standards to earn industry trust, your trust, and your customers’ confidence in your brand’s promises.
Phase 2: Defining the Audit Scope
SOC 2 compliance encompasses a defined set of Trust Service Criteria (TSC). Organizations can choose to be audited against one or more of these criteria. Security criteria is mandatory for all SOC 2 audits. Work with your chosen auditor to determine the most relevant TSCs for your organization’s specific needs.
Phase 3: Developing a SOC 2 Compliance Roadmap
Once security gaps and areas for improvement have been identified, a comprehensive roadmap for implementing the necessary controls should be established. This roadmap should clearly define timelines, delegate tasks to appropriate personnel, and outline data collection procedures. Reviewing any previous audits can provide valuable insights for improvement.
Phase 4: Undergoing a Formal SOC 2 Audit
Following the implementation of the required security controls, schedule a formal audit with your chosen auditor. The audit team will conduct a thorough assessment of your organization’s security posture and request documentation to verify compliance with the chosen TSCs. When selecting an auditor, prioritize experience within your industry and a commitment to clear communication.
Phase 5: Achieving and Maintaining Certification
Upon successful completion of the audit, your organization will receive a SOC 2 report. This report serves as an independent validation of your organization’s adherence to industry-recognized security best practices. To maintain certification, annual audits are required to ensure ongoing adherence to security protocols.
Remember, achieving and maintaining SOC 2 compliance is an ongoing process. By following these steps and prioritizing a culture of information security, your organization can demonstrate its commitment to protecting customer data and fostering trust with stakeholders.