It takes a lot of struggle to build a successful business. Be it developing a business plan or marketing your products and services; there is so much that you need to do. Unfortunately, many entrepreneurs overlook the significance of data privacy to their enterprises, something that ends up haunting them later. There are several certifications that you need to prove that you endeavor to protect your clients’ data. Here are some of these certifications.
SOC 2 Certification
When writing your business plan, you should note down all certifications that are required in your industry. While at it, you can pick the certifications you’d like to write about, but make sure to include SOC 2 compliance. If you are serious about protecting your customers’ data, you should put a premium on SOC 2 certifications.
Today, more businesses in the service industry proudly display their SOC 2 certification, which is akin to a badge of honor. If you handle sensitive data about your clients, they will undoubtedly have genuine concerns about the security of that information. Certifications such as SOC 2 assures customers that your systems are safe and that you can be trusted with sensitive data.
SOC 2 audits cover the trust services criteria regarding personal data such as payment card information, health records, and any other personally identifiable information. Companies that are SOC 2-certified regard data security highly, something that warranted the certification. If your business creates, collects, transmits, uses, or stores personal information, SOC 2 compliance should be a priority.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
This is a much-sought-after credential for IT professionals who are responsible for the development, management, and oversight of IT systems. In today’s tech-savvy world, customers are more aware of what data security is and the obligation that businesses have in securing their data.
To prove to customers that your data is safe with you, consider earning the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification. The credential demonstrates that your business adheres to the highest standards relating to the security of its IT systems. Having CISM-certified employees with proven skills in data security risk management helps you to not only attract but also retain clients.
CyberSAFE Certification
Just like the name suggests, this certification attests to clients that your computer systems are foolproof. Once your business receives the much-coveted CyberSAFE accreditation, you will be able to secure not only your system but also your clients’ data. The credential is only awarded to businesses that have incorporated safe practices into their setup, and those that regard cybersecurity highly.
PCI DSS Certification
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) comprises guidelines designed to help companies maintain a secure data environment. It targets businesses that handle credit and debit card payments. More businesses are complying with this standard, something that attests to its prominence.
PCI DSS certification helps you build trust with your clients. Having it means that all transactions that happen via your platforms are secure. The certification also proves that you have a data compliance and management strategy in place and that your IT infrastructure isn’t prone to breaches and similar incidents.
PCI DSS certification also acts as a foundation for other certifications. Regardless of the level of compliance that your business meets, PCI DSS certification means that you have taken measures to protect customer data. The certification will go a long way in enabling you to comply with other internationally-mandated information security regulations.
ISO/IEC 27000
Every business should aspire to be ISO-certified. Complying with this global standard puts you head and shoulders above your competitors. If your business handles sensitive customer data, you should make an effort to achieve ISO/IEC 27000 certification. Compliance means that your organization correctly manages the security of its assets, including client data, intellectual property, and financial information.
Among ISO standards, ISO/IEC 27000 is the one that provides guidelines for an information security management system (ISMS). This certification is only given to organizations that have implemented a systematic strategy for managing sensitive data on its computer systems. Just like it is the case with other ISO standards, ISO/IEC 27000 certification isn’t mandatory. However, implementing the standard as part of your data security practices reassures clients, vendors, employees, and other stakeholders that you can be trusted with their data.
Corporate data protection should be a top priority for every business, regardless of its scale and the industry in which it operates. The easiest way of demonstrating compliance with regulations relating to data security is by earning certifications from relevant organizations. Besides, the certification proves that your business handles customers’ data responsibly.
Business owners and managers should evaluate compliance requirements for their industry and work to acquire the relevant certifications. It’s also important to keep in mind that earning a certification isn’t enough. You should fortify your data security stance to back up your claim that customer data is safe with you.
