With the constant evolution of digital technology, data storage and security are emerging as priorities for information systems directors (CIOs). Cybersecurity threats, continuously growing in scale, pose considerable risks to systems and networks. For this reason, IT managers are faced with the challenge of implementing effective and scalable IT security (IS) policies. Fortunately, there are certificates such as ISO 27001, ISO 20000, and ITIL that serve as compasses for CIOs seeking to optimize their data protection practices.
ISO 27001 certification is a benchmark for information security within modern companies. It makes it possible to certify the effectiveness of an information security management system (ISMS) set up by the information systems security manager (CISO). This certification therefore provides guidelines for the implementation, maintenance, and improvement of the ISMS.
Demonstrating good cybersecurity practices through a “Certified ISO 27001” status allows you to more easily build professional relationships. In addition, this certification gives you an advantage over your competitors and facilitates customer loyalty. Other additional benefits can be mentioned:
To comply with the requirements of ISO 27001 and obtain certification after passing an auditor, the CISO or CIO has an important job to do. They must implement an effective information systems security policy (ISSP) for the security of the cloud and the company’s IT equipment. It is therefore up to the IT manager to set up an ISMS compliant with ISO 27001.
For IT service management (ISM), the international standard ISO 20000 plays a fundamental role in the continuous improvement of IT management systems. It is applicable both to organizations managing their own information systems and to those offering services to clients. It provides a comprehensive framework to guarantee the efficiency, quality, and reliability of digital services.
By focusing on ISS and IT service management, ISO 20000 offers valuable guidelines for identifying IT service requirements. Implementation of this standard consolidates the credibility of the organization by demonstrating its ability to provide reliable and quality services. It also creates significant competitive differentiation, building trust among stakeholders, customers and business partners.
Any company can have its IT service management system certified by an independent body according to the requirements of the ISO/IEC 20000 – 1:2011 standard.
Payment card information is sensitive data that is subject to numerous frauds. To secure them, PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) certification has been implemented. It aims to provide banking organizations as well as users of banking services with a high level of security.
PCI DSS certification defines numerous specific requirements that actors who handle confidential payment data must respect to ensure their security. This standard was developed by the PCI Council, a group of payment card providers, which also ensures its maintenance.
Within the PCI Council, there are big names like:
The banking information simply consists of a card number, an expiry date and a cryptogram. Many hackers are looking for this information. They have the tools and technical skills to achieve their goals. Scams, hacks, and bank card fraud have therefore become frequent, causing significant damage to victims. This is why the PCI DSS standard is so demanding and is becoming the benchmark for the security of means of payment.
In general, GDPR (general data protection regulation) certification makes it possible to verify and prove that a product or service complies with the standards for the protection of personal data defined by this regulation. The scope of the standard is quite broad. It can in fact be put into practice on a single department or an entire company.
Certification can be used for different products such as a website, software, an information system or a mobile application. At the end of their training, a DPO (Data Protection Officer) can also request GDPR certification for their skills.
In reality, it is not obligatory to obtain this GDPR certification. This voluntary approach, however, has a positive impact on your brand image. This is why many IT departments and CISOs use the standard to certify their data protection system. The IT service must respect the criteria defined by the CNIL (National Commission for Information Technology and Liberties) to obtain the certificate. In addition to implementing approved policies, the CIO must maintain compliance.
ITIL certification represents a set of practices that enable organizations to provide end-to-end IT services. Over time, it has undergone multiple updates and revisions, evolving to meet the needs of an evolving sector.
The latest version of ITIL, named ITIL v4, focuses particularly on integration between the business and the IT department. By methodically adopting the principles of this certification, IT managers can better manage risk after analysis and reduce IT support costs. It allows the CIO to create an ecosystem favorable to growth while strengthening relationships with users.
Having emerged in the USA, the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) Cybersecurity Framework represents the American Department of Commerce. The NIST Framework is a set of standards, guidelines and best practices that ensure better management of cyber risks.
This methodological framework helps public and private organizations better address their cybersecurity objectives through certain approaches. It therefore governs the process by which the organization identifies risks, protects its IT system, and detects and manages cybersecurity vulnerabilities. The standard has a strategic advantage because it helps organizations make a rapid assessment of their vulnerabilities to a risk. They can then look for security measures to implement to protect themselves.
Certifications related to the security of personal information (ISO 27001, ISO 20000, ITIL, etc.) present themselves as fundamental pillars for strengthening the security and efficiency of IT systems within companies. Their impact goes beyond simple compliance, providing tangible benefits for CIOs and their teams.
ISO 27001 certification, focused on information security, guarantees the implementation of best practices to protect information assets. At the same time, the ISO 20000 standard, focused on IT service management, optimizes operational efficiency while opening the doors to the global market.
The integration of these certifications into the overall IT strategy is an advantageous strategic approach. By following these standards, CIOs and CISOs can not only reduce risks and costs related to network and information systems security, but also create an environment conducive to growth and change.