Why Should Organizations Have ISO 27001 & CMMC Certification?

Many businesses are familiar with the ISO 27001 certification for information security, but the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, or CMMC, is more recent and has been specifically developed for defense organizations. This article will explain why organizations need both of these certifications.

ISO 27001 certification is key for effective information and data security, which organizations need to achieve to assure clients that their private information is safe. This is the only management standard that safeguards the information assets of businesses and benchmarks that ensures the business system manages information security. In other words, the ISO 27001 standard lays down the requirements for an integrated information security management system or ISMS that organizations need to follow to ensure the security of their data and manage the risk of data loss. Some think that an ISMS is only meant to protect data stored in IT or computer systems, however, the ISMS is meant to secure information that is stored in any form, including paperwork.

Amidst all sectors, the threat to information security for the Department of Defense or DoD contractors is significant. These contractors operate as a chain and any cyber attack in one will result in the leak of essential controlled classified information and possible loss of intellectual property. Inadequate cybersecurity in these organizations can cause devastating loss to the business and the DoD. To boost cybersecurity within the defense supply chain, CMMC certification, or cybersecurity maturity model certification, was introduced. CMMC is a cohesive security standard that defines the best practices for cybersecurity in DoD contractors.

This article will demonstrate why getting information security certification is essential to defense organizations and in other trade sectors.

To Win Trust of the Clients

Getting an internationally certified ISMS can seem like a big investment for the organization. However, many benefits come from certification, specifically from external sources, like clients and stakeholders. They will be interested in maintaining their contracts with the organization because they know that their valuable information is secure. A promising and sound ISMS that prevents security breaches would help clients, potential suppliers, investors, and other stakeholders realize that this is a reliable organization and their information is safe.

To Prevent Fines or Penalties for Data Loss

Many state governments issue fines for data breaches or privacy loss on annual turnovers or profits. When an organization fails to protect client and stakeholder information, they are penalized. Therefore, having an effective ISMS for strengthening information security and data privacy will help the organization prevent data loss and save it from probable fines or penalties.

To Improve Information Security Approach

CMMC certification and ISO 27001 certification will ensure organizations improve their framework for information security management. These certifications will introduce procedures or practices that will keep internal systems, IT infrastructure, day to day processes, and data storage systems safe by considering all the standard compliance requirements. CMMC and ISO 27001 ensure the ISMS will look into every aspect, from cyber-security of all operational environments to controlling malware and storing information backups.

The need for the ISO 27001 standard in organizations is quite clear, as it is meant to prevent security breaches and any kind of cyber attack that may disrupt the operations of the organization, make losses for its clients, and damage its reputation. However, organizations that contract in the defense industry need ISO 27001 certification and CMMC certification to secure their cyber-security framework for the sake of the state and government interests.