ISO 27701 Privacy Information Management System (PIMS)

Information Security Management

What is ISO 27701?

In today’s digitally-driven world, protecting your business data is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity. With cyber threats lurking around every corner, ensuring how to protection of sensitive information is crucial for any business owner. Enter ISO 27701, an unsung hero in the realm of data security standards. The purpose of this blog is to discuss ISO 27701, benefits of the standard and where Sustainable Certification can support businesses in this standard.

Understanding ISO 27701

ISO 27701 is a privacy information management standard that complements ISO 27001, focusing specifically on privacy protection. It helps organizations establish, implement, maintain, and continually improve a Privacy Information Management System (PIMS).

The standard provides clear requirements around privacy protection, offering a framework for managing personal data while safeguarding the privacy rights of individuals. It serves as an extension to the broader information security management principles outlined in ISO 27001, targeting businesses that handle personal identifiable information (PII).

Organisational Benefits of ISO 27701

information

Strengthens your Privacy Management

Security

Clear Description of Roles

report

Strengthens Trust

Higher customer retention

Facillitates Improved Business Relations

Meet the demands of your customers

Protection of Assets, Data & Information

protected

Risk Management Capabilities

Trust

Inspires Trust & Consistency

Identify and respond to business risks

Lowers Overall Risk

ISO 27701 Requirements

ISO 27701 certification is separated into 14 control areas. These are the business processes that will be part of the audit process as you work towards certification.
  1. Clause 1: Scope
  2. Clause 2: Normative Requirements
  3. Clause 3: Terms and Definitions
  4. Clause 4: General
  5. Clause 5: PIMS Specific Requirement related to ISO 27701
  6. Clause 6: Specific Guidance related to ISO 27002
  7. Clause 7: Additional Guidance for PII Controllers
  8. Clause 8: Additional Guidance for PII Processors
  9. Annex A: List of controls for pII Controllers.
  10. Annex B: List of additional controls required for PII Controllers
  11. Annex C: Mapping of Controls for PII Controllers to ISO 2900 Privacy principles
  12. Annex D: Mapping of 27701 clauses to GDPR Articles 5 to 49 (except 43)
  13. Annex E: Further mapping of ISO 27701 clauses
  14. Annex F: Details how to apply the extensions to incorporate privacy
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ISO 27701

Key Certification Steps

Review

Organisations should review andunderstand the ISO standards from the ISO Store.

Develop

Follow the requirements of the standard in developing your organisations stanards.

Document

Organisations should review and understand the ISO standards from the ISO Store.

The Certification Journey

Step 1 Application and Contract

Once the ISO 27701 system has been developed and implemented, an organisation should choose a certification body usually based on criteria making the process simple, hassle free and adds value.

Step 2 Pre assessment [optional]

If you are unsure if your PIMS meets the requirements, a gap analysis can be undertaken to evaluate against the system standard.

Step 3 Stage One Audit

A review of your management system(s) documentation against the standard is undertaken. This is the first step in the certification process.

Step 4 Certification Audit

The Certification Audit is conducted on site to verify that you have effectively implemented your own management system across your organisation.

Step 5 Years 2 & 3 Certification Maintenance

Conduct a Surveillance Audit at least once every 12 months to check the ongoing implementation of management systems across your organisation.

Why Protecting Your Personal Data is important?

Data protection is critical because cyber threats have significantly increased and emerged as a greater risk for organisations.   The damage caused by data breaches can be devastating, leading to financial loss, reputational damage, and legal consequences.

Every piece of data your business handles—from customer details to proprietary information—holds value. Protecting this data means safeguarding the very foundation of your business. A breach can erode customer trust, lead to hefty fines, and disrupt operations.

Understanding the Benefits of ISO 27701

Implementing ISO 27701 offers several tangible benefits, chief among them being enhanced data protection. Businesses can significantly reduce the likelihood of data breaches by adhering to its guidelines. Key Benefits of ISO27701 include:
  1. Enhances overall Trust in management of personal information
  2. Transparency amongst all key stakeholders
  3. Assures compliance with all Privacy regulations

Why Partner with Sustainable Certification?

Sustainable Certification plays a pivotal role in helping businesses achieve ISO 27701 compliance. Their expertise guides organizations through the certification process, ensuring every requirement is met with precision.

At the heart of our business is a dedication to the client. Sustainable Certification understand for many business-owners, this could be their first attempt at certification. Our goal is to make the process as simple and as transparent as possible.

Our Best in class client portal provides clear insight of the certification status and audit process, giving you peace of mind at every stage. Dedicated account managers give each client continual support for every step, making successful progression streamlined and Hassle free.
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Testimonials

Client Experiences

Hoàng Nguyễn

Chief Data & Technology Officer, Howatson+Co

Craig Hopwood

Supply Chain Manager, Faber Castell

Stuart Norton-Baker

Group QHSE Manager, Optic Security Group

Russell Sharp

HSEQ Manager, TVN On Country

The Future of Data Security

Looking ahead, the importance of robust data security measures will only grow. Businesses must stay vigilant and adaptive, responding to new threats and evolving compliance requirements. ISO 27701 provides a stable foundation upon which organizations can build their data protection strategies.

Emerging technologies, such as AI and blockchain, offer exciting opportunities for enhancing data security. However, they also introduce new vulnerabilities that must be carefully managed. By staying informed and engaged, businesses can leverage these technologies while maintaining strict data protection controls.

Collaboration between industries, governments, and security experts will be key in addressing future challenges. Sharing knowledge and best practices can help create a safer digital landscape for all, ensuring businesses and individuals alike are protected from cyber threats.

Conclusion

ISO 27701 is not just a standard—it’s a vital tool for safeguarding your business data in an increasingly complex digital world. By understanding its principles, recognizing its benefits and engaging with organizations like Sustainable Certification, businesses can protect themselves against the growing threat of data breaches.

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