Client
A global financial services firm with multiple branches and a large customer base, handling sensitive financial data across various platforms and systems.
Challenge
As a company responsible for protecting valuable financial information, the client faced increasing pressure to adhere to international standards for information security. The client recognized the need to achieve ISO 27001 certification to ensure robust security practices and compliance with global regulations. However, the complexity of the ISO 27001 framework, coupled with the client’s expanding digital footprint, presented several challenges:
- Risk Assessment and Compliance Alignment: Identifying gaps in security controls and aligning them with ISO 27001 requirements.
- Policy and Procedure Development: Establishing and formalizing comprehensive information security policies and procedures to meet ISO 27001 standards.
- Implementation of Security Controls: Strengthening cybersecurity defenses, improving data protection strategies, and ensuring system resilience.
- Audit Preparation and Support: Ensuring the company was ready for an external ISO 27001 audit, which required thorough documentation and internal assessments.
Solution
The financial services firm partnered with COE Security for end-to-end ISO 27001 certification support. Our team of cybersecurity and compliance experts delivered a structured approach, guiding the client through each phase of the certification process:
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Phase 1: Gap Analysis & Readiness Assessment
- Conducted a comprehensive risk assessment to evaluate the company’s security posture against ISO 27001 controls.
- Mapped existing security policies and procedures to ISO 27001 requirements, identifying gaps and areas for improvement.
- Developed a tailored roadmap to close gaps and ensure a smooth certification process.
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Phase 2: Policy & Control Implementation
- Assisted in developing and formalizing information security policies to align with ISO 27001 standards.
- Guided the implementation of security controls, including encryption, access management, network security, and incident response protocols.
- Established governance structures to maintain ongoing compliance and ensure security best practices were adhered to across the organization.
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Phase 3: Internal Assessments & Remediation
- Conducted internal audits and control testing to assess readiness for the ISO 27001 certification audit.
- Provided remediation strategies and hands-on support to address identified vulnerabilities.
- Trained key personnel on ISO 27001 standards and best practices for information security management.
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Phase 4: ISO 27001 Certification Audit Support
- Assisted in preparing for the external ISO 27001 audit, ensuring all documentation and processes were in compliance.
- Provided real-time support during the audit to address any questions from auditors and demonstrate the company’s compliance efforts.
- Ensured all evidence submissions met ISO 27001 assessor requirements.
Results
Thanks to COE Security’s expert guidance and strategic approach, the financial services firm successfully achieved ISO 27001 certification, resulting in:
- Enhanced Security Posture: Strengthened security controls and reduced risks related to data breaches.
- Regulatory Compliance: Demonstrated compliance with industry standards and regulations, improving relationships with stakeholders and regulators.
- Operational Efficiency: Streamlined information security management and improved risk management processes across the organization.
- Market Differentiation: Gained a competitive advantage by showcasing its commitment to protecting valuable client information and achieving globally recognized certification.
Client Testimonial
“Partnering with COE Security was pivotal in our ISO 27001 certification journey. Their expertise and structured approach ensured we were able to navigate the complexities of the framework with confidence and successfully achieve certification.”