The Challenge

As Marlo expanded its international presence and onboarded enterprise clients from multiple jurisdictions, it faced an urgent and multifaceted compliance challenge. In order to build trust with high-value clients, pass vendor assessments, and meet industry-specific regulatory expectations, Marlo aimed to achieve compliance with three of the most globally recognized standards:

• ISO 27001:2022 – To establish and maintain a rigorous Information Security Management System (ISMS).

• GDPR – To assure customers and partners of their commitment to data privacy and lawful data handling practices, particularly within the EU.

• SOC 2 Type II – To provide third-party assurance that their internal controls and processes were designed and operated effectively over time.
  

Each of these standards requires careful alignment with specific security principles, privacy regulations, and operational safeguards. Pursuing all three simultaneously posed a challenge that demanded not just technical understanding but strategic execution.

Why Marlo Chose CertPro

What stood out for Marlo was CertPro’s ability to translate complexity into clarity. Instead of focusing on a generic compliance roadmap, we provided a tailored, high-touch audit experience that matched Marlo’s fast-moving and tech-driven nature.

Impressed by our credibility in the space and the clarity of our methodology, Marlo chose CertPro to handle all three standards, a rare commitment from a client that highlighted the level of confidence they had in our services.

CertPro’s Solution: An Integrated, Strategic Approach

At CertPro, we approached this project not as three independent audits, but as an integrated compliance journey. Our team of skilled auditors collaborated with Marlo’s team to build a deep understanding of their systems, data flows, and operational architecture.

Here’s how we delivered:

1. Comprehensive Audit Readiness: We started by conducting extensive audits of Marlo’s existing infrastructure, ensuring their policies, procedures, access controls, vendor management, and incident response processes aligned with international standards.

2. ISO 27001:2022 Compliance: We checked thoroughly if Marlo had implemented and maintained an ISMS that was not only technically sound but practically integrated into their day-to-day operations. Our support ensured that information assets were secured through systematic risk management, controls, and clear accountability.

3. GDPR Alignment: Given Marlo’s cross-border data practices and client base in the EU, we worked closely with their teams to ensure full alignment with GDPR principles, from data minimization and retention to lawful consent and breach notification protocols.

4. SOC 2 Type II Assurance: We supported Marlo through the rigorous SOC 2 Type II audit lifecycle, adhering to controls across the Trust Service Criteria: Security, Availability, Confidentiality, Processing Integrity, and Privacy. The SOC 2 Type II report affirmed the operational effectiveness of these controls over time.

Throughout the process, we ensured Marlo had ongoing guidance, clear timelines, and full visibility into their progress, avoiding any unnecessary disruption to their business.

The Outcome: Trust Built on Certainty

Through CertPro’s dedicated partnership, Marlo Technologies Limited successfully achieved ISO 27001:2022 certification, GDPR compliance, and a SOC 2 Type II report, marking a significant milestone in their journey as a trusted fintech provider. The outcomes were transformative:

• Enhanced Data Security: Marlo’s strengthened security measures safeguarded sensitive client data, reducing risks and reinforcing their commitment to protection.

• Global Client Trust: The certifications and compliance achievements boosted confidence among Marlo’s international clients, solidifying their reputation as a reliable partner in maritime finance.

• Market Competitiveness: Compliance with globally recognized standards positioned Marlo as a leader in the fintech and maritime sectors, enabling expansion into new markets.

• Regulatory Adherence: GDPR compliance ensured Marlo met EU data protection requirements, while SOC 2 Type II demonstrated operational reliability, mitigating legal and regulatory risks.

• Operational Excellence: The integrated compliance frameworks streamlined processes, enhancing efficiency and aligning with Marlo’s mission to deliver user-friendly solutions.

Conclusion

The successful attainment of ISO 27001:2022, GDPR, and SOC 2 Type II compliance showcases Marlo Technologies Limited’s commitment to security and excellence, powered by CertPro’s unparalleled expertise. This partnership not only elevated Marlo’s security posture but also reinforced their position as a trailblazer in maritime fintech. CertPro is proud to have played a significant role in this journey, helping Marlo build trust, drive innovation, and handle the complexities of global compliance.