Journey to SOC 2 Compliance:

REQUIREMENT FOR SOC 2 AUDIT

InfraRisk conducts a SOC 2 audit to ensure data security, availability, and confidentiality. Thus, InfraRisk approached CertPro to request SOC 2 type 1 and 2 audits. The company decided to conduct a SOC 2 audit to preserve the privacy of its sensitive data and maintain data availability and confidentiality. In addition, the report can strengthen the organization’s commitment to data security. Therefore, the CertPro team and InfraRisk’s management developed a strategy for conducting a SOC 2 audit.

SELECTED TRUST SERVICE CRITERIA:

Security: The expert team from CertPro explained to InfraRisk management the importance of safeguarding data from unauthorized access. The management realized that cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and advanced. Therefore, strong information security is essential for securing data.

Availability: The management was informed that downtime or unavailability of data could hurt their business. Thus, data accessibility and operational continuity were other important concerns.   

Confidentiality: CertPro explained the importance of preserving the confidentiality of sensitive data. Therefore, control of unauthorized access to data is essential for avoiding data breaches. Thus, confidentiality is another important criterion for SOC 2 compliance. The management of InfraRisk had faith in CertPro regarding selecting criteria for SOC 2 compliance.

IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS:

CertPro designed a five-stage SOC 2 audit process for InfraRisk.

Scope Optimization: Initially, Certpro outlined the scope and appointed an Information Security Officer at InfraRisk to collaborate and communicate with CertPro. The officer oversaw the process and controls related to security, availability, and confidentiality. It ensured that the audit was target-oriented and compacted.   

Periodic Assessment: After identifying the audit scope, CertPro initiated a thorough gap assessment. In this process, all the existing policies and procedures were analyzed. The motivation was to recognize the gaps in present practice.  The gap analysis helped CertPro understand the extent of work needed to achieve compliance and determine InfraRisk’s existing security and privacy policies. 

Remediation Support: In this step, CertPro started working closely with InfraRisk management and implemented policies and controls for SOC 2. Therefore, CertPro assisted with a comprehensive documentation process that outlined the measures and responsibilities. At the same time, CertPro ensured that InfraRisk implemented the recommendations and followed the procedures. 

Evaluation and Evidence Collection: In the fourth stage, CertPro carefully reviewed the established controls and collected the data. In addition, the auditing team from CertPro conducted in-depth assessments that included reviewing the controls, interviewing the employees, and examining the documentation process. The process helped to recognize the effectiveness of the controls and validate their alignment with trust service criteria.

Audit and Attestation of SOC 2, Type I, and Type II Report: In the last stage, CertPro comprehensively assessed InfraRisk’s systems and policies. Therefore, the extended audit process allowed for a thorough assessment of InfraRisk’s adherence to data security, confidentiality, and availability. CertPro scrutinized the controls and strengthened the data security in this auditing process. The process of auditing was continued for 3 months to analyze their process. After completing the audit, CertPro’s in-house certified Public Accountant issued a SOC 2 type 2 report for InfraRisk.

BENEFITS OF SOC 2 COMPLIANCE

InfraRisk’s commitment to SOC 2 compliance and collaboration with CertPro benefited the company in many ways: 

Enhanced Data Security:  InfraRisk significantly improved its data security practices. Therefore, implementing a robust security framework, identifying vulnerabilities, and using continuous monitoring systems ensured data security. 

Improved Availability: Data availability is essential for cloud-based companies. Now, InfraRisk is equipped with technologies and software that prevent downtime and service interruptions. It helped in their business growth and development.

Confidence and Trust: SOC 2 compliance report improved the company’s business policies and trustworthiness. It shows the company’s security posture and dedication to data security. 

Competitive Advantage: InfraRisk improved its business after becoming SOC 2 compliant. Therefore, a strong information security structure is necessary for continuing the business.   

Risk Mitigation: The SOC 2 report process helped InfraRisk identify security gaps and vulnerabilities. In addition, a continuous monitoring process is required to avoid the risk of non-compliance. Thus, all policies and procedures are continuously monitored to strengthen the company’s security. 

Operational Efficiency: The SOC 2 compliance process helped InfraRisk follow proper documentation and operational processes, which improved the organization’s standards. 

Therefore, CertPro successfully helped InfraRisk in implementing a robust information security framework. Compliance helps InfraRisk maintain data safety, create trust, prevent reputational and financial damages, and provide a competitive advantage in the market.