With ongoing cyber threats advancing at breakneck speeds, remaining compliant with current information security standards has never been more important. One of the most impactful recent changes here is the ISO/IEC 27001:2022 update, a major departure from the earlier 2013 standard. This revision indicates that there has been a desire for more nimble, contemporary, and thorough strategies when it comes to Information Security Management Systems (ISMS).
In this blog, we will guide you through the things you must know about the transition to ISO 27001, the changes that have been made in the ISMS 2022 update, and how your organization can seamlessly prepare for and execute these updates.
ISO/IEC 27001 is the world's most popular international standard for information security management systems (ISMS). Co-developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard provides guidelines and requirements for securing sensitive company and customer information.
ISO/IEC 27001 is suitable for companies of all sizes and sectors. It helps organizations be able to identify, manage, and continually improve their information security threats. This standard aids in gaining trust with customers, business partners, and regulators and lowers the risk exposure to security incidents and non-compliance fines.
The last significant update came out in 2013. In the years since, the security landscape has profoundly shifted. From cloud computing and remote work to ransomware and phishing, businesses now have to contend with more sophisticated threats than ever before.
The ISMS 2022 revision was brought in to align the standard with such contemporary realities. It brings ISO/IEC 27001 into line with the revised ISO/IEC 27002:2022 (a guide of security controls) and facilitates better integration with other ISO management standards using the Harmonized Structure (Annex SL).
The most apparent modification is the reorganization of Annex A that details 93 security controls, down from 114 in the 2013 edition. The controls are now categorized into four themes rather than 14 domains:
This reorganization makes understanding and implementation simpler, particularly for organizations that operate with digital-first or hybrid infrastructure models.
The 2022 update adds 11 new controls that speak to the current security needs, including:
These emerging controls demonstrate the increased complexity of technology infrastructure and the necessity of proactive defensive measures.
There is a stronger focus on notions such as risk-based thinking, business continuity, and supplier relationships. Terms and conditions have been reworded for clarity and consistency with other ISO standards, facilitating easier integrated management systems.
Organizations that are already certified to ISO/IEC 27001:2013 will be required to migrate to the 2022 standard to remain certified. A transition period of three years has been provided, which will expire in October 2025.
To begin transitioning should be an extensive gap analysis. This will give you an understanding of what controls you're presently achieving and where you're deficient according to the 2022 revision.
ISO 27001 transition goes beyond technical compliance. Your employees, particularly those in IT, risk management, and compliance, must comprehend the changes. Training is crucial for a smooth transition to the revised ISMS model.
Compare your current ISMS with the new 2022 standard to determine what's missing.
Review and revise policies, procedures, and risk assessments. Document aligns with the new control themes and language.
Ensure that relevant team members are trained on the ISMS 2022 update and new responsibilities under the updated standard.
Collaborate with certified ISO 27001 consultants or take a formal ISO/IEC 27001 Transition Training course to simplify the process.
Moving over to ISO/IEC 27001:2022 doesn't have to be daunting. With proper guidance and training, your business can remain secure and compliant with minimal disruption.
At CourseMonster, we provide interactive, expert-led training courses designed to enable you to grasp the new requirements and apply them confidently.
Explore our ISO/IEC 27001 Transition Training Course
The ISO 27001 transition is not a checklist, it's a strategic investment in the long-term security, resilience, and reputation of your organization. With cyber threats increasing in size and sophistication, embracing the ISMS 2022 update sets your company up to manage risk in advance.
Regardless of whether you're embarking on your transition or searching for professional training to lead your staff, CourseMonster is on hand to assist you throughout every step.
Enroll now in our transition training course and stay ahead of the curve.