The ISO 27000 series: Beyond ISO 27001 and 27002

In the field of cybersecurity, the ISO 27000 series is an essential reference for information security management. However, many times the focus of attention is limited to the best-known standards: ISO 27001 and ISO 27002. Although these are fundamental, it should not be lost sight of that this family of standards includes a set of specific standards that address critical areas of information security, allowing organizations to face more specific challenges. In this article, we will explore not only the pillars that ISO 27001 and ISO 27002 represent, but also other standards that, although less mentioned, are of great relevance.

ISO 27001 is, without a doubt, the core of the series. Its main objective is to provide a systematic framework for information security management, allowing organizations to identify, evaluate and treat security risks. This standard not only establishes the requirements for the implementation of an Information Security Management System (ISMS), but also requires the adoption of specific controls to protect information assets. These controls are detailed in ISO 27002, which serves as a practical guide for their implementation, offering examples and good practices that facilitate their application in different contexts.

However, information security does not stop at general risk management. In a world increasingly dependent on technology, cloud computing has become an essential component of business operations. This is where ISO 27017 comes into play, providing specific guidelines for managing security in cloud environments. This standard addresses the shared responsibility between service providers and their customers, covering aspects such as protection against unauthorized access and the correct deletion of data when it is no longer needed.

Together with ISO 27017, ISO 27018 complements this approach by focusing on the protection of personal data in the public cloud. Since many organizations handle sensitive customer data, ensuring the privacy and protection of this information is critical. This standard establishes controls designed to ensure that cloud service providers operate transparently, protecting personal data in compliance with regulations such as the GDPR. The importance of these standards grows every day, since organizations must not only guarantee the security of their systems, but also the trust of their customers.

On the other hand, in an environment where security incidents are inevitable, effective management of these events is crucial. ISO 27035 provides a framework for managing information security incidents, from preparation and initial detection to response and lessons learned. This standard is a key tool for organizations seeking to improve their ability to respond to threats such as ransomware attacks, helping them minimize the impact and quickly return to normal.

Collaborating with third parties adds another layer of complexity to security management. This is where ISO 27036 becomes relevant, offering guidelines for managing information security in relationships with suppliers. From initial supplier assessment to ongoing monitoring of their compliance with security agreements, this standard helps organizations reduce the risks associated with external relationships.

In the field of forensic cybersecurity, the proper collection and preservation of digital evidence is essential. ISO 27037 establishes the principles and procedures to ensure that digital evidence is reliable and admissible in legal proceedings. This standard is especially valuable for organizations that need to conduct internal investigations or respond to litigation where the integrity of digital evidence may be critical.

Finally, in an environment where privacy is increasingly a priority, ISO 27701 extends the scope of ISO 27001 to specifically address the management of personal information. This standard provides a framework for implementing a Privacy Information Management System (PIMS), helping organizations meet privacy requirements efficiently. ISO 27701 is particularly relevant for companies that handle large volumes of personal data, as it details specific roles and responsibilities for both data controllers and data processors.

Together, these standards provide a holistic approach to information security management, addressing challenges ranging from cloud protection and incident management to third-party relationship security and personal data privacy. Knowing and applying these standards can make a significant difference in an organization's resilience and confidence in an increasingly complex threat environment. Are you ready to take advantage of the full potential of the ISO 27000 series?