What is ISO 27956:2014 -

ISO 27956:2014 is a standard that provides guidelines for the management and protection of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) in information systems using non-biometric personal verification data. This standard aims to ensure that organizations handle PII appropriately, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access or disclosure.

Purpose of ISO 27956:2014

The primary purpose of ISO 27956:2014 is to establish a framework for protecting individuals' privacy when their PII is stored, processed, or transmitted. The standard sets out requirements for the implementation of security controls to safeguard PII against unauthorized access, alteration, or destruction.

ISO 27956:2014 includes guidelines on how organizations should classify the sensitivity of PII, assess risks, and select appropriate security measures. It emphasizes the need for regular monitoring, auditing, and continual improvement of information security processes to maintain compliance with the standard.

Main Features of ISO 27956:2014

ISO 27956:2014 outlines several key features that organizations should consider when implementing controls to protect PII:

Non-Biometric Personal Verification Data: The standard specifically focuses on the management of PII that doesn't involve biometric data, such as names, contact details, social security numbers, or financial information.

Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Organizations are required to conduct risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities and implement appropriate safeguards to address these risks.

Data Sharing and Transfer: The standard provides guidelines for securely sharing and transferring PII between organizations, ensuring that data is protected during transit.

Accountability and Responsibilities: ISO 27956:2014 emphasizes the importance of assigning clear responsibilities and establishing accountability for PII protection within an organization. This includes training employees, defining policies and procedures, and implementing appropriate controls.

Benefits of Implementing ISO 27956:2014

Adopting ISO 27956:2014 can bring several benefits to organizations:

Enhanced Data Protection: Implementing the standard's security controls can help minimize the risk of data breaches, unauthorized access, and identity theft.

Compliance with Regulatory Requirements: ISO 27956:2014 aligns with various privacy regulations and frameworks worldwide, enabling organizations to demonstrate compliance with legal and industry requirements.

Customer Trust and Reputation: Following ISO 27956:2014's guidelines can enhance an organization's reputation by showing a commitment to protecting individuals' privacy and safeguarding their information.

Efficient Data Management: The standard provides a structured framework for managing PII, allowing organizations to optimize data handling processes and streamline their operations.

In conclusion, ISO 27956:2014 is a crucial international standard that sets guidelines for managing and protecting Personally Identifiable Information (PII). Implementing this standard helps organizations establish robust security controls, mitigate risks, and ensure the privacy rights of individuals. By adopting ISO 27956:2014, organizations can enhance data protection, achieve regulatory compliance, and build trust with their customers.