What is ISO/IEC 27018:2017?

ISO/IEC 27018:2017 is a standard that provides guidelines and best practices for cloud service providers (CSPs) to protect personally identifiable information (PII) in the cloud. PII includes any data that can be used to identify an individual, such as names, addresses, social security numbers, and more.

The Importance of ISO/IEC 27018:2017

In today's digital age, data breaches and privacy concerns are major issues that affect both individuals and businesses. With the increasing use of cloud services for storing sensitive information, it becomes crucial for CSPs to implement robust security measures to safeguard PII.

ISO/IEC 27018:2017 plays a significant role in addressing these concerns by providing a framework for CSPs to establish and maintain effective privacy and data protection controls in the cloud environment. It helps build trust between customers and CSPs, as it demonstrates their commitment to protecting user privacy.

Key Principles of ISO/IEC 27018:2017

This standard outlines several key principles that CSPs should adhere to when handling PII in the cloud:

Consent: CSPs must obtain user consent before processing or disclosing any PII.

Transparency: CSPs should provide clear and accessible information about how user data will be handled and protected.

Choice and Control: Users should have the ability to control their own data and decide how it will be used.

Data Minimization: CSPs should only collect and retain the minimum amount of PII necessary to provide their services.

Security: Strong security measures should be in place to protect PII from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction.

Benefits of ISO/IEC 27018:2017 Compliance

Adhering to ISO/IEC 27018:2017 offers several benefits for both CSPs and their customers:

Enhanced Data Protection: By implementing the guidelines provided in this standard, CSPs can strengthen their data protection practices, reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.

Compliance with Regulations: ISO/IEC 27018:2017 aligns with many global data protection regulations, such as the GDPR in Europe. Compliance can help CSPs meet regulatory requirements and avoid fines and penalties.

Improved Customer Trust: Conforming to internationally recognized privacy standards enhances customer confidence, leading to increased trust in the cloud services provided by CSPs.