In today’s technology-driven world, most organizations rely heavily on cloud computing platforms and applications. Yet, trust in cloud security remains low, largely due to uncertainty over who is responsible for protecting sensitive data. In reality, both the customer and the cloud service provider (CSP) share this responsibility: customers must implement internal security controls, while CSPs must minimize the risk of breaches.
The ISO 27017 cloud security standard helps bridge this trust gap by offering a dedicated security framework for cloud services. As an extension of the ISO/IEC 27000 series, it provides additional cloud-specific controls based on ISO/IEC 27002, giving organizations and providers a consistent, best-practice approach to safeguarding cloud environments.
Now that you know what it is, let’s dive in. This blog covers who should implement ISO 27017 cloud security, why it matters, and how Akitra’s Compliance Automation Platform can help you achieve it quickly and cost-effectively.
Let’s get started!
What does the ISO 27017 Security Guideline entail?
Under the jurisdiction of the ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 27 joint ISO/IEC subcommittee, the International Organization for Standardization and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) issued the ISO 27017 cloud security regulatory framework.
This global security standard provides instructions for cloud service users who implement controls and for cloud service providers that facilitate the establishment of controls by users. The framework outlines how physical, virtual, and cloud network security management should be aligned and integrated. In the cloud, where information security controls apply to the framework, ISO 27017 cloud security extends all necessary safety measures and risk-based analysis for online safety.
This framework provides implementation recommendations for seven additional standards and the 37 controls outlined in ISO/IEC 27001.
The new cloud controls must follow the best practices listed below:
- Assign different people in charge of taking care of things specific to the cloud customer and the cloud service provider;
- Facilitate taking or giving away of property (intellectual or otherwise) when a contract is dissolved;
- Safeguard and separate the virtual environment of the customer;
- Configure all virtual machines.
- Manage all operations and processes related to the cloud environment that enable clients to follow appropriate actions;
- Monitor cloud activity by all authorized cloud users.
- Align the virtual and cloud network environments; and,
- Organize and implement controls for information security based on the ISO 27017 cloud security framework and ISO 27001 standard.
By implementing this code of best practices, cloud users and providers can select appropriate policies and receive tailored implementation advice based on risk assessments for cloud services, thereby meeting baseline information security requirements.
Who Should Implement ISO 27017?
ISO 27017 cloud security is crucial to ensure that you adhere to best practices if you run a SaaS or directly use cloud storage in your company. ISO 27017 is rapidly becoming a requirement for certain large-scale and government projects, as these organizations will only collaborate with companies that consistently demonstrate a dedication to risk reduction.
The framework’s implementation will be impacted by any legal, contractual, regulatory, or other information security requirements specific to the cloud regarding the choice of appropriate information security controls.
Any business that employs or wants to offer secure cloud services to its customers must get this certification. It demonstrates that they have implemented ISO 27017 information security controls, allowing a business to demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding consumer information. By becoming accredited, your business can differentiate itself and offer its clients superior cloud security.
Why Should You Implement ISO 27017
Customers must feel secure about the security of their data in the cloud. By demonstrating your commitment to information security practices, ISO/IEC 27017 is a well-recognized methodology that, when implemented, significantly reduces the likelihood of data breaches and enhances consumer trust.
The framework, as previously mentioned, addresses several concerns, including asset ownership, the removal and return of assets upon termination of a customer contract, and the security of a customer’s virtual environment.The ISO 27017 standard, built on ISO 27001 and ISO 27002, helps cloud providers and customers implement best practices to mitigate cloud-related threats. It supports identifying key security factors, choosing reliable partners, and adapting to the growing complexity of IT service delivery. Certification requires an information security management system aligned with ISO/IEC 27017:2015 and ISO/IEC 27001.
Security, AI Risk Management, and Compliance with Akitra!
In the competitive landscape of SaaS businesses, trust is paramount amidst data breaches and privacy concerns. Akitra addresses this need with its leading AI-powered Compliance Automation platform. Our platform empowers customers to prevent sensitive data disclosure and mitigate risks, meeting the expectations of customers and partners in the rapidly evolving landscape of data security and compliance. Through automated evidence collection and continuous monitoring, paired with customizable policies, Akitra ensures organizations are compliance-ready for various frameworks such as SOC 1, SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, PCI DSS, ISO 27001, ISO 27701, ISO 27017, ISO 27018, ISO 9001, ISO 13485, ISO 42001, NIST 800-53, NIST 800-171, NIST AI RMF, FedRAMP, CCPA, CMMC, SOX ITGC, and more such as CIS AWS Foundations Benchmark, Australian ISM and Essential Eight etc. In addition, companies can use Akitra’s Risk Management product for overall risk management using quantitative methodologies such as Factorial Analysis of Information Risks (FAIR) and qualitative methods, including NIST-based for your company, Vulnerability Assessment and Pen Testing services, Third Party Vendor Risk Management, Trust Center, and AI-based Automated Questionnaire Response product to streamline and expedite security questionnaire response processes, delivering huge cost savings. Our compliance and security experts provide customized guidance to navigate the end-to-end compliance process confidently. Last but not least, we have also developed a resource hub called Akitra Academy, which offers easy-to-learn short video courses on security, compliance, and related topics of immense significance for today’s fast-growing companies.
Our solution offers substantial time and cost savings, including discounted audit fees, enabling fast and cost-effective compliance certification. Customers achieve continuous compliance as they grow, becoming certified under multiple frameworks through a single automation platform.
Build customer trust. Choose Akitra TODAY! To book your FREE DEMO, contact us right here.
FAQs
Who should follow ISO 27017 cloud security guidelines?
Organizations offering or using cloud services, SaaS providers, storage platforms, and any handling of sensitive cloud data.
How does Akitra help with ISO 27017 cloud security compliance?
Akitra automates evidence collection, streamlines audits, and provides expert guidance for faster, cost-effective certification.
