In today’s digital age, protecting information isn’t optional—it’s essential. That’s why ISO/IEC 27001:2022 is such a vital standard for any organization that handles sensitive data, and we’re thrilled to announce that we’ve just received our certification. At Qlarity Access, client data security has always been a cornerstone of our operations, and this achievement formally validates our unwavering commitment to these principles.
But what does this really mean, and why should you care?
The CIA Triad: The Foundation of Information Security
At the heart of ISO/IEC 27001:2022 lies a simple but powerful concept: the CIA triad, which represents the three core principles of information security.
- Confidentiality: Only authorized individuals should have access to sensitive information.
Risk example: Unauthorized actors obtain and sell client login credentials. - Integrity: Information must be accurate and complete. It should not be altered or erased without proper authorization.
Risk example: An employee mistakenly deletes a row of data during file processing. - Availability: Information should be accessible when needed by those who are authorized.
Risk example: Your system goes offline due to server issues and lack of backup, halting operations.
Our certification means that we don’t just talk about our dedication to these principles, we demonstrate it with a structured risk management process and policies that have been rigorously audited by CIRQ (Certification Institute for Research Quality). This independent assessment gives all stakeholders, especially our clients, confidence that data is being handled responsibly and securely through a continuously monitored and improved system.
Our Journey to ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Certification
Achieving ISO/IEC 27001:2022 isn't an easy feat; it's the culmination of a dedicated, organization-wide commitment to information security. For Qlarity Access, this involved an intensive two-year journey, meticulously overseen by COO Chris Kreiling and Information Security Manager Seth Green.
Our path included significant transformation:
- Empowering Our Team: Every Qlarity Access employee underwent extensive training with KnowBe4, covering critical areas like phishing awareness and comprehensive data security. This fostered a deep culture of security consciousness.
- Fortifying Our Systems: We transitioned to a robust, cloud-based infrastructure, eliminating physical servers. This major upgrade came with critical security enhancements, including comprehensive file and email labeling, tighter data access restrictions, and universal two-factor authentication across all systems. Alongside this, we meticulously built and refined our information security policies.
- Rigorous Auditing and Ongoing Commitment: Our efforts culminated in a thorough audit by CIRQ, the independent body that confirmed our compliance. This certification isn't static; it requires continuous commitment, with surveillance audits at the one-year and two-year marks, and a full re-certification every three years.
This profound investment in our people, processes, and technology underscores our unwavering dedication to protecting what matters most: your valuable information.
Why ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Certification Matters
Being ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certified means that we meet international standards for managing information securely. This isn’t just about checking a box – it’s about demonstrating our commitment to data security, operational resilience, and customer trust.
Benefits of Certification Include:
- Greater Resilience to Cyber-Attacks: This translates to less downtime for your operations and uninterrupted access to our services, even in the face of sophisticated cyber threats.
- Preparedness for Evolving Security Threats: We're always ahead of the curve, anticipating and mitigating new risks to your data.
- Protection of Data Across All Formats – Digital, Paper, and Cloud-Based: Whether you share data via our platform, email, or physical documents, our certification ensures it's protected consistently.
- Organization-Wide Alignment Around Security Best Practices: Every member of our team is committed to safeguarding your information.
- Centralized Risk Management: We systematically identify, assess, and treat information security risks.
- Cost Savings by Avoiding Data Breaches and Reducing Inefficient Defenses: By minimizing the risk of breaches, we help you avoid potential legal liabilities, reputational damage, and operational disruptions that can impact your bottom line.
As Chris Kreiling, Chief Operating Officer, put it: “Our systems won’t fall apart – they work when we need them. Which is always.”
Cyber threats aren’t going away – but we’re doing everything in our power to meet them head on. ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification isn’t just a badge. It’s our steadfast dedication to you and your team that we take data protection seriously.
Experience the confidence that comes with knowing your sensitive information is handled with the highest security standards. Reach out to the Qlarity Access team to discuss how we can help protect what matters most to your business.
