ISO 27701 is an extension of the ISO 27001 standard, focused on managing personal information (Privacy Information Management System, PIMS). It was developed to help organisations protect personal data and comply with the requirements of international and local regulators, such as the GDPR and the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Personal Data and Their Protection”. In an environment where breaches of data privacy can lead to serious legal and financial consequences, ISO 27701 certification has become essential for companies seeking to safeguard and effectively manage personal information.
Differences between ISO 27001 and ISO 27701
Although both standards are related to information security, they have different areas of focus:
- ISO 27001 – a standard that defines the requirements for an Information Security Management System (ISMS). It focuses on protecting the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information in general, regardless of its type.
- ISO 27701 – an extension of ISO 27001, aimed at managing Personally Identifiable Information (PII). It includes additional requirements and guidance on the protection and processing of individuals’ data, covering privacy aspects.
Implementation of ISO 27701 is only possible on the basis of an existing ISO 27001 system, which allows the management of personal data to be integrated into the company’s overall information security framework.
How ISO 27701 helps meet GDPR and other regulatory requirements
In recent years, requirements for personal data protection have become stricter worldwide, including in Kazakhstan. Regulators such as the GDPR in Europe demand a high level of transparency from companies regarding the collection, processing and storage of personal information. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in significant fines and reputational damage.
ISO 27701 helps organisations comply with these requirements in the following ways:
- Transparency in data processing: The standard sets clear requirements for informing data subjects about what personal data is collected, how it is used, and where it is stored.
- Risk management: ISO 27701 requires organisations to carry out risk assessments in relation to the processing of personal data and to implement measures to minimise those risks.
- Data subject rights: The standard regulates processes to ensure the rights of data subjects, such as the right to access, rectify and delete personal information.
- Documentation and accountability: Implementing ISO 27701 requires thorough documentation of all personal data processing activities, making it easier to meet regulatory requirements and prepare reports.
Thus, ISO 27701 certification helps companies in Kazakhstan and beyond avoid fines and legal risks associated with non-compliance with regulatory requirements.
Implementing ISO 27701: key steps and business benefits
The process of implementing ISO 27701 may seem complex, but its structured approach ensures effective management of personal data. The main steps include:
- Analysis of current processes: Assessing the existing Information Security Management System (ISO 27001) and identifying areas that require adaptation to meet ISO 27701 requirements.
- Defining responsibilities: Appointing responsible persons for managing personal information, including process owners and data controllers.
- Risk identification and assessment: Conducting risk analysis related to the processing of personal data and developing measures to mitigate them.
- Developing and implementing a privacy policy: Creating or adapting privacy policies and procedures governing the processing of personal data.
- Staff training and awareness: Delivering training sessions to raise employee awareness of ISO 27701 requirements and to strengthen skills in personal data management.
- Internal audit and corrective actions: Carrying out regular internal reviews to identify non-conformities and address them before official certification.
The benefits of implementing ISO 27701 for business include:
- Increased customer trust: ISO 27701 certification demonstrates to clients and partners that the company takes data protection and compliance with international standards seriously.
- Reduced risks: Implementing a PIMS significantly lowers the risks of data breaches and the associated penalties.
- Competitive advantage: In Kazakhstan, as well as internationally, companies certified to ISO 27701 have a greater chance of attracting clients and partners for whom data protection is a key requirement.
- Process improvement: Information management standards help to optimise internal processes and improve the efficiency of the organisation.
In the context of Kazakhstan’s rapidly growing digital economy, certification to these standards is becoming an essential step for any business aiming for long-term success and sustainable growth.