How to run ISO 27001 remotely

Are you ready to take on the challenge of running ISO 27001 remotely? 

Then this blog is for you! 

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we work, forcing many businesses to adopt remote working practices. This has also impacted how businesses can manage their information security management systems (ISMS), including those certified to ISO 27001. 

While it may seem challenging to maintain ISO 27001 certification while working remotely, it's entirely possible with the right approach.

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First things first: You need the right tools in your arsenal. You can't just rely on your good old laptop and your Wi-Fi connection. No, no, no. You need a robust VPN, top-notch security software, a reliable communications platform, and most importantly, an automated solution to comply with ISO 27001! 

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Once you have your tools in place, you can get to work. You'll need to conduct regular risk assessments, develop solid security policies, and keep a close eye on all your remote systems to make sure they're up to date.

So let's take a look at what exactly should be considered to implement ISO 27001 remotely.

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How to approach ISO 27001 remotely:

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1. Conduct a remote risk assessment: The first step in running ISO 27001 remotely is to conduct a remote risk assessment. This should include identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities to your information assets while working remotely. It's essential to assess the risks and threats from a remote perspective and adjust your ISMS accordingly.

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2. Update your policies and procedures: After conducting a remote risk assessment, it's essential to update your policies and procedures to reflect any changes in how you work. This should include updating your remote access policies and procedures, as well as any other policies that may be impacted by remote working.

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3. Ensure remote access security: Remote working increases the risk of security breaches, so it's crucial to ensure that your remote access is secure. This includes implementing multi-factor authentication, using secure VPN connections, and providing secure remote access tools.

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4. Conduct virtual training: Training is a crucial component of ISO 27001, and it's essential to ensure that your employees understand the updated policies and procedures related to remote working. Conduct virtual training sessions to ensure that your team members are aware of the security risks associated with remote working and how to protect your information assets.

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5. Conduct virtual audits: ISO 27001 requires regular audits to ensure compliance with the standard. While traditional on-site audits may not be possible, virtual audits can be conducted remotely. These audits can be conducted using video conferencing tools and other remote technologies.

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6. Review and adjust your ISMS: Finally, it's essential to continually review and adjust your ISMS to ensure that it remains effective in a remote working environment. This includes regular reviews of your policies and procedures, risk assessments, and security controls.

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In summary, with the right approach, it is absolutely possible to run ISO 27001 remotely.

By conducting a remote risk assessment, updating policies and procedures, ensuring remote access security, conducting virtual training and audits, and continually reviewing and adjusting your ISMS, you can maintain your ISO 27001 certification and protect your information assets while working remotely.

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And don't forget - in addition to cybercrime factors, ISO 27001 helps with business growth, assists with directional decision-making, engages the entire organization, and shines to the outside world (existing and potential customers) as THE seal of information security!  

But remember, you can't do it all alone. You need a team of cyber warriors on your side to help you stay on top of things. 

So gather the best and brightest minds and get ready to fight the good fight against cybercrime and information theft. Secfix is standing by! Book a consultation with us!

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If you speak German, you can watch this webinar about ISO 27001 for Remote-Teams, we did with deel., an HR company.

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ISO 27001 for remote teams