Cybersecurity has become a top concern as businesses continue to rely more heavily on technology. SOC 2 compliance is one-way businesses can ensure they take the necessary steps to protect their customers' data.

What is SOC 2 Compliance?

SOC 2 stands for Service Organization Control 2. It is a set of standards developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) that outlines the criteria for managing customer data. Specifically, SOC 2 compliance focuses on five trust principles: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.

Businesses must undergo an audit by an independent third-party auditor to become SOC 2 compliant. The auditor will evaluate the business's processes and controls to ensure they meet the trust principles' criteria. Suppose the auditor determines that the company is SOC 2 compliant. In that case, they will issue a report that can be provided to customers and partners to demonstrate the business's commitment to data security.

SOC 2 compliance is not mandatory, but it is becoming increasingly crucial for businesses that handle sensitive data. Many companies require their vendors and partners to be SOC 2 compliant, so achieving compliance can open up new business opportunities. In addition, SOC 2 compliance can help businesses avoid costly data breaches and maintain customer trust.

Overall, SOC 2 compliance is a valuable tool for businesses that want to ensure they take the necessary steps to protect their customers' data. By following the trust principles outlined in SOC 2, companies can demonstrate their commitment to data security and gain a competitive edge in today's technology-driven market.

Why is SOC 2 Compliance Important?

SOC 2 compliance can help businesses avoid costly data breaches and maintain customer trust. Data breaches can be expensive and damaging to a company's reputation. By achieving SOC 2 compliance, businesses can demonstrate to their customers that they are taking the necessary steps to protect their personal information.

Overall, SOC 2 compliance is a valuable tool for businesses that want to ensure they take the necessary steps to protect their customers' data. By following the trust principles outlined in SOC 2, companies can demonstrate their commitment to data security and gain a competitive edge in today's technology-driven market. Achieving SOC 2 compliance can help businesses avoid costly data breaches, maintain customer trust, and open new business opportunities.

SOC 2 Type 1 and Type 2: What is the difference?

The difference between SOC 2 Type 1 and Type 2 is that Type 1 only assesses the design of the controls at a specific point in time. In contrast, Type 2 assesses the design and operating effectiveness of the controls over a specified period, usually six months to a year. Type 2 reports are more comprehensive and valuable for clients seeking assurance about the effectiveness of a service organization's controls.

Who can Perform a SOC 2 Audit?

First and foremost, choosing an auditor accredited by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) is vital. This ensures that the auditor has the necessary knowledge and expertise to evaluate a business's processes and controls against the trust principles outlined in SOC 2.

Many different types of auditors can perform a SOC audit, including:

1. CPA firms - Certified Public Accountant firms are often the go-to choice for SOC audits. They have the expertise to evaluate a business's financial statements and controls, as well as their IT systems and security measures.
2. IT consulting firms - Many IT consulting firms have experience performing SOC audits, specializing in evaluating a business's technology infrastructure and security measures.
3. Compliance firms - specialize in helping businesses achieve and maintain compliance with various regulations and standards, including SOC 2.

Choosing an auditor with experience performing SOC audits for businesses in your industry is essential. This ensures that they deeply understand the unique challenges and risks associated with your business.

When selecting an auditor, it is also essential to consider their reputation and track record. Look for an auditor with a history of providing high-quality, thorough audits that customers and partners accept.

Top 10 SOC 2 Compliance firms

With so many firms offering SOC 2 compliance services, it can take time to choose the right one. To help businesses make an informed decision, we've compiled a list of the top 10 SOC 2 compliance firms.

1. Sprinto

Sprinto is a cloud-based security compliance program. They allow you to manage all aspects of your compliance from one place. You can launch your program and monitor the controls needed to complete the audit. The system was built to support entity-level security controls that are preventative as well as defensive, as dictated by the SOC 2 compliance framework. Sprinto ensures no loose ends and speed in completing your SOC 2 compliance program.

2. Vanta

Vanta SOC 2 services are a comprehensive set of tools and resources designed to help companies comply with the SOC 2 framework. With Vanta, businesses can streamline preparing for an audit, ensuring that all necessary controls are in place and that all relevant documentation is up-to-date. Vanta's platform makes it easy to track progress, identify areas of improvement, and collaborate with internal teams and external auditors. Whether your company is just starting the SOC 2 compliance journey or looking to streamline its existing processes, Vanta has the expertise and tools to make compliance more manageable and efficient.

3. Secureframe

Secureframe is a cloud-based compliance and security platform that helps businesses streamline their SOC 2 compliance processes. Their services include automated security monitoring, policy management, and risk assessment tools to ensure enterprises comply with SOC 2 regulations. Additionally, Secureframe offers support from compliance experts and provides the necessary documentation for SOC 2 audits, making the compliance process easier and more efficient for businesses.

4. Drata

Drata SOC 2 services are designed to help companies meet the requirements for SOC 2 compliance, which includes a set of standards for how companies handle and protect customer data. Drata's services provide automated compliance monitoring, risk assessment, and remediation guidance to help companies maintain compliance and reduce the risk of data breaches. They also offer detailed reporting and analytics to help companies maintain compliance.

5. Thoropass

Thoropass - previously known as Laika, offers compliance software that includes the auditor. Thoropass has in-house auditors and the software needed for evidence collection in one place. It has automation and integrations and everything you need for your SOC 2 in a single audit on a platform.

6. A-LIGN

A-LIGN is a leading cybersecurity and compliance solutions provider, including SOC 2 compliance. Their experts work closely with businesses to assess their processes and controls, identify risk areas, and develop a customized plan for achieving SOC 2 compliance.

7. KirkpatrickPrice

KirkpatrickPrice is a trusted provider of information security audits and assessments, including SOC 2 compliance. Their team of auditors has extensive experience working with businesses of all sizes and industries, and they take a risk-based approach to ensure that all risk areas are addressed.

8. Coalfire

Coalfire is a leading cybersecurity advisory and assessment firm focusing on SOC 2 compliance. Their team of experts works closely with businesses to develop a customized compliance strategy, and they use a robust methodology to ensure that all controls are thoroughly evaluated.

9. Schellman & Company

Schellman & Company is a full-service IT audit and advisory firm focusing on SOC 2 compliance. They use a risk-based approach to evaluate controls, and their team of experts has experience working with businesses in a wide range of industries.

10. RSM

RSM is a global provider of audit, tax, and consulting services focusing on SOC 2 compliance. Their experienced team of auditors works closely with businesses to identify risk areas and develop a customized compliance plan. They offer a range of other cybersecurity and risk management services.

Conclusion

Choosing the right SOC 2 compliance firm is essential for businesses that want to demonstrate their commitment to data security. By working with one of these top firms, companies can ensure that their SOC 2 audit is comprehensive, thorough, and accepted by customers and partners.

Author: Garenne BigbyWebsite: http://garennebigby.com

Founder of DYNO Mapper and Former Advisory Committee Representative at the W3C.