ISO 27001
Information Security Management System
QLC’s ISO 27001 certification consultants answer your questions
ISO 27001 was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and is an international standard specifying general requirements for establishing, implementing, monitoring, and continuously improving an Information Security Management System. It aims to preserve the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information, protecting businesses from cyberattacks, data breaches, and other security threats.
ISO 27001 applies to any organization (private or public), regardless of size or sector, that handles information and wants to safeguard it. This includes technology companies, cloud service providers, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, government agencies, and any business managing critical data or personal information.
Setting up an ISO 27001 Information Security Management System involves:
- Identifying information assets and potential threats.
- Conducting risk analysis and specifying necessary security controls.
- Designing and implementing security policies and procedures to protect information.
- Training staff in information security and risk management.
- Monitoring and continuously improving the system through internal audits and evaluations.
Implementation difficulty depends on the company’s size, operations, and complexity of IT systems, as well as existing security culture. Businesses with extensive networks or high data management needs may require more time and specialized support to fully comply. Working with experienced consultants can simplify the process and ensure system effectiveness.
Numerous certification bodies in Greece are accredited by the Hellenic Accreditation System (ESYD) or equivalent institutions to issue related certificates. The certification process involves evaluating how the company complies with operational and IT requirements, assessing the Information Security Management System against the standard, and examining its practical application. After a successful assessment, the Certification Body issues a three-year Certificate of Conformity. If there are significant deviations, corrective actions must be completed before certificate issuance; minor deviations must be resolved by the next audit. The certificate remains valid as long as scheduled periodic audits (at least annually) confirm ongoing adherence to stated requirements.
Organizations adopting ISO 27001 enjoy multiple advantages:
- Protecting data and information from leaks, attacks, and breaches
- Complying with legal and regulatory mandates (e.g., the GDPR)
- Strengthening customer and partner trust by demonstrating robust security policies
- Gaining a competitive edge as many companies partner with certified suppliers
- Reducing business risks, ensuring operational continuity in crisis situations
Development and certification of an Information Security Management System depend on how prepared the business is, system complexity, and staff participation. Typically, for small and medium-sized companies with basic IT infrastructure, it may take 2–6 months.