Learn about the changes to ISO 27001 in the recent 2022 update and download our helpful ISO 27001 Checklist by submitting your email below.
Transitioning from ISO 27001:2013 to the latest ISO 27001:2022 standard ensures your Information Security Management System (ISMS) remains up-to-date and relevant with current security standards, which is essential as your organization approaches recertification. The updated standard aligns with recent security challenges and best practices, to robustly protect your organization’s systems as cyber threats become more complex and costly.
What Is ISO 27001:2022?
ISO 27001:2022 is the latest version of the globally recognized ISMS standard. Developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), it provides a framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continually improving an ISMS.
The updated version addresses recent challenges in data security and aligns with evolving best practices, to support robust information protection against a backdrop of evolving cyber threats.
Learn more about ISO 27001 with our expert guide.
Why Is It Important to Transition to ISO 27001:2022?
Transitioning to ISO 27001:2022 from the previous version of the standard – ISO 27001:2013—is crucial for your organization because it allows your ISMS to address current challenges in data security.
The updated version of the standard reflects the latest technological advancements, changes in the risk environment and evolving legal and regulatory requirements. This ensures that your organization’s ISMS remains relevant and effective.
By transitioning, your organization can bolster its defences against modern cyber security threats. The updated standard provides a more robust framework for managing information security risks and incorporating findings from recent years.
For example, the legislation around data privacy has evolved significantly, placing new obligations on organizations to protect sensitive data. ISO 27001:2022 provides the necessary guidance to help businesses understand and meet these requirements.
Transitioning to ISO 27001:2022 also shows your organization’s active commitment to continual improvement and upholding the highest standards in data security. This can enhance your reputation, build customer trust and give your business a competitive advantage.
Updating your ISMS to align with ISO 27001:2022 is not just best practice—it is business critical as cyber security threats become more complex.
Find out how to achieve ISO 27001 certification.
ISO 27001:2022 Transition Timelines
To ensure all certified organizations comply with the latest requirements, there is a timeline in place to make necessary changes and become recertified.
These changes help keep the standard up-to-date with evolving trends and legislation in information security management.
This timeline only applies to organizations that are already certified under ISO 27001:2013.
- October 25, 2022—Release date of new ISO 27001 edition
- October 31, 2022—Beginning of the ISO 27001:2022 transition period
- May 1, 2024—Any new certifications and recertifications after this date should be ISO 27001:2022
- July 31, 2025—All ISO 27001:2022 transition audits should be conducted by this date
- October 31, 2025—Transition period ends, and ISO 27001:2013 certifications are no longer valid
With all this in mind, what’s the difference between ISO 27001:2013 and ISO 27001:2022?
What Are the Key Changes to the ISO 27001 Standard?
The introduction of ISO 27001:2022 brings several critical changes to the standard, designed to keep it up-to-date with evolving trends and legislation in information security management.
The following are just some of the updates in ISO 27001:2022.
Increased Focus on Risk Management
This significant adjustment ensures a more integrated, systematic approach to identifying, assessing and mitigating information security risks.
This includes an updated risk assessment process that better aligns with contemporary risk scenarios. It incorporates external and internal factors and allows for continual monitoring and review of risks. It takes into account diverse risk scenarios and allows for more robust responses so that organizations are better equipped to manage their information security risks.
Greater Top-Level Engagement
The updated standard also places greater emphasis on top management’s commitment and involvement in the ISMS. It reflects a shift where information security is now considered a strategic, board-level issue rather than just a technical one.
This top-level engagement is crucial for driving the ISMS and aligning it with business strategy from day one.
A More Detailed Framework for Performance Evaluation
ISO 27001:2022 also comes with an expanded approach to performance evaluation. This shift aligns with the standard’s intent of promoting the continual improvement of the ISMS.
The revised standard provides a more detailed framework for evaluating information security management performance. This allows organizations to efficiently and accurately measure their progress and recognize areas for improvement.
Annex A updates
ISO 27001:2022 includes significant updates to Annex A, with changes to the structure and content of the controls. This revision aligns the controls with the latest cyber security trends and best practices.
Read our guide to ISO 27001 Annex A Controls.
Clearer Language
Another noticeable change is the language used around control objectives, risk assessment requirements and documentation. This revision makes the requirements more transparent and precise, making it easier to understand and implement.
Download our comprehensive ISO 27001:2022 Transition Guide for more in-depth details and to learn how these changes impact your ISMS and your organization’s information security management.
How to Update Your ISO 27001 Certification to ISO 27001:2022
Updating your ISO 27001 certification to the 2022 version involves several steps. If you already have an ISO 27001 certification, you need to compare the new requirements with your current Information Security Management System (ISMS) setup.
Conduct a formal gap analysis to systematically identify areas where your current ISMS does not meet the new requirements of ISO 27001:2022 and where changes are required. This could involve changing your processes, adjusting your risk assessment policies or updating your training programs to cover more relevant information.
Once you’ve made the necessary changes, you will need to undergo an audit to confirm that your updated ISMS meets the ISO 27001:2022 requirements.
If you’re new to the ISO 27001 standard, you’ll need to establish an ISMS compliant with the 2022 update requirements.
You will need to take several steps, including the following:
- Clearly define your scope
- Conduct a risk assessment
- Implement the relevant controls
- Establish your risk management process
Once you’ve set up your ISMS, you’ll also need to undergo an audit to achieve your ISO 27001:2022 certification.
Remember, whether you’re updating your certification or getting certified for the first time, training your team on the update and the increased importance of information security is crucial. Getting assistance from professionals with experience in ISO 27001 can also make the process smoother and more efficient.
Learn more about our ISO 27001 training courses.
ISO 27001:2022 FAQs
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What happens if my organization misses the deadline?
If your organization misses the ultimate deadline for transition to ISO 27001:2022, your certification will no longer be valid under the new standard.
This could impact your reputation, cause problems with regulatory compliance and potentially lead to the loss of business for clients who require a valid ISO 27001 certification for collaboration.
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What resources are available to help my organization transition?
Several resources are available to help organizations throughout the transition process. These include:
- Comprehensive guides and toolkits from ISO certification bodies
- Professional consulting services
- Training courses
- Webinars and workshops
- Online communities and forums may also offer peer advice and shared experiences
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What are the costs associated with this transition?
The typical costs associated with transitioning to ISO 27001:2022 can include training staff, updating systems and processes, consulting services and the cost of the certification audit itself.
The total cost will depend on several factors, including your organization’s size and the current state of your existing ISMS.
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Are there any penalties for not transitioning to ISO 27001:2022?
While there may not be direct financial penalties, the real risks include loss of certification, potential non-compliance with contracts or regulations and damage to business reputation.
After the transition deadline, not having the latest version of ISO 27001 could result in a loss of business from clients who require a valid ISO certification under the updated standard, such as certain healthcare organizations, government agencies or financial institutions.
Choose Amtivo (Formerly Orion Registrar and American Systems Registrar)
Amtivo is a leading provider of ISO certification services – we’re ANAB-accredited, and our ISO certifications are recognized and accepted worldwide.
By working with us, you can enjoy a cost-effective service provided by experienced, professional ISO auditors who customize their approach for each business. We offer bespoke services to help improve your organization’s service and quality. Take advantage of our fixed-price guarantee with zero hidden fees.
Working closely with a certification body such as Amtivo during the transition process to ensure all updates to your ISMS meet the new ISO 27001:2022 requirements before your scheduled transition audit.
To get started on your transition to ISO 27001:2022, get a quote today, or contact our team to discuss your needs.
