Introduction

Whereas the global economy is basking on the back of cyber infrastructure, Nepali organizations need to be robust in their defense system of protecting sensitive data. ISO 27001 certification is an international information security standard based on reality on which organizations can reduce risk without undermining international standards. This article offers the feasibility, usability, and implementation process of ISO 27001 certification in Nepal.

ISO 27001 is an international standard for an Information Security Management System. It is a process-based method of how organizations can ensure information integrity, confidentiality, and availability by using security controls and risk management.

Why ISO 27001 Certification is required in Nepal

Increased sensitive information is being processed by the organizations, and ISO 27001 certification is required. Among the reasons why it is most necessary are:

  1. Enhanced Cybersecurity: Protects against cyber attack exposure, hacking, and data loss.
  2. Legality Compliance: Facilitates organizations to provide Nepalese and global data protection law compliance.
  3. Reputation and Customer Business Trust: Provides stakeholders with confidence that security and privacy are guaranteed by a commitment.
  4. Competitive Advantage: Provides foreign market opportunity through the platform of international security compliance.
  5. Effective Risk Management: Facilitates risk realization at the early stage and warns against information security attacks.

Steps for ISO 27001 Certification in Nepal

  1. Familiarization with ISO 27001 Standard

Organizations familiarize themselves with the clauses of ISO 27001 and apply them at the business process level.

  1. Gap Analysis

Gap analysis identifies what security controls have been implemented and how they can be further enhanced.

  1. Implementation of ISMS

Implement security policies, objectives, and controls to provide extra security to information.

  1. Risk Assessment

Identify security threat areas and have them corrected.

  1. Security Awareness and Staff Training in Security Best Practice and Procedure

Staff will be trained in security best practice and procedure to show evidence of compliance.

  1. Continuous Improvement and Internal Auditing

Internal auditing places ISMS performance and potential for improvement in a state of continuous scrutiny.

  1. Third-Party Accredited Audit Certification

Accrediting organization carries out two-stage audit:

Step 1 (Review Documentation): Places ISMS documentation and policy under review.

Step 2 (Audit Real World Implementation and Effectiveness): Real world effectiveness and implementation of the security controls audited.

Completion of the audit leads to ISO 27001 certification.

How to select a Certification Body in order to be certified in Nepal

The following should be considered while selecting a certification body:

  • Industry reputation and accreditation
  • Field of experience in ISO 27001 certification
  • Cost of certification and duration
  • Cost of certification and time
  • Conduct of post-certification support and surveillance audit

Challenges Typical in ISO 27001 Implementation in Nepal

The common challenges to be expected by the organizations are:

  1. Low Awareness: Most of the organizations are not aware or have lesser awareness about ISO 27001 and the benefits of its implementation.
  2. Budget Constraints: Small- and medium-sized organizations will find the certification process too time-consuming and too costly.
  3. Resistance to Change: The employees of the organization may be resistant to change in adopting new security controls.
  4. Sustained Compliance: Maintenance and audit must be conducted from time to time in attempting to stay certified.

Introduction

ISO 27001 certification is Nepali business organizational strategy in an effort to enhance information security, compete globally, and gain customers' trust. By implementing a documented ISMS and addressing areas of concern, the organizations are safeguarding their confidential data, enhancing the risk management, and being a successful business organization in the long term. With Nepal developing towards a digital economy, ISO 27001 certification will be a leapfrog in business process and compliance guarantee management.

Visit https://www.abishekadhikari.com.np/ to learn more about ISO.