# Scytale > Learn about best practices with our resources in infosec compliance for SaaS companies, and get tips and advise from our SOC 2 compliance experts. --- ## Pages - [Pricing](https://scytale.ai/pricing/): A plan suitable for every kind of customer, ensuring we help as many fast-growing companies as possible to become secure and compliant. - [AWS](https://scytale.ai/aws/): Take compliance to the cloud with Scytale + AWS. Scytale is not just compatible with AWS, we’re designed for it.... - [AI Agent](https://scytale.ai/ai-agent/): Forget about compliance as you know it. 
Scy is your next-gen, GRC-savvy AI Agent. Scy breaks down GRC barriers, where... - [About us](https://scytale.ai/about-us/): Dedicated to helping Helping SaaS companies streamline SOC 2 compliance with our carefully designed compliance technology and expert-advisory services. - [Book a Demo - AWS Partner Ads](https://scytale.ai/book-a-demo-aws-partner-ads/): Get compliant and stay compliant with the ultimate SOC 2 compliance automation platform. Book your demo today. - [Book a Demo - Partners](https://scytale.ai/partner-event-demo/): Get compliant and stay compliant with the ultimate SOC 2 compliance automation platform. Book your demo today. - [Enterprise](https://scytale.ai/enterprise/): Streamline enterprise compliance with Scytale’s automation platform, built for scaling teams and complex security needs. - [SOX ITGC](https://scytale.ai/sox-itgc/): Automate SOX ITGC audits with Scytale—save time, boost accuracy, and eliminate manual errors with a seamless, efficient workflow. - [Careers (individual)](https://scytale.ai/careers/): - [Channel Partner](https://scytale.ai/channel-partner/): Become a Scytale Channel Partner. Submit the form below to join the Scytale Partner Program. - [Penetration testing](https://scytale.ai/penetration-testing/): Pen testing made easy! You can streamline your pen testing with our end-end security compliance solution. - [Integrations](https://scytale.ai/integrations/): Integrate your technology stack to enjoy automated compliance monitoring and evidence collection. Streamline your compliance journey. - [Find a partner](https://scytale.ai/find-a-partner/): Easily find trusted partners for your SOC 2 and compliance needs. Connect with experts who can help streamline your audit process. - [Partners](https://scytale.ai/partners/): Reach new heights as a Scytale partner. Fill out the form and let us know what you have in mind. - [Trust Center](https://scytale.ai/trust-center/): Create a Trust Center in minutes with Scytale, effortlessly showcasing your company's security and compliance across top frameworks. - [Zertia Landing Page](https://scytale.ai/lp-zertia/): Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - [Home 2025](https://scytale.ai/): The only complete compliance solution, helping companies get compliant and stay compliant with security and privacy frameworks. - [Subprocessor Notification](https://scytale.ai/subprocessor-notification/): Our subprocessor notification. By submitting the form, you will receive relevant information and updates related to changes to our list... - [IQLUS Landing Page](https://scytale.ai/lp-iqlus/): Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - [Demo booked thank you](https://scytale.ai/demo-booked-thank-you/): You did it! 🎉 Demo booked! High-five, friend! 🙌 You just took a giant leap towards making compliance way less... - [All Features](https://scytale.ai/all-features/): Explore Scytale’s comprehensive features for automated compliance, streamlined audits, and efficient risk management in one platform. - [vDPO](https://scytale.ai/vdpo/): Simplify data privacy compliance with Scytale's vDPO services, offering expert support in managing regulations like GDPR and HIPAA. - [User Access Reviews](https://scytale.ai/user-access-reviews/): Simplify user access reviews with Scytale’s automated solution. Ensure compliance, reduce risk, and streamline your review process. - [Rotate Landing Page](https://scytale.ai/lp-rotate/): Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - [ISO 42001](https://scytale.ai/iso-42001/): ISO 42001 Compliance without breaking a sweat. Achieve compliance in a fraction of the time with automation. - [Audit Management](https://scytale.ai/audit-management/): Streamline audits with Scytale’s automated audit management solution. Ensure compliance, save time, and simplify your audit process. - [Fusion VC Landing Page](https://scytale.ai/lp-fusion-vc/): Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - [OIF Landing Page](https://scytale.ai/lp-oif/): Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - [Continuous Compliance](https://scytale.ai/continuous-compliance/): Ensure continuous compliance with Scytale's automated platform, streamlining audits and monitoring controls for peace of mind. - [PCI DSS](https://scytale.ai/pci-dss/): Simplify PCI DSS Compliance With Automation. Secure payments and cardholder data with smooth-sailing PCI DSS compliance! - [GDPR](https://scytale.ai/gdpr/): No more stressing over demanding GDPR requirements and lengthy processes. Get GDPR compliant faster with automation. - [SOC 2 V2](https://scytale.ai/soc-2/): Streamline SOC 2 compliance with automation. Scytale helps security-conscious SaaS companies get compliant and stay compliant. - [ISO 27001 V2](https://scytale.ai/iso-27001/): Streamline ISO 27001 compliance with automation. Scytale helps security-conscious SaaS companies get compliant and stay compliant. - [NIS2 Directive](https://scytale.ai/nis2-directive/): NIS2 Directive without breaking a sweat. Achieve compliance in a fraction of the time with automation. - [Learning Centre](https://scytale.ai/learning-centre/): Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - [Industry - Fintech](https://scytale.ai/fintech/): Everything you need to achieve and maintain compliance in financial without losing business, time, or money in the compliance rabbit hole. - [Industry - Healthcare](https://scytale.ai/healthcare/): Everything you need to achieve and maintain compliance in Healthcare without losing business, time, or money in the compliance rabbit hole. - [Free SOC 2 Evaluation](https://scytale.ai/free-soc-2-evaluation/): Get instant insights into your company’s SOC 2 status, where your compliance posture needs to be and how to get there. - [Industry - Technology](https://scytale.ai/technology/): Everything you need to achieve and maintain compliance in Tech without losing business, time, or money in the compliance rabbit hole. - [Vendor risk management](https://scytale.ai/vendor-risk-management/): Keeping track of your vendors doesn’t have to be daunting. Simplify all the moving parts with our automated vendor risk management. - [Sprinto vs Scytale](https://scytale.ai/compare/sprinto/): Finding the best Sprinto alternative can be simpler than you think. Find out why Scytale could be the answer you’re looking for. - [AI Security Questionnaires](https://scytale.ai/ai-security-questionnaires/): Change the way you’re answering countless questionnaires. Automate your security questionnaires with a combination of AI and expert review. - [Secureframe vs Scytale](https://scytale.ai/compare/secureframe/): Explore Secureframe alternatives on Scytale to find the best compliance solutions for your needs in 2024. - [Vanta vs Scytale](https://scytale.ai/compare/vanta/): Vanta vs Scytale - comparing compliance platforms. Find the best solution for your compliance needs in 2024. - [Drata vs Scytale](https://scytale.ai/compare/drata/): If you’re on the lookout for an alternative to Drata, you’ve come to the right place. Key features when evaluating Drata alternatives. - [Cyber Essentials +](https://scytale.ai/cyber-essentials-plus/): Cyber Essentials Plus without breaking a sweat. Achieve compliance in a fraction of the time with automation. - [Compliance Experts V2](https://scytale.ai/compliance-experts/): Meet the compliance experts. So, you now manage all compliance workflows in one place, enjoy automated evidence collection. - [Security compliance for startups V2](https://scytale.ai/startups/): We know you already have a million things on your plate as a startup – security compliance doesn’t have to be one of them. - [Deel Landing Page](https://scytale.ai/lp-deel/): Achieve compliance with ease. The ultimate automation platform designed to streamline information security for SaaS businesses. - [Built-In Audits](https://scytale.ai/built-in-audit/): For fast-moving companies who need to get compliant ASAP, the built-in audit provides a seamless compliance experience, from prep to pass. - [Security compliance for startups](https://scytale.ai/lp-security-compliance-for-startups/): We know you already have a million things on your plate as a startup – security compliance doesn’t have to be one of them. - [All Frameworks](https://scytale.ai/all-frameworks/): See all the security and privacy compliance frameworks that Scytale supports with its automation technology, for every kind of business. - [Growth](https://scytale.ai/growth/): We know you already have a million things on your plate as a growing organization – security compliance doesn’t have to be one of them. - [CMMC](https://scytale.ai/cmmc/): No more stressing over demanding CMMC requirements and lengthy processes. Get CMMC compliant faster with automation. - [CCPA](https://scytale.ai/ccpa/): No more stressing over demanding CCPA requirements and lengthy processes. Get CCPA compliant faster with automation. - [Founders unplugged](https://scytale.ai/founders-unplugged/): Get the inside scoop on how these startup founders on the SaaS scene turned their ideas into reality. Dive into their stories. - [PCI DSS Compliance](https://scytale.ai/pci-dss-compliance/): Everything you need to know about PCI DSS, what it means for your business, and what you need to do to comply with its requirements. - [Podcasts](https://scytale.ai/scytale-podcasts/): Listen to Scytale's podcasts breaking down security compliance and automation, covering frameworks like SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, and more - [ISO 27001 Compliance](https://scytale.ai/iso-27001-compliance/): Our ultimate ISO 27001 guide, get a super deep dive into everything ISO 27001 certification. Definition, steps, benefits, audits and more. - [Compliance Experts](https://scytale.ai/lp-we-manage-your-compliance-process/): Don't have time to hire a full-time CISO? We've got you covered. - [Compliance Check - Open Source lp](https://scytale.ai/compliance-check-open-source-lp/): How close are you to security compliance? Get a quick view into your GitHub compliance status with our open source tool! - [Book a Demo AE](https://scytale.ai/book-a-demo-ae/): Get compliant and stay compliant with the ultimate SOC 2 compliance automation platform. Book your demo today. - [SOC 2 Compliance](https://scytale.ai/soc-2-compliance/): Learn how to get your SOC 2 compliance process in 2023 with our complete guide. Ensure your organization meets all the necessary standards. - [SOC 1](https://scytale.ai/soc-1/): Build trust in your business processes with automated SOC 1 compliance, and save hundreds of hours with automated SOC 1 compliance! - [Careers](https://scytale.ai/scytale-careers/): We're on a mission to Transform Information Security Compliance and we want YOU TO JOIN US! - [HIPAA](https://scytale.ai/hipaa/): Everything you need to get HIPAA compliant in one place and 90% faster. Scytale is the global leader in InfoSec compliance automation. - [News](https://scytale.ai/news/): Our news room! Learn about best practices in infosec compliance for SaaS companies, and get tips and advise from our SOC 2 compliance experts. - [Compliance Check - Open Source lp](https://scytale.ai/compliance-check/): How close are you to security compliance? Get a quick view into your GitHub compliance status with our open source tool! - [SOC 2 Academy](https://scytale.ai/free-soc2-training/): The MOST comprehensive masterclass for SOC 2 out there and the ONLY dedicated SOC 2 Master Implementer Certification in existence. - [Book a Demo](https://scytale.ai/book-a-demo/): Get compliant and stay compliant with the ultimate SOC 2 compliance automation platform. Book your demo today. - [Glossary](https://scytale.ai/glossary/): Helping you understand the lingo and abbreviations of the SOC 2 compliance automation, audit readiness, and task management. - [Resources](https://scytale.ai/resources/): Learn about best practices with our resources in infosec compliance for SaaS companies, and get tips and advise from our SOC 2 compliance experts. - [Security & Trust](https://scytale.ai/security/): Our platform has been carefully designed with security our top priority. We follow industry-standard best practices regarding security measures. - [Cookie Policy](https://scytale.ai/cookie-policy/): About this cookie policy This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are and how we use them, the types of cookies... --- ## Posts - [Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management: Strategies for Success](https://scytale.ai/resources/regulatory-compliance-and-risk-management-strategies-for-success/): Streamline regulatory compliance and risk management with smart strategies and automation to keep your business secure and audit-ready. - [5 Best Vanta Alternatives To Consider in 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/best-vanta-alternatives-to-consider/): Discover which Vanta alternatives are best suited for your business in terms of security risks, industry best practices, size, and budget. - [9 Best HIPAA Compliance Tools in 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/best-hipaa-compliance-tools/): Discover how you can minimize risks and simplify regulatory compliance for your business with the top HIPAA compliance tools in 2025. - [Meet Scy: The Only Next-Gen, AI GRC-Savvy Agent of its Kind](https://scytale.ai/resources/meet-scy-the-only-next-gen-ai-grc-agent/): Introducing Scy: your next-gen AI GRC agent that cuts compliance busywork so your team can move faster, stay audit-ready, and focus on growth. - [How Scytale Turns GRC Complexity into GRC Simplicity](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytale-turns-grc-complexity-into-grc-simplicity/): GRC doesn’t have to be complicated. See how Scytale makes security and compliance effortless with its AI-powered automation platform. - [The 5-Step Guide to IT General Controls for SOX Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-5-step-guide-to-it-general-controls-for-sox-compliance/): Learn how to implement and automate IT General Controls (ITGC) for SOX compliance with this simple step-by-step guide. - [HIPAA Compliance Made Simple: Step-By-Step Checklist](https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-compliance-checklist/): Discover how your business can protect PHI, reduce risk, and stay compliant with ease using our step-by-step HIPAA compliance checklist. - [IT General Controls (ITGC): Everything You Need to Know](https://scytale.ai/resources/it-general-controls-itgc-everything-you-need-to-know/): IT General Controls (ITGC) are essential to IT governance, ensuring the reliability and security of an organization's IT systems and data. - [SOC 2 vs. HIPAA Compliance: What’s the Difference?](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-vs-hipaa-compliance/): Discover the key differences and benefits of SOC 2 and HIPAA compliance, and how together they can enhance your organization's data security. - [The GRC Balancing Act: Managing Multiple Frameworks Without Losing Your Mind](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-grc-balancing-act-managing-multiple-frameworks-without-losing-your-mind/): Scaling while staying compliant? Kyle Morris and Ben Sand share key insights on managing frameworks and building scalable compliance programs. - [The CCPA Compliance Checklist: Ensuring Data Protection and Privacy](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-ccpa-compliance-checklist-ensuring-data-protection-and-privacy/): The comprehensive CCPA compliance checklist helps your business meet all CCPA requirements effortlessly and avoid compliance issues. - [How Startups are Getting Compliant Faster with Automation ](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-startups-are-getting-compliant-faster-with-automation/): Information security compliance is the necessary ordeal that most startups must endure prior to doing business with any company. - [Scytale Now Supports ISO 22301, Simplifying Business Continuity for Modern Teams](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-supports-iso-22301-compliance/): Scytale now supports ISO 22301:2019, helping businesses automate business continuity compliance, minimize downtime, and stay resilient. - [DORA Compliance Checklist: From Preparation to Implementation](https://scytale.ai/resources/dora-compliance-checklist/): Learn how to navigate the DORA compliance checklist and meet DORA cybersecurity regulation requirements with our step-by-step guide. - [Scytale Joins the AWS Global Security and Compliance Acceleration Program](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-joins-the-aws-global-security-and-compliance-acceleration-program/): Scytale joins the AWS Global Security & Compliance Acceleration Program, providing faster compliance and expert cloud security guidance. - [What Is the GDPR?](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-the-gdpr/): In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, unpacks the GDPR - what it is, and who it applies to. - [GDPR: What Are the Grounds for Lawful Processing?](https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-what-are-the-grounds-for-lawful-processing/): In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, breaks down the 6 lawful bases for processing personal data under the GDPR. - [What Are the GDPR Core Principles?](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-are-the-gdpr-core-principles/): In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, breaks down the 7 core principles of the GDPR and what they mean in practice. - [GDPR: What is Processing?](https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-what-is-processing/): In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, explains what processing really means under the GDPR. - [GDPR: What are Data Subject Access Rights?](https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-what-are-data-subject-access-rights/): In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, explains what data subject access rights are under the GDPR and why they matter. - [GDPR: What are Special Categories?](https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-what-are-special-categories/): In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, explains special categories of personal data, and why they require extra protection. - [What Counts as Personal Data Under the GDPR?](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-counts-as-personal-data-under-the-gdpr/): In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, answers one of the most common GDPR questions: What counts as personal data? - [What Are Data Transfers Under the GDPR?](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-are-data-transfers-under-the-gdpr/): Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, unpacks how data transfers work and how to stay compliant under the GDPR. - [Who Are the GDPR Role Players?](https://scytale.ai/resources/who-are-the-gdpr-role-players/): In this video, Scytale's Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, unpacks the key role players under GDPR—who they are, what they do, and why it matters. - [GDPR: What Is a DPA (Data Processing Agreement)?](https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-what-is-a-dpa-data-processing-agreement/): In this video, Scytale's Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, dives into what a DPA is, why it matters, and how it fits into your GDPR compliance. - [Scytale Named a Leader in Security Compliance in G2's Summer 2025 Report](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-named-g2-leader-in-summer-2025-report-across-multiple-categories/): Scytale dominates the G2 Summer 2025 Report, earning multiple badges, including Best Leader in GRC, Security Compliance, and Cloud Security. - [SOC 2 Audit: The Essentials for Data Security and Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-audit-the-essentials-for-data-security-and-compliance/): Learn how to prepare for a SOC 2 audit to strengthen your data security and meet key compliance requirements. - [How to Create an Effective Plan for Penetration Testing Reports](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-create-an-effective-plan-for-penetration-testing-reports/): Penetration tests are only as effective as the clarity, practicality, results and recommendations within the final report - here’s why. - [The Smarter Way to Manage AI Threats and Risk](https://scytale.ai/resources/ai-threat-and-risk-assessment-update/): Scytale’s enhanced Risk Assessment empowers businesses to tackle AI threats and fast-track compliance with smarter, simpler risk management. - [Compliance Controls: Clearing Up the Confusion](https://scytale.ai/resources/compliance-controls-clearing-up-the-confusion/): Simplify key concepts in cloud environments and organizational IT security controls for better compliance and risk management. - [Scytale Acquires AudITech, Building the First Fully Integrated Compliance Enterprise Suite](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-acquires-auditech-building-the-first-fully-integrated-compliance-enterprise-suite/): Scytale acquires AudITech to create the first fully integrated enterprise suite for seamless, scalable SOX ITGC and security compliance. - [SOC 2 for Startups](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-for-startups-ebook/): We have created the ultimate SOC 2 guide for startups, highlighting everything you need to know about the process with tips and expert advice along the way. - [SOC 2 for Startups](https://scytale.ai/resources/ug-soc-2-for-startups-ebook/): We have created the ultimate SOC 2 guide for startups, highlighting everything you need to know about the process with tips and expert advice along the way. - [Security Compliance Automation for SaaS: Reducing Costs and Increasing Sales](https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-for-saas/): Managing compliance manually can be a burdensome and never-ending task, but there is a simpler solution: automated security compliance. - [10 Information Security Compliance Tips for 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/information-security-compliance-tips/): Check out our top 10 information security compliance tips to protect your customers' data and keep your business secure and compliant. - [How to Turn CCPA Regulations into a Competitive Advantage](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-turn-ccpa-regulations-into-a-competitive-advantage/): Learn how CCPA compliance can build trust, reduce risks, and help your business stand out in a highly competitive US market. - [HIPAA Violation Penalties: What Happens if You Break The Rules](https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-violation-penalties/): Discover what happens if you violate HIPAA rules and regulations and how your business could be penalized for non-compliance. - [EU Cyber Resilience Act: Key Requirements, Impact, and Compliance Strategies](https://scytale.ai/resources/eu-cyber-resilience-act-key-requirements-impact-and-compliance/): Discover what the EU Cyber Resilience Act means for your business, its key requirements, and what it takes to stay compliant. - [RFP vs. Security Questionnaires: Key Differences and When to Use Each in Vendor Assessments](https://scytale.ai/resources/rfp-vs-security-questionnaires/): Learn the key differences between RFPs and security questionnaires, when to use each, and how to streamline vendor risk assessments. - [AI Compliance: ISO 42001, EU AI Act & All the Fun Yet to Come](https://scytale.ai/resources/ai-compliance-iso-42001-eu-ai-act-all-the-fun-yet-to-come/): Explore AI compliance frameworks like ISO 42001 & the EU AI Act with experts from Scytale & Lasso. Learn how to stay ahead in AI regulation. - [Scytale Supports TISAX: Driving Secure Compliance in the Automotive Industry](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-supports-tisax-compliance/): Scytale adds TISAX compliance support, helping automotive companies streamline information security management and meet industry requirements. - [NIST AI RMF vs. ISO 42001: Similarities and Differences](https://scytale.ai/resources/nist-ai-rmf-vs-iso-42001-similarities-and-differences/): Explore key AI risk management frameworks - NIST AI RMF and ISO 42001 - and how they promote ethical, compliant AI deployment for businesses. - [How Automation Simplifies Data Compliance in Healthcare](https://scytale.ai/resources/automation-data-compliance-health-care/): Discover how automated HIPAA compliance helps healthcare organizations and businesses handling PHI stay secure and reduce risks. - [Scytale Partners with Lasso Security to Streamline AI Compliance and Governance](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-partners-with-lasso-security-to-streamline-ai-compliance/): Scytale partners with Lasso Security to simplify AI compliance, helping businesses stay ahead of the latest AI regulations and standards. - [Prioritizing SOC 2 in 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/prioritizing-soc-2-in-2022/): Understanding the importance of SOC 2 can create real value for your business and is key to making more strategically-informed decisions. - [Beyond Your First Audit: The Go-To Checklist For Scaling Your GRC Program](https://scytale.ai/resources/beyond-your-first-audit-the-go-to-checklist-for-scaling-your-grc-program/): A practical GRC checklist to help you scale compliance beyond your first audit. Stay prepared, efficient, and always audit-ready. - [Top 10 Security Tools for Startups (Free & Paid)](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-security-tools-for-startups/): Explore the top 10 security tools for startups and learn how to maximize your security strategy to protect your business. - [Security Awareness Training: Strengthening Your First Line of Defense](https://scytale.ai/resources/security-awareness-training-strengthening-your-first-line-of-defense/): Regular security awareness training is a core requirement for most compliance frameworks and a key step in managing organizational risk. - [2025 NIST Password Guidelines: Enhancing Security Practices](https://scytale.ai/resources/2024-nist-password-guidelines-enhancing-security-practices/): Discover how NIST password guidelines evolved to prioritize longer, user-friendly passwords, reducing resets and boosting security for 2025. - [What are CCPA Penalties for Violating Compliance Requirements?](https://scytale.ai/resources/ccpa-penalties-for-violating-compliance-requirements/): Learn what CCPA penalties look like, who enforces them, and how your business can avoid costly fines with the right compliance strategy. - [Top 10 Penetration Testing Solutions in 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-penetration-testing-solutions/): Explore the top 10 penetration testing solutions of 2025 to find the perfect tool for safeguarding your data and enhancing security. - [How to do Penetration Testing for AI Models](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-do-penetration-testing-for-ai-models/): This webinar uncovers key insights to help businesses stay ahead of AI security threats with penetration testing best practices. - [Penetration Testing vs. Vulnerability Assessment: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need?](https://scytale.ai/resources/penetration-testing-vs-vulnerability-assessment/): Discover the differences between penetration testing and vulnerability assessments, and how both can enhance your cybersecurity defenses. - [Top 10 Tech Startup Founders in the UK for 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-tech-startup-founders-uk/): Discover the top 10 tech startup founders in the UK for 2025, driving innovation, reshaping industries, and defining the future of tech. - [Top 7 CCPA Compliance Tools in 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-7-ccpa-compliance-tools/): Discover the top 7 CCPA compliance tools of 2025 to protect your organization's customer data and streamline your CCPA compliance process. - [Security Compliance in 2025: The SaaS Guide](https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-in-saas/): Here's what you need to know (and do) to ensure your organization has a strong SaaS security posture for 2025. - [Top 10 Offensive Security Tools for 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-offensive-security-tools/): Discover the top 10 offensive security tools for 2025 to proactively identify vulnerabilities, strengthen defenses, and maintain compliance. - [Top 6 Most Recommended OneTrust Alternatives](https://scytale.ai/resources/onetrust-alternatives/): We've researched the top 6 OneTrust alternatives so you don't have to. Our list includes Scytale, Ketch, Secureframe, and more. - [A Comprehensive Guide to User Access Reviews: Best Practices and Pitfalls](https://scytale.ai/resources/guide-to-user-access-review/): Master user access reviews by avoiding common pitfalls and implementing best practices for streamlined, secure access management. - [Cyber Essentials Plus Checklist for 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/cyber-essentials-plus-checklist/): The Cyber Essentials Plus Certification focuses on 5 fundamental security controls. Here's a checklist to make sure you're on the right track. - [Showcase Your Security and Compliance Program in Minutes with Scytale’s Trust Center](https://scytale.ai/resources/showcase-your-security-and-compliance-program-in-minutes-with-scytales-trust-center/): Launch a fully customized Trust Center in minutes with Scytale and effortlessly showcase your security and compliance posture. - [AI Compliance for Startups: What You Need to Know Before Your Prospects Start Asking for ISO 42001](https://scytale.ai/resources/ai-compliance-for-startups-what-you-need-to-know-before-your-prospects-start-asking-for-iso-42001/): Watch this webinar to get ahead in AI compliance with ISO 42001, before your prospects start asking for it. - [Scytale Dominates as G2's 2025 Best GRC Software Winner](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-named-2025-g2-best-grc-software-winner/): Scytale has been crowned G2's Best GRC Software Product of 2025, securing our spot as a top leader in security compliance automation. - [Steps to Ready Your SOC 2 Compliance Documentation](https://scytale.ai/resources/steps-to-ready-your-soc-2-compliance-documentation/): Discover the essential steps to get your organization's SOC 2 compliance documentation audit-ready and effortlessly stay compliant. - [10 Best Startup Conferences to Attend in 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/best-startup-conferences-to-attend/): The 10 best startup conferences to attend in 2025 for startups interested in security compliance, growth, and the latest tech innovations. - [Navigating PCI DSS Controls: Your Path to Secure Payments](https://scytale.ai/resources/navigating-pci-dss-controls-your-path-to-secure-payments/): Learn how SaaS businesses can navigate PCI DSS controls to secure payments, ensure compliance, and protect cardholder data effortlessly. - [Show Your Customers You Mean Business: Why You Need Compliance Framework Badges On Your Website](https://scytale.ai/resources/why-you-need-compliance-framework-badges/): Boost trust and credibility by proving your ongoing compliance with Scytale's compliance framework badges. - [ISO 27001 Certification Costs Stressing You Out? Let's Break it Down for You](https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-certification-costs/): Understand the real ISO 27001 certification costs for companies and discover how you can increase productivity without increasing the budget. - [7 Top Compliance Audit Software for 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-compliance-audit-software/): Discover the 7 top compliance audit software solutions for 2025, designed to streamline your compliance processes. Dive in now! - [Top 15 Cloud Compliance Tools in 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-cloud-compliance-tools/): Explore the top 15 cloud compliance tools in 2025 that you can leverage to effectively protect your organization and customer data. - [The 10 Best SaaS Conferences in 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-5-best-saas-conferences/): Here's our list of the 10 Best SaaS Conferences to attend in 2025, when and where they're happening, and why you don't want to miss out. - [SOC 2 Report Examples for 2025: Insights into Top-Tier Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-report-examples/): A SOC 2 report demonstrates how effectively your business has implemented SOC 2 security controls across the five TSC. - [What are the Best Practices for GDPR Compliance?](https://scytale.ai/resources/best-practices-for-gdpr-compliance/): Explore GDPR compliance best practices for your organization, setting you up for a successful and efficient GDPR certification process. - [Why Penetration Testing is Essential for Regulatory Compliance ](https://scytale.ai/resources/penetration-testing-regulatory-compliance/): Learn how penetration testing keeps your business compliant with regulatory frameworks by identifying vulnerabilities and mitigating risks. - [Biggest Data Breaches of 2024: Emerging Threats, Impact, and Proactive Prevention Strategies](https://scytale.ai/resources/biggest-data-breaches-impact-prevention-strategies/): Learn from 2024’s biggest data breaches, the lessons learned, and how to protect your business from becoming the next headline. - [10 HIPAA Violations to Watch Out for While Working Remotely](https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-violations-to-watch-out/): The transition from paper to technology has improved care, connection, and processes, but it has also added more cybersecurity risks. - [Large Language Models and Regulations: Navigating the Ethical and Legal Landscape](https://scytale.ai/resources/large-language-models-and-regulations-navigating-the-ethical-and-legal-landscape/): Leverage the full potential of Large Language Models (LLMs) for your business while ensuring responsible AI use and maintaining compliance. - [Best 5 Regulatory Compliance Conferences to Attend in 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/best-regulatory-compliance-conferences-to-attend/): To stay ahead with industry-leading expertise, insights, and best practices for security compliance, this is where you want to be. - [Maintaining SOC 2 Compliance: A Strategic Approach for Businesses](https://scytale.ai/resources/maintaining-soc-2-compliance/): Explore this blog to discover how a strategic approach can help your SaaS business maintain SOC 2 compliance effectively. - [Eliminate the Data Privacy Guesswork with a virtual Data Protection Officer (vDPO)](https://scytale.ai/resources/eliminate-the-data-privacy-guesswork-with-a-virtual-data-protection-officer-vdpo/): Eliminate the data privacy guesswork with Scytale's vDPO services, offering expert support and privacy management directly to your business. - [5 Best Vendor Risk Management Solutions](https://scytale.ai/resources/best-vendor-risk-management-solutions/): Discover the 5 best vendor risk management solutions, designed to help you effectively mitigate third-party risks while ensuring compliance. - [Your Essential Guide to ISO 42001 Certification and Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/your-essential-guide-to-iso-42001-certification-and-compliance/): Dive into this guide to discover how ISO 42001 can empower your business to build ethical, secure, and trustworthy AI systems. - [NIS2 vs. DORA: Key Differences and Implications for Cybersecurity and Operational Resilience](https://scytale.ai/resources/nis2-vs-dora/): Discover the key differences between the EU's NIS2 and DORA frameworks and their role in enhancing your business's overall security posture. - [Penetration Testing Now Fully Integrated in Scytale!](https://scytale.ai/resources/penetration-testing-now-fully-integrated-in-scytale/): Scytale is the only platform to fully manage penetration testing, end-to-end, within a single compliance automation solution. - [Top 10 Compliance Automation Tools for 2025: An In-Depth Comparison](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-compliance-automation-tools/): This blog dives into the best compliance automation tools for 2025 to streamline your regulatory processes with ease. - [No More Scary Audits with Scytale’s Audit Management ](https://scytale.ai/resources/no-more-scary-audits-with-scytales-audit-management/): Streamline your business's compliance audits with Scytale's Audit Management, ensuring faster, smoother, and more efficient audit workflows. - [PCI DSS Explained](https://scytale.ai/resources/pci-dss-explained/): Here's a break down of PCI DSS, why it matters, and how Scytale can help businesses like yours achieve compliance without the stress. - [Penetration Testing vs. Compliance Audits: What's the Difference?](https://scytale.ai/resources/penetration-testing-vs-compliance-audits-whats-the-difference/): Learn the key differences between penetration testing and compliance audits, and why both are essential to help your business stay compliant. - [Scytale Leads the Way in EU Compliance, Announcing Support for the DORA Framework](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-leads-the-way-in-eu-compliance-announcing-support-for-the-dora-framework/): Scytale supports key EU regulatory framework, DORA, empowering businesses to strengthen their digital operational resilience. - [DORA the Risk Explorer: Transforming How We Handle Third-Party Trouble](https://scytale.ai/resources/dora-the-risk-explorer-transforming-how-we-handle-third-party-trouble/): Discover how DORA revolutionizes third-party risk management and digital resilience for financial organizations and beyond. - [Key Questions for Enhancing Your Security Questionnaire](https://scytale.ai/resources/key-questions-for-enhancing-your-security-questionnaire/): Discover how to enhance your security questionnaires by asking the right questions to build stronger partnerships and streamline compliance. - [Our AI Vision: The Future of Compliance Automation and AI](https://scytale.ai/resources/our-ai-vision-the-future-of-compliance-automation-and-ai/): Scytales announces its vision to revolutionize compliance with AI-driven processes while staying committed to ethical and responsible use. - [The 2-minute NIS2 Breakdown](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-2-minute-nis2-breakdown/): Learn everything you need to know about NIS2, a European Union directive aimed at strengthening cybersecurity, in just 2 minutes. - [Scytale Launches New Partnership Program with Managed Service Providers (MSPs), Helping Transform Compliance into a Competitive Advantage](https://scytale.ai/resources/partnership-program-managed-service-providers-msps/): With Scytale's new partnership program, MSPs can seamlessly scale compliance offerings to their clients and increase overall efficiency. - [The 2-minute DORA Snapshot](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-2-minute-dora-snapshot/): DORA is an EU regulation that strengthens the financial sector’s ability to handle cyber incidents. Here’s a quick breakdown. - [How to Get a SOC 3 Report: 4 Easy Steps ](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-get-a-soc-3-report-4-easy-steps/): Learn how to get a SOC 3 report in 4 easy steps and boost your business’s credibility, customer trust, and competitive edge. - [NIS2 the Rescue: A Startup Survival Guide](https://scytale.ai/resources/nis2-the-rescue-a-startup-survival-guide/): This webinar breaks down NIS2, who needs to comply, the risks of non-compliance, and some immediate actions you can take right now. - [Achieving Excellence through ISMS Implementation](https://scytale.ai/resources/achieving-excellence-through-isms-implementation/): An Information Security Management System (ISMS) is key to safeguarding your business and ensuring sensitive data is handled the right way. - [Why Early-Stage Startups Need to Be Compliant to Attract Investors](https://scytale.ai/resources/why-early-stage-startups-need-to-be-compliant-to-attract-investors/): Dive into this blog to find out why early-stage startups need to prioritize compliance to attract investors and mitigate risks. - [Scytale Supports the CIS Controls Framework](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-supports-the-cis-controls-framework/): Scytale now supports the CIS Controls Framework, allowing businesses to streamline their security and compliance processes with ease. - [SOC 2 Certified: The Secret Weapon for Winning Over Big Clients](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-certified-the-secret-weapon-for-winning-over-big-clients/): Dive into this blog to determine the importance of SOC 2, how to get SOC 2 certified, and the powerful benefits it brings to organizations. - [Scytale Makes Tekpon’s Top Compliance Software List (Again!)](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-makes-tekpons-top-compliance-software-list-again/): Scytale makes Tekpon’s Top Compliance Software list again for seamless solutions and expert guidance. Discover why businesses choose us! - [Unpacking DORA: Everything Startups Need to Know Before January](https://scytale.ai/resources/unpacking-dora-everything-startups-need-to-know-before-january/): This webinar breaks down who needs to comply with DORA, why the January deadline is critical, and how to prepare if your startup is affected. - [Fast-track ISO 27001 Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/ug-fast-track-iso-27001-compliance/): Download this handbook for everything you need to know about ISO 27001 compliance for your startup and how best to achieve compliance. - [The Importance of the CIS Framework in Modern Cybersecurity](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-importance-of-the-cis-framework-in-modern-cybersecurity/): Learn about the CIS framework's role in cybersecurity, its key controls, and how it compares to NIST and ISO 27001. - [Fast-track ISO 27001 Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/fast-track-iso-27001-compliance/): Download this handbook for everything you need to know about ISO 27001 compliance for your startup and how best to achieve certification. - [Scytale Crowned the Best in Security Compliance and GRC in G2's 2024 Fall Reports ](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-named-leader-in-g2s-2024-fall-reports/): Scytale named Leader in G2’s 2024 Fall Reports with top spots in Governance, Risk, Compliance & Security Compliance across multiple regions. - [Penetration Testing: A Complete Guide for SaaS Companies](https://scytale.ai/resources/penetration-testing-a-complete-guide-for-saas-companies/): This guide explores how penetration testing enhances security and ensures compliance for SaaS companies with SOC 2 and PCI DSS. - [How Much Will It Cost to Get PCI DSS Audited?](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-much-will-it-cost-to-get-pci-dss-audited/): Explore PCI DSS audit costs, key factors that influence pricing, and practical tips for managing and optimizing your compliance expenses. - [CMMC vs NIST: Decoding the Differences for Enhanced Cybersecurity](https://scytale.ai/resources/cmmc-vs-nist/): Explore the differences between CMMC and NIST to enhance your cybersecurity posture and secure government contracts. - [AI: With Great Innovation Comes Great Responsibility](https://scytale.ai/resources/ai-with-great-innovation-comes-great-responsibility/): In this tech talk with Mischa, Scytale's CSM, explore balancing AI innovation with responsibility, focusing on bias and transparency. - [What is HIPAA Compliance and Why is it a Must for Your Company?](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-hipaa-compliance/): Learn what HIPAA compliance is and how your business can ensure that it’s safe from any financial penalties regarding HIPAA violations. - [How Scytale’s Continuous Compliance Monitoring Feature Keeps You Compliant](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytales-continuous-compliance-monitoring-feature-keeps-you-compliant/): Hear Robyn Ferreira as she breaks down how Scytale’s Continuous Compliance feature monitors your systems 24/7 to keep you compliant. - [From SAS 70 to SOC 2: Understanding the Timeline](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-vs-sas-70-a-comprehensive-comparison/): Discover the key differences between SOC 2 and SAS 70, and learn why SOC 2 is the modern standard for ensuring data security and compliance. - [Scytale Leads the Way for the EU’s NIS2 Directive](https://scytale.ai/resources/eu-nis2-directive-compliance-solutions/): Scytale supports the EU's NIS2 Directive, offering streamlined compliance and enhanced cybersecurity for European businesses. - [How to Achieve POPIA Compliance: Complete Checklist](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-achieve-popia-compliance-complete-checklist/): Get the essential checklist for POPIA compliance. Learn key requirements and steps to meet South Africa's data protection law. - [Scytale’s Onboarding Feature Enables Employees to Easily Accept Policies and Complete Security & Privacy Training ](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytales-onboarding-feature-enables-employees-to-easily-accept-policies-and-complete-security-privacy-training/): Automate policy sign-offs and training with Scytale’s new People Compliance feature for seamless onboarding and tracking. - [Achieving PCI DSS Compliance Through Penetration Testing](https://scytale.ai/resources/achieving-pci-dss-compliance-through-penetration-testing/): PCI DSS penetration testing is not just about compliance—it’s about securing your business’s most sensitive data. - [The NIS2 Directive: Implications for Your Organization](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-nis-2-directive-implications-for-your-organization/): Learn about the NIS2 Directive's impact on your organization and key steps for compliance with new cybersecurity standards. - [South Africa's POPIA Compliance: Everything You Need to Know](https://scytale.ai/resources/south-africa-popia-compliance/): Learn the essentials of South Africa's POPIA, its impact on data protection, and how it compares to global privacy laws. - [Why PCI Penetration Testing is the Key to Unbreakable Data Security](https://scytale.ai/resources/why-pci-penetration-testing-is-the-key-to-unbreakable-data-security/): Secure your data with PCI penetration testing—essential for protecting credit card information, staying compliant, and avoiding breaches. - [Announcing Our Latest Feature: Create Tickets in Jira, Streamlining Compliance Management](https://scytale.ai/resources/announcing-our-latest-feature-create-tickets-in-jira-streamlining-compliance-management/): Streamline compliance with Scytale's new Jira integration! Sync tasks seamlessly, enjoy two-way status updates, and simplify audit-readiness. - [ISO 42001 in a Nutshell](https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-42001-in-a-nutshell/): Hear from our compliance expert, Ronan Grobler, as he gives a quick rundown on ISO 42001 and its role in the age of AI. - [The Matias Experiment Podcast: Simplifying Security Compliance for Startups](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-matias-experiment-podcast-simplifying-security-compliance-for-startups/): Check out Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis, on the The Matias Experiment podcast as he talks about his journey. - [Scytale Named Leader in G2's Summer Reports](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-named-leader-in-g2s-summer-reports/): Scytale named G2's summer 2024 Leader in governance, risk, & compliance, Momentum Leader, & High Performer in cloud and security compliance! - [Do Vendors Need HIPAA Compliance if Their Customers Are Compliant?](https://scytale.ai/resources/do-vendors-need-hipaa-compliance-if-their-customers-are-compliant-2/): Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, addresses whether vendors need to be HIPAA compliant if their customers are. - [How Scytale Can Help You Comply with the POPI Act](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytale-can-help-you-comply-with-the-popi-act/): Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, breaks down how Scytale can assist you in achieving compliance with POPIA. - [HIPAA versus POPIA](https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-versus-popia/): Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, talks about the difference between HIPAA and POPIA. - [NIS2 Compliance: Why It's Everyone's Business](https://scytale.ai/resources/nis2-compliance-why-its-everyones-business/): Discover how the NIS2 Directive enhances EU cybersecurity and protects digital assets. Learn why compliance is crucial for your business. - [Scytale Joins AWS ISV Accelerate Program](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-joins-aws-isv-accelerate-program/): Scytale joins the AWS ISV Accelerate Program to enhance its cloud compliance solutions with better performance and reliability. - [Does the GDPR Really Say That? Clearing Up Common Misunderstandings](https://scytale.ai/resources/does-the-gdpr-really-say-that-clearing-up-common-misunderstandings/): Despite extensive information available about the GDPR, many misconceptions still persist. This blog breaks down some of them. - [What is Considered Personal Data Under the GDPR?](https://scytale.ai/resources/understanding-gdpr-in-depth/): Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, gives a brief breakdown of what is considered personal data under the GDPR. - [Steps to Achieve GDPR Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/steps-to-achieve-gdpr-compliance/): Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, outlines the key steps your organization needs to take to achieve GDPR compliance. - [Key Roles in GDPR Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/key-roles-in-gdpr-compliance/): In this video, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, outlines the key roles in GDPR compliance. - [Scytale's Team of GDPR Experts](https://scytale.ai/resources/expert-gdpr-assistance-with-scytale/): Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, talks about her extensive experience with GDPR and deep knowledge of the tech space. - [Why the US Needs Federal Privacy Laws: Tracy Boyes on Privacy and the TikTok Ban](https://scytale.ai/resources/why-the-us-needs-federal-privacy-laws-tracy-boyes-on-privacy-and-the-tiktok-ban/): Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, discusses the significant impact a US federal law could have on privacy protection. - [Achieve GDPR Compliance with Scytale](https://scytale.ai/resources/achieve-gdpr-compliance-with-scytale/): Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, explains how Scytale can help your organization achieve compliance with the GDPR. - [Do Vendors Need HIPAA Compliance if Their Customers Are Compliant?](https://scytale.ai/resources/do-vendors-need-hipaa-compliance-if-their-customers-are-compliant/): Tracy Boyes, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, discusses whether vendors must be HIPAA compliant if their customers are. - [How to Leverage Tech to Stay Ahead of the Game](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-leverage-tech-to-stay-ahead-of-the-game/): Raymond Cheng, experienced compliance auditor and CEO of Decrypt Compliance sits down with Scytale to discuss how to stay ahead of the game. - [Say Hello to Scytale’s Newest Integrations, Enabling Deeper Compliance Automation](https://scytale.ai/resources/say-hello-to-scytales-newest-integrations-enabling-deeper-compliance-automation/): Take a look at Scytale's newest integrations added in 2024 including Deel, Hubspot, Asana, Cloudfare, and more. - [ISO 27001 2022 Updates: What Every Startup Should Know](https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-2022-updates-what-every-startup-should-know/): Hear Scytale’s compliance expert Wesley Van Zyl and Cosmo Tech’s CIO, Jean-Baptiste Briaud discuss the ISO 27001:2022 updates in detail. - [Mastering CMMC Compliance: A Complete Guide](https://scytale.ai/resources/mastering-cmmc-compliance-a-complete-guide/): This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about CMMC compliance, from understanding the basics to achieving certification. - [CMMC 1.0 & CMMC 2.0 - What’s Changed?](https://scytale.ai/resources/cmmc-1-0-cmmc-2-0-whats-changed/): This blog delves into CMMC, the introduction of CMMC 2.0, what's changed, and what it means for your business. - [How Scytale Optimizes the Compliance Process Through Automation](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytale-optimizes-the-compliance-process-through-automation/): In this video, Aleksandra Klosowska explores how automation can streamline your compliance efforts and reduce manual workload. - [The Future of Security Compliance: How Emerging Technologies are Setting New Rules](https://scytale.ai/resources/future-of-security-compliance/): This blog takes a look at the role, benefits, and considerations of technological innovations in security compliance. - [Vendor Risk Management](https://scytale.ai/resources/vendor-risk-management/): Senior Compliance Success Manager, Kyle Morris, breaks down Scytale's latest automation feature: Automated Vendor Risk Management. - [NIS2 Explained](https://scytale.ai/resources/nis2-explained/): Senior Compliance Success Manager, Kyle Morris, breaks down NIS2, who needs to comply, and how Scytale can help you achieve compliance. - [The Benefits of Effective Security Questionnaire Automation](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-benefits-of-effective-security-questionnaire-automation/): Change the way you’re answering security questionnaires and learn how to leverage effective security questionnaire automation. - [Scytale Announces On-Premise Integration: Compliance Automation for Every Company](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-announces-on-premise-integration-compliance-automation-for-every-company/): Scytale now supports on-premise environments, enabling companies of all types to streamline their compliance processes efficiently. - [Navigating Cybersecurity: In-House Security Teams vs. Virtual CISOs](https://scytale.ai/resources/navigating-cybersecurity-in-house-security-teams-vs-virtual-cisos/): Discover the difference between a CISO and a vCISO and the benefits each hold concerning cybersecurity (and budget). - [Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis, at Infosecurity Europe](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytales-ceo-meiran-galis-at-infosecurity-europe-2022/): Hear from our CEO, Meiran Galis, on how compliance with data security frameworks can help startups looking to make it BIG. - [Traditional vs Automated Audits](https://scytale.ai/resources/traditional-vs-automated-audits/): Raymond Cheng, CEO at Decrypt Compliance sits down with Scytale to break down the difference between traditional audits and automated audits. - [Scytale's Automated Vendor Risk Management Ensures a Seamless Process for Managing Vendors](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-launches-vendor-risk-management/): Scytale’s Automated Vendor Risk Management ensures your vendors adhere to top data security practices to maintain compliance standards. - [Tekpon SaaS Podcast: How to Automate Your Security Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/tekpon-saas-podcast-how-to-automate-your-security-compliance/): Check out Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis, on the Tekpon podcast as he discusses security compliance automation. - [Exploring the Role of ISO/IEC 42001 in Ethical AI Frameworks](https://scytale.ai/resources/exploring-the-role-of-iso-iec-42001-in-ethical-ai-frameworks/): This blog delves into ISO/IEC 42001 and its role in the ethical and responsible development, deployment, and use of AI technologies. - [ISO 27001:2022 Updates](https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-270012022-updates/): Compliance expert, Wesley Van Zyl, breaks down everything you need to know about ISO 27001:2022 in one quick and easy, bite-sized video. - [What is ISO 42001? Structure, Responsibilities and Benefits](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-iso-42001-structure-responsibilities-and-benefits/): This quick read will get you up to speed on ISO 42001 - what it is, who's responsible for what, and why it matters for ethical AI. - [Scytale to Support ISO 42001, Ensuring Companies Sail Smoothly into AI Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-to-support-iso-42001-ensuring-companies-sail-smoothly-into-ai-compliance/): We're thrilled to announce that Scytale will support ISO 42001, the cornerstone framework for AI compliance standards. - [5 Must-Haves to Get (and Stay) Compliant With Privacy and Security Frameworks](https://scytale.ai/resources/5-must-haves-to-get-and-stay-compliant-with-privacy-and-security-frameworks/): This blog will provide you with a clear roadmap of must-haves for compliance so you can make informed decisions when evaluating solutions. - [Trends in B2B Compliance [Key Insights From Our 2023 Survey Report]](https://scytale.ai/resources/trends-in-b2b-compliance-key-insights-from-our-2023-survey-report/): Here are our key insights from our 2023 Survey Report of 250 compliance leaders across the U.S., Canada and the UK. - [Benefits of Pen Testing with Scytale](https://scytale.ai/resources/benefits-of-pen-testing-with-scytale/): Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman discuss the benefits of getting your pen test done with our experienced team of pen testers at Scytale. - [Pen Testers vs State Actors](https://scytale.ai/resources/pen-testers-vs-state-actors/): Pen Testers Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman dissect the crucial role of penetration testing in defending against state actors' cyber threats. - [Ask a Hacker: Why is the First Pen Test the Most Important?](https://scytale.ai/resources/ask-a-hacker-why-is-the-first-pen-test-the-most-important/): Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why the first test is usually the worst one, but also why it's the most important. - [Ask a Hacker: Why Work With a Pen Tester?](https://scytale.ai/resources/ask-a-hacker-why-work-with-a-pen-tester/): Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why you should work with a pen tester to save you costs in the long run. - [Why Pen Testing is Required for Multiple Frameworks](https://scytale.ai/resources/why-pen-testing-is-required-for-multiple-frameworks/): Scytale Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why pen testing is important across multiple security frameworks. - [Ask a Hacker: Why is Pen Testing Critical?](https://scytale.ai/resources/ask-a-hacker-why-is-pen-testing-critical/): Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, break down why penetration testing is critical for your your organization's cyber security. - [Compliance Made Easy: How Scytale Helps Customers Every Step of The Way](https://scytale.ai/resources/compliance-made-easy-how-scytale-helps-customers-every-step-of-the-way/): Compliance Success Director, Adar Givoni, breaks down how Scytale helps customers with their compliance journey every step of the way. - [What are Cyber Essentials? Requirements, Preparation Process & Certification](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-are-cyber-essentials-requirements-preparation-process-certification/): Here's everything you need to know about Cyber Essentials and whether or not this may be a tailor-made fit for your company. - [Got Your Eyes on Cyber Essentials Plus? We've Got You Covered!](https://scytale.ai/resources/got-your-eyes-on-cyber-essentials-plus-weve-got-you-covered/): Scytale now supports Cyber Essentials Plus, the UK government's enhanced cybersecurity framework that goes above core requirements. - [The Startup Founder’s Go-to Guide To GDPR](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-startup-founders-go-to-guide-to-gdpr/): This GDPR startup guide breaks down everything you need to get up to speed on the regulation and the fastest way to get there. - [A Beginner's Guide to the Five SOC 2 Trust Service Principles](https://scytale.ai/resources/a-beginners-guide-to-the-five-soc-2-trust-service-principles/): To understand the scope and process of SOC 2, you need to be familiar with the Trust Service Principles (TSP). - [The 5 Best Practices for PCI DSS Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-5-best-practices-for-pci-dss-compliance/): This blog discusses the essentials of PCI DSS compliance and the 5 best practices for maintaining compliance. Read more here. - [More Time Selling, Less Time Questioning - Introducing Scytale’s AI Security Questionnaires!](https://scytale.ai/resources/more-time-selling-less-time-questioning-introducing-scytales-ai-security-questionnaires/): Scytale’s AI Security Questionnaires helps you respond to prospects’ security questionnaires quicker than ever. - [Scytale’s Multi-Framework Cross-Mapping: Your Shortcut to a Complete Compliance Program](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytales-multi-framework-cross-mapping-your-shortcut-to-a-complete-compliance-program/): With Scytale's Multi-Framework Cross-Mapping, companies can implement and manage multiple security frameworks without the headaches. - [To Comply or Not to Comply: GDPR Guidelines for Startups](https://scytale.ai/resources/to-comply-or-not-to-comply-gdpr-guidelines-for-startups/): This webinar is your opportunity to demystify GDPR compliance and ensure your startup is on the right track to compliance. - [Scytale and Kandji Partner to Make Compliance Easy for Apple IT](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-and-kandji-partner-to-make-compliance-easy-for-apple-it/): Scytale and Kandji have partnered to become your all-in-one solution for all things Apple security, management and compliance. - [Lessons From the Sisense Breach: Security Essentials Companies Can’t Afford to Forget](https://scytale.ai/resources/lessons-from-the-sisense-breach-security-essentials-companies-cant-afford-to-forget/): This blog gives an overview of the Sisense breach, the types of data compromised in the hack, and lessons for companies to learn from. - [Cyber Essentials Explained](https://scytale.ai/resources/cyber-essentials-explained/): Compliance Success Manager, Ronan Grobler, walks us through the essentials of the Cyber Essentials framework. - [How Scytale Helps Organization Get Compliant and Stay Compliant](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytale-helps-organization-get-compliant-and-stay-compliant/): Compliance Success Manager, Lee Govender, explains how Scytale helps organizations get (and stay) compliant with our technology and people. - [A Day in the Life of a Scytale CSM](https://scytale.ai/resources/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-scytale-csm/): Compliance Success Manager, Robyn Ferreira, walks us through what a normal day as a CSM looks like at Scytale. - [Scytale's Audit Readiness Process from Start to Finish](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytales-audit-readiness-process-from-start-to-finish/): Compliance Success Manager, Robyn Ferreira, shares a quick overview of what the audit readiness process will look like. - [The Benefits of Scytale's Platform](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-benefits-of-scytales-platform/): Compliance Success Manager, Robyn Ferreira, shares how Scytale makes the audit readiness process stress-free for both CSMs and customers. - [What it's like working as a CSM at Scytale](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-its-like-working-as-a-csm-at-scytale/): From the amazing company culture to working with global customers, Robyn Ferreira walks us through her experience of working at Scytale. - [Breaking Down the EU's AI Act: The First Regulation on AI](https://scytale.ai/resources/breaking-down-the-eus-ai-act-the-first-regulation-on-ai/): This blog breaks down the key objectives of Europe's first AI Act and why this critical Act is already making its impact felt. - [Achieving CCPA Compliance: A Guide for SaaS Companies](https://scytale.ai/resources/achieving-ccpa-compliance-a-guide-for-saas-companies/): This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know to get your SaaS company up to speed on CCPA compliance. - [How to Get CMMC Certified](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-get-cmmc-certified-2/): This quick guide breaks down the steps of achieving CMMC so your business can protect sensitive government data. - [How SaaS Companies are Tackling SOC 2 and ISO 27001 in 2024 [Hebrew]](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-saas-companies-are-tackling-soc-2-and-iso-27001-in-2024/): Hear from industry leaders as they spill the tea on how AI is revolutionizing compliance processes for these standards and beyond. - [Continuous Monitoring and Frameworks: A Web of Security Vigilance](https://scytale.ai/resources/continuous-monitoring-and-frameworks-a-web-of-security-vigilance/): This blog delves into how continuous monitoring enhances the effectiveness of security frameworks, like ISO 27001, NIST CSF and SOC 2. - [How To Speed Up Your SOC 2 Audit Without Breaking A Sweat](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-speed-up-your-soc-2-audit-without-breaking-a-sweat/): What’s the fastest way to pass a SOC 2 audit? Simple: you need to plan carefully and avoid taking any shortcuts. Find here the best way. - [Preparing for Third-Party Audits: Best Practices for Success](https://scytale.ai/resources/preparing-for-third-party-audits/): In this blog, we'll walk through best practices for getting audit-ready, from getting your documentation together to prepping your team. - [NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0: What's Changed and Why It Matters](https://scytale.ai/resources/nist-cybersecurity-framework-2-0/): This blog covers the key changes in NIST CSF 2.0, the first major update since the creation of the CSF a decade ago. - [Scytale Partners with Deel to Help Global Companies Get Compliant Seamlessly  ](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-partners-with-deel-to-help-global-companies-get-compliant-seamlessly/): Scytale has officially partnered with Deel, the leading global platform for hiring, HR, payroll, and compliance. - [Secureframe Alternatives: Compare Top 5 Competitors](https://scytale.ai/resources/secureframe-alternatives/): Here’s our list of the top five Secureframe alternatives and what to consider when choosing the right automation platform. - [From Prep to Pass, Scytale Launches Its Built-In Audit, Transforming It Into The Complete Compliance Hub for SaaS](https://scytale.ai/resources/built-in-audit-tool-complete-compliance-hub/): Scytale's built-in audit enables customers to track their audit progress, receive updates in real-time, and communicate with their auditor. - [Why Implementing Third-Party Risk Management Software is Essential](https://scytale.ai/resources/why-implementing-third-party-risk-management-software-is-essential/): Find out how businesses can leverage the advantages of third-party relationships without adding an additional risk factor. - [Quebec Law 25: All You Need to Know](https://scytale.ai/resources/quebec-law-25-all-you-need-to-know/): Quebec Law 25 regulates how companies operating in Quebec manage people's data. Read here on the law's key requirements and how to comply. - [Drata vs Vanta Compared: Similarities and Differences ](https://scytale.ai/resources/drata-vs-vanta/): Looking for the best Drata and Vanta alternative? Look no further. Find out how Scytale goes beyond mere compliance automation. - [Scytale Earns Spot in Tekpon's Top 10 Compliance Software List](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-earns-spot-in-tekpons-top-10-compliance-software-list/): Scytale is thrilled to announce a top 10 spot in Tekpon’s prestigious 2024 list of the best compliance software. Learn more. - [The 5 Functions of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-5-functions-of-the-nist-cybersecurity-framework/): The NIST Cybersecurity Framework lays out five core functions to focus your efforts: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover. - [Ask an Auditor Anything About SOC 2 [Live Chat]](https://scytale.ai/resources/ask-an-auditor-anything-about-soc-2/): Watch our Ask an Auditor Anything session where Raymond Cheng of Decrypt Compliance answers all SOC 2 questions in a live AMA chat. - [Key Considerations for NIST 800-53 Control Family Selection](https://scytale.ai/resources/key-considerations-for-nist-800-53-control-family-selection/): Key Considerations for NIST 800-53 Control Families, How They Work, and How to Get Started With Implementing Them. - [The Ultimate SOC 2 Checklist for SaaS Companies ](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-ultimate-soc-2-checklist-for-saas-companies/): SaaS companies can use this SOC 2 compliance checklist to prepare for their audit and meet security requirements - [How to Get SOC 2 and ISO 27001 Compliant with AI [Hebrew]](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-and-iso-27001-compliant-with-ai/): Join us as we explore real-world applications on navigating SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliance with the precision that AI brings to the table. - [CCPA Data Privacy: Safeguarding Personal Information in the Digital Era](https://scytale.ai/resources/ccpa-data-privacy-safeguarding-personal-information-in-the-digital-era/): The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is state legislation that sets data privacy rights for Californian residents. - [Understanding the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)](https://scytale.ai/resources/understanding-the-cmmc/): What you need to know about getting CMMC certified as a contractor within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Read more here. - [Getting SOC 2 and ISO 27001 Compliant with Scytale [Hebrew]](https://scytale.ai/resources/getting-soc-2-and-iso-27001-compliant-with-scytale-hebrew/): Adar Givoni, Director of Compliance at Scytale breaks down how we take over the compliance process with everything you need in one place. - [The Impact of SOC 2 on R&D: A CTO’s Roadmap to Compliance in 2024](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-impact-of-soc-2-on-rd-a-ctos-roadmap-to-compliance-in-2024-webinar/): In this webinar, we chat with a startup CTO who shares his real-life challenges and wins of integrating SOC 2 compliance with R&D. - [A CTO’s Roadmap to Security Compliance: Your Go-To Handbook for Attaining SOC 2 and ISO 27001](https://scytale.ai/resources/a-ctos-roadmap-to-security-compliance-your-go-to-handbook-for-attaining-soc-2-and-iso-27001/): Essential strategies for CTOs in B2B SaaS, focusing on navigating complex compliance environments and integrating robust security measures. - [The Power of Gen-AI in Regulatory Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-power-of-gen-ai-in-regulatory-compliance/): For compliance professionals, Generative AI has emerged as a potential game-changer; however, it has its fair share of concerns. - [Best Practices for Vulnerability Scanning: When and How Often to Perform](https://scytale.ai/resources/best-practices-for-vulnerability-scanning-when-and-how-often-to-perform/): Let's break down vulnerability scanning best practices, when and how to perform it, and how it differs according to organizational size. - [Tekpon SaaS Podcast: Getting Security Compliance Right to Win More Deals](https://scytale.ai/resources/tekpon-saas-podcast-getting-security-compliance-right-to-win-more-deals/): Check out our very own Kyle Morris, on the Tekpon podcast as he discusses the advantages of automation when getting compliant. - [The Importance of SOC 2 Templates](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-importance-of-soc-2-templates/): In this piece, we're talking about SOC 2 templates and their role in making the compliance process less complicated. Read more here. - [The 5 Benefits of Continuous Controls Monitoring](https://scytale.ai/resources/benefits-of-continuous-controls-monitoring/): Continuous Controls Monitoring (CCM) is a crucial aspect of GRC, helping firms improve their compliance, risk and controls management. - [Defending Against AI-Based Cyber Attacks: A Comprehensive Guide](https://scytale.ai/resources/defending-against-ai-based-cyber-attacks/): As attackers begin to use AI to improve their tactics, defenders are forced to develop effective measures to protect their data. - [Top CISOs to Follow in 2024: Germany Edition](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-cisos-to-follow-germany-edition/): Here are just some of the top CISOs in Germany going into 2024 and some of their insights and experiences we can learn from. - [Top CISOs in the USA to Follow in 2024](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-cisos-in-the-usa-to-follow/): By following some of the top CISOs in the USA, you can gain valuable insights into developing a robust cybersecurity strategy. - [5 Reasons Why You Need a SOC 2 Report](https://scytale.ai/resources/5-reasons-why-you-need-a-soc-2-report/): SOC 2 is more than simply a compliance standard. Becoming SOC 2 compliant is a good business decision. A really good one. Discover the reasons. - [Top CISO Communities to Join in 2024](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-top-ciso-communities-to-join/): CISO communities are available around the world for cybersecurity leaders to collaborate with other professionals. - [Pick Wesley's Brain on Anything ISO 27001!](https://scytale.ai/resources/pick-wesleys-brain-on-anything-iso-27001/): In this Ask Me Anything webinar, our compliance expert, Wesley Van Zyl answers all the questions surrounding ISO 27001. - [Understanding the Levels of CMMC: Enhancing Cybersecurity Maturity](https://scytale.ai/resources/understanding-the-levels-of-cmmc-enhancing-cybersecurity-maturity/): Here’s everything you need to know about CMMC, its compliance levels, and how businesses can ensure compliance with their appropriate level. - [New Framework on the Block: Hello CMMC!](https://scytale.ai/resources/new-framework-on-the-block-hello-cmmc/): You can now streamline your CMMC processes with Scytale, as CMMC has joined our arsenal of data security frameworks and regulations. - [Security Compliance Giving You Nightmares?](https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-giving-you-nightmares/): Put an end to the sleepless nights caused by IT audits, with smart compliance automation and dedicated experts. - [Startups, Need to Get Compliant but Don’t Know Where to Start?](https://scytale.ai/resources/startups-need-to-get-compliant-but-dont-know-where-to-start/): Running a startup? You have enough on your plate to manage - so let Scytale take care of your security compliance processes. - [Top Compliance Concerns For SaaS Companies](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-compliance-concerns-for-saas-companies/): A careful compliance strategy is non-negotiable for SaaS businesses. That’s true for giant corporations. And it may be even more critical for smaller businesses. - [Welcome Data Privacy Law, CCPA, to Scytale!](https://scytale.ai/resources/welcome-data-privacy-law-ccpa-to-scytale/): CCPA has officially joined the group of security standards and regulations that our compliance technology supports! - [How an EOR Can Keep you GDPR Compliant in 2025](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-an-eor-can-keep-you-gdpr-compliant/): As a data privacy framework, GDPR focuses on safeguarding personal information and enforces strict rules for data management. - [Hear What Our Compliance Expert Has To Say About HIPAA](https://scytale.ai/resources/hear-what-our-compliance-expert-has-to-say-about-hipaa/): Kyle discusses the three rules that need to be followed under HIPAA and protecting health information of American citizens. - [Let's Talk About Getting GDPR Compliant](https://scytale.ai/resources/lets-talk-about-getting-gdpr-compliant/): Gain direct insights from Kyle as he breaks down the specifics of GDPR and how Scytale can help your organization. Watch now. - [Our Compliance Expert Breaks Down CMMC](https://scytale.ai/resources/our-compliance-expert-breaks-down-cmmc/): Kyle, a compliance expert, discusses the intrinsic worth of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Watch now. - [A Quick Discussion About CCPA Compliance by an Expert](https://scytale.ai/resources/a-quick-discussion-about-ccpa-compliance-by-an-expert/): Kyle discusses the benefits of a CCPA certification and provides perspectives on how it can strengthen your organization's security. - [Startups - Need to get compliant but don't know where to start?](https://scytale.ai/resources/startups-get-compliant-fast/): Running a startup? Hear from Scytale CEO and Founder, Meiran Galis, about how to get compliant and stay compliant, fast. - [Top 10 Compliance Tips for Startups](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-10-compliance-tips-for-startups/): As a startup trying to build your organization there’s a ton to do - Including security compliance regulations and industry standards. - [ISO 27001 for Startups](https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-for-startups/): This eBook unlocks the crux of ISO 27001 certification, especially made for SaaS startups new to the ISO 27001 scene. - [How Vendor Security Assessments Help Companies Identify Cybersecurity Risks](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-vendor-security-assessments-help-companies-identify-cybersecurity-risks/): VSAs play a pivotal role in implementing due diligence and ensuring all parties are aligned regarding risk management, compliance, and more. - [Top CISOs in the United Kingdom in 2024](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-cisos-in-the-united-kingdom/): In the UK, CISOs are playing an important role in navigating the complex cybersecurity landscape - Here are some CISOs that have stood out. - [The Expert's Take on ISO 27001 Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-experts-take-on-iso-27001-compliance/): In this video, Wesley Van Zyl, an expert in compliance and security, explores the inherent value of ISO 27001. Watch now. - [What is SOC 2? Hear it Straight From the Experts!](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-soc-2-hear-it-straight-from-the-experts/): Hear it straight from Wesley Van Zyl from Scytale, as he simplifies everything you need to know about SOC 2 compliance. - [HITRUST vs HIPAA: Compliance for Healthcare Organizations](https://scytale.ai/resources/hitrust-vs-hipaa-compliance-for-healthcare-organizations/): HIPAA and HITRUST are two frameworks that are commonly compared because they are used in the healthcare industry. Find more here. - [What is Fintech Risk and Compliance and How to Follow Regulations](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-fintech-risk-and-compliance-and-how-to-follow-regulations/): Fintech Risk and compliance ensures fair lending practices, transparent disclosure of conditions, and availability of dispute resolutions. - [Let’s Talk About How Scytale Makes User Access Reviews a Walk in the Park](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytale-makes-user-access-reviews-a-walk-in-the-park/): User access reviews monitor the access privileges of those interacting with the organization’s data, applications and infrastructure. - [CCPA vs. GDPR: Navigating Data Privacy Regulations for SaaS Companies](https://scytale.ai/resources/ccpa-vs-gdpr/): Discover the main differences between the two significant consumer data privacy laws and how to navigate data privacy regulations. - [5 Best Practices for Answering Security Questionnaires](https://scytale.ai/resources/best-practices-for-answering-security-questionnaires/): These questionnaires are typically conducted prior to making a business decision and help determine the security posture of an organization. - [Benefits of Implementing an Information Security Management System (ISMS) For Your Business](https://scytale.ai/resources/information-security-management-system-benefits/): An ISMS provides a systematic approach to managing company information and enables businesses to safeguard their sensitive information. - [Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan: How to Mitigate Risks and Protect Your Business](https://scytale.ai/resources/cybersecurity-incident-response-plan-how-to-mitigate-risks-and-protect-your-business/): A cybersecurity incident response plan is a set of guidelines, best practices, and procedures for responding to cyber incidents. - [Mitigating Human Errors in Cybersecurity & Compliance: Practical Tips for Organizations](https://scytale.ai/resources/mitigating-human-errors-in-cybersecurity-compliance-practical-tips-for-organizations/): Despite robust security measures, human mistakes can compromise data, systems, and networks, leading to potentially devastating consequences. - [2023 Trends In B2B Compliance Report](https://scytale.ai/resources/2023-trends-in-b2b-compliance-report/): The survey results show that B2B companies spend an average of 1534 hours annually on achieving and maintaining security compliance. - [Interning at Scytale Highlights](https://scytale.ai/resources/interning-at-scytale-highlights/): See what our rockstar interns Kaitlyn Johnson and Ryan Weiss have to say about their experience working with the Scytale team in Tel Aviv. - [Understanding the Importance of a HIPAA Audit Log in Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/importance-of-a-hipaa-audit-log-in-compliance/): A HIPAA audit log, also known as an audit trail, is a chronological record of access to electronic protected health information (ePHI). - [SOC 2 Compliance: Are You Just Checking Boxes or Adding Value to Your Business?](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-compliance-are-you-just-checking-boxes-or-adding-value-to-your-business/): Are you just checking boxes or adding value to your business? Learn how to use SOC 2 to really set yourself apart. - [Essential 8 Framework: Everything You Need to Know](https://scytale.ai/resources/essential-8-framework-everything-you-need-to-know/): The Essential 8 Framework was developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre and forms the baseline of cyber threat protection. - [Securing the Kingdom: Privileged Access Management (PAM) and ISO 27001 Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/privileged-access-management-and-compliance-iso-27001/): In this article, we'll delve into the compliance aspects of privileged access management, with focus on ISO 27001. Find more here. - [Effective Compliance Risk Management Strategies for Startups: A Step-by-Step Guide](https://scytale.ai/resources/effective-compliance-risk-management-strategies-for-startups/): Compliance risk management is an organization's way of monitoring systems and protecting your security. It's a needed and ongoing process. - [You've Got a Great Business Idea, Secured Funding and Started Product Development. Now What? It's Called Compliance!](https://scytale.ai/resources/youve-got-a-great-business-idea-secured-funding-and-started-product-development/): In this webinar speakers discuss how a proactive security compliance strategy can boost sales, trust and create a competitive advantage. - [Understanding the Top Changes in PCI DSS 4.0](https://scytale.ai/resources/understanding-the-top-changes-in-pci-dss-4-0/): There is a new version of PCI DSS - PCI DSS version 4.0. Here are the top changes that you must be aware of to help your business navigate. - [Doing Compliance with Automation: An ISO27001 Case Study](https://scytale.ai/resources/doing-compliance-with-automation-an-iso27001-case-study/): Hosted by the GRC Institute in collaboration with Scytale and Witz Cybersecurity, this webinar discusses ISO 27001 and compliance automation. - [Essential 8 Maturity Model: Achieving Cyber Security Excellence](https://scytale.ai/resources/essential-8-maturity-model-achieving-cyber-security-excellence/): The Australian Signals Directorate created the E8 Maturity Model to protect businesses, fortify defenses and mitigate rising cyber threats. - [Here's What Happened at Fintech  Junction](https://scytale.ai/resources/heres-what-happened-at-fintech-junction/): We had an unforgettable experience at Fintech Junction. This awesome community got together to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration. - [What is GRCaaS, Anyways?](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-grcaas-anyways/): Take a look as we outline what exactly GRCaaS means, and the benefits it brings to companies, especially startups and SMBs! - [For All Our Australian Friends, You Can Now Streamline Essential Eight with Scytale](https://scytale.ai/resources/for-all-our-australian-friends-you-can-now-streamline-essential-eight-with-scytale/): The Australian Cyber Security Centre has developed the Essential Eight, a cybersecurity framework to help protect against cyber threats. - [Essential 8: What it Means and Why it's So Important for Your Organization](https://scytale.ai/resources/essential-8-what-it-means-and-why-its-so-important-for-your-organization/): Wesley Van Zyl, Senior Compliance Success Manager at Scytale, dives into what exactly the Essential Eight framework entails. - [Digesting Compliance: What Value Does Scytale Bring to its Customers?](https://scytale.ai/resources/digesting-compliance-what-value-does-scytale-bring-to-its-customers/): Kyle Morris, Senior Compliance Success Manager at Scytale, shares how Scytale customizes the journey of each customer. - [Scytale Recognized in G2 Summer 2023 Report, Including Named a Momentum Leader](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-recognized-in-g2-summer-2023-report-including-named-a-momentum-leader/): Scytale is thrilled to announce its major recognition in the recently published G2 Summer 2023 Report, including named a Momentum Leader. - [GDPR in a Flash](https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-in-a-flash/): Learn here everything you need to know about The General Data Protection Regulation in our insightful one-pager, GDPR in a Flash. - [The PCI DSS Bible](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-pci-dss-bible/): This whitepaper looks at the PCI DSS compliance framework and how it ensures secure payments and data privacy. Download now. - [Digesting Compliance: How Scytale Gets You Audit-Ready](https://scytale.ai/resources/digesting-compliance-how-scytale-gets-you-audit-ready/): Hear straight from Scytale's Senior Compliance Success Manager, what to expect on your journey with us, and how our compliance experts will guide you. - [10 Go-To Tips for HIPAA Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/10-go-to-tips-for-hipaa-compliance/): To help you get the most out of the numerous benefits HIPAA can provide your business, here are our ten go-to tips for HIPAA compliance. - [Security Compliance for Compliance Leaders](https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-for-compliance-leaders/): Everything you need to know about implementing a robust security program and understanding the requirements pertaining to data protection. - [Digesting Compliance: Hear it Straight From the Experts](https://scytale.ai/resources/digesting-compliance-hear-it-straight-from-the-experts/): We asked our compliance expert team to walk us through how they help customers on a daily basis. Watch here. - [ChatGPT for the Compliance Professional: Will It Change Data Privacy in 2024](https://scytale.ai/resources/chatgpt-for-the-compliance-professional/): We're evaluating ChatGPT regarding its impact on data privacy, cybersecurity and compliance. Let's take a deep dive. - [Introducing the New Edition of Our Auditor Mode!](https://scytale.ai/resources/introducing-the-new-edition-of-our-auditor-mode/): Let’s take a look at the latest exciting additions and enhancements to our security compliance automation platform! - [How to Evaluate Security Compliance Software Before Purchasing](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-evaluate-security-compliance-software-before-purchasing/): To help you find the ideal security compliance software for your organization, here’s our checklist of top ten things to look out for. - [Everything You Need to Know About The NIS 2 Directive](https://scytale.ai/resources/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-nis-2-directive/): This webinar, in partnership with Brand Compliance, uncovers all the details regarding the new version of the NIS 2 Directive - [Are You Compliant Yet? How to Streamline SOC 2 and ISO 27001 with Automation](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-streamline-soc-2-and-iso-27001-with-automation/): Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis and Cloudflare's Regional Sales Manager, Guy Ben Zvi discuss best practices for streamlining compliance. - [A Peek at PCI DSS](https://scytale.ai/resources/a-peek-at-pci-dss/): Learn everything you need to know about PCI DSS compliance in our insightful one-pager, A Peek at PCI DSS. - [Security Compliance for CISOs](https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-for-cisos/): In this eBook, we're deep diving into security compliance for CISOs and how to best manage InfoSec frameworks. - [PCI DSS Compliance Checklist: 12 Requirements Explained](https://scytale.ai/resources/pci-dss-compliance-checklist/): Navigate the 12 security requirements for PCI DSS compliance and how to implement them into your organization. Learn here. - [Everything You Need to Know About SOC 1 Requirements for Your Startup](https://scytale.ai/resources/everything-you-need-to-know-about-soc-1-requirements-for-your-startup/): In this article, We'll share everything you need to know about SOC 1 requirements so that you can ace your audit with confidence. - [Change Management and the SDLC](https://scytale.ai/resources/change-management-and-the-sdlc/): The change management process provides a higher level of control and consistency within the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). - [CSA STAR: Why is It Valuable for Your Company](https://scytale.ai/resources/csa-star/): Meet CSA STAR - the world's most extensive and consequential cloud provider security program. Here's what you need to know. - [Security Audits Haunting You? See How Mike Kicked His Compliance Nightmares to the Curb!](https://scytale.ai/resources/security-audits-haunting-you/): Stop the security compliance nightmares with Scytale, the ultimate security compliance automation platform. Learn more here. - [Compliance Management System: Tips for Successful Compliance ](https://scytale.ai/resources/compliance-management-system-tips-for-successful-compliance/): This blog looks at compliance management systems and which elements to look out for so compliance can work for you, not the other way around. - [Get a Good Look into Your Information Security with CSA STAR - and Let Automation Take You There!](https://scytale.ai/resources/csa-star-automation/): We welcome CSA STAR to the list of security compliance frameworks customers can automate with Scytale! Find more here. - [Your Complete ISO 27001 Checklist Guide](https://scytale.ai/resources/your-complete-iso-27001-checklist-guide/): We’ve compiled an ISO 27001 checklist to help you develop a robust ISO 27001 strategy and undergo a successful certification process. - [Backing Up Your IAM to Stay Compliant: SOC 2, ISO 27001 and HIPAA [Hebrew]](https://scytale.ai/resources/backing-up-your-iam-to-stay-compliant-soc-2-iso-27001-and-hipaa/): In this webinar, you will learn the importance of security compliance and Identity and Access Management (IAM) in cloud infrastructure. - [Last Month’s Agenda: ISO 27001:2022 Updates, Add Quick Comments and Automate Your Audit Scope!](https://scytale.ai/resources/product-updates-automate-audit-scope/): Take a look at what February had in store for our customers with some exciting updates to our compliance automation platform. - [The Complete Guide to HIPAA Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-compliance-guide/): The ultimate HIPAA guide that takes a deep dive into everything you need to know about HIPAA compliance. - [PCI DSS Audit: How to Prepare for Your Audit](https://scytale.ai/resources/pci-dss-audit/): Discover whether or not your organization needs to conduct a PCI DSS audit and how you should prepare for it. - [PCI DSS Requirements: What Your Business Needs to Know](https://scytale.ai/resources/pci-dss-requirements-what-your-business-needs-to-know/): In a fast-evolving economy, there’s no time to waste when protecting data. Get a high-level overview of the 12 security requirements for PCI DSS compliance. - [Security Compliance for SaaS: How to reduce costs and win more deals with automation](https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-for-saas-how-to-reduce-costs-and-win-more-deals-with-automation/): In this B2B Rocks webinar, you’ll learn the ins and outs of how automated security compliance can help you reduce costs and win more deals. - [Scytale at Cybertech 2023](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-at-cybertech-2023/): Companies around the globe came to Cybertech for the latest innovations, challenges, and solutions in cyber in 2023. - [How to Create a GDPR Data Protection Policy](https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-data-protection-policy/): In this blog, we will discuss what GDPR compliance entails and provide tips on how to create an effective GDPR data protection policy. - [SOC 2 Audit Exceptions: What Does This Mean And How To Address Them](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-audit-exceptions/): Let’s take a closer look at what audit exceptions are, why it’s not the end of the world if they occur, and how to best prevent them in the first place. - [GDPR Added to The Frameworks You Can Automate in Scytale](https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-added-to-the-frameworks-you-can-automate-in-scytale/): We are so excited to announce that customers can now get GDPR compliant through our compliant automation platform. Find more here. - [Multiple Audit Management, Automated Risk Assessments, and Of Course, More Integrations!](https://scytale.ai/resources/multiple-audit-management-automated-risk-assessments-and-of-course-more-integrations/): Take a look at how we kicked of 2023 with some exciting updates to our compliance automation platform! Find more here. - [The Handiest Hack on HIPAA](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-handiest-hack-on-hipaa/): Discover the best HIPAA compliance tips in our comprehensive guide. Protect your patient data and avoid penalties. - [Top 10 GRC Managers to Follow in Israel 2024](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-grc-managers-to-follow-in-israel/): We are highlighting the top 10 GRC managers to follow in Israel. We have chosen these experts based on their knowledge and experience. - [Introducing PCI DSS To Scytale’s Pool of Frameworks!](https://scytale.ai/resources/introducing-pci-dss-to-scytales-pool-of-frameworks/): We are over the moon to announce that you can now automate PCI DSS with Scytale, ensuring you secure payments and cardholder data without breaking a sweat! - [HIPAA Compliance for Startups: Why Should Startups Care About Being Compliant?](https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-compliance-for-startups/): Discover how to get HIPAA compliant for your startup and why it’s essential in protecting your business. Learn more. - [10 Best Compliance Podcasts You Should Listen To In 2024](https://scytale.ai/resources/10-best-compliance-podcasts/): We asked our people at Scytale what podcasts they listen to in order to stay updated. Here are the 10 best compliance podcasts you should listen to. - [London Summit: FMLS](https://scytale.ai/resources/london-summit-fmls/): Join this panel as they discuss disruptive security for disruptive FinTechs and how cybersecurity startups are making a difference. - [How Much Does an Internal HIPAA Audit Cost: Direct and Indirect Costs](https://scytale.ai/resources/internal-hipaa-audit-cost/): We are taking a deep dive of all the costs involved in HIPAA compliance and the price you will pay without it. Read more. - [The Month of Integrations, Exciting Audit Management and Policy Center Updates!](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-month-of-exciting-audit-management-and-policy-center-updates/): What November had in store for our security compliance automation platform, including audit management and policy center updates. - [ISO 27001 vs SOC 2: How to Choose the Right Security Compliance Plan for Your Organization [Hebrew]](https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-vs-soc-2-how-to-choose-the-right-security-compliance-plan-for-your-organization/): The expert panel in this Geektime webinar discuss how a proactive compliance strategy can boost sales and give your startup a competitive advantage. - [Level Up Your Compliance and Automate ISO 27001 Framework Extensions](https://scytale.ai/resources/level-up-your-compliance-and-automate-iso-27001-framework-extensions/): We are very excited to announce that our customers can now expand their ISO 27001 arsenal and get compliant in the framework extensions. - [New Framework Alert: Automate SOC 1 Compliance in Scytale!](https://scytale.ai/resources/new-framework-alert-automate-soc-1-compliance-in-scytale/): We are over the moon to announce that our customers can now streamline and automate their SOC 1 compliance with Scytale! - [What is a Security Questionnaire and Why is it Important?](https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-a-security-questionnaire-why-is-it-important/): Security questionnaires generally occur before a business decision is made and determine an organization's security posture. - [The HIPAA Bible](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-hipaa-bible/): You've probably heard lots of HIPAA lingo, like 'HIPAA rules' or 'HIPAA violations', but don't know what it really means (or what it takes) to be HIPAA compliant. - [Scytale Awarded High Performer and Easiest to Do Business With in G2’s Fall 2022 Report](https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-awarded-high-performer-and-easiest-to-do-business-with-in-g2s-fall-2022-report/): We are so proud to have been recognized by G2 for the Fall 2022 season, as a High Performer and with 4.9 star rating. Learn more. - [Why Your Cloud Provider Compliance Alone is Not Enough](https://scytale.ai/resources/cloud-provider-compliance/): Discover why your cloud service provider’s compliance isn’t enough and ensure that your organization complies with all necessary requirements. - [Integration Updates, HIPAA Training and More!](https://scytale.ai/resources/integration-updates-hipaa-training-and-more/): In our efforts to make security compliance simpler by the day, our compliance automation platform is always growing and evolving with enhancements. - [Automate Evidence Collection, Complete Compliance Tasks Quickly and Easily Manage Different Frameworks!](https://scytale.ai/resources/automate-evidence-collection/): Let’s take a look at what the last few weeks had in store for our SOC 2, ISO 27001 and HIPAA automation platform! - [ISO 27001 in under 27001 milliseconds](https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-in-under-27001-milliseconds/): What exactly is ISO 27001 compliance? ISO 27001 is the leading data security standard, trusted by companies around the world. - [Top 10 CISOs on the Israeli Tech Scene](https://scytale.ai/resources/top-10-cisos-on-the-israeli-tech-scene/): Our team at Scytale gave a list of their favorite, most experienced and knowledgeable CISOs on the Israeli tech scene. Read more. - [Open Source Compliance Tool: How Developers Are Gauging Their Security Compliance Readiness](https://scytale.ai/resources/open-source-compliance-tool/): Scytale has launched an open-source software that allows software engineers to check their organization's GitHub compliance for free. Read more. - [Leading SOC 2 Compliance at Your Organization? This Course is for You!](https://scytale.ai/resources/free-soc-2-compliance-course/): The SOC 2 Academy is a free SOC 2 masterclass that provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals surrounding the cloud security framework SOC 2. - [How to Know if You Need HIPAA Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-know-if-you-need-hipaa-compliance/): In this article, we discuss HIPAA compliance and which organizations, businesses, and individuals could be subject to the HIPAA privacy rule. - [It’s Official, You Can Now Automate HIPAA Compliance With Scytale!](https://scytale.ai/resources/its-official-you-can-now-automate-hipaa-compliance-with-scytale/): We have already helped tons of SaaS companies streamline their SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliance, now ready to do the same with HIPAA compliance. - [Setting Up GitHub for SOC 2 Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/setting-up-github-for-soc-2-compliance/): Will explore how to configure the GitHub environment to comply with SOC 2, and more importantly, strengthen the controls and security in the SDLC process. - [Integrate Your Favorite Tools, Easily Manage Compliance Tasks and Customize Your Security Controls!](https://scytale.ai/resources/integrate-your-favorite-tools-easily-manage-compliance-tasks-and-customize-your-security-controls/): More exciting integrations, as well as improvements to task management, enabling our customers to enjoy smooth, automated and fast compliance! - [Get Your Compliance Done Directly From Slack!](https://scytale.ai/resources/get-your-compliance-done-directly-from-slack/): We have built our a game-changing feature that integrates our compliance management platform with Slack, creating completely seamless compliance. Learn more - [The ISO 27001 Bible](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-iso-27001-bible/): You've heard about the importance of ISO 27001 certification and its globally-recognized standards for managing information security. - [SOC 2 in Under 2](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-in-under-2/): What is SOC 2 anyways? Service Organization Controls 2. Set of compliance requirements for technology-based companies that store data in the cloud. - [5 Pro-Tips for ISO 27001 Certification](https://scytale.ai/resources/5-pro-tips-for-iso-27001-certification/): Getting ISO 27001 certified is a great opportunity for SaaS companies and tech businesses to develop data security credentials and accelerate growth. Learn more. - [ISO 27001 vs SOC 2: What's the Difference?](https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-vs-soc-2-whats-the-difference-2/): Which is right for your business? It’s a common question, for a good reason. When we assess ISO 27001 vs SOC 2, we’re not asking which is better. - [A Beginner’s Guide to the Five SOC 2 Trust Service Principles](https://scytale.ai/resources/a-beginners-guide-to-the-five-soc-2-trust-service-principles-2/): To understand the scope and process of SOC 2, you need to be familiar with the Trust Service Principles (TSP). Find here more about it. - [Exciting Integration Updates, Automated Evidence Features and Security Compliance Management!](https://scytale.ai/resources/exciting-integration-updates-automated-evidence-features-and-security-compliance-management/): New additions to our compliance automation tool, new integrations, improved evidence and task management and automated risk assessments. - [Are You Prioritizing SOC 2 in 2022?](https://scytale.ai/resources/are-you-prioritizing-soc-2-in-2022/): Understanding what SOC 2 is actually for, and how implementing SOC 2 can create real value for your company, is key to making more strategically decisions. - [CSA CloudBytes: The Future of Security Compliance for SaaS](https://scytale.ai/resources/csa-cloudbytes-the-future-of-security-compliance-for-saas/): SaaS companies today are scrambling to comply with certain security frameworks like AICPA SOC 2, ISO 27001, CSA STAR etc., - [SaaScast Podcast: automating compliance with Scytale CEO, Meiran Galis](https://scytale.ai/resources/saascast-podcast-automating-compliance-with-scytale-ceo-meiran-galis/): SaaScast Podcast: automating compliance with Scytale CEO. In this podcast, we’re committed to helping SaaS leaders future-proof their product. - [[INTERVIEW] PayEm's CTO on Getting SOC 2 Compliant with Scytale’s Automation Tool](https://scytale.ai/resources/interview-payems-cto-on-getting-soc-2-compliant-with-scytales-automation-tool/): PayEm allows finance teams around the globe to manage, automate and connect finance processes all within their holistic spend and procurement platform. - [Integrate All Your Tools and Manage all Your SOC 2 and ISO 27001 Controls with Smart Compliance Automation!](https://scytale.ai/resources/integrate-all-your-tools-and-easily-manage-all-your-soc-2-and-iso-27001-controls-with-smart-compliance-automation/): Last month we released the latest product updates and this month we are doing the same with more exciting additions, making all the difference - [SOC 2 & ISO 27001 for SaaS: Build trust & boost sales through smart security compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-iso-27001-for-saas-build-trust-boost-sales-through-smart-security-compliance/): SOC 2 & ISO 27001 for SaaS: Build trust & boost sales through smart security compliance, a strategic and tactical leader in the realm of security compliance. - [More Integrations, a New Policy Generator, and More!](https://scytale.ai/resources/product-updates-alert-more-integrations-a-new-policy-generator-and-more/): Helping startups get SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliant simply and efficiently through compliance automation is our mission and what we love to do! - [2022 ISO 27001 Updates: Everything You Need To Know](https://scytale.ai/resources/2022-iso-27001-updates-everything-you-need-to-know/): The 2022 updates apply to the security controls of ISO 27002 and therefore, Annex A of ISO 27001 will be updated accordingly. Find more here. - [High Tech on the Low: Comply or Die, There is No Try](https://scytale.ai/resources/high-tech-on-the-low-comply-or-die-there-is-no-try/): Jordan Kastrinsky's High Tech on the Low podcast features Meiran Galis, CEO and Founder of Scytale. - [A Year in the Life of a SaaS Startup, with Scytale CEO, Meiran Galis](https://scytale.ai/resources/a-year-in-the-life-of-a-saas-startup-with-scytale-ceo-meiran-galis/): In this episode of the SaaS Revolution Show, Meiran Galis joins SaaStock’s Alex Theuma. - [SOC 2: How SaaS Startups Can Scale Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-how-saas-startups-can-scale-compliance/): A panel of experts shine light on SOC 2 and share their insights and experience. - [Everything you need to know about SOC 2 and getting compliant [Hebrew]](https://scytale.ai/resources/everything-you-need-to-know-about-soc-2-and-getting-compliant-hebrew/): Meiran Galis walks us through the SOC 2 process and Polar Security share their story. - [Little States, Big Innovation: Israel X Rhode Island](https://scytale.ai/resources/little-states-big-innovation-israel-x-rhode-island/): Each month the Rhode Island - Israel Collaborative (RIIC) program introduces some of Israel’s most exciting startup entrepreneurs. This time, featuring our very own CEO, Meiran Galis. - [We Don't Sell Parachutes, But We Do Automate SOC 2](https://scytale.ai/resources/we-dont-sell-parachutes-but-we-do-automate-soc-2/): When it comes to InfoSec compliance, Scytale's automation platform is not only timesaving, but lifesaving too. So many startup CTOs have had enough of SOC 2 - are you one of them? - [Walking The Walk: SOC 2 For Us Too](https://scytale.ai/resources/walking-the-walk-soc-2-for-us-too/): SOC 2 compliance is our expertise and our passion. It is a compliance framework we believe in whole-heartedly to ensure outstanding security practices. - [SOC 2 For Startups: Save time and boost sales with faster, simpler & smarter compliance [Hebrew]](https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-for-startups-save-time-and-boost-sales-with-faster-simpler-smarter-compliance/): This event is aimed at startup companies with B2B cloud-based products that are aiming to sell to the American market, specifically decision makers such as CEOs, CTOs, COOs, CISOs and anyone in the organization who may have anything to do with SOC 2. - [Smart Compliance for SaaS](https://scytale.ai/resources/smart-compliance-for-saas/): Are you up against SOC 2? Scytale helps SaaS companies accelerate their SOC 2 compliance. - [Compliance At Scale: How to build a great InfoSec compliance program](https://scytale.ai/resources/compliance-at-scale-how-to-build-a-great-infosec-compliance-program/): Watch our CEO Meiran Galis in action. Learn the technical SOC 2 dos and don’ts. - [Everything To Know About Our ISO 27001 Certification](https://scytale.ai/resources/everything-to-know-about-our-iso-27001-certification/): Becoming ISO 27001 certified is an effective way to assure our clients that our own systems meet the highest standard of security. - [The SOC 2 Bible](https://scytale.ai/resources/whitepaper-the-soc-2-bible-everything-you-need-to-know-about-compliance/): Gain extensive knowledge about SOC 2 compliance, automation and SaaS trends. - [Gaining a Competitive Edge Through SOC 2 Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/gaining-a-competitive-edge-through-soc-2-compliance/): SOC 2 compliance can help your business stand out in a crowded field, but how you implement SOC 2 is as important as why. - [The Real Reason RegTech Is a SOC 2 Compliance Game Changer](https://scytale.ai/resources/the-real-reason-regtech-is-a-soc-2-compliance-game-changer/): Why is RegTech so important for managing compliance? Good regulatory technology makes compliance faster, simpler and more cost effective. - [Reimagining SOC 2: A Better Way to Manage Your Compliance](https://scytale.ai/resources/reimagining-soc-2-a-better-way-to-manage-your-soc-2-compliance/): Is your organization struggling with SOC 2 compliance? Why not automate the process then? Seriously. - [Guaranteeing Customer Trust With SOC 2 Type II](https://scytale.ai/resources/guaranteeing-customer-trust-with-soc-2-type-ii/): If you truly want to prove to clients and potential customers that their data is secure, you want to be SOC 2 Type 2 certified. --- ## Q&A - [What are the key differences between GDPR and SOC 2 compliance?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-key-differences-between-gdpr-and-soc-2-compliance/): Learn the key differences between GDPR and SOC 2 compliance, and how aligning both frameworks can strengthen your data protection strategy. - [How do the five trust principles of SOC 2 impact compliance?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-do-the-five-trust-principles-of-soc-2-impact-compliance/): Understanding the SOC 2 Trust Service Principles simplifies compliance by guiding businesses in securing customer data and building trust. - [How can a SOC 2 self-assessment streamline your audit preparation?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-can-a-soc-2-self-assessment-streamline-your-audit-preparation/): SOC 2 self-assessments streamline audit preparation by helping you identify gaps and ensuring you're fully prepared for a smooth SOC 2 audit. - [How does internal auditing software help with compliance management?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-does-internal-auditing-software-help-with-compliance-management/): Internal audit software is key to making compliance management simpler, more efficient, and less stressful for everyone involved. - [Do all companies need GRC? ](https://scytale.ai/question/do-all-companies-need-grc/): Discover if GRC is essential for your business and how it supports compliance, risk management, and operational efficiency. - [What are the types of security vulnerabilities?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-types-of-security-vulnerabilities/): Discover the common types of security vulnerabilities, how to identify them, and key strategies to mitigate these vulnerabilities. - [What is the key difference between NIST and FISMA?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-is-the-key-difference-between-nist-and-fisma/): Discover the key differences between NIST and FISMA, how they work together, and the benefits of complying with these security frameworks. - [Who needs to follow HIPAA rules?](https://scytale.ai/question/who-needs-to-follow-hipaa-rules/): Discover which businesses must comply with HIPAA rules, the key regulations they need to follow, and how to achieve HIPAA compliance. - [What card data is covered by PCI DSS?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-card-data-is-covered-by-pci-dss/): Dive into what the PCI DSS standard covers when it comes to cardholder data protection and find out why it’s vital for your business. - [Is it mandatory to follow and implement all SOC 2 policies?](https://scytale.ai/question/is-it-mandatory-to-follow-and-implement-all-soc-2-policies/): Wondering if you need to follow and implement all SOC 2 policies? Find out what’s necessary and what’s not to get SOC 2 certified. - [Why Is HIPAA Important to Patients?](https://scytale.ai/question/why-is-hipaa-important-to-patients/): Explore why HIPAA is vital for patients, highlighting its role in protecting health information and empowering patient rights in healthcare. - [Is SOC 2 a certification or attestation?](https://scytale.ai/question/is-soc-2-a-certification-or-attestation/): Explore the difference between SOC 2 attestation and certification, and how SOC 2 attestation demonstrates your commitment to data security. - [Why is SOC 2 the most accepted security framework?](https://scytale.ai/question/why-is-soc-2-the-most-accepted-security-framework/): Learn why the SOC 2 framework is the top security compliance choice for businesses handling sensitive data. - [How long does it take to get ISO certified?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-iso-certified/): Find out how long ISO 27001 certification takes, key factors, costs, and requirements for improving your organization's information security. - [How to automate vendor risk management?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-to-automate-vendor-risk-management/): Learn how to automate vendor risk management with tools for streamlined workflows, real-time monitoring, and reduced risk. - [What is the scope of an IT compliance audit?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-is-the-scope-of-an-it-compliance-audit/): Explore the scope of IT compliance audits, covering regulatory and third-party assessments to ensure your IT systems meet standards. - [Why do you need HIPAA compliance software?](https://scytale.ai/question/why-do-you-need-hipaa-compliance-software/): Learn why HIPAA compliance software is crucial for managing Private Health Information (PHI), enhancing security, trust, and efficiency. - [How Much Does It Cost to Get PCI Certified?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-much-does-it-cost-to-get-pci-certified/): Discover what impacts PCI compliance costs, from organization size to transaction volume, and get tips for managing and reducing expenses. - [How does PCI automation benefit organizations?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-does-pci-automation-benefit-organizations/): Discover how PCI automation can streamline compliance, enhance security, save time, and keep you effortlessly ahead of regulations. - [How do you ensure regulatory compliance?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-do-you-ensure-regulatory-compliance/): Learn how to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements through practical steps, ensuring your company stays protected. - [Can SOC 2 automation tools integrate with other compliance frameworks? ](https://scytale.ai/question/can-soc-2-automation-tools-integrate-with-other-compliance-frameworks/): This Q&A dives into how SOC 2 automation tools integrate with other compliance frameworks to streamline your compliance process. - [How to measure generative AI governance effectiveness?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-to-measure-generative-ai-governance-effectiveness/): This Q&A dives into the ins and outs of measuring generative AI governance effectiveness for responsible AI use. - [How often should vulnerability scans be performed?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-often-should-vulnerability-scans-be-performed/): This Q&A dives into the ideal frequency for vulnerability scanning and best practices for optimal cybersecurity. - [How do you define the SOC 2 audit scope?  ](https://scytale.ai/question/how-do-you-define-the-soc-2-audit-scope/): In this Q&A, you will learn how to define your SOC 2 audit scope to build trust, manage risks, and strengthen partnerships. - [How often are SOC 2 reports required?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-often-are-soc-2-reports-required/): Discover how often SOC 2 reports are required, who needs them, and the audit process duration, ensuring your organization stays compliant. - [Who can perform a SOC 2 audit?](https://scytale.ai/question/who-can-perform-a-soc-2-audit/): Learn who performs SOC 2 audits, the role of auditors, and tips for choosing the right firm, plus key do's and don'ts for success. - [How can penetration testing help organizations?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-can-penetration-testing-help-organizations/): This Q&A dives into how penetration testing strengthens security, uncovers vulnerabilities, and aids in ISO 27001 compliance. - [What is a SOC 1 report?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-is-a-soc-1-report/): SOC 1 Reports and their types, requirements, and benefits for ensuring financial control effectiveness in service organizations. - [How do you measure the effectiveness of risk management protocols?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-do-you-measure-the-effectiveness-of-risk-management-protocols/): This Q&A dives into the effectiveness of risk management protocols. Learn the key metrics to keep your organization thriving. - [How can HIPAA violation consequences impact an organization’s operations?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-can-hipaa-violation-consequences-impact-an-organizations-operations/): This Q&A dives into the real impact of HIPAA violations beyond the fines, like reputational damage and operational chaos. - [What are the key components of a post SOC 2 gap analysis?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-key-components-of-a-post-soc-2-gap-analysis/): This Q&A dives into the post-SOC 2 gap analysis. Learn about the key components, steps and strategies to maintain SOC 2 standards. - [Why is a compliance risk assessment matrix important?](https://scytale.ai/question/why-is-a-compliance-risk-assessment-matrix-important/): The Q&A dives into the compliance risk assessment matrix and why it is important for prioritizing risk management strategies. - [What are the 5 things a compliance risk assessment should include?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-5-things-a-compliance-risk-assessment-should-include/): This Q&A dives into the five essential steps and components every compliance risk assessment should include. - [What are the different types of SOC Reports?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-different-types-of-soc-reports/): This Q&A dives into the different types of SOC (Security Operations Center) reports, their classifications, and their significance. - [What are the 6 steps of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-6-steps-of-the-nist-cybersecurity-framework/): This Q&A dives into the 6 steps of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework (CSF). - [What are the key challenges in achieving SOC 2 compliance?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-key-challenges-in-achieving-soc-2-compliance/): This Q&A dives into some of the key challenges companies face when aiming to achieve and maintain SOC 2 compliance. - [What documentation is required for ISO 42001?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-documentation-is-required-for-iso-42001/): This Q&A dives into the documentation required for ISO 42001, an essential standard designed to ensure data protection within AI systems. - [Does SOC 2 require penetration testing?](https://scytale.ai/question/does-soc-2-require-penetration-testing/): This Q&A dives into SOC 2 requirements and the role of penetration testing within the broader scope of a SOC 2 audit. - [How to choose a compliance management tool?](https://scytale.ai/question/how-to-choose-a-compliance-management-tool/): This Q&A outlines key considerations to help organizations evaluate and select the best compliance management tool. - [What are the testing procedures for SOC 2 controls?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-testing-procedures-for-soc-2-controls/): This Q&A breaks down the testing procedures for SOC 2 controls and why they're essential for organizations aiming for SOC 2 compliance. - [What are the benefits of SOC 2 compliance?](https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-benefits-of-soc-2-compliance/): This Q&A describes the benefits of SOC 2 compliance, highlighting its importance and impact on businesses that handle sensitive customer data. --- ## Glossary Items - [Vulnerability Mitigation](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vulnerability-mitigation/): Vulnerability mitigation is the process of reducing or eliminating the risk associated with security vulnerabilities. Learn more here. - [Due Diligence Questionnaire (DDQ)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/due-diligence-questionnaire-ddq/): A Due Diligence Questionnaire (DDQ) is a vital tool for assessing risks and making informed decisions before business transactions. - [VAPT in Cyber Security](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vapt-in-cyber-security/): VAPT is a cybersecurity approach that combines vulnerability assessment and penetration testing techniques to mitigate vulnerabilities. - [Access Control](https://scytale.ai/glossary/access-control/): Access control is the process or technology of ensuring that only authorized people or items have access to important areas. - [Subservice Organization](https://scytale.ai/glossary/subservice-organization/): During the SOC 1 or SOC 2 process, organizations must identify vendors whose services impact their operations and compliance requirements. - [SOC 2 Change Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-change-management/): SOC 2 change management is a process businesses use to control and track changes within their organization while ensuring compliance. - [HIPAA Journal](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-journal/): The HIPAA Journal is a go-to resource for businesses looking to stay informed, prepared, and HIPAA compliant. - [Cloud Security Alliance (CSA)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cloud-security-alliance-csa/): The CSA is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting best practices, standards, and research related to cloud computing security. - [Compliance Risk Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-risk-management/): Compliance risk management is a systematic approach used by organizations to proactively identify, assess, and mitigate any risk. - [Application Security Testing](https://scytale.ai/glossary/application-security-testing/): Discover how application security testing helps businesses identify vulnerabilities, strengthen their security posture, and stay compliant. - [Vendor Security Alliance Questionnaire (VSAQ)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-security-alliance-questionnaire/): The Vendor Security Alliance Questionnaire (VSAQ) is a standardized tool that helps businesses assess vendor security and mitigate risk. - [Monitoring Period](https://scytale.ai/glossary/monitoring-period/): Learn about the monitoring period in compliance and its role in maintaining security, ensuring continuous compliance, and building trust. - [DREAD Model](https://scytale.ai/glossary/dread-model/): Learn about the DREAD model, a Microsoft risk assessment framework for assessing and prioritizing security threats. - [Compliance Documentation](https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-documentation/): Compliance documentation plays a vital role in ensuring compliance and providing evidence of compliance to relevant authorities. - [ISO 31000 ](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-31000/): Discover how compliance with the globally recognized ISO 31000 standard can help your business manage risks more effectively. - [Compliance Evidence Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-evidence-management/): Compliance evidence management is essential for collecting and organizing the necessary proof to demonstrate your compliance. - [Risk Control Matrix](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-control-matrix/): Discover the importance of a Risk Control Matrix (RCM) in managing risks and ensuring compliance with key security and privacy frameworks. - [Shift-Left Security](https://scytale.ai/glossary/shift-left-security/): Shift-Left Security integrates security early in the development process, reducing vulnerabilities, lowering costs, and ensuring compliance. - [Encryption Key Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/encryption-key-management/): Learn how encryption key management protects your sensitive data and ensures compliance with key security and privacy compliance frameworks. - [Key Risk Indicator (KRI)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/key-risk-indicator/): Key Risk Indicators (KRIs) are vital for effective risk management as they flag potential risks before they turn into bigger problems. - [Management Override of Internal Controls](https://scytale.ai/glossary/management-override-of-internal-controls/): Management override of internal controls occurs when senior management bypasses established security controls, compromising compliance. - [Risk Management Strategy](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-management-strategy/): A risk management strategy helps SaaS organizations identify, assess, and mitigate risks effectively, while staying compliant. - [ISO 22301 Business Continuity](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-22301-business-continuity/): ISO 22301 is the international standard for Business Continuity Management, helping businesses stay resilient and recover from disruptions. - [Risk Control Self Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-control-self-assessment/): A Risk Control Self-Assessment (RCSA) is a key process businesses use to identify and assess potential risks while maintaining compliance. - [Cybersecurity Incident Reporting](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-incident-reporting/): Cybersecurity incident reporting is crucial for enabling your business to respond quickly to security threats and maintain compliance. - [Privacy by Design](https://scytale.ai/glossary/privacy-by-design/): Discover how adopting a Privacy by Design approach is essential for safeguarding customer data and staying compliant with key frameworks. - [ISO 27007](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27007/): ISO 27007 is a global standard that provides clear guidance on the ISMS audit preparation process for both organizations and auditors. - [Cybersecurity Policy](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-policy/): A cybersecurity policy provides valuable guidance on protecting your business's data and systems from breaches and cyber threats. - [ISO 27004](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27004/): Learn about ISO 27004, key metrics, clauses, and a checklist to help measure and improve your information security management. - [Cyber-Risk Quantification](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cyber-risk-quantification/): Discover how to quantify cyber risks in dollar terms to boost decision-making and streamline your cybersecurity strategy. - [Operational Risk Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/operational-risk-management/): Master operational risk management to identify, assess, and control everyday threats for a resilient business. - [Cybersecurity Asset Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-asset-management/): Learn how cybersecurity asset management protects your digital assets with inventory, risk assessments, and real-time monitoring. - [Risk Management Framework](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-management-framework/): Discover the key elements and benefits of a risk management framework (RMF) for effective risk identification, assessment, and mitigation. - [Risk Management Policy](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-management-policy/): Explore the risk management essentials to strengthen resilience and tackle security, cyber, and information risks. - [Third-Party Risk Management Policy](https://scytale.ai/glossary/third-party-risk-management-policy/): Explore the essentials of a third-party risk management policy to ensure compliance, manage risks, and safeguard your organization. - [HIPAA Omnibus Rule](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-omnibus-rule/): Learn about the HIPAA Omnibus Rule's updates to patient rights, business associate liability, and PHI definitions. - [HIPAA Training Requirements](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-training-requirements/): HIPAA requires covered entities and their business associates to train their workforce on HIPAA privacy and security policies and procedures. - [Cardholder Data Environment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cardholder-data-environment/): The Cardholder Data Environment (CDE) is a crucial concept in payment security, especially for businesses handling payment card transactions. - [US Data Privacy (USDP)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/us-data-privacy-usdp/): US Data Privacy (USDP) is a mix of federal and state-level laws, each targeting specific sectors or types of data. - [HIPAA Business Associate](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-business-associate/): The HIPAA Business Associate framework is a vital part of HIPAA, aimed at protecting the privacy and security of protected health information. - [GxP Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/gxp-compliance/): GxP compliance is a set of strict regulations that ensure the safety, quality, and efficacy of products in the life sciences industry - [HIPAA Sanctions](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-sanctions/): HIPAA sanctions are the penalties and corrective measures taken against business associates who don’t follow HIPAA. - [HIPAA Safeguards](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-safeguards/): HIPAA safeguards are measures required to protect the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI). - [Procurement Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/procurement-compliance/): Procurement Compliance refers to the adherence to laws, regulations, standards, and internal policies governing the procurement process. - [IT Governance (ITG)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/it-governance-itg/): IT Governance (ITG) refers to the frameworks that ensure the effective use of IT in enabling an organization to achieve its goals. - [Cloud Controls Matrix](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cloud-controls-matrix/): The Cloud Controls Matrix (CCM) is a cybersecurity framework developed by the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA). - [Special Category Personal Data](https://scytale.ai/glossary/special-category-personal-data/): Special Category Personal Data refers to personal information that is considered particularly sensitive, requiring additional protection. - [Business Continuity Policy](https://scytale.ai/glossary/business-continuity-policy/): A Business Continuity Policy provides guidelines to ensure a company can continue operating during and after a disruptive event. - [Processing Integrity](https://scytale.ai/glossary/processing-integrity/): Processing integrity relates to the reliability of information and the assurance that system operations are accurate, timely, and authorized. - [Policy Administration Point](https://scytale.ai/glossary/policy-administration-point/): The Policy Administration Point is a component responsible for managing policies that ensure an organization adheres to specific standards. - [Vulnerability-Based Risk Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vulnerability-based-risk-assessment/): Vulnerability-Based Risk Assessment is a methodology used to evaluate risks within a system by focusing on identifying vulnerabilities. - [SOC 2 Section 5](https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-section-5/): Section 5 of a SOC 2 report typically pertains to the "Additional Information Provided by the Service Organization." - [Compliance Procedure](https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-procedure/): A compliance procedure is a set of systematic actions and policies designed to ensure that an organization adheres to compliance standards. - [Intrusion Detection System (IDS)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/intrusion-detection-system-ids/): An IDS is a security technology designed to detect of potential malicious activities or policy violations within a network. - [SOC 2 Attestation](https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-attestation/): SOC 2 Attestation is a framework for auditing the security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy of information. - [Zero Trust Security](https://scytale.ai/glossary/zero-trust-security/): Zero Trust Security is a cybersecurity approach that assumes no implicit trust for any entity, whether inside or outside the organization. - [Prudential Regulation Authority](https://scytale.ai/glossary/prudential-regulation-authority/): The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) is a vital institution responsible for overseeing the safety and soundness of financial firms. - [NIS 2 Directive](https://scytale.ai/glossary/nis-2-directive/): The NIS 2 Directive is an updated framework aimed at enhancing the cybersecurity of critical infrastructures within the European Union (EU). - [FERPA](https://scytale.ai/glossary/ferpa/): The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law in the US that protects the privacy of student education records. - [Digital Rights Management (DRM)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/digital-rights-management-drm/): Digital Rights Management (DRM) is a set of access control technologies used to restrict the usage of digital content and devices. - [CMMC Accreditation Body (CMMC AB)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cmmc-accreditation-body-cmmc-ab/): The CMMC Accreditation Body is the sole authorized entity responsible for overseeing the implementation and certification process of the CMMC. - [DORA](https://scytale.ai/glossary/dora/): The DORA is a regulatory framework designed to strengthen the operational resilience of financial entities within the European Union. - [Vendor Due Diligence](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-due-diligence/): Vendor due diligence is a process undertaken by companies to assess the reliability, integrity, and risk associated with potential vendors. - [Trust Center](https://scytale.ai/glossary/trust-center/): A Trust Center is a section on a company's website that provides information about its security, privacy, and compliance practices. - [GDPR Cookie Consent](https://scytale.ai/glossary/gdpr-cookie-consent/): GDPR Cookie Consent refers to the requirements that organizations must follow to obtain consent from users for the use of cookies. - [Data Privacy Framework](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-privacy-framework/): Data Privacy Framework refers to a structured set of guidelines and best practices that organizations use to protect personal data. - [GRC Risk Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/grc-risk-management/): GRC Risk Management refers to the approach that organizations adopt to manage governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) in an integrated manner. - [GDPR Certification](https://scytale.ai/glossary/gdpr-certification/): The GDPR is a data protection law enacted by the European Union (EU) to safeguard the privacy and personal data of individuals within the EU. - [Gray Box Penetration Testing](https://scytale.ai/glossary/gray-box-penetration-testing/): Gray box penetration testing involves pen testers who have limited knowledge of the internal structure of the target system. - [Model Audit Rule (MAR)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/model-audit-rule-mar/): The Model Audit Rule is a regulatory standard that imposes rigorous financial reporting and auditing requirements on insurance companies. - [Disaster Recovery Audit](https://scytale.ai/glossary/disaster-recovery-audit/): A disaster recovery audit is a critical evaluation process aimed at assessing the effectiveness of an organization's disaster recovery plan. - [Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange (TISAX)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/trusted-information-security-assessment-exchange-tisax/): The Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange (TISAX) is a protocol for conducting security assessments within the automotive industry. - [HIPAA Breach Notification Rule](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-breach-notification-rule/): The HIPAA Breach Notification Rule is a regulation under HIPAA that requires entities to provide notification following a breach of PHI. - [Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/health-information-technology-for-economic-and-clinical-health-act-hitech/): The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH) aims to promote the adoption of health information technology. - [Security Operations Center (SOC)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-operations-center-soc/): A Security Operations Center (SOC) is a centralized unit that deals with security issues on an organizational and technical level. - [ISO 27001 Stage 2 Audit](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-stage-2-audit/): The ISO 27001 Stage 2 Audit is a critical component of the certification process, focusing on the effectiveness of an organization’s ISMS. - [PCI Scope](https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-scope/): PCI Scope refers to the determination of which processes and data are subject to the requirements specified in the PCI DSS. - [Cybersecurity Risk Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-risk-management/): Cybersecurity risk management refers to the process of identifying, analyzing, and mitigating risks related to IT systems and networks. - [PCI Non-Compliance Fee](https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-non-compliance-fee/): A PCI non-compliance fee is a financial penalty imposed on merchants by payment card networks for failing to comply with the PCI DSS. - [Data Security Posture Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-security-posture-management/): Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) is an approach to ensure protection of sensitive information across various platforms. - [HIPAA Privacy Rule](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-privacy-rule/): The HIPAA Privacy Rule represents a fundamental component in the safeguarding of personal health information. - [Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/): Multi-Factor Authentication requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource, such as an application. - [Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cyber-threat-intelligence-cti/): Cyber Threat Intelligence focuses on the collection, analysis, and dissemination of information regarding cyber threats and vulnerabilities. - [Compliance Risk Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-risk-assessment/): A Compliance Risk Assessment is a process of identifying and evaluating potential risks associated with non-compliance within an organization. - [NIST Certification](https://scytale.ai/glossary/nist-certification/): NIST Certification refers to the process of obtaining certification for compliance with the National Institute of Standards and Technology. - [PCI Attestation of Compliance (AoC)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-attestation-of-compliance-aoc/): PCI Attestation of Compliance (AoC) is a document issued to organizations that have successfully demonstrated compliance with the PCI DSS. - [Cookie Consent Policy](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cookie-consent-policy/): A Cookie Consent Policy is a document provided by a website that informs users about the use of cookies and similar tracking technologies. - [Integrated Risk Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/integrated-risk-management/): Integrated Risk Management (IRM) is a strategic approach to managing and mitigating risks across an organization in a cohesive manner. - [Personally Identifiable Information (PII)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/personally-identifiable-information-pii/): Personally Identifiable Information (PII) refers to any data that can be used to identify, locate, or contact an individual. - [Sensitive Data Exposure](https://scytale.ai/glossary/sensitive-data-exposure/): Sensitive Data Exposure refers to the unauthorized access, disclosure, or transmission of sensitive information. - [Data Loss Prevention (DLP)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-loss-prevention-dlp/): DLP refers to a set of tools designed to ensure that sensitive information does not exit the corporate network without authorization. - [Data Subject Access Request (DSAR)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-subject-access-request-dsar/): A Data Subject Access Request is a legal right that allows individuals to request access to their personal data held by organizations. - [Data Processing Agreement (DPA)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-processing-agreement-dpa/): A Data Processing Agreement outlines the terms and conditions under which a data controller engages a data processor to process personal data. - [Cross-Border Data Transfer](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cross-border-data-transfer/): Cross-border data transfer refers to the movement of personal data or information from one country or jurisdiction to another. - [CCPA "Opt-Out Right"](https://scytale.ai/glossary/ccpa-opt-out-right/): The CCPA "Opt-Out Right" allows consumers to opt-out of the sale of their personal information by businesses. - [Privacy Impact Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/privacy-impact-assessment/): A Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) evaluates the potential privacy risks associated with the management of personal information. - [Federal Contract Information (FCI)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/federal-contract-information-fci/): Federal Contract Information (FCI) originates from contractual agreements between federal agencies and contractors or subcontractors. - [PCI Automation](https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-automation/): PCI automation refers to the use of software tools to streamline the process of maintaining PCI DSS compliance. - [ISO 27002 Controls](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27002-controls/): ISO 27002 controls refer to a set of internationally recognized guidelines and best practices for information security management. - [PCI DSS 4.0](https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-dss-4-0/): PCI DSS 4.0 is the latest iteration of the global security standard designed to protect payment card data and transactions. - [Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/federal-information-security-management-act-fisma/): The FISMA is a U.S. federal law that outlines guidelines for securing federal information systems and data. - [ENISA National Cybersecurity Strategies Guidelines](https://scytale.ai/glossary/enisa-national-cybersecurity-strategies-guidelines/): The ENISA Guidelines are a set of practices aimed at assisting EU member states in maintaining effective national cybersecurity strategies. - [FedRAMP (Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/fedramp-federal-risk-and-authorization-management-program/): FedRAMP is a U.S. government-wide program that ensures that cloud services used by federal agencies meet stringent cybersecurity standards. - [Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies (COBIT)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/control-objectives-for-information-and-related-technologies-cobit/): Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies (COBIT) is a recognized framework for the governance of enterprise IT. - [Critical Information Infrastructure Protection (CIIP)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/critical-information-infrastructure-protection-ciip/): Critical Information Infrastructure Protection (CIIP) refers to strategies to safeguard critical information infrastructure (CII). - [Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-capability-maturity-model-cmmc/): The Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model is a certification developed by the Department of Defense to enhance cybersecurity practices. - [HIPAA Employee Training](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-employee-training/): HIPAA Employee Training refers to the process of educating individuals employed by healthcare organizations about HIPAA. - [Australian Privacy Act](https://scytale.ai/glossary/australian-privacy-act/): The Australian Privacy Act is a significant piece of legislation that governs the handling of personal information by organizations. - [Cardholder Data](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cardholder-data/): Cardholder Data refers to the sensitive and confidential information associated with a payment card, such as a credit card or debit card. - [HIPAA Identifier](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-identifier/): HIPAA Identifiers are crucial components of healthcare privacy regulations, as they help safeguard the confidentiality of patients' data. - [HITRUST Certification](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hitrust-certification/): HITRUST is a framework for assessing and managing the information security and privacy controls of healthcare organizations. - [GDPR Data Mapping](https://scytale.ai/glossary/gdpr-data-mapping/): GDPR data mapping involves the identification, categorization, and documentation of the movement of personal data within an organization. - [Data Protection Officer](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-protection-officer/): A DPO is an individual within an organization responsible for overseeing and ensuring compliance with data protection laws and regulations. - [Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/continuous-threat-exposure-management-ctem/): CTEM involves ongoing and real-time monitoring, assessment, and mitigation of an organization's exposure to potential threats. - [Data Privacy Impact Assessment (DPIA)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-privacy-impact-assessment-dpia/): A DPIA is a systematic process aimed at identifying and evaluating the potential impact of data processing activities on individual privacy. - [SaaS Penetration Testing](https://scytale.ai/glossary/saas-penetration-testing/): SaaS penetration testing is a methodical and controlled attempt to assess the security of a Software as a Service (SaaS) application. - [Cloud Penetration Testing](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cloud-penetration-testing/): Cloud penetration testing is a proactive and systematic approach to assessing the security of cloud-based systems and infrastructure. - [Secure Remote Access](https://scytale.ai/glossary/secure-remote-access/): Secure remote access refers to a connection to a computer network or system from a remote location in a way that prioritizes security. - [Security Risk Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-risk-assessment/): A security risk assessment is process that identifies, analyzes, and evaluates potential risks to information systems, assets, and data. - [Data Retention Policy](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-retention-policy/): A data retention policy outlines an organization's guidelines and practices regarding the storage, archiving, and disposal of data. - [SOAR](https://scytale.ai/glossary/soar/): SOAR, an acronym for Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response, is a comprehensive approach in the realm of cybersecurity. - [Compliance Reporting](https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-reporting/): Compliance reporting is the process when organizations document their regulatory standards, industry guidelines, and internal policies. - [Audit Management System](https://scytale.ai/glossary/audit-management-system/): An audit management system is a comprehensive solution designed to streamline and optimize the entire audit process within an organization. - [Common Vulnerability Scoring System](https://scytale.ai/glossary/common-vulnerability-scoring-system/): CVSS is a standardized framework to assess and communicate the severity of vulnerabilities in software systems. - [System Description of a SOC 2 Report](https://scytale.ai/glossary/system-description-of-a-soc-2-report/): A system description within the context of a SOC 2 report outlines the key components and operational aspects of a service provider's system. - [COSO Framework](https://scytale.ai/glossary/coso-framework/): The COSO Framework is a framework designed to help organizations effectively manage and enhance their internal control systems. - [PCI Compliance Levels](https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-compliance-levels/): Know the difference between PCI levels 1 to 4, see which one is right for your business, and find out how to achieve and maintain compliance. - [PCI Compliant Hosting](https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-compliant-hosting/): PCI compliant hosting refers to web hosting services that meet security standards set by the Payment Card Industry for processing payments online. - [ISO 27001 Annex A.8 – Asset Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-annex-a-8-asset-management/): Annex A.8 of the ISO 27001 standard focuses on properly managing your organization's assets (like hardware, software, data, and employees). - [Risk Acceptance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-acceptance/): Risk acceptance is the strategy where you acknowledge potential threats exist but decide to accept the consequences. - [Risk Communication](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-communication/): Risk communication focuses on raising awareness about potential dangers and threats before an incident occurs. - [Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-maturity-model-certification-cmmc/): CMMC is the Department of Defense's way to ensure cybersecurity controls and processes protect Controlled Unclassified Information. - [Risk Management Plan](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-management-plan/): The purpose of a risk management plan is to identify, evaluate, and prepare for risks that could negatively impact your business. Find more here. - [Risk Appetite](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-appetite/): Risk appetite refers to how much uncertainty and risk an organization is willing to take on in pursuit of its objectives. Find more here. - [Risk Register](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-register/): A risk register is a document that helps organizations keep track of potential risks that could affect key business objectives. Find more here. - [Vendor Compliance Management  ](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-compliance-management/): Vendor Compliance Management is a the process by which businesses ensure that their vendors adhere to specific standards and regulations. - [Continuous Security Monitoring](https://scytale.ai/glossary/continuous-security-monitoring/): Continuous security monitoring—or CSM—is an exciting approach to cybersecurity that helps keep your systems safe 24/7. - [Vulnerability Scanning](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vulnerability-scanning/): Vulnerability scanning is an automated process that identifies security weaknesses or vulnerabilities in your systems and applications. - [PHI Disclosure](https://scytale.ai/glossary/phi-disclosure/): HIPAA establishes strict rules around disclosing a patient’s PHI. This sensitive data is kept private under HIPAA laws. - [HIPAA Disaster Recovery Plan](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-disaster-recovery-plan/): A HIPAA disaster recovery plan outlines how your organization will need to respond in the event of a HIPAA breach. - [Vendor Security Assessment (VSA)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-security-assessment-vsa/): A Vendor Security Assessment (VSA) evaluates how well a company manages security risks related to third-party vendors. - [Security Posture](https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-posture/): Your security posture refers to your overall ability to prevent and defend against cyber threats. It is your entire security set up. - [PCI Encryption](https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-encryption/): PCI encryption is how companies protect your sensitive data and ensure bad guys can't steal your information. Learn more here. - [Access Control Policy](https://scytale.ai/glossary/access-control-policy/): Having a secure access control policy can help protect the organization from unauthorized access to sensitive data and resources. - [Attestation of Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/attestation-of-compliance/): An AOC is a statement or document attesting to the compliance of a company’s frameworks with specific standards. - [Continuous Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/continuous-compliance/): Continuous compliance is a concept of secure and automated monitoring of systems and operations to ensure they remain compliant. - [NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/nist-cybersecurity-framework-csf/): It involves a risk-based approach that encourages organizations to identify, protect, detect, respond to and recover from cyber threats. - [Cyber Risk Remediation](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cyber-risk-remediation/): It is the process of addressing cyber threats and vulnerabilities with security patching, system reconfigurations, and other remedies. - [Data Loss Prevention](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-loss-prevention/): Data loss prevention (DLP) is a strategy for preventing the unauthorized transfer of data from an organization. - [Qualitative Risk Assessments](https://scytale.ai/glossary/qualitative-risk-assessments/): Qualitative risk assessments are an important part of managing risk and ensuring the safety of people, processes, and products. - [Vulnerability Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vulnerability-assessment/): Evaluating the security of a system, organizations understand their overall risk profile and develop strategies to address vulnerabilities. - [User Activity Monitoring](https://scytale.ai/glossary/user-activity-monitoring/): User activity monitoring is an important security tool for businesses, as it provides visibility into user activities on critical systems. - [Quantitative Risk Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/quantitative-risk-assessment/): Quantitative risk assessment is a systematic process that helps organizations identify and analyze risks associated with various activities. - [Fair Model Risk Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/fair-model-risk-management/): FMRM is a risk management methodology that uses an approach to evaluate the potentially damaging impacts of mismanaged models. - [Cybersecurity Risk Register](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-risk-register/): A Cybersecurity Risk Register is a tool used to document and manage information security risks within an organization. Learn more here. - [Controlled Unclassified Information](https://scytale.ai/glossary/controlled-unclassified-information/): Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is a term used to describe certain unclassified data and documents. Learn more here. - [PCI Audit](https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-audit/): A PCI audit is a procedure that assesses compliance to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). Learn more here. - [Risk Mitigation](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-mitigation/): Risk mitigation is the act of minimizing or reducing the likelihood, magnitude, and/or impact of any type of risk. Learn more here. - [IT General Controls](https://scytale.ai/glossary/it-general-controls/): IT General Controls are crucial for organizations' information technology infrastructure to ensure the security of their systems and data. - [Risk Prioritization](https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-prioritization/): Risk prioritization involves identifying, assessing, and prioritizing potential risks to determine which pose the greatest threat. - [Consensus Assessments Initiative Questionnaire (CAIQ)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/consensus-assessments-initiative-questionnaire-caiq/): CAIQ is a vital tool designed to facilitate the evaluation of cloud service providers (CSPs) compliance capabilities. Learn more here. - [Security Awareness Training](https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-awareness-training/): Security awareness training is an educational program designed to enhance the cybersecurity knowledge of individuals within an organization. - [Standardized Information Gathering (SIG)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/standardized-information-gathering-sig/): Standardized Information Gathering (SIG) is an initiative focused on promoting third-party risk management best practices. - [HIPAA Risk Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-risk-assessment/): A HIPAA risk assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of an organization's security and privacy practices concerning PHI. - [CIS Critical Security Controls](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cis-critical-security-controls/): CIS Critical Security Controls is a set of cybersecurity best practices designed to safeguard organizations against damaging cyber threats. - [Vulnerability Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vulnerability-management/): Vulnerability management is a systematic approach to identifying, evaluating, and mitigating vulnerabilities in an organization. - [Annex A Controls](https://scytale.ai/glossary/annex-a-controls/): Annex A controls are a set of security controls outlined in Annex A of the ISO 27001 standard and contains a total of 14 control categories. - [SSAE 16](https://scytale.ai/glossary/ssae-16/): One of the main objectives of SSAE 16 was to replace the previous standard SAS 70 and align it with the international standard ISAE 3402. - [Threat- Based Risk Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/threat-based-risk-assessment/): A threat-based risk assessment is an approach to evaluating and managing risk that focuses on identifying and analyzing potential threats. - [Internal Security Assessor](https://scytale.ai/glossary/internal-security-assessor/): An Internal Security Assessor assesses an organization's compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). - [SSAE 18](https://scytale.ai/glossary/ssae-18/): SSAE 18, also known as Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements No. 18, is an auditing standard developed by the AICPA. - [Trust Management Platform](https://scytale.ai/glossary/trust-management-platform/): A trust management platform is a comprehensive system, designed to facilitate trust risk management and enhance trust management services. - [Vendor Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-assessment/): Organizations often need to take steps to ensure their vendors are just as compliant as them - This is where vendor assessments come in. - [ISMS Governing Body](https://scytale.ai/glossary/isms-governing-body/): The ISMS governing body is a group in charge of overseeing and guiding the Information Security Management System within an organization. - [ISO 27001 Nonconformity](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-nonconformity/): ISO 27001 nonconformity refers to a circumstance where an organization's ISMS does not meet the requirements for the ISO 27001 standard. - [HIPAA Breach](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-breach/): A HIPAA breach refers to unauthorized access, use or disclosure of protected health information. HIPAA protects private health information. - [Protected Health Information (PHI)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/protected-health-information-phi/): Protected health information refers to information that can be used to identify someone. Securing PHI should be a priority for organizations. - [Report on Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/report-on-compliance/): A PCI Report on Compliance (RoC) is an assessment that tests a company's security controls that protect cardholder data. - [Qualified Security Assessor](https://scytale.ai/glossary/qualified-security-assessor/): A QSA, is a security company who has been certified by the PCI Security Standards Council (SSC) to perform PCI DSS assessments. - [Asset-Based Risk Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/asset-based-risk-assessment/): An asset-based risk assessment is a process of identifying and assessing the risks to your company's assets. Learn more here. - [Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/approved-scanning-vendor-asv/): An ASV is someone that is approved by the PCI SSC to determine if an organization meets PCI DSS external scanning requirements. - [ISO 27001 Internal Audit](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-internal-audit/): An internal audit is an in-depth review of your organization's ISMS before undergoing the ISO 27001 audit with an external auditor. - [Automated Vendor Risk Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/automated-vendor-risk-assessment/): Automating vendor risk assessments is a great way to streamline your process of managing third-party risk. Learn more here. - [Vendor Risk Management](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-risk-management/): When working with third-party vendors, it's important to have a comprehensive VRM program to ensure that your data and systems are protected. - [HIPAA Covered Entities](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-covered-entities/): When it comes to HIPAA compliance, there's a lot of confusion around who is and isn't a covered entity. We're breaking it down for you. - [ISO 27017](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27017/): The ISO 27017 framework is an international standard that outlines best practices for cloud security. Learn more here. - [System Description (Section III)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/system-description-section-iii/): A SOC 2 system description is a required document that describes the systems, processes and controls relevant to a service organization's system. - [ISO 27018](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27018/): ISO/IEC 27018 is an international standard published by the International Organization for Standardization and International Electrotechnical Commission. - [Information Security Management System (ISMS)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/isms/): An Information Security Management System (ISMS) is a set of policies, processes, and procedures that help organizations to protect their information assets. - [ISACA](https://scytale.ai/glossary/isaca/): ISACA is a non-profit, international professional association focused on information technology, assurance, security, and governance. - [HR Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hr-compliance/): HR legal compliance is the process of ensuring that a company adheres to all applicable laws and regulations related to human resources (HR) management. - [User Access Review](https://scytale.ai/glossary/user-access-review/): User access review is where privileged users, are asked to review and confirm that each user has the correct access rights for their job. - [Vendor Risk Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-risk-assessment/): A vendor risk assessment is a process for evaluating the potential risks associated with engaging and working with third-party vendors. - [InfoSec Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/infosec-compliance/): Infosec compliance is the process of following industry-specific laws, regulations, and standards related to information security. - [Statement of Applicability (SoA)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/statement-of-applicability-soa/): A SoA is a document used in information security management that outlines the applicable control objectives and controls for an organization - [Gap Analysis](https://scytale.ai/glossary/gap-analysis/): A gap analysis is an assessment of the difference between an organization’s current state of compliance and its desired level or standard. - [HIPAA Violation](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-violation/): A HIPAA violation is any action that violates the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. - [Carved-Out vs Inclusive Method](https://scytale.ai/glossary/carved-out-vs-inclusive-method/): Simply put, these are two different methods for SOC reporting of your subservice organizations specifically. Learn more about here. - [Attestation Report](https://scytale.ai/glossary/attestation-report/): It is a report that represents the conclusion/outcome of audit procedures and testing performed by an independent CPA or audit body - [Testing Procedure](https://scytale.ai/glossary/testing-procedure/): This question can only be answered at a high-level. The reason for this is that the specific methodology of each auditing company varies. - [HIPAA Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-compliance/): HIPAA compliance is a living culture that health care companies must adopt to safeguard the privacy, security, and integrity of protected health information. - [HIPAA Regulations](https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-regulations/): The HIPAA Privacy Rules, Security Rules, and Breach Notification Rules make up the three main parts of the HIPAA Rules and Regulations. Learn more here. - [ISO 27701](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27701/): ISO 27701 is an extension of ISO 27001 and focuses on data privacy i.e.defining and providing guidance for the Privacy Information Management System. - [Compliance Software](https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-software/): Compliance has become a hot topic in today’s world. When organizations hear the word “compliance” they tend to think of ways to shortcut this process. - [AICPA](https://scytale.ai/glossary/aicpa/): The AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) is the US’s organization of Professional CPAs and founder of the SOC reporting standard. - [Security Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-compliance/): Security compliance is a process that an organization undergoes to ensure that it is in compliance with the set standards and regulations. - [SOC Reports](https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-reports/): A SOC report provides a detailed assessment of the controls, processes, and implementation thereof within an organization. - [Audit Period](https://scytale.ai/glossary/audit-period/): Think of the audit period as the time duration over which the policies/procedures/IT control environment/etc. are evaluated. - [Auditor's Opinion](https://scytale.ai/glossary/auditors-opinion/): SOC 2 is based on the AICPA standards to provide an audit opinion on the security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. - [Vendor Management Policy](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-management-policy/): In order to sort out these technicalities, it is necessary for outsourcers to create a vendor management policy statement. - [Third-Party Risk](https://scytale.ai/glossary/third-party-risk/): Third-Party Risk is the risk posed to a company by the use of a third-party contractor that needs access to company data or privilege. - [Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/self-assessment-questionnaire-saq/): A SAQ is an important step towards auditing success when aiming for compliance of a varying degree based on results from an SAQ assessment. - [SOC 2 Readiness Assessment](https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-readiness-assessment/): An assessment that is performed to see if a company or more specifically, the control environment of the company’s product, is ready for a SOC 2 audit. - [Information Produced by the Entity (IPE) in Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/information-produced-by-the-entity-ipe/): IPE is used in compliance regards the actual information used by the auditor in order to assess, test, and draw conclusions about controls, and audit opinion. - [Complementary User Entity Control (CUEC)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/complementary-user-entity-control-cuec/): CUEC are controls that reside at the user entity level of a service organization. User entities are organizations that utilize the services of a service organization. - [Compliance Program](https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-program/): A compliance program is a set of internal policies and processes developed by an organization to ensure that it complies with protecting its reputation. - [Audit Trail](https://scytale.ai/glossary/audit-trail/): An audit trail, or audit log, is a documented flow of transactions, security relevant records, or data changes that are date and time stamped. - [Security Management Policy (IS Policy)](https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-management-policy-is-policy/): Policies are the principles and guidelines that are defined and approved in order to guide decision-making and ensure that consistent action is taken. - [Cloud Security Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/cloud-security-compliance/): Cloud computing refers to the availability of resources required by computer systems, including and specifically related to data storage and computing power. - [Compliance Process Automation](https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-process-automation/): Automate the software to be programmed to follow rule-based instructions and complete the entire task without human intervention. - [Vendor Review](https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-review/): Vendor reviews typically involve a series of questions. The answers to those questions result in an overall score, which then identifies the vendor's risk level. - [SOC 2 Auditor](https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-auditor/): An auditor who has been accredited by the AICPA can attest and report on if controls were suitably designed, and effectively implemented. - [ISO 27001 Security Standard](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-security-standard/): A standard developed in 2013 by the International Organization for Standardization and IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission). - [Compliance Frameworks](https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-frameworks/): A set of criteria that is developed by an organization that achieves some objective or outcome with the intended purpose of having some type of benefit to the organization. - [Data Security Controls](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-security-controls/): Controls used to protect data an organization is responsible for safekeeping due to laws, regulations and compliance requirements. - [Data Classification Policy](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-classification-policy/): A policy that specifies the required tagging of data stored by a company. This data is usually specific in nature such as PCI data, Health Information, and more. - [SOC 2 Type II Report](https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-type-ii-report/): A SOC 2 Type II report is an attestation of an organization's overall security posture. A SOC 2 report is common among SaaS solutions. - [IT Security Policy](https://scytale.ai/glossary/it-security-policies/): IT Security Policies allow an organization's management team to implement administrative controls and ensure that standards are set for information security. - [ISO 27001 Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-compliance/): The ISO 27001 standard has continued to be a popular option despite the ever-expanding list of industry-specific solutions due to its applicability - [Data Compliance](https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-compliance/): Data compliance is best summarized as a way for IT firms to ensure safeguards and processing of information is allowed by law. - [Security Questionnaires](https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-questionnaires/): These often occur before a business decision is made regarding a product or service to be implemented by an organization. --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages ### Pricing > A plan suitable for every kind of customer, ensuring we help as many fast-growing companies as possible to become secure and compliant. - Published: 2025-08-08 - Modified: 2025-08-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/pricing/ Meeting you at every stage of compliance. The only solution that combines top-tier technology and in-house expertise for complete compliance coverage and peace of mind, serving companies of all shapes and sizes. For startups For security teams For startups Proactive compliance with ‘one subscription, one solution’ bundles,closing the loop for fast-moving startups. Build Starter. Build Platform Plan 1 framework (add-ons available) Get a demo Most popular Build DFY. (Done for you) Build Platform Plan LaunchReady Consulting Plan Pen Test: Web App, Black Box 1 framework (add-ons available) Get a demo Build Stronger. Build Platform Plan StayReady Consulting Plan Pen Test: Web App, Gray Box 1 framework (add-ons available) Get a demo For security teams Scytale is engineered for enterprise-grade security teams, adapting to your environment with deep customization, automation-first workflows, and seamless integration across your stack. Scale Built for growing teams automating compliance at speed. AI-powered risk mapping & evidence collection Smart remediation suggestions Custom frameworks On-prem integrations Workflow automation for audit tasks Faster SLA response time Get a demo Enterprise Designed for large, regulated organizations needing full control. Fully customize Scytale to fit the needs of your GRC program. Our team will build the right package of AI-powered technology and expert support to align with your organization’s goals. Get a demo For startups Proactive compliance with ‘one subscription, one solution’ bundles,closing the loop for fast-moving startups. Build Starter. Build Platform Plan 1 framework (add-ons available) Get a demo Most popular Build DFY. (Done for you) Build Platform Plan LaunchReady... --- ### AWS - Published: 2025-08-07 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://scytale.ai/aws/ Take compliance to the cloud with Scytale + AWS. Scytale is not just compatible with AWS, we’re designed for it. Our platform runs natively on AWS infrastructure, connects directly with AWS services, and follows cloud-native standards from the ground up. Get started Learn more The go-to AWS compliance partner for customers worldwide. We speak AWS, so your compliance runs smarter. Scytale connects directly with AWS-native services like CloudTrail, Config, IAM, and more, to automate evidence collection, monitor risk, and help you stay audit-ready at all times. AWS GuardDuty AWS GuardDuty Continuous threat detection and monitoring for malicious activity across AWS accounts. AWS WAF AWS WAF Protects web apps from common exploits and attacks by filtering and monitoring HTTP/S traffic. AWS Inspector AWS Inspector Automates vulnerability scanning of AWS workloads to identify and prioritize security issues. AWS IAM AWS IAM Manages user permissions and access policies. Critical for enforcing least privilege and access control compliance. AWS KMS AWS KMS Creates and manages encryption keys to secure data across AWS services. AWS Network firewall AWS Network firewall Provides fine-grained control over network traffic to protect VPCs from unauthorized access. AWS S3 AWS S3 Object storage for any amount of data, with high durability, scalability, and availability. AWS Organizations AWS Organizations Centrally manages multiple AWS accounts with consolidated billing and policy enforcement. AWS Config AWS Config Tracks and audits AWS resource configurations to ensure compliance over time. AWS CloudTrail AWS CloudTrail Records and logs API activity across AWS accounts for auditing and security... --- ### AI Agent - Published: 2025-07-09 - Modified: 2025-08-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/ai-agent/ Forget about compliance as you know it. 
Scy is your next-gen, GRC-savvy AI Agent. Scy breaks down GRC barriers, where speed and convenience drive every workflow. By connecting our AI agent to your platform, you unlock AI-driven functions that enhance security compliance automation. Get a Demo Because managing GRC perfectly isn’t about working harder; it’s about working smarter. Compliance is a high-stakes job with tight deadlines and zero room for error. Scy is your AI GRC assistant that eliminates any guesswork with critical workflows now at your fingertips, helping you build a stronger GRC program - easily. The best compliance comes from AI and human expertise. Scy doesn’t replace your trusted experts - it works alongside them, handling routine tasks so they can focus on strategic review. Scy’s role is to support, not substitute, that expertise. Smart tech, smarter people. Our solution The only AI-first GRC agent of its kind. https://scytale. ai/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/AI-Agent-Screen-Recording. mp4 Features AI Security Questionnaire Get auto-filled answers to your security questionnaires or RFPs using your data already existing in Scytale, speeding up client due diligence and eliminating sales roadblocks. AI Policy Generator Coming soon Automatically create security policies in minutes, have them mapped to controls, and monitor them 24/7 for operational gaps, staying aligned with frameworks with zero overhead. AI Remediation Receive instant, clear mitigation steps if a compliance vulnerability or control gap surfaces, helping you resolve issues quickly and ensure full compliance with minimal back-and-forth. AI Evidence Reviewer Get your audit evidence automatically reviewed, ensuring completeness... --- ### About us > Dedicated to helping Helping SaaS companies streamline SOC 2 compliance with our carefully designed compliance technology and expert-advisory services. - Published: 2025-06-27 - Modified: 2025-07-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/about-us/ Not your average compliance crew. We’re a bunch of thinkers, doers, and dreamers that make GRC smarter, not harder. Brains, heart, and a little bit of mischief. That’s us in a nutshell. Leading our pack. Meiran GalisCEO Guy HorovitzCOO Melissa DilVP Marketing Shir WegmanVP Product Tomer RosenblumVP Global Sales Eyal CafriVP R&D Adar GivoniDirector of Compliance Adiel HoreshCBO Elad Ben AmiVP Operations Jade KretzmerDirector of Finance These aren’t just words on a wall. Industry Innovator Leading the way in compliance and security innovation. Trustworthy Team of Experts Employing highly experienced professionals who deliver reliable and expert-driven solutions. Product Perfectionists Focused on developing high-quality, tailored solutions that meet customer needs. Customer-First Mentality Placing customers at the center and driving solutions designed around their needs. We are growing. Not just colleagues. We were well aware that compliance isn’t fun —it’s tiring, admin-heavy, and complex. We set out to transform the way companies handle compliance. From the start, we believed our expertise and passion could make a real difference. This is especially true for fast-paced SaaS companies trying to keep up. Through thoughtfully designed AI and automation, we’ve completely changed the game. Bringing our culture to every corner we call home. Johannesburg, South Africa Lisbon, Portugal Berlin, Germany Prague, Czech Republic Tel Aviv, Israel New York, United States --- ### Book a Demo - AWS Partner Ads > Get compliant and stay compliant with the ultimate SOC 2 compliance automation platform. Book your demo today. - Published: 2025-06-05 - Modified: 2025-06-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/book-a-demo-aws-partner-ads/ Make SOC 2 ISO 27001 GDPR HIPAA PCI DSS compliance easy. Automation platform that gets you compliant 90% faster and dedicated experts that lead you from start to finish. Everything you need to get and stay compliant in one place. Save hundreds of hours with automated evidence collection, policy templates, and more. Get led through each step with tailored, expert advisory, ensuring you’re audit-ready. Boost customer trust and close more deals faster Book your demo today! We love all our customers --- ### Book a Demo - Partners > Get compliant and stay compliant with the ultimate SOC 2 compliance automation platform. Book your demo today. - Published: 2025-05-06 - Modified: 2025-06-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/partner-event-demo/ Make SOC 2 ISO 27001 GDPR HIPAA PCI DSS compliance easy. Automation platform that gets you compliant 90% faster and dedicated experts that lead you from start to finish. Everything you need to get and stay compliant in one place. Save hundreds of hours with automated evidence collection, policy templates, and more. Get led through each step with tailored, expert advisory, ensuring you’re audit-ready. Boost customer trust and close more deals faster Book your demo today! We love all our customers --- ### Enterprise > Streamline enterprise compliance with Scytale’s automation platform, built for scaling teams and complex security needs. - Published: 2025-04-25 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/enterprise/ GRC that works as hard as you do. Take control of all your GRC workflows with continuous control monitoring, automated evidence collection, robust audit management and seamless risk management, eliminating manual workloads and ensuring an always-on compliance strategy. See what more customers are saying Start managing your GRC audits the smart way. One hub for all your complex GRC workflows. As your organization expands, so does your risk exposure and GRC requirements. Whether you’re managing policies or juggling multiple frameworks and audits, Scytale enables you to easily stay ahead of risks, while managing and automating all the moving parts of your GRC program in a single source of truth. High-end technology, making GRC management run by itself. With automated evidence collection, and organized control center, thousands of outdated, manual and tedious recurrent tasks are eliminated from your security and other teams and leading to more efficient cross-org operations. Compliance that works for you, not the other way around. Scytale enables you to adapt your GRC program to your unique objectives by implementing frameworks at scale, as well as a custom internal control system, best suited to your industry and region. You can also showcase your specific GRC best practices with our Trust Center solutions. Multi-framework implementation Custom controls repository Trust Center solution Continuous compliance assurance. With 24/7 control monitoring and an audit-readiness dashboard with instant alerts, you have full visibility and control into the status of all your GRC workflows, allowing you to immediately nip any risks in the bud... --- ### SOX ITGC > Automate SOX ITGC audits with Scytale—save time, boost accuracy, and eliminate manual errors with a seamless, efficient workflow. - Published: 2025-04-23 - Modified: 2025-07-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/sox-itgc/ Compliance without compromise. Manual ITGC audits are slow, frustrating, and prone to missing critical deficiencies. Scytale turns SOX ITGC audits into a seamless workflow, automating the dull stuff, saving thousands of hours and ensuring complete accuracy. Start managing your SOX ITGC audits the smart way. 24/7 deficiencies monitoring. Identifying and tracking ITGC deficiencies for SOX compliance is a major headache when you’re sifting through controls, evidence, and reports nonstop. Scytale continuously monitors your ITGC controls, automating deficiency detection and enables you to stay audit-ready without the guesswork. Automatically create working papers. With Scytale, working papers generate themselves. Scytale automates ITGC audit documentation for SOX compliance, ensuring accurate, up-to-date records without the manual effort. See what more customers are saying Your very own SOX ITGC expert. Tackling SOX ITGC compliance is a slow and challenging process, especially when it comes to identifying and fixing ITGC deficiencies. Understanding requirements, collecting evidence, and staying audit-ready can be overwhelming. Scytale’s GRC experts completely simplify the process with customized guidance and remediation unique to your organization. Meet the experts Our features. Built for absolute accuracy and no room for error, Scytale has everything you need to get and stay compliant with SOX in one central hub, so you’ll never have to leave the platform. SOX audit management ITGC automation Audit dashboard and ready-to-use reports Gain real-time visibility into the status of your internal control program to easily identify any gaps and action items. Internal control management Automate admin tasks, control testing and monitoring of your internal... --- ### Careers (individual) - Published: 2025-04-01 - Modified: 2025-05-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/careers/ --- ### Channel Partner - Published: 2025-03-19 - Modified: 2025-07-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/channel-partner/ Become a Scytale Channel Partner. Submit the form below to join the Scytale Partner Program. --- ### Penetration testing > Pen testing made easy! You can streamline your pen testing with our end-end security compliance solution. - Published: 2025-03-18 - Modified: 2025-07-29 - URL: https://scytale.ai/penetration-testing/ Run pen tests within your compliance workflow. Streamline your entire penetration testing processes inside Scytale, supercharging your security controls, while eliminating all the grunt work. Meet with our experts to streamline your penetration testing. All in one compliance powerhouse. Say goodbye to juggling different tools to complete all your compliance requirements. From audit readiness to building trust that drives sales, you can meet all audit requirements, including pen tests, with one end-to-end compliance solution. Test faster, collaborate smarter. Ditch the clunky workflows and endless delays by streamlining all the moving parts of your offensive security. Manage requirements and reporting and chat with your pen tester and team members in one intuitive hub. Real-time control, total clarity. Stay in the loop at every stage of your pen testing project with instant alerts and live reports, giving you actionable insights and a remediation roadmap to spot vulnerabilities and secure your defenses fast. Advanced testing with tech and experts. Get tailored pen testing to your unique needs and timelines, and feel 100% stress-free with hands-on guidance from our cybersecurity experts and clear, evidence-backed insights into your organization’s defenses. See it in action Integrate with all your favorite tools. Automate all the nitty gritty of your penetration testing workflows with our integrations and receive comprehensive security testing across your attack surface. Explore our integrations How does it work? Complete the scoping session with a pen test expert Get full visibility into findings as your testers upload reports Chat with your pen test expert to... --- ### Integrations > Integrate your technology stack to enjoy automated compliance monitoring and evidence collection. Streamline your compliance journey. - Published: 2025-03-10 - Modified: 2025-03-18 - URL: https://scytale.ai/integrations/ Integrate your favorite tools. Easily connect 100+ tools with Scytale and enable automated evidence collection and continuous monitoring with real-time updates, regaining control and ensuring you are always audit-ready with proactive alerts. You may also like Tech Talk March 18, 2025 Penetration Testing vs. Vulnerability Assessment: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need? Discover the differences between pen testing and vulnerability assessments, and how both can boost your cybersecurity defenses. Blog March 17, 2025 Risk Management Framework Steps and Best Practices The Risk Management Framework is a process that assists businesses in identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential risks. Blog March 13, 2025 5 Best Vanta Alternatives To Consider in 2025 Discover which Vanta alternatives are best suited for your business in terms of security risks, industry best practices, size, and budget. Blog March 12, 2025 Top 10 Tech Startup Founders in the UK for 2025 Discover the top 10 tech startup founders in the UK for 2025, driving innovation, reshaping industries, and defining the future of tech. Blog March 11, 2025 Top 7 CCPA Compliance Tools in 2025 Discover the top 7 CCPA compliance tools of 2025 to protect customer data and streamline compliance. Blog March 10, 2025 Security Compliance in 2025: The SaaS Guide Here's what you need to know (and do) to ensure your organization has a strong SaaS security posture for 2025. Blog March 5, 2025 Top 10 Offensive Security Tools for 2025 Discover the top 10 offensive security tools for 2025 to identify vulnerabilities,... --- ### Find a partner > Easily find trusted partners for your SOC 2 and compliance needs. Connect with experts who can help streamline your audit process. - Published: 2025-03-04 - Modified: 2025-06-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/find-a-partner/ Find a partner. Explore our trusted network of certified partners, making the world of compliance a better place. Search Become a Scytale partner. Fill out the form and let us know what you have in mind. Apply now --- ### Partners > Reach new heights as a Scytale partner. Fill out the form and let us know what you have in mind. - Published: 2025-02-26 - Modified: 2025-07-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/partners/ Better together, as a Scytale partner. Reach new heights as part of the Scytale Partner Program and join the best of the best in the security and privacy compliance game, enabling faster growth for your business. Become a partner Download overview Join our scaling partner ecosystem. Join our growing network of industry leaders who are transforming the security and privacy compliance landscape, driving innovation and creating value for businesses of all sizes. Looking to scale-up as a value-added reseller (VAR)? Increase revenue and your solution portfolio by leveraging compliance as your differentiator from other security solution resellers. Scytale is your missing puzzle in security solution sales. Interested in growing as a referral partner? Extend the value of your solutions with a referral model, and let’s grow together by helping your customers achieve compliance while increasing your revenue streams. Are you a MSP or InfoSec consulting firm? Leverage Scytale to scale your business by taking advantage of our automated compliance tool, saving 90% of the time and effort, streamlining compliance and enjoying automated processes. Want to join forces as a technology partner? Unlock maximum value for both your customers and ours while ensuring you’re attracting new ones with smart automation technology. Ready to streamline customer audits as an audit partner? Compliment your services with high-end tech, transforming your audits into an organized and automated workflow, while having all communication and full control in one hub. Calling all startup accelerators & venture capital firms Empower your portfolio companies with an automation solution... --- ### Trust Center > Create a Trust Center in minutes with Scytale, effortlessly showcasing your company's security and compliance across top frameworks. - Published: 2025-02-14 - Modified: 2025-02-27 - URL: https://scytale.ai/trust-center/ Build trust at lightning speed. The only solution that lets you create a Trust Center in minutes so you can easily showcase your company’s security and compliance. Learn more Launch your trust center in under 10 minutes. All your data is pre-filled from your existing compliance workflows in Scytale and automatically synced to create a Trust Center that’s ready to go - saving you time, effort, and unnecessary headaches. A winning trust center, for you and your customers. Build customer confidence, boost productivity, and leverage your security and compliance processes as a business driver - all in one place. Customize Your Trust Center Edit and easily tailor your Trust Center inside Scytale, highlighting your compliance frameworks, security policies, controls, and vendor management. Simplify Document Requests Take the hassle out of managing policy and report access. Get real-time notifications and streamline sharing documents in just a few clicks. Put Your Best Foot Forward Effortlessly share audit reports or direct customers to your Trust Center, putting your security and compliance best practices in the spotlight, with minimal effort required from your team. --- ### Zertia Landing Page > Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - Published: 2025-01-28 - Modified: 2025-04-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/lp-zertia/ Everything you need to get ISO 42001 ISO 42001 ISO 42001 in one place. Together, Scytale and Zertia are making it easier for businesses to achieve ISO 42001 certification and build trust in their AI practices. As a certifying body specialized in AI, Zertia provides reliable and straightforward certification services, helping organizations meet international standards for secure and compliant AI. Moreover, clients who join Zertia before May 2025 will receive a 30% discount. This offer makes it easier than ever for organizations to demonstrate their commitment to secure and responsible AI development while meeting compliance requirements with confidence. Get started Zertia is extending a 30% discount to all clients who sign with them until May 2025. What this means for our clients. Comprehensive Support: Our partnership ensures guidance throughout every stage of the ISO 42001 certification process, providing clarity and structure from preparation to audit completion. Trusted Expertise: Backed by deep AI expertise, Zertia will serve as our partner for all ISO 42001 audits, upholding the highest standards (ANAB accreditation expected April-May 2025). Innovative approach: Zertia redefines audits with a disruptive, technology-driven methodology, moving beyond traditional models to deliver faster, more efficient AI assessments. Global Reach: With support in both English and Spanish, we are ready to serve a diverse range of clients across different regions. Your only complete compliance hub. From audit-readiness to certification and everything in between, we’re your one solution for everything compliance. 2025 G2 Momentum Leader in Cloud Compliance. “The system is easy to use and integrations save plenty... --- ### Home 2025 > The only complete compliance solution, helping companies get compliant and stay compliant with security and privacy frameworks. - Published: 2025-01-14 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://scytale.ai/ Scytale Acquires AudITech, Building the First Compliance Enterprise Suite Where compliance happens, fast. AI-powered security and compliance hub + human experts that get you (and keep you) compliant at every stage of growth. SOC 2 ISO 27001 HIPAA PCI-DSS GDPR https://www. youtube. com/embed/12hD5osO1ic? si=91y0gISmUnFkyM-Y&autoplay=1 2025 G2 Leader and Best Software Products in GRC. We love our customers. The only complete compliance hub. From audit-readiness to certification and everything in between, we’re your one AI-powered solution for everything compliance. Helping companies of all shapes and sizes. Whether you're navigating your first audit, scaling your compliance processes or need better GRC management as an enterprise, Scytale meets you where you are. Startup Need to get compliant in a security or privacy framework and have no cooking clue where to start? See how Scytale solves this problem for startups. Learn more Growth Looking for faster, more streamlined ways to manage your GRC processes while your organization is scaling up? See how Scytale grows with you. Learn more Enterprise Need to fully automate your GRC processes and manage its workflows more efficiently? See how Scytale helps enterprises. Learn more Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. Close deals faster and maintain customer trust without the manual, admin-heavy and tedious work to get compliant. Integrate your favorite tools. Unlock automated evidence collection and streamlined compliance with our loads of integrations. Explore our integrations AI compliance management hub with real humans. Walk into your audit with confidence, as your dedicated compliance expert guides you from start to... --- ### Subprocessor Notification - Published: 2025-01-10 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/subprocessor-notification/ Our subprocessor notification. By submitting the form, you will receive relevant information and updates related to changes to our list of subprocessors. --- ### IQLUS Landing Page > Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - Published: 2024-12-04 - Modified: 2025-04-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/lp-iqlus/ Everything you need to get NIS2 DORA GDPR HIPAA PCI DSS ISO 27001 compliant in one place. Scytale's compliance automation platform. As an IQLUS client, you'll get 0 % off Streamline your entire compliance journey Get audit-ready 90% faster Get a dedicated compliance expert from start to finish Close more deals, faster Get started *Discount is available for new Scytale customers only. Discounts are applicable for the first 12 months a new client is with Scytale. Your only complete compliance hub. From audit-readiness to certification and everything in between, we’re your one solution for everything compliance. 2025 G2 Leader and Best Software Products in GRC. “The system is easy to use and integrations save plenty time. But the best feature is the team. Scytale was the secret sauce to get us there in record-breaking time. ” Yahel G. Head of Operations, Computer Software “Working with Scytale was an accelerator for our company, helping us to stay focused on SOC 2 requests and pass the examination much faster than expected. ” Paz D. CTO, Information Technology and Services “Not only does their platform make it really easy to divide tasks between the team, the service they offer makes you feel like you have your own compliance team. ” Bradley A. Co-Founder, Insurance “Before Scytale, we ran around like headless chickens to gather evidence all over the place, digging deep into archives. With Scytale, evidence auto-collects itself. ” Maayan N. Manager of Operations, Computer Software 30+ frameworks. More than a dozen security and privacy... --- ### Demo booked thank you - Published: 2024-11-29 - Modified: 2025-03-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/demo-booked-thank-you/ You did it! Demo booked! High-five, friend! You just took a giant leap towards making compliance way less of a headache (and way more awesome). Our team is already doing a happy dance over here. In the meantime, here’s a quick word from our Founder: https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=7aWWlIPz_RI You’re here See Demo Become a Customer You’re all set - let’s roll! Where the fun starts KickoffMeeting Gap Analysis & Audit Prep Dotting i’s, crossing t’s Let’s lock it in! AuditTime Officially COMPLIANT Pop the champagne! Questions? We’ve got answers. How long will it take to get compliant? The timeline depends on your current status and the framework you’re working with. On average, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to get fully compliant, but we’re here to guide you every step of the way! Do I need to hire an in-house compliance team? Nope! That’s what we’re here for. Our team of experts acts as an extension of yours, providing all the support you need without the overhead of an in-house team. How much is this going to cost? Cost depends on your company’s size, needs and the specific compliance framework(s) you’re pursuing. We’ll provide a tailored proposal once we understand your requirements. Should I start looking for an auditor? No worries, we’ve got you! We’ll help you find the perfect auditor for your needs. The timeline depends on your current status and the framework you're working with. On average, it can take anywhere... --- ### All Features > Explore Scytale’s comprehensive features for automated compliance, streamlined audits, and efficient risk management in one platform. - Published: 2024-11-28 - Modified: 2025-07-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/all-features/ Fast features for fast compliance. We know that our platform needs to be as flexible as our customers’ needs. So whether you’re a startup founder trying to wrap your head around data security compliance, or an experienced CISO looking to ditch the Excel sheets, Scytale has the features and tools to get you on your way. Automate my compliance A feature for every step in getting (and staying) compliant. From compliance newbies to CTOs and CISOs, getting and staying compliant requires the right tools. Instead of time-consuming manual tasks, Scytale delivers everything you need, all in one platform - ready when you are. Integrations Trust Center Automated Evidence Collection Audit Management and Auditor Portal Continuous Control Monitoring Vendor Risk Management User Access Reviews AI Security Questionnaires Custom Policy Builder Simplified Risk Assessment Customized Controls Multi-Framework Cross-Mapping Security Awareness Training Audit Dashboard Collaboration Hub Notification Center Yaron Lavi CTO “Scytale streamlined our audit readiness process with their expert-driven technology. They shared valuable insights about our security systems so we can better protect our customers’ data. ” See what more customers are saying KUDOS FROM OUR CUSTOMERS! “The system is easy to use and integrations save plenty time. But the best feature is the team. Scytale was the secret sauce to get us there in record-breaking time. ” Yahel G. Head of Operations, Computer Software “Working with Scytale was an accelerator for our company, helping us to stay focused on SOC 2 requests and pass the examination much faster than expected. ”... --- ### vDPO > Simplify data privacy compliance with Scytale's vDPO services, offering expert support in managing regulations like GDPR and HIPAA. - Published: 2024-11-15 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/vdpo/ Your own personal vDPO. From expert data privacy guidance to tracking your personal data compliance, our comprehensive data protection services make data protection easy and stress-free for complying with global privacy laws such as GDPR, CCPA, and POPIA. Learn more https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=Z1xlbi7WZ-M Easy data protection for complex privacy laws. Lack of internal DPO expertise, cross-border data transfers, consent management, DPAs, and policy updates are just a few of the things that can trip you up. Eliminate the guesswork with a virtual Data Protection Officer (vDPO) in your corner. Your go-to for data privacy compliance. Scytale offers a full range of data protection services to help you get compliant in the simplest way. Our team of data privacy experts handle everything from training to DPA reviews, so you can focus on what you do best. Yoav Grossman Co-Founder “Scytale’s consulting services in conjunction with their platform is a game changer, getting our GDPR compliance program set up and running smoothly. I can’t imagine having implemented our sophisticated security program without the hands-on support the team brings. ” See what more customers are saying EXPERT DATA PRIVACY GUIDANCE Our team of data privacy experts know global privacy laws inside out. They’ll walk you through everything you need to do to get and stay compliant step-by-step. GDPR MADE EASY From helping you map your personal data to setting up data privacy policies, we make implementing and managing your GDPR compliance easy. CUSTOM-FIT DATA PRIVACY MANAGEMENT Data privacy compliance isn’t a one-size-fits-all... --- ### User Access Reviews > Simplify user access reviews with Scytale’s automated solution. Ensure compliance, reduce risk, and streamline your review process. - Published: 2024-11-14 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/user-access-reviews/ Take the admin out of access reviews. Keeping track of all your user access data can get really messy, really fast, especially if you’re doing it the old school, manual way. With Scytale, all your access reviews are automated and centralized, saving you from doing all the work that sucks up your time. Book a demo today Quick and simple access reviews do exist. Manually reviewing each user’s access rights, organizing spreadsheets and gathering evidence for your audit is a nightmare. Scytale automatically reviews user access data for you and then collects the required evidence for all relevant controls. Easily approve user access reviews directly in Scytale Integrate all your critical tools, such as GitHub, AWS, Okta, Google Workplace and Slack Scytale continuously pulls all relevant user access data automatically Review the relevant access rights of multiple system users and active employees Erwee B. Head of Engineering "Scytale's ability to integrate with various cloud platforms, source control solutions, and ticket systems significantly streamlined the process of collecting evidence for controls, saving a lot of time and effort. Additionally, the user access review tool adds to the overall effectiveness of the platform. " Check us out on G2 What do streamlined access reviews look like with Scytale. Let us take care of all the different moving parts of your compliance processes, through automation and from a single source of truth. Full Peace of Mind Get full visibility in real-time surrounding access control in your organization and receive immediate alerts of any... --- ### Rotate Landing Page > Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - Published: 2024-11-14 - Modified: 2025-04-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/lp-rotate/ Compliance and security made accessible. Together, the Rotate + Scytale bundle offers an end-to-end solution that addresses two core challenges for businesses—security and compliance. Our partners gain a powerful solution to offer their clients with the Rotate + Scytale bundle, now available at an exclusive 20% discount! This offer is extended not only to partners but also directly to clients, allowing businesses of all sizes to access a comprehensive compliance and security solution at a reduced rate. Get started Partners introducing new customers to Scytale will receive a 20% discount on the Rotate + Scytale bundle. Additionally, all new Scytale customers can enjoy a 20% discount for the first 12 months of their compliance journey with Scytale. For End Clients: The Scytale + Rotate bundle is designed to give clients a seamless, powerful solution that simplifies compliance and strengthens cybersecurity. With this unified package, end clients benefit by: Gaining peace of mind through robust cybersecurity that adapts to evolving threats. Meeting regulatory requirements effortlessly, with continuous compliance monitoring and fast audit-readiness. Simplified Client Onboarding – Make it easy for clients to adopt both security and compliance from a single provider. Faster Audit-Readiness – Automate compliance and ensure security, helping clients achieve regulatory requirements quickly. Streamlined Operations – Manage compliance and security in one place, reducing complexity and saving time. Stronger Security Posture – Proactively address compliance and cybersecurity challenges to build your clients’ trust. For Partners: Our partners gain a compelling solution to offer their clients: Broaden Your Offerings –... --- ### ISO 42001 > ISO 42001 Compliance without breaking a sweat. Achieve compliance in a fraction of the time with automation. - Published: 2024-11-12 - Modified: 2025-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/iso-42001/ ISO 42001 made simple. The ISO 42001 framework doesn’t have to be as intimidating as it sounds. Streamline your AI compliance processes right from the get-go with Scytale’s all-in-one compliance hub. The go-to compliance partner for hundreds of startups and enterprises. Lead the way in demonstrating ISO 42001 compliance. Leverage controls mapped from other frameworks. ISO 42001 has many common controls with other security standards, like ISO 27001, enabling you to implement and manage multiple frameworks without all the unnecessary duplicate work. Implement your AIMS with complete ease. We’ll cover all the bases of your AI Management System, getting your internal controls categorized into practical to-do items and giving you full visibility into your AI compliance status. Yaron Lavi CTO “Scytale streamlined our audit readiness process with their expert-driven technology. They shared valuable insights about our security systems so we can better protect our customers’ data. ” See what more customers are saying A ISO 42001 expert in your corner. With your dedicated compliance expert, you’ll be led through every single step until that ‘compliance stamp’. Our expert services, combined with our advanced technology, makes AI compliance assurance a seamless part of your operations. Meet the experts Fast features for fast compliance. Everything you need to get and stay compliant with the ISO 42001 standard is included in Scytale, so you’ll never have to leave the platform. INTEGRATIONS Integrate your entire technology infrastructure with Scytale integrations, unlocking automated compliance. AUTOMATED EVIDENCE COLLECTION Automatically collect evidence for your audits, eliminating manual,... --- ### Audit Management > Streamline audits with Scytale’s automated audit management solution. Ensure compliance, save time, and simplify your audit process. - Published: 2024-11-11 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/audit-management/ The home of streamlined audits. It’s a win-win for you and your auditor. Why? Because you can centralize and collaborate on every aspect of your audit directly in Scytale’s Audit Management Hub, completely simplifying the audit process and speeding up your time to compliance. See it in action Audits don’t need to be daunting anymore. Our Audit Hub creates a centralized space for communication, requests, audit approvals and updates, meaning you never have to leave Scytale from your audit prep to that compliance ‘stamp’. Caitlin B. NayaOne “Scytale solves compliance management challenges by streamlining processes, simplifying audit management, enhancing visibility, and promoting collaboration, leading to increased efficiency and strengthened compliance effectiveness for our organization. ” Check us out on G2 Shaping the next generation of audits. There’s no denying that data security and privacy audits have a reputation of being overwhelming, complex, time-consuming and paperwork-heavy. Our Audit Hub eliminates these headaches with: One hub, all your compliance needs covered Our audit hub is your one single source for literally every step of your compliance. All your evidence that’s already in Scytale is automatically pulled into our Audit Hub, ensuring all necessary data collection is in one place. Faster, more efficient audits Share and request documents easily and have access to them whenever you like, get tagged in action items from your auditor, and see evidence approvals in real time. All interactions in one place No more countless Zoom meetings, back-and-forth Slacks and long email threads. Communicate with your auditor and... --- ### Fusion VC Landing Page > Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - Published: 2024-10-18 - Modified: 2025-04-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/lp-fusion-vc/ Everything you need to get SOC 1 SOC 2 ISO 27001 HIPAA PCI DSS GDPR compliant in one place. Scytale's compliance automation platform. As a Fusion VC client, you'll get 0 % off Streamline your entire compliance journey Get audit-ready 90% faster Get a dedicated compliance expert from start to finish Close more deals, faster Get started *Discount is available for new Scytale customers only. Discounts are applicable for the first 12 months a new client is with Scytale. Your only complete compliance hub. From audit-readiness to certification and everything in between, we’re your one solution for everything compliance. 2025 G2 Leader and Best Software Products in GRC. “The system is easy to use and integrations save plenty time. But the best feature is the team. Scytale was the secret sauce to get us there in record-breaking time. ” Yahel G. Head of Operations, Computer Software “Working with Scytale was an accelerator for our company, helping us to stay focused on SOC 2 requests and pass the examination much faster than expected. ” Paz D. CTO, Information Technology and Services “Not only does their platform make it really easy to divide tasks between the team, the service they offer makes you feel like you have your own compliance team. ” Bradley A. Co-Founder, Insurance “Before Scytale, we ran around like headless chickens to gather evidence all over the place, digging deep into archives. With Scytale, evidence auto-collects itself. ” Maayan N. Manager of Operations, Computer Software 30+ frameworks. More than a dozen security and... --- ### OIF Landing Page > Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - Published: 2024-09-24 - Modified: 2025-04-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/lp-oif/ Everything you need to get SOC 1 SOC 2 ISO 27001 HIPAA PCI DSS GDPR compliant in one place. Scytale's compliance automation platform. As an OIF client, you'll get 0 % off Streamline your entire compliance journey Get audit-ready 90% faster Get a dedicated compliance expert from start to finish Close more deals, faster Get started *Discount is available for new Scytale customers only. Discounts are applicable for the first 12 months a new client is with Scytale. Your only complete compliance hub. From audit-readiness to certification and everything in between, we’re your one solution for everything compliance. 2025 G2 Momentum Leader in Cloud Compliance. “The system is easy to use and integrations save plenty time. But the best feature is the team. Scytale was the secret sauce to get us there in record-breaking time. ” Yahel G. Head of Operations, Computer Software “Working with Scytale was an accelerator for our company, helping us to stay focused on SOC 2 requests and pass the examination much faster than expected. ” Paz D. CTO, Information Technology and Services “Not only does their platform make it really easy to divide tasks between the team, the service they offer makes you feel like you have your own compliance team. ” Bradley A. Co-Founder, Insurance “Before Scytale, we ran around like headless chickens to gather evidence all over the place, digging deep into archives. With Scytale, evidence auto-collects itself. ” Maayan N. Manager of Operations, Computer Software 30+ frameworks. More than a dozen security and privacy frameworks. SOC... --- ### Continuous Compliance > Ensure continuous compliance with Scytale's automated platform, streamlining audits and monitoring controls for peace of mind. - Published: 2024-09-06 - Modified: 2025-04-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/continuous-compliance/ Continuous compliance, hands-free. In today's fast-paced digital landscape, ensuring continuous compliance is no longer an option—it's a necessity. We have redefined compliance, transforming it from a daunting, periodic task into a seamless, ongoing process. See it in action Monitor your compliance status, in real time. Don’t dread managing your ongoing compliance processes anymore. Ensure you remain compliant all year round with continuous compliance automation, alerting you of any non-compliance issues immediately. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=3AYAxXf3pXE Keep tabs on your compliance. Scytale prevents any non-conformities from happening through continuous checks, automatically flagging any system vulnerabilities before they turn into problems and reducing security risks. “Continuous control monitoring feature allows us to make sure we are always on top of our compliance. It’s a real game-changer. ” Read our reviews on CHECK US OUT ON G2 Round-the-clock compliance monitoring. Forget about time-intensive, outdated and redundant compliance checks, worrying if you miss a critical gap. Transform your security and privacy compliance management into a streamlined and automated continuous compliance process that happens in the background. Point-in-Time Audits to 24/7 Compliance Assurance Instead of relying on annual audits to verify your compliance, ensure you’re in a constant state of compliance with continuous control checks automatically running in the background. Run On-Demand Tests on Your Data Identify any compliance gaps before the auditor, enabling fast remediation and preventing any bigger challenges evolving from non-compliance. Reduce Dependency on Your Team Regain full control of compliance management, reducing manual compliance checks, human error and blind areas, and... --- ### PCI DSS > Simplify PCI DSS Compliance With Automation. Secure payments and cardholder data with smooth-sailing PCI DSS compliance! - Published: 2024-09-05 - Modified: 2025-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/pci-dss/ One tap to total PCI DSS compliance. Rather than stressing about how to secure the way you accept, process, store or transmit cardholder information, get PCI DSS compliant easily (and fast) with Scytale. The go-to compliance partner for hundreds of startups and enterprises. Need to get PCI DSS compliant ASAP? Swipe through your audit with automated evidence collection. Dread the task of gathering evidence for your audit no more. Scytale automatically collects evidence for your audit - letting you concentrate on ensuring seamless card transactions, not compliance tasks. PCI compliance, levelled up. No matter which merchant-level you fall into, Scytale meets you there as a compliance partner. We will guide you through the control requirements for your level. With us, it's all about precision compliance that maximizes protection while minimizing disruption. David Erel VP R&D “With Scytale’s platform and consultancy we achieved PCI compliance in record time and can finally unlock new SaaS segments of the market. ” See what more customers are saying Your very own PCI DSS expert. Have confidence that every single transaction that goes through your business is compliant with our PCI DSS experts on your side. Let’s help you get (and stay) PCI DSS compliant, one swipe at a time. Meet the experts We’re here to make PCI compliance easy. Managing PCI DSS compliance across systems, vendors, and payment methods doesn’t have to feel so complicated. Our experts will handle the heavy lifting, guiding you to full compliance without the stress. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=nyid4_2WZlg... --- ### GDPR > No more stressing over demanding GDPR requirements and lengthy processes. Get GDPR compliant faster with automation. - Published: 2024-08-29 - Modified: 2025-05-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/gdpr/ Get and stay GDPR compliant, hassle-free. You know GDPR exists. But your head’s spinning with all the requirements and how to actually comply. If you’re tired of GDPR derailing your growth in the EU and the UK, let Scytale completely streamline the process to get and stay compliant. The go-to compliance partner for hundreds of startups and enterprises. Manage your privacy management system with ease. Here to guide you step-by-step, Scytale enables you to implement and scale relevant privacy controls, and manage your compliance processes all in one place. With us, privacy becomes second nature, and compliance, easy. Stay on top of 24/7 monitoring. Scytale monitors and scans for vulnerabilities in your privacy management system 24/7, giving you full control and real-time visibility. You’ll always know how personal data is being handled by vendors and sub-processors, ensuring peace of mind that you’re GDPR compliant. Want to make managing GDPR processes easier? Yoav Grossman Co-Founder “Scytale’s consulting services in conjunction with their platform is a game changer, getting our GDPR compliance program set up and running smoothly. I can’t imagine having implemented our sophisticated security program without the hands-on support the team brings. ” See what more customers are saying Your very own team of GDPR experts. We know you’re overwhelmed by all the GDPR requirements. Let our data protection attorneys give you hands-on guidance through each and every step to get you (and keep you) compliant with the regulation. Meet the experts Tick your way to GDPR compliance. There’s no... --- ### SOC 2 V2 > Streamline SOC 2 compliance with automation. Scytale helps security-conscious SaaS companies get compliant and stay compliant. - Published: 2024-08-16 - Modified: 2025-08-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/soc-2/ The fastest path to SOC 2 compliance. Scytale streamlines the entire SOC 2 process - automating everything from audit prep to continuous monitoring - so your team can focus on growth, while we ensure long-term compliance. The go-to compliance partner for hundreds of startups and enterprises. Need to get SOC 2 compliant ASAP? Evidence collection works on its own. Scytale automatically collects and verifies all required evidence across your systems, saving you from the tedious manual work. Simply sync your tech stack with Scytale to collect where data is being stored and generate evidence in a format auditors understand. Continuous control monitoring. With us, compliance is uninterrupted. Scytale ensures ongoing SOC 2 compliance beyond your audit by monitoring the effectiveness of your controls 24/7, so you’ll never have to guess where you stand with SOC 2. Paz D. CTO “Working with Scytale was an accelerator for our company, helping us to stay focused on SOC 2 requests and pass the examination much faster than expected. ” See what more customers are saying Your very own SOC 2 expert. Beyond just automation software, Scytale’s expert support will guide you from start to finish through each audit requirement, getting (and keeping) your business SOC 2 compliant. Meet the experts Skip the audit stress with our Built-In Audit. Work with a dedicated audit partner who understands your company's unique needs from day one. Fully integrated into the Scytale platform, so you can manage, track, and complete your audit - without the usual back... --- ### ISO 27001 V2 > Streamline ISO 27001 compliance with automation. Scytale helps security-conscious SaaS companies get compliant and stay compliant. - Published: 2024-08-08 - Modified: 2025-08-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/iso-27001/ Get smart about ISO 27001 compliance. Grow globally with the leading security standard while Scytale takes care of covering all your ISMS bases - from control implementation to automated evidence collection, ensuring ongoing compliance with little effort from your team. The go-to compliance partner for hundreds of startups and enterprises. Need to get ISO 27001 compliant ASAP? Evidence collection without the downtime. Scytale automatically collects and verifies all required evidence across your systems, saving you from the tedious manual work. Simply sync your tech stack with Scytale to collect where data is stored and generate evidence in a format auditors understand. Your ISMS, your way. We’ll cover all the bases for your ISMS - from developing customized policies and implementing security controls, to ensuring your team is up to speed with security awareness training. Arik Metzer Privacy and Compliance Officer “Scytale’s automation solution enabled our ISO 27001 certification process to be much faster, easier and simpler! ” SEE WHAT MORE CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING Your very own ISO 27001 expert. Beyond just automation software, Scytale’s expert support will guide you from start to finish in implementing and managing your ISMS so you can feel confident about your ISO 27001 compliance all year round. MEET THE EXPERTS Skip the audit stress with our Built-In Audit. Work with a dedicated audit partner who understands your company's unique needs from day one. Fully integrated into the Scytale platform, so you can manage, track, and complete your audit - without the usual back and forth.... --- ### NIS2 Directive > NIS2 Directive without breaking a sweat. Achieve compliance in a fraction of the time with automation. - Published: 2024-08-02 - Modified: 2025-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/nis2-directive/ Ace the NIS2 Directive without the heavy-lifting. Streamline your NIS2 Directive compliance processes all under one roof and have the peace of mind that your cybersecurity posture is bulletproof and in line with regulatory requirements. The go-to compliance partner for hundreds of startups and enterprises. 10x faster, 90% less work. Integrate your entire technology stack with Scytale seamlessly and let evidence start collecting itself, removing the outdated, manual and time-consuming takes on compliance. Multiple frameworks? Don’t do the same work twice. There are many overlapping controls among NIS2, GDPR, ISO 27001 and other frameworks. Leverage common controls mapped from other frameworks, eliminating duplicate work and fast-tracking the time to demonstrate compliance with NIS2. Press play on streamlining the NIS2 Directive. Yaron Lavi CTO “Scytale streamlined our audit readiness process with their expert-driven technology. They shared valuable insights about our security systems so we can better protect our customers’ data. ” See what more customers are saying A NIS2 expert in your corner. Your dedicated compliance expert will lead you through each NIS2 requirement and identify your organization's critical processes in scope, implement your risk and information security management system and perform a gap analysis with a guided remediation plan. Meet the experts Fast features for fast compliance. Everything you need to achieve and maintain NIS2 Directive compliance is included in Scytale, so you’ll never have to leave the platform. CONTINUOUS AUDIT Identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in real time with continuous control monitoring CUSTOM POLICY BUILDER Tune & align policies and... --- ### Learning Centre > Are you compliant yet? The ultimate automation platform, helping SaaS companies with their information security compliance. - Published: 2024-07-24 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/learning-centre/ Fast-track your compliance. https://youtu. be/r0kaF1xZp0E? si=v6INrqlCmTo2sq2O Complete compliance automation platform. Expert team that does it all for you. Weekly meetings with a dedicated compliance expert. Hands-on support to navigate through our automation platform. Tailored, expert advisory, ensuring you are audit-ready. Full management of your audit process with your auditor. From audit-readiness to certification and everything in between, we’re your one solution for everything compliance. Want a quick breakdown of compliance frameworks? ISO 27001 in under 27001 millisecondsLearn all about ISO 27001 in under 27001 milliseconds, in our insightful one-pager. SOC 2 in Under 2Learn all the basics you need to know about SOC 2 compliance in our insightful one-pager. SOC 2 for Startups: If you’re up against SOC 2 then this is for youWe have created the ultimate SOC 2 guide for startups, highlighting everything you need to know about the process. ISO 27001 for Startups: The Ultimate Handbook for SaaS CompaniesThis eBook unlocks the crux of ISO 27001 certification, especially made for SaaS startups new to the ISO 27001 scene. How Scytale helps customers from start to finish. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=GwVFEJP7OaY Compliance Made Easy: How Scytale Helps Customers Every Step of The WayCompliance Success Director, Adar Givoni, breaks down how Scytale helps customers with their compliance journey. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=7aWWlIPz_RI Startups – Need to get compliant but don’t know where to start? Hear from Scytale CEO and Founder, Meiran Galis, about how to get compliant and stay compliant, fast. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=VC8acNSuJFY What is SOC 2?... --- ### Industry - Fintech > Everything you need to achieve and maintain compliance in financial without losing business, time, or money in the compliance rabbit hole. - Published: 2024-06-26 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/fintech/ Security & privacy compliance for fintech companies. Everything you need to achieve and maintain compliance without losing business, time, or money in the compliance rabbit hole. Book a demo today We’re unapologetically fierce about your compliance because you can’t afford to be anything else. As a fintech company, you’re dealing with a lot of sensitive data and you most probably receive requests left, right and center from prospects regarding your compliance practices and so, you need unparalleled compliance that doesn’t drain your capacity, resources, and time. At Scytale, we provide the automation technology and expert people needed, making your security and privacy compliance processes fast, simple and bulletproof. Scytale fast-tracks getting (and staying) compliant. So, how does it work? Meet your dedicated compliance expert and define your audit scope Automated risk assessment and control implementation Integrate your tech stack and collect evidence automatically Complete audit (if applicable) Continuous control monitoring Smart compliance for fintech companies. David Erel VP R&D “With Scytale's platform and consultancy we achieved PCI compliance in record time and can finally unlock new SaaS segments of the market. ” See what more customers are saying Fintech compliance without breaking a sweat (or a compliance requirement). Everything you need to get and stay compliant in one single source of truth. Transform your compliance processes into an easy-to-manage workflow that happens in the background. Compliance is a full-time job but it doesn’t have to be yours. Let your dedicated compliance expert take charge of your compliance, so you don’t... --- ### Industry - Healthcare > Everything you need to achieve and maintain compliance in Healthcare without losing business, time, or money in the compliance rabbit hole. - Published: 2024-06-26 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/healthcare/ Your prescription for healthcare compliance. Everything you need to achieve and maintain compliance without losing business, time, or money in the compliance rabbit hole. Book a demo today There’s no such thing as ‘somewhat’ compliant when you’re storing, processing and managing protected health information (PHI). Whether you’re a healthcare provider, insurer, pharmaceutical organization or in biotech, we’ve got all your specific compliance needs covered. Our all-in-one automated healthcare compliance solution takes the guesswork out of security and privacy compliance and provides a comprehensive solution for anyone that comes into contact with PHI. Scytale enables complete peace of mind for companies dealing with sensitive healthcare data and stringent security standards and regulations, like HIPAA. So, how does it work? Meet your dedicated compliance expert and define your audit scope Automated risk assessment and control implementation Integrate your tech stack and collect evidence automatically Complete audit (if applicable) Continuous control monitoring HIPAA hoorays. High-fives from our customers in the healthcare industry. https://youtu. be/TJbGyYRsAT4 See what more customers are saying Zero compromise, just compliance... Align every inch of your organization with HIPAA and other compliance standards and regulations required when you’re in contact with sensitive healthcare data... . With compliance experts in your corner. As an organization dealing with healthcare data, keeping track of all the compliance requirements you need to keep up with and implementing them (correctly and efficiently) can feel like a job on its own. Good news? Your very own HIPAA expert will lead you through each and every compliance... --- ### Free SOC 2 Evaluation > Get instant insights into your company’s SOC 2 status, where your compliance posture needs to be and how to get there. - Published: 2024-06-25 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/free-soc-2-evaluation/ Free SOC 2 evaluation. How close are you to getting SOC 2 compliant? Get instant insights into your company's SOC 2 status, where your compliance posture needs to be and how to get there. Get started Need to get SOC 2 compliant? Need to get SOC 2 compliant and wondering where your security and compliance posture currently stands? Built by our very own compliance experts, our SOC 2 evaluation self-assessment gives you a simple and accurate breakdown of your existing information security measures and best practices, and exactly how far you are to achieving all SOC 2 compliance requirements. How does it work? All you need to do is answer our quick questionnaire (approx. 8 mins) and receive your results, including: Your SOC 2 compliance status Steps you need to take to address any SOC 2 gaps Get a snapshot of your SOC 2 readiness now. The Ultimate SOC 2 Checklist for SaaS Companies. A System and Organization Control 2 (SOC 2) audit involves a thorough assessment of your organization's procedures, systems, and safeguards in the context of security, availability, confidentiality, processing integrity, and privacy. Given the ubiquity of cloud - hosted applications in the contemporary IT landscape, adherence to industry standards such as SOC 2 is imperative. While it may appear daunting, navigating this compliance doesn't need to be a complex endeavor. We've formulated a straightforward SOC 2 requirements checklist to assist you in initiating your path towards SOC 2 compliance. Checklist for SOC 2 Preparing for an SOC... --- ### Industry - Technology > Everything you need to achieve and maintain compliance in Tech without losing business, time, or money in the compliance rabbit hole. - Published: 2024-05-19 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/technology/ Compliance for tech companies. Everything you need to achieve and maintain compliance without losing business, time, or money in the compliance rabbit hole. Book a demo today Scytale helps you crack the code to risk-free, tailor-made compliance solutions. Our automated compliance platform not only prevents tech-specific security threats, but also helps your company achieve compliance requirements in a fraction of the time. We’ve got your back(end) with an all-in-one security and privacy compliance platform. This allows you to swiftly get (and stay) compliant. So you can focus on scaling your business without growing exposure. So, how does it work? Meet your dedicated compliance expert and define your audit scope Automated risk assessment and control implementation Integrate your tech stack and collect evidence automatically Complete audit (if applicable) Continuous control monitoring It techs one to know one. Eran Malovany Project management officer “It was so simple to track our audit-readiness inside Scytale and every detail was easily available. Our dedicated compliance expert was so helpful, that by the time the audit started, there was almost nothing for me to do. It almost felt too good to be true! ” See what more customers are saying Turbocharge your compliance. Security compliance made easy because the alternative really isn’t. Replace the risk of data breaches, losing big deals, and global market restrictions with an easy-to-track automated solution with everything you need in one place... . Combined with your very own expert. Let’s face it. Nothing beats a dedicated human expert, leading you through... --- ### Vendor risk management > Keeping track of your vendors doesn’t have to be daunting. Simplify all the moving parts with our automated vendor risk management. - Published: 2024-05-16 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/vendor-risk-management/ Vendor risk management at your fingertips. Keeping track of your vendors doesn’t have to be daunting. Simplify all the moving parts with our automated vendor risk management. Book a demo today Uncomplicated risk management. Say goodbye to tedious, one-off vendor checks! With our Automated Vendor Risk Management, you get to automate the dull stuff like vendor onboarding, risk checks and mitigation, putting hours back on your clock. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=fJnQV1y6J2o&feature=youtu. be Expert watch on your vendors. Scytale ensures your vendor risk management practices are 100% effective, and 100% compliant with global requirements, making managing your vendors a breeze. #1 in Implementation for Vendor Security and Privacy Assessment. Scott K. Broker Backoffice “Scytale helped us consolidate our views to get a better understanding of our risk profile, our risk processes, and a path to success. ” Check us out on G2 Identify and track vendor risks hassle-free. Forget about multiple spreadsheets and tools in order to conduct vendor risk assessments. Simplify this critical process with: End-to-end compliance hub Accelerate your path to meeting and maintaining industry standards and regulations by centralizing and automating your vendor risk management. Seamless Vendor Risk Tracking Easily manage the risks associated with your vendors and have a clear overview of who you’re working with, optimizing risk management for today's SaaS landscape. Customized for Your Existing Workflows Ensure a seamless integration into your existing risk management practices with our automated, personalized and flexible vendor risk management feature. Supports Key Compliance Frameworks Ensure your risk management practices... --- ### Sprinto vs Scytale > Finding the best Sprinto alternative can be simpler than you think. Find out why Scytale could be the answer you’re looking for. - Published: 2024-04-26 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/compare/sprinto/ Get SOC 1 SOC 2 ISO 27001 HIPAA PCI DSS GDPR compliant all in one place. Streamline your entire compliance journey Get audit-ready 90% faster Get a dedicated compliance expert from start to finish Close more deals, faster Book your demo today! The only complete compliance hub. From audit-readiness to certification and everything in between, we’re your one solution for everything compliance. How to find a Sprinto alternative. Sprinto isn't your average compliance tool—it's the wizard behind the curtain, automating tasks you never want to deal with manually. From paperwork nightmares to seamless integrations, Sprinto's got your back. But, before you sprint into Sprinto, consider this: the world of compliance software is buzzing with more suitable options. So, let's explore the alternatives and find the right compliance automation partner that fits your business stride. Sprinto replacement feature checklist. Sprinto knows its way around risk management and security automation. But let's find the Sprinto alternative that resonates with your business melody. Consider these factors when scouting for Sprinto alternatives: Tailored Compliance Frameworks Look for platforms that align with your security and privacy frameworks—SOC 2, GDPR, ISO 27001, HIPAA, PCI DSS. It's like finding a partner who knows all the right moves. Efficient Automation Capabilities Choose a compliance solution that automates evidence collection, risk assessments, and security questionnaires—a symphony of efficiency. Continuous Monitoring and Reporting Prioritize Sprinto alternatives that operate in real-time. Continuous scanning and reporting ensure your compliance is always ready for the grand audit stage. Smooth Integrations Seek alternatives that integrate seamlessly with your... --- ### AI Security Questionnaires > Change the way you’re answering countless questionnaires. Automate your security questionnaires with a combination of AI and expert review. - Published: 2024-04-17 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/ai-security-questionnaires/ Security questionnaires? No biggie. Change the way you're answering countless questionnaires that are delaying your sale cycles. Automate your security questionnaires with a combination of AI and expert review. Start automating my questionnaires Enough of this sheet. Manually completing 100+ questions relating to your security and compliance practices is no fun at all, soaking up hours of your time. Good news? It doesn’t have to be this way anymore. Put your security questionnaires in the fast lane. No more dreaded deep sighs when you hear you need to fill out yet another security questionnaire. Start doing security questionnaires better. Win back wasted hours With our smart AI capabilities, you get maximum accuracy with minimum time. Auto-generate your responses based on all your security and compliance data. Custom-built, expert review Receive a tailored evaluation by industry veterans, ensuring full reliability and the highest quality when managing and completing your security questionnaires. Close deals, faster Cybersecurity questionnaires are requested by companies before doing business with you, especially enterprises. Don’t lose sales with repetitive security, privacy and compliance questions. Kudos from our customers! "The system is easy to use and integrations save plenty time. But the best feature is the team. Scytale was the secret sauce to get us there in record-breaking time. "Yahel G. Head of Operations, Computer Software "Working with Scytale was an accelerator for our company, helping us to stay focused on SOC 2 requests and pass the examination much faster than expected. "Paz D. CTO, Information Technology and Services... --- ### Secureframe vs Scytale > Explore Secureframe alternatives on Scytale to find the best compliance solutions for your needs in 2024. - Published: 2024-04-15 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/compare/secureframe/ Get SOC 1 SOC 2 ISO 27001 HIPAA PCI DSS GDPR compliant all in one place. Streamline your entire compliance journey Get audit-ready 90% faster Get a dedicated compliance expert from start to finish Close more deals, faster Book your demo today! The only complete compliance hub. From audit-readiness to certification and everything in between, we’re your one solution for everything compliance. Finding a secureframe alternative. Navigating the security and compliance SaaS landscape involves considering factors like industry, vendor volume, budget, and specific needs. Secureframe, an automation platform for risk and compliance, covers SOC 2 to GDPR compliance. It addresses IT vulnerabilities, evaluates vendor risks, conducts employee security training, and streamlines audit evidence collection. However, Secureframe may not be the perfect fit for every organization. Whether you prioritize accessibility, affordability, user ratings, or cost-effectiveness, alternative solutions might better suit your needs. Features of a Secureframe replacement. Secureframe, a maestro of compliance, orchestrates the symphony of risk management and security automation. But every orchestra has its distinct instruments. Let’s unravel the alternatives, finding the composition that resonates with your business. Navigate the compliance landscape with these key features in mind. Tailor-Made Compliance Frameworks Look for platforms that sculpt themselves to your security frameworks—SOC 2, GDPR, ISO 27001, HIPAA, PCI DSS. It’s about finding a tailored suit in a world of off-the-rack solutions. Automation Mastery Choose a compliance solution that masters the art of automation. Think automated evidence collection, risk assessments, and streamlined security questionnaires—an ensemble of efficiency. Real-Time Operations Continuous scanning and reporting set the... --- ### Vanta vs Scytale > Vanta vs Scytale - comparing compliance platforms. Find the best solution for your compliance needs in 2024. - Published: 2024-04-15 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/compare/vanta/ Get SOC 1 SOC 2 ISO 27001 HIPAA PCI DSS GDPR compliant all in one place. Streamline your entire compliance journey Get audit-ready 90% faster Get a dedicated compliance expert from start to finish Close more deals, faster Book your demo today! The only complete compliance hub. From audit-readiness to certification and everything in between, we’re your one solution for everything compliance. The best Vanta alternative. In a digital landscape fraught with scammers and inadvertent breaches, the need for robust digital security and compliance has never been more crucial. Yet, navigating the realm of compliance requirements proves challenging without effective tools. And Vanta provides just the compliance automation to overcome those challenges. But while Vanta may be a popular choice, it might not be the perfect fit for every business. Considering a Vanta alternative should be a top priority when looking for a compliance tool. How to choose a Vanta replacement: The features to be on the lookout for. Vanta is a compliance management platform that aims to unify risk management and streamlined security compliance through automation. But most Vanta competitors offer similar services and a few more to boot. So choosing the alternative that suits your business infrastructure and compliance needs can be a tricky affair. To simplify the search, start by looking for these main features. Full Hub of Compliance Frameworks Seek a platform aligned with your security frameworks or regulations like SOC 2, GDPR, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and PCI DSS. While broad coverage is good, choosing a specialized platform over a... --- ### Drata vs Scytale > If you’re on the lookout for an alternative to Drata, you’ve come to the right place. Key features when evaluating Drata alternatives. - Published: 2024-04-08 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/compare/drata/ Get SOC 1 SOC 2 ISO 27001 HIPAA PCI DSS GDPR compliant all in one place. Streamline your entire compliance journey Get audit-ready 90% faster Get a dedicated compliance expert from start to finish Close more deals, faster Book your demo today! The only complete compliance hub. From audit-readiness to certification and everything in between, we’re your one solution for everything compliance. How to choose a Drata alternative. In the crowded market of compliance solutions, where each claims to be the ultimate game-changer, finding the right fit can feel like wading through a pool of flashy marketing tricks and unkept assurances. Enter Drata, a standout among the giants. Yet even customer favorites can stumble over pitfalls in the complex realm of security. So if you're on the lookout for an alternative to Drata, you’ve come to the right place. How to choose a Drata replacement: The features to be on the lookout for. Drata is a compliance automation platform designed to automate and enhance risk management and security compliance. But that doesn’t mean it excels in every area. To simplify the search, consider these key features when evaluating Drata alternatives: Expert Support Deeply consider an automation solution that comes with hands-on expert support, helping you navigate through the platform and your entire compliance process. Efficient Automation Capabilities Choose security compliance automation software proficient in automation capabilities, supporting tasks like automated evidence collection and continuous control monitoring (CCM). Real-time Monitoring and Reporting As just mentioned, prioritize Drata alternatives with real-time compliance monitoring, ensuring constant monitoring... --- ### Cyber Essentials + > Cyber Essentials Plus without breaking a sweat. Achieve compliance in a fraction of the time with automation. - Published: 2024-03-28 - Modified: 2025-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/cyber-essentials-plus/ Cyber Essentials + made easy. Achieve compliance in a fraction of the time with automation that streamlines your entire audit-readiness and compliance experts that become an extension of your team. Press play on streamlining Cyber Essentials Plus. The go-to compliance partner for hundreds of startups and enterprises. Let evidence collect itself. Integrate your entire technology stack seamlessly and immediately unlock automatic evidence collection, drastically reducing the time and efforts put into your compliance project. Easily track your security compliance. Compliance can easily become complex, especially with so much communication in different places. Centralize and monitor your entire compliance process under one roof. Yaron Lavi CTO “Scytale streamlined our audit readiness process with their expert-driven technology. They shared valuable insights about our security systems so we can better protect our customers’ data. ” See what more customers are saying Your very own Cyber Essentials + expert. Between confusing Cyber Essentials jargon and the unfamiliar processes relating to security audits, it’s enough to get you completely out of your comfort zone. Let your dedicated compliance expert lead you during every single stage of your audit process. Meet the experts Fast features for fast compliance. Everything you need to get and stay compliant with Cyber Essentials Plus is included in Scytale, so you’ll never have to leave the platform. CONTINUOUS CONTROL MONITORING (CCM) Monitor your controls 24/7 and be alerted immediately when there is non-compliance CUSTOM POLICY BUILDER Tune & align policies and procedures with our auditor-approved policy templates VENDOR RISK MANAGEMENT Streamline... --- ### Compliance Experts V2 > Meet the compliance experts. So, you now manage all compliance workflows in one place, enjoy automated evidence collection. - Published: 2024-03-22 - Modified: 2025-03-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/compliance-experts/ We've got your back when it comes to compliance. Compliance can be complicated and overwhelming, we get it. Focus on your day-to-day responsibilities, while your dedicated compliance expert manages the entire audit-readiness process for you, guiding you on each requirement at a time! Yahel Gaver Head of Operations “Scytale’s best feature is the team, being the secret sauce to get us compliant in record-breaking time! ” See what more customers are saying World-class experts. Walk into your audit with confidence, as your dedicated compliance expert guides you from start to finish of your compliance journey and provides a tailored approach to your needs from day one. Meet the team that takes the stress out of security compliance! Adar Givoni Linkedin Director of Compliance | CCNA SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, PCI DSS, GDPR Kyle Morris Linkedin Snr Compliance Success Manager | CISA, COBIT SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, GDPR WesleyVan Zyl Linkedin Snr Compliance Success Manager SOC 1, SOC 2, ISO 27001, PCI DSS, GDPR ORON NACHMANY Linkedin Snr Compliance Success Manager SOC 1, SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR Your very own compliance expert. From start to finish, enjoy weekly meetings with your dedicated compliance expert Get hands-on support to navigate through our automation tool Receive advisory from industry veterans, ensuring you are audit-ready Build a robust information security system with tailored guidance Complete security questionnaires with help from our compliance team Hands-free audits. We know all about the hundreds of back-and-forth emails and zoom meetings with your auditor, requesting... --- ### Security compliance for startups V2 > We know you already have a million things on your plate as a startup – security compliance doesn’t have to be one of them. - Published: 2024-03-18 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/startups/ Startup-friendly compliance. Whether it’s SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, GDPR or another framework or regulation you’re after, we've got your back. Simplify your startup's compliance processes from day one with easy-to-use automation technology combined with experts leading you each step of the process. A platform made for compliance first-timers. We know that security audits can be intimidating and overwhelming, especially for startups that don’t usually have an in-house compliance guru. That’s why we’ve simplified the whole process. Easily track and manage the status of your audit readiness inside our platform. Hand-in-hand compliance journey. Let us be the compliance team you don’t have. With Scytale, you have a dedicated compliance expert walking you through every step of the compliance process, from audit-ready to audit stamp. Automated compliance means faster compliance. Don’t go down the path of manually taking screenshots or managing spreadsheets. With automated evidence collection powered by our integrations, you save hundreds of hours getting compliant, enabling faster sales. Need to get compliantbut don’t know where to start? You have enough on your plate to manage – let Scytale take care of your startup's security and privacy compliance. We’ll manage your compliance journey from A to Z, and get you compliant FAST. https://www. youtube. com/embed/7aWWlIPz_RI? si=vaRi-e4U2KYJl33t THE BASELINE FOR YOUR STARTUP’S COMPLIANCE We get it, you need to demonstrate your information security compliance to prospects (and fast), but we’re here to ensure compliance isn’t a pain in your a$#. Compliance doesn’t have to be complex. AUTOMATION TO GET YOU COMPLIANT... --- ### Deel Landing Page > Achieve compliance with ease. The ultimate automation platform designed to streamline information security for SaaS businesses. - Published: 2024-02-16 - Modified: 2025-05-27 - URL: https://scytale.ai/lp-deel/ Everything you need to get SOC 1 SOC 2 ISO 27001 HIPAA PCI DSS GDPR compliant in one place. Scytale's compliance automation platform. As a Deel client, you'll get 0 % off Streamline your entire compliance journey Get audit-ready 90% faster Get a dedicated compliance expert from start to finish Close more deals, faster Get started *Discount is available for new Scytale customers only. Discounts are applicable for the first 12 months a new client is with Scytale. Your only complete compliance hub. From audit-readiness to certification and everything in between, we’re your one solution for everything compliance. 2025 G2 Leader and Best Software Products in GRC. “The system is easy to use and integrations save plenty time. But the best feature is the team. Scytale was the secret sauce to get us there in record-breaking time. ” Yahel G. Head of Operations, Computer Software “Working with Scytale was an accelerator for our company, helping us to stay focused on SOC 2 requests and pass the examination much faster than expected. ” Paz D. CTO, Information Technology and Services “Not only does their platform make it really easy to divide tasks between the team, the service they offer makes you feel like you have your own compliance team. ” Bradley A. Co-Founder, Insurance “Before Scytale, we ran around like headless chickens to gather evidence all over the place, digging deep into archives. With Scytale, evidence auto-collects itself. ” Maayan N. Manager of Operations, Computer Software 30+ frameworks. More than a dozen security and privacy... --- ### Built-In Audits > For fast-moving companies who need to get compliant ASAP, the built-in audit provides a seamless compliance experience, from prep to pass. - Published: 2024-02-06 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/built-in-audit/ "I can't wait for my audit" (said no one ever). Until the Built-In Audit, that is. For fast-moving companies who need to get compliant ASAP, the built-in audit provides a seamless compliance experience, from prep to pass. Learn more We know audits freak you out. Audits the old way are slow and complex - from finding an auditor, to back-and-forth emails and chaotic weeks of manually gathering bits of evidence. Not anymore. Get that ‘compliance stamp’ all under one roof with our Built-In Audit. Save maximum time and get full control over your audit process with our integrated compliance automation and audit management platform. Fully-Packed Compliance Machine Our auditors know the Scytale platform inside and out, streamlining not only your audit-readiness, but your official audit process too. This means you can manage your audit with your auditor and dedicated expert directly inside Scytale, eliminating outdated and manual takes on compliance. Faster Audits Your entire compliance project runs smoothly with our built-in-audits. Meet your auditor, define your audit scope, remediate any gaps, automatically collect evidence and get your audit report in a few short weeks by dramatically decreasing the unnecessary ‘back-and-forth’. Full Transparency From the Get-Go Finding the right auditor is a job on its own. Align with your auditor from day one and get special bundle pricing for everything Scytale + your audit, ensuring your information security is where it should be without draining resources. Streamlined Communication Communicate in one place with your Scytale expert and independent auditor, alerting you... --- ### Security compliance for startups > We know you already have a million things on your plate as a startup – security compliance doesn’t have to be one of them. - Published: 2024-01-12 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/lp-security-compliance-for-startups/ Security compliance for startups. We don’t make the rules, we help you play by them. We know you already have a million things on your plate as a startup - security compliance doesn’t have to be one of them! Let's make this clear: your startup's journey to SOC 2 or ISO 27001 compliance doesn't have to be complicated. Want to get compliant without the stress? A completely customized and streamlined security compliance process with Scytale, that we could not possibly achieve alone. Ori Amiga Co-Founder and CTO Roi Novitarger VP Software, Biobeat Scytale’s automation tool was exactly what we were looking for in order to make our SOC 2 efforts as fast and simple as possible. Marina Vinokurov Program Manager Eran Gutman AVP IT and Cyber Security, Pixellot Between the dedicated team of compliance experts and the automation platform, Scytale simplified our SOC 2 process significantly! Natalia Espanhol Project Manager Nathan Culverwell Compliance Administrator, ShareForce With Scytale, I had a clear understanding of the SOC 2 process within days instead of months. Without Scytale, attaining the report would have been a harsh process. Yoav Shotland Co-Founder and CTO Read More Muli Motola CEO and Co-Founder, acsense WATCH VIDEO Scytale’s automation was the hero in our SOC 2 story, saving us months in manual evidence collection. Matthew Barnett Head of Operations Read More Ran Magen CTO and Co-Founder, Lama AI Scytale’s compliance automation technology allowed us to get SOC 2 audit-ready in a record-breaking time! Amit Bluman SVP of Engineering Liav... --- ### All Frameworks > See all the security and privacy compliance frameworks that Scytale supports with its automation technology, for every kind of business. - Published: 2023-12-12 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://scytale.ai/all-frameworks/ Compliance for every kind of business. frameworks 0 + More than 30 security & privacy frameworks. SOC 1 Build trust in your IT and business process controls relevant to financial reporting with automated SOC 1 compliance. SOC 2 Automate your audit-readiness process and boost customer trust by complying with the AICPA's Trust Services Criteria. ISO 27001 Meet the international gold standard and build your information security management system (ISMS) by streamlining compliance. ISO 27017 Level up your compliance easily with this ISO 27001 framework extension, ensuring cloud-service security to your customers. ISO 27018 Level up your compliance easily with this ISO 27001 framework extension, ensuring you protect Personally Identifiable Information (PII). ISO 27701 Level up your compliance easily with this ISO 27001 framework extension, building a strong Privacy Information Management System (PIMS). ISO 42001 Level up your compliance easily with this ISO 42001 framework, streamlining your AI compliance processes right from the get-go. ISO 9001 Achieve ISO 9001 compliance with ease and maintain a robust Quality Management System that enhances performance and demonstrates your commitment to quality. ISO 27799 Partner with Scytale to implement ISO 27799 and ensure your organization's information security practices meet the highest standards for confidentiality, integrity, and availability of personal health information. ISO 22301 Level up your compliance with ISO 22301, building operational resilience and strengthening your Business Continuity Management System (BCMS). ISO 27032 Level up your compliance easily with ISO 27032, strengthening your cybersecurity posture to tackle emerging cyber threats. HIPAA Ensure you're storing, managing... --- ### Growth > We know you already have a million things on your plate as a growing organization – security compliance doesn’t have to be one of them. - Published: 2023-12-01 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/growth/ Don't outgrow your compliance program. As your business grows, so do your GRC demands. Make continuous compliance a simple task and gain instant visibility into your compliance program in real time. Scale your compliance journey. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=TJbGyYRsAT4 Compliance technology that grows with you Eliminate your outdated compliance processes, manually taking screenshots or managing spreadsheets, that only multiply as you scale. With automated evidence collection powered by our integrations, you can save hundreds of hours annually on your compliance management, increasing your ROI. Continuous compliance With our Continuous Control Monitoring (CCM), your security and privacy controls are automatically being monitored 24/7 for any non-compliance and you’ll get alerted immediately if there are any compliance gaps. Multi-framework cross mapping As you enter new markets and your compliance demands expand, we got you covered. Leverage controls mapped from your other security and privacy standards or regulations, allowing you to get more compliance frameworks under your belt, faster. Full visualization Receive full transparency and visualization into your compliance status from the get-go, monitoring your compliance program in real-time and cutting the dependency of others. Eran Gutman AVP IT and Cyber Security, Pixellot I know just how overwhelming and daunting security compliance can be. Scytale’s automation technology is a compliance life-saver! See what more customers are saying Powerful tactics. Fast results. Streamline your continuous compliance processes without the detours and demonstrate your confident, consistent and risk-free security posture with your customers, fast and effortlessly. 2025 G2 Leader and Best Software Products in GRC.... --- ### CMMC > No more stressing over demanding CMMC requirements and lengthy processes. Get CMMC compliant faster with automation. - Published: 2023-11-14 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/cmmc/ Fast-track your CMMC compliance. Want to automate your CMMC compliance? How it works. Onboard Company Integrate Tech-Stack Simplified Risk Assessment Audit-Ready! Automate Evidence Collection Remediate Gaps with Your Dedicated Compliance Pro Tired of cmmc headaches? Let automation do all the work for you! Continuous Control Monitoring (CCM) Automatically monitor controls around the clock and be alerted immediately when there is non-compliance Automated Evidence Collection Collect evidence automatically verified for key CMMC requirements User Access Review Make access reviews a walk in the park with automation Simplified Risk Assessment Identify and remediate and cybersecurity gaps with our automated risk assessment Chat to an Expert Get immediate and personalized support through our in-app chat Multi-Framework Cross Mapping Leverage controls mapped from other security standards and regulations Audit Dashboard Get a real-time view of the status of your compliance project right from your unique dashboard Custom Policy Builder Tune and align policies and procedures with our CMMC approved policy templates Replace the nightmares of running after evidence and never-ending admin. Continuous Control Monitoring (CCM) Automatically monitor controls around the clock and be alerted immediately when there is non-compliance Automated Evidence Collection Collect evidence automatically verified for key CMMC requirements Automated User Access Reviews Make access reviews a walk in the park with automation Simplified Risk Assessment Identify and remediate and cybersecurity gaps with our simplified risk assessment Define CMMC Level Select your CMMC level and automatically scope requirements to achieve compliance Multi-Framework Cross Mapping Leverage controls mapped from other security standards and regulations... --- ### CCPA > No more stressing over demanding CCPA requirements and lengthy processes. Get CCPA compliant faster with automation. - Published: 2023-10-16 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/ccpa/ Get CCPA compliant stress-free. Want to automate your CCPA compliance? Simplify compliance. Cut out the CCPA heavy-lifting! Onboard Company Integrate Tech-Stack Gap Analysis and Remediation Privacy Management System CCPA Self-Audit Tired of CCPA headaches? Let automation do all the work for you! Automated Evidence Collection Collect evidence automatically verified for key CCPA requirements Automated Control Monitoring Monitor security and privacy controls 24/7 and be alerted immediately when there is non-compliance Custom Policy Builder Tune and align policies and procedures with our CCPA-approved policy templates CCPA Awareness Training Maintain personnel-compliance training readiness User Access Review Make access reviews a walk in the park with automation. Chat to an Expert Get immediate and personalized support through the in-app chat Simplified Risk Assessment Identify and remediate and security and privacy gaps with our automated risk assessment Multi-Framework Cross Mapping Leverage controls mapped from other security standards and regulations Establish Principles and Map PII Processes Receive guidance on implementing GDPR principles and recording PII processing activities in your organization Audit Dashboard Get a real-time view of the status of your compliance project right from your unique dashboard CCPA Self-Audit Complete a simplified and tailored self-audit with your dedicated compliance expert Auditor Portal Fast-track your audit reports with our auditor portal. CCPA got your head spinning? Tackle CCPA compliance with ease. Automated Evidence Collection Collect evidence automatically verified for key CCPA requirements Collaboration Hub Tag your colleagues and auditor in comments directly in Scytale Custom Policy Builder Tune and align policies and procedures with our... --- ### Founders unplugged > Get the inside scoop on how these startup founders on the SaaS scene turned their ideas into reality. Dive into their stories. - Published: 2023-09-20 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/founders-unplugged/ Founders unplugged. Get the inside scoop on how these startup founders on the SaaS scene turned their ideas into reality. Dive into their stories, hear about their wins and losses, pick up some practical tips to help you on your own startup journey, as well as learn about the real impact of security compliance in scaling your startup! Startups, need to get compliant but don’t know where to start? Scytale solves compliance challenges for startups. See How https://www. youtube. com/embed/7aWWlIPz_RI? si=vaRi-e4U2KYJl33t You may also like. Blog April 30, 2025 NIST AI RMF vs. ISO 42001: Similarities and Differences Explore key AI risk management frameworks, NIST AI RMF and ISO 42001, and how they promote ethical AI deployment. Blog April 29, 2025 How Automation Simplifies Data Compliance in Healthcare Discover how automated HIPAA compliance helps healthcare organizations and businesses handling PHI stay secure. Product Update April 24, 2025 Scytale Partners with Lasso Security to Streamline AI Compliance and Governance Scytale partners with Lasso to simplify AI compliance, helping businesses stay ahead of AI regulations and standards. Blog April 23, 2025 Prioritizing SOC 2 in 2025 Understanding the importance of SOC 2 can create real value for your business and is key to making strategic decisions. Blog April 16, 2025 Top 10 Security Tools for Startups (Free & Paid) Explore the top 10 security tools for startups and learn how to maximize your security strategy to protect your business. Blog April 14, 2025 Security Awareness Training: Strengthening Your First Line of Defense... --- ### PCI DSS Compliance > Everything you need to know about PCI DSS, what it means for your business, and what you need to do to comply with its requirements. - Published: 2023-08-17 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/pci-dss-compliance/ PCI DSS compliance. Have you ever wondered (or worried) about what happens to payment card data once a purchase is made? Probably not. The reason? We can attribute the safety of cardholder data to our unsung hero - PCI DSS, safeguarding the data - or so you’d hope. Are you PCI DSS compliant? Here’s everything you need to know about PCI DSS, what it means for your business, and what you need to do to comply with its requirements. But first, let’s start with introductions. Automate PCI DSS now What is PCI DSS? Introducing the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, or PCI DSS for short. To fully understand the framework, it’s important to take a step back to where it all started. In 2004, all five major credit card companies decided to join forces and use their powers for good. Together they created The PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC). Their mission? To create a set of security standards for organizations that process payment information, specifically cardholder data. And without further ado, they created a security standard known as - you guessed it - PCI DSS. PCI DSS In a nutshell. PCI DSS focuses on three main components: Handling access to credit card data to protect sensitive card details when collected and transmitted. Establishing the 12 security domains within the PCI standard to ensure data is stored securely. Annual validations (forms, questionnaires, external vulnerability scans, or third-party audits) to ensure the security controls are still in place. The PCI... --- ### Podcasts > Listen to Scytale's podcasts breaking down security compliance and automation, covering frameworks like SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, and more - Published: 2023-08-14 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/scytale-podcasts/ The podcast that breaks down security compliance into bite-size pieces, empowering compliance leaders everywhere to navigate this beast. Listen in as we unravel together the complexities of frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, PCI DSS, GDPR and more, and dive into the era of compliance automation. Listen to our latest episode Spotify Apple Podcast YouTube Recent episodes. Trends in B2B compliance. Overcoming Key Challenges and the Era of Automation Get the full report now You may also like. Blog April 30, 2025 NIST AI RMF vs. ISO 42001: Similarities and Differences Explore key AI risk management frameworks, NIST AI RMF and ISO 42001, and how they promote ethical AI deployment. Blog April 29, 2025 How Automation Simplifies Data Compliance in Healthcare Discover how automated HIPAA compliance helps healthcare organizations and businesses handling PHI stay secure. Product Update April 24, 2025 Scytale Partners with Lasso Security to Streamline AI Compliance and Governance Scytale partners with Lasso to simplify AI compliance, helping businesses stay ahead of AI regulations and standards. Blog April 23, 2025 Prioritizing SOC 2 in 2025 Understanding the importance of SOC 2 can create real value for your business and is key to making strategic decisions. Blog April 16, 2025 Top 10 Security Tools for Startups (Free & Paid) Explore the top 10 security tools for startups and learn how to maximize your security strategy to protect your business. Blog April 14, 2025 Security Awareness Training: Strengthening Your First Line of Defense Regular security awareness training is a... --- ### ISO 27001 Compliance > Our ultimate ISO 27001 guide, get a super deep dive into everything ISO 27001 certification. Definition, steps, benefits, audits and more. - Published: 2023-07-31 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/iso-27001-compliance/ What is ISO 27001 compliance? Step into the world of unparalleled security and discover the golden standard of compliance: ISO 27001. Picture James Bond of infosec, equipped with the latest technology and expertise, ready to safeguard your business against the relentless threats of cyberattacks. Automate ISO 27001 now Introducing the golden standard of security compliance and the James Bond of infosec - ISO 27001. We’re looking at one of the leading security standards and why businesses are adamant about having it on their side in the fight against cyberattacks. Could it benefit your business? Of course, you know our answer - but just in case you need any more convincing, here’s everything you need to know about the golden boy of information security. FYI, don’t forget to download our ultimate ISO 27001 whitepaper, The ISO 27001 Bible to get a super deep dive into everything ISO 27001 certification. Or perhaps, you just want to get a quick glimpse into ISO 27001 with our ISO 27001 Snapshot. What is ISO 27001 compliance? ISO 27001 is the leading global standard for information security and the quintessential framework for managing and safeguarding data. Although not considered a regulatory requirement, it does hold significant value (which we’ll get to a bit later). ISO 27001 is a comprehensive program considering personnel, systems, and an organization's technologies. It follows a systematic approach that reviews and assesses all aspects of an organization’s data security, including any gaps, risks, and vulnerabilities. The ISO 27001 standard is widely accepted... --- ### Compliance Experts > Don't have time to hire a full-time CISO? We've got you covered. - Published: 2023-06-18 - Modified: 2025-03-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/lp-we-manage-your-compliance-process/ We've got your back when it comes to compliance. For startups, security compliance can be SUPER overwhelming. Why? Because it demands loads of tedious, manual evidence collection, documentation and monitoring that small orgs simply don’t have the capacity to deal with. At Scytale, we don’t just give you our awesome platform and send you on your way. Nope. Our Expert Compliance team:Manages your audit process for youProvides hands-on support from start to finishManages the hard stuff so you can keep growing your startup Want our experts to manage your audit process from A to Z? From start to finish, enjoy weekly meetings with your dedicated compliance expert Get hands-on support to navigate through our automation tool Receive advisory from industry veterans, ensuring you are audit-ready Build a robust information security system with tailored guidance Complete security questionnaires with help from our compliance team Hands-free audits. We know all about the hundreds of back-and-forth emails and zoom meetings with your auditor, requesting additional requirements or running after more evidence! We take over full management of your audit process with your chosen auditor, freeing you up to focus on your actual job! What our customers say about us. A completely customized and streamlined security compliance process with Scytale, that we could not possibly achieve alone. Ori Amiga Co-Founder and CTO Read More Roi Novitarger VP Software, Biobeat WATCH VIDEO Scytale’s automation tool was exactly what we were looking for in order to make our SOC 2 efforts as fast and simple as... --- ### Compliance Check - Open Source lp > How close are you to security compliance? Get a quick view into your GitHub compliance status with our open source tool! - Published: 2023-05-18 - Modified: 2023-05-29 - URL: https://scytale.ai/compliance-check-open-source-lp/ How Close Are You to Security Compliance? Get a quick view into your GitHub compliance status with our open source tool! Are you a software engineer in charge of your organization's security compliance? Jumping into compliance frameworks and regulations, like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA and GDPR can be intimidating – especially when you have literally no idea if the status of your cloud infrastructure, source code and CI/CD compliance and processes meet these stringent standards. Try our open source tool to get fast answers regarding your compliance status! Why should you take advantage of our free GitHub compliance tool? Well, if you weren't already aware, whether it is SOC 2, ISO 27001 or another security framework that your organization is after, security compliance of the tools you work with, including GitHub, is required! Is data being highly protected and managed responsibly? Are your tools operating in a secure environment? These are the kinds of questions that need to always be at the back of your mind! But how can you know where your compliance currently stands? How far from compliance are you exactly? It’s not like every organization has full visibility into every nitty gritty security detail on hand. That’s where our FREE GitHub compliance check comes in handy! If cloud infrastructure, source code and CI/CD compliance and processes are up your alley and part of your job responsibilities, then listen up carefully! By leveraging our open source compliance tool, R&D teams can now easily put a magnifying glass... --- ### Book a Demo AE > Get compliant and stay compliant with the ultimate SOC 2 compliance automation platform. Book your demo today. - Published: 2023-03-29 - Modified: 2024-03-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/book-a-demo-ae/ EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET SOC 1 SOC 2 ISO 27001 HIPAA PCI DSS GDPR COMPLIANT IN ONE PLACE. Get compliant and stay compliant with the ultimate compliance automation platform. Streamline your entire compliance journey Get audit-ready 90% faster Ensure security across your organization Boost customer trust Close deals faster Grow your company faster Book Your Demo Today! A completely customized and streamlined security compliance process with Scytale, that we could not possibly achieve alone. Ori Amiga Co-Founder and CTO Read More Roi Novitarger VP Software, Biobeat WATCH VIDEO Scytale’s automation tool was exactly what we were looking for in order to make our SOC 2 efforts as fast and simple as possible. Marina Vinokurov Program Manager Read More Eran Gutman AVP IT and Cyber Security, Pixellot WATCH VIDEO Between the dedicated team of compliance experts and the automation platform, Scytale simplified our SOC 2 process significantly! Natalia Espanhol Project Manager Read More Nathan Culverwell Compliance Administrator, ShareForce WATCH VIDEO With Scytale, I had a clear understanding of the SOC 2 process within days instead of months. Without Scytale, attaining the report would have been a harsh process. Yoav Shotland Co-Founder and CTO Read More Muli Motola CEO and Co-Founder, acsense WATCH VIDEO Scytale’s automation was the hero in our SOC 2 story, saving us months in manual evidence collection. Matthew Barnett Head of Operations Read More Ran Magen CTO and Co-Founder, Lama AI WATCH VIDEO Scytale’s compliance automation technology allowed us to get SOC 2 audit-ready in a record-breaking time! Amit Bluman SVP... --- ### SOC 2 Compliance > Learn how to get your SOC 2 compliance process in 2023 with our complete guide. Ensure your organization meets all the necessary standards. - Published: 2023-01-27 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/soc-2-compliance/ What is SOC 2 compliance? SOC 2 (Service Organization Controls 2) is a security framework with a set of compliance requirements geared toward technology-based companies that use cloud-based storage of customer data. SOC 2 compliance is both an audit procedure and criteria, as well as a voluntary compliance standard that specifies how an organization should manage internal controls and protect customer data. Automate SOC 2 now SOC 2 trust service principles. The AICPA (The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) developed a set of criteria to be used when evaluating an organization’s design and operating effectiveness of controls relevant to the Trust Service Principles: Security Availability Processing Integrity Confidentiality Privacy Organizations can choose one or more of these TSPs to include in the scope of their SOC 2 report, depending on their particular business operations. It is important to note, however, that Security is mandatory. During a SOC 2 audit, the auditor will assess an organization's security posture related to the Trust Service Principles that are included in the scope of their audit. Each TSP has specific requirements that companies meet with their internal controls. The SOC 2 bible. Everything you need to know about compliance. Download the whitepaper Type I versus Type II ‘Type I’ and ‘Type II’ are popular topics in the world of SOC 2 compliance. But what exactly do they mean? How do they differ? Let’s break it down. There are two types of SOC 2 audit reports that an organization can choose to undergo SOC... --- ### SOC 1 > Build trust in your business processes with automated SOC 1 compliance, and save hundreds of hours with automated SOC 1 compliance! - Published: 2022-11-20 - Modified: 2024-06-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/soc-1/ Build trust in your business processes with automated SOC 1 compliance WANT TO AUTOMATE YOUR SOC 1 COMPLIANCE? Save hundreds of hours with automated SOC 1 compliance! Onboard Company Integrate Tech-Stack Customized SOC 1 controls Audit scope defined for your business Gap Analysis and Remediation Pass Audit Features Automated Evidence Collection Collect evidence automatically verified for key audit standards Automated Control Monitoring Monitor your controls 24/7 and be alerted immediately when there is non-compliance Customized SOC 1 Controls Receive a customized controls list and leverage IT general controls automatically mapped from your SOC 2 audit. Custom Policy Builder Tune & align policies and procedures with our auditor-approved policy templates Security Awareness Training Maintain personnel-compliance training readiness Agile Audit Management Manage your audit with your chosen auditor inside Scytale Chat with an Expert Ask any questions to your dedicated advisory team through the in-app chat Risk Assessment Identify and remediate any security gaps with our automated risk assessment Previous Next SAY GOODBYE TO CONFUSING SOC 1 PROCESSES AND THE BACK-AND-FORTH ADMIN Automated Evidence Collection Collect evidence automatically verified for key audit standards Automated Control Monitoring Monitor your controls 24/7 and be alerted immediately when there is non-compliance Customized SOC 1 Controls Receive a customized controls list and leverage IT general controls mapped from your SOC 2 audit. Custom Policy Builder Tune & align policies and procedures with our auditor-approved policy templates Security Awareness Training Maintain personnel-compliance training readiness Auditor Portal Manage your audit with your chosen auditor inside Scytale Chat to... --- ### Careers > We're on a mission to Transform Information Security Compliance and we want YOU TO JOIN US! - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/scytale-careers/ We’re on a mission to transform information security compliance. We want you to join us! https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=Ym0thx4TRfI Working at Scytale. "There's a really great vibrance and young energy in the Scytale office. " Robyn Ferreira Compliance Success Manager "Working at Scytale allows you to be yourself and bring your own creative ideas to the table. " Talia Baxter Senior Marketing Manager "The best thing about Scytale is that it's fun to come to work. Everyday you work hard with the best people around you! " Matan EphronAccount Executive Robyn Ferreira Compliance Success Manager "There's a really great vibrance and young energy in the Scytale office. " Talia Baxter Senior Marketing Manager "Working at Scytale allows you to be yourself and bring your own creative ideas to the table. " Matan Ephron Account Executive "The best thing about Scytale is that it's fun to come to work. Everyday you work hard with the best people around you! " Check us out on Available positions. Can’t find a role that fits? We are always looking for motivated individuals to join our team. If you feel like you have skills to take Scytale to the next level, please get in touch! Read our Careers Privacy Policy. What are the perks? Innovative work Be part of a cutting-edge product shaping the future of security and compliance. Learning & growth Access courses, conferences, and mentorship to grow your career. Hybrid work model Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid working environment. Relaxation & fun... --- ### HIPAA > Everything you need to get HIPAA compliant in one place and 90% faster. Scytale is the global leader in InfoSec compliance automation. - Published: 2022-08-26 - Modified: 2025-03-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/hipaa/ Protect PHI with automated HIPAA compliance. Want to automate your HIPAA compliance? Everything you need to get HIPAA compliant in one place and 90% faster. Onboard Company Integrate Tech-Stack HIPAA Risk Assessment Remediation Period HIPAA Self-Assessment Become HIPAA Compliant Features. HIPAA Self-Assessment Complete your HIPAA self-audit and demonstrate compliance to your customers HIPAA Risk Assessment Assess areas where your organization’s PHI is at risk with an automated risk assessment HIPAA Awareness Training Ensure your employees are learning and maintaining best practices to protect patients' PHI Automated Evidence Collection Collect evidence of your security controls automatically Automated Control Monitoring Monitor your controls 24/7 and be alerted immediately of non-compliance Customized HIPAA Controls Receive a list of controls customized to your organization Custom Policy Builder Tune & align policies and procedures with HIPAA aligned policy templates HR Compliance Management Automation Avoid security gaps with HR onboarding & offboarding Vendor Risk Management Manage vendor security assessments easily and track compliance Chat to an Expert Get immediate and personalized support through the in-app chat Replace the nightmares of running after evidence and never-ending admin. HIPAA Self-Assessment Complete your HIPAA self-audit and demonstrate compliance to your customers HIPAA Risk Assessment Assess areas where your organization’s PHI is at risk with our simplifiedrisk assessment HIPAA Awareness Training Ensure your employees arelearning and maintaining best practices to protect PHI Automated Evidence Collection Collect evidence of your security controls automatically Continuous Control Monitoring (CCM) Monitor your controls 24/7 and be alerted immediately of non-compliance Customized HIPAA Controls Receive... --- ### News > Our news room! Learn about best practices in infosec compliance for SaaS companies, and get tips and advise from our SOC 2 compliance experts. - Published: 2022-07-25 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/news/ We are in the news! Read the latest in Scytale news and press releases. --- ### Compliance Check - Open Source lp > How close are you to security compliance? Get a quick view into your GitHub compliance status with our open source tool! - Published: 2022-06-27 - Modified: 2024-06-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/compliance-check/ How Close Are You to Security Compliance? Get a quick view into your GitHub compliance status with our open source tool! Are you a software engineer ahead of your organization's security and compliance? Jumping into compliance frameworks, like SOC 2, ISO 27001 and HIPAA can be intimidating – especially when you have literally no idea regarding the status of your cloud infrastructure, source code and CI/CD compliance and processes. Try our open source tool to get fast answers regarding your compliance status! Check Your Status Now! How Close Are You to Security Compliance? Get a quick view into your GitHub compliance status with our open source tool! Are you a software engineer in charge of your organization's security compliance? Jumping into compliance frameworks and regulations, like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA and GDPR can be intimidating – especially when you have literally no idea if the status of your cloud infrastructure, source code and CI/CD compliance and processes meet these stringent standards. Try our open source tool to get fast answers regarding your compliance status! Why should you take advantage of our free GitHub compliance tool? Well, if you weren't already aware, whether it is SOC 2, ISO 27001 or another security framework that your organization is after, security compliance of the tools you work with, including GitHub, is required! Is data being highly protected and managed responsibly? Are your tools operating in a secure environment? These are the kinds of questions that need to always be at the back... --- ### SOC 2 Academy > The MOST comprehensive masterclass for SOC 2 out there and the ONLY dedicated SOC 2 Master Implementer Certification in existence. - Published: 2022-05-02 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/free-soc2-training/ How SOC 2 savvy are you? If you're leading SOC 2 compliance at your organization, this crash course is for you! Plus, get a 'SOC 2 Master Implementer' certificate upon completion! Enroll now for free Why do a SOC 2 compliance crash course? SOC 2 compliance is crucial for cloud-basedproducts to ensure security of their customerdata and boost trust. But the reality is, SOC 2is made up of complex terminology, lengthyprocesses, loads of requirements and awhole lot of admin, that only thoseexperienced in SOC 2 really understand. Most organizations and those leading the SOC 2 compliance project, lack the expertise and knowledge of this security framework. Unless you are in the field of information security and compliance, it is very unlikely that you fully understand how SOC 2 compliance works, what exactly is required, what the process entails, and the list goes on. SOC 2 compliance also gets quite technical with the required policies, procedures, controls and specific criteria relevant to your particular organization. You probably have asked yourself, “Where do I even start? ” This is where our SOC 2 Crash Course comes in. This course is a comprehensive compliance masterclass that equips you with the skills and in-depth knowledge to successfully lead your organization’s SOC 2 compliance project and be fully prepared for your audit. So why should I learn more about SOC 2 today? Gain a thorough understanding of SOC 2 compliance and its requirements. Be informed on the process of SOC 2-readiness and the official audit.... --- ### Book a Demo > Get compliant and stay compliant with the ultimate SOC 2 compliance automation platform. Book your demo today. - Published: 2022-04-06 - Modified: 2025-08-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/book-a-demo/ Make SOC 2 ISO 27001 GDPR HIPAA PCI DSS SOX ITGC compliance easy. Automation platform that gets you compliant 90% faster and dedicated experts that lead you from start to finish. Everything you need to get and stay compliant in one place. Save hundreds of hours with automated evidence collection, policy templates, and more. Get led through each step with tailored, expert advisory, ensuring you’re audit-ready. Boost customer trust and close more deals faster Book your demo today! We love all our customers --- ### Glossary > Helping you understand the lingo and abbreviations of the SOC 2 compliance automation, audit readiness, and task management. - Published: 2022-03-06 - Modified: 2023-08-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/ Glossary --- ### Resources > Learn about best practices with our resources in infosec compliance for SaaS companies, and get tips and advise from our SOC 2 compliance experts. - Published: 2022-01-27 - Modified: 2025-02-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ --- ### Security & Trust > Our platform has been carefully designed with security our top priority. We follow industry-standard best practices regarding security measures. - Published: 2022-01-10 - Modified: 2025-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/security/ Our security standards. Your trust starts with our commitment to practicing what we preach. As a security and compliance company, we know trust is earned through action. That’s why we hold ourselves to the same security and compliance standards we help our customers achieve. Visit our trust center Data protection, always. A trusted partner. We are aware and understand the importance of protecting our customers’ personal information. We will go above and beyond to provide the highest levels of protection and continue to expand security measures. Our certifications and examinations. GDPRCompliant CSA Level 1Certified ISO 27001Certified SOC 2 Compliant Other security safeguards. Data Security Application Security Risk Management Access Control Encryption News. Read the latest in Scytale news and press releases. March 11, 2025 How Smart Companies Are Leveraging Compliance to Drive Growth In an interview with DesignRush, Meiran shares why compliance is now a competitive advantage for businesses. March 6, 2025 Adiel Horesh appointed as Chief BizDev Officer at Scytale Adiel joins Scytale as part of a global initiative to expand with global partners and leading cloud service providers. November 13, 2024 Scytale Launches New Partnership Program with Managed Service Providers (MSPs), Helping Transform... Scytale is excited to announce the launch of its support for partnerships with Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs). October 2, 2024 Tekpon Announces Top Compliance Software Tools for 2024 Scytale has been recognized again as one of Tekpon’s top 10 compliance software solutions in 2024. June 24, 2024 The Battle for the Future of AI:... --- ### Cookie Policy - Published: 2021-10-27 - Modified: 2021-10-27 - URL: https://scytale.ai/cookie-policy/ About this cookie policy This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are and how we use them, the types of cookies we use i. e, the information we collect using cookies and how that information is used, and how to control the cookie preferences. For further information on how we use, store, and keep your personal data secure, see our Privacy Policy. You can at any time change or withdraw your consent from the Cookie Declaration on our website Learn more about who we are, how you can contact us, and how we process personal data in our Privacy Policy. Your consent applies to the following domains: scytalew. designshowcase. co. za What are cookies ? Cookies are small text files that are used to store small pieces of information. They are stored on your device when the website is loaded on your browser. These cookies help us make the website function properly, make it more secure, provide better user experience, and understand how the website performs and to analyze what works and where it needs improvement. How do we use cookies ? As most of the online services, our website uses first-party and third-party cookies for several purposes. First-party cookies are mostly necessary for the website to function the right way, and they do not collect any of your personally identifiable data. The third-party cookies used on our website are mainly for understanding how the website performs, how you interact with our website, keeping our services secure, providing advertisements that are... --- --- ## Posts ### Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management: Strategies for Success > Streamline regulatory compliance and risk management with smart strategies and automation to keep your business secure and audit-ready. - Published: 2025-08-18 - Modified: 2025-08-18 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/regulatory-compliance-and-risk-management-strategies-for-success/ Streamline regulatory compliance and risk management with smart strategies to keep your business secure and audit-ready. There’s a lot to consider when running a SaaS company, and regulatory compliance and risk management are two factors that you simply can’t afford to overlook. Getting it right can mean the difference between scaling confidently and scrambling to recover after an unexpected audit – or worse, a data breach. Join us as we break down how your business can stay compliant with key regulatory frameworks, manage risk efficiently, and apply the best approach to GRC management for your organization. TL;DR: Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management Regulatory compliance means meeting all relevant laws, industry standards, and security frameworks for your business. Risk management helps you identify and reduce threats before they turn into costly problems. By combining both, and using compliance automation platforms like Scytale, companies can stay secure, compliant, and audit-ready while saving time and minimizing manual workloads. What is Regulatory Compliance? Regulatory compliance means your business adheres to the rules set out in key security compliance and data privacy frameworks such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS. These aren’t merely checklist items on your to-do list; they are legal requirements designed to protect sensitive data and build long-term trust with both customers and partners. For SaaS companies, regulatory compliance is especially critical due to the high volume of customer data, reliance on cloud-based infrastructure, and use of third-party vendors. Issues that arise don’t only impact your company, but all of your customers as well. The Importance of Risk Management While compliance ensures your organization is meeting regulatory requirements,... --- ### 5 Best Vanta Alternatives To Consider in 2025 > Discover which Vanta alternatives are best suited for your business in terms of security risks, industry best practices, size, and budget. - Published: 2025-08-14 - Modified: 2025-08-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/best-vanta-alternatives-to-consider/ Discover which Vanta alternatives are best suited for your business in terms of security risks, industry best practices, size, and budget. With security concerns and data breaches on the rise, there’s no shortage of tools, software, and platforms that promise to take over the burden of security compliance and provide effortless, smooth, and user-friendly solutions.   But this comes as no surprise to us - we get it. Naturally, finding the ideal security compliance SaaS solution can be challenging (and daunting) considering the many factors that impact the decision-making process (your industry, risk landscape, budget, regulatory requirements). Fortunately, we’ve got you covered. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering a compliance management platform other than Vanta.   TL;DR: Vanta Alternatives in 2025 Vanta is a compliance automation solution that supports frameworks such as ISO 27001 and HIPAA, offering tools to monitor security, collect evidence and prepare for audits. Some companies look for alternatives when they need broader framework support, stronger third-party risk management or a smoother onboarding experience. Among the leading Vanta alternatives, Scytale combines automation, expert guidance, and Scy, its next-gen AI GRC Agent, making it a strong choice for companies of all sizes seeking a faster, easier path to continuous compliance. Vanta Overview Vanta is a compliance automation solution that often pops up as a focal point when discussing compliance platforms, and rightly so - they were one of the first compliance management platforms for SaaS businesses. They’re well-established in the space and are often considered the go-to solution for helping users scale compliance frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and more. In brief, Vanta is... --- ### 9 Best HIPAA Compliance Tools in 2025 > Discover how you can minimize risks and simplify regulatory compliance for your business with the top HIPAA compliance tools in 2025. - Published: 2025-08-11 - Modified: 2025-08-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/best-hipaa-compliance-tools/ Discover how you can simplify regulatory compliance for your business with the top HIPAA compliance tools in 2025. If your business has any connection to the healthcare space, you’ve definitely come across HIPAA by now... right? Well, if you haven’t, it’s best we dive in quickly (before non-compliance lands your business in some serious sh@#).   We know that making sure your business is HIPAA compliant can feel overwhelming, especially with so many details to manage. Luckily, there are plenty of tools to make the process easier, faster, and you guessed it - more efficient. Whether you're a healthcare provider, a SaaS company in the healthcare space, or any other business dealing with Protected Health Information (PHI), HIPAA compliance is non-negotiable. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about HIPAA compliance tools and help you find the best solution for your business. TL;DR: HIPAA Compliance Tools HIPAA compliance protects PHI (Protected Health Information) by setting strict privacy, security, and breach response rules for healthcare and related businesses. The best HIPAA compliance software automates key tasks like risk assessments, evidence collection, policy management, and security awareness training - making compliance faster, more efficient, and reducing costly mistakes. Scytale offers HIPAA compliance automation through its intuitive AI-powered platform and expert support, helping businesses of all sizes stay audit-ready with ease. Why You Need a HIPAA Compliance Tool HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) laws and regulations are nothing short of complex. They set strict rules for how businesses can store, process, and share sensitive health information, as well as provide guidance on how... --- ### Meet Scy: The Only Next-Gen, AI GRC-Savvy Agent of its Kind > Introducing Scy: your next-gen AI GRC agent that cuts compliance busywork so your team can move faster, stay audit-ready, and focus on growth. - Published: 2025-08-05 - Modified: 2025-08-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/meet-scy-the-only-next-gen-ai-grc-agent/ Introducing Scy: your next-gen AI GRC agent that cuts compliance busywork so your team can stay audit-ready and focus on growth. After months of perfecting it, we’re excited to share your new AI compliance teammate from Scytale, revolutionizing the way you manage key compliance processes and routine GRC tasks. New York, NY, August 5, 2025 Scytale started with a mission to solve the most common compliance pains. Compliance impacts almost every aspect of a company's operations. From CTOs at early stage startups to CISOs at enterprise-level organizations, millions of teams find themselves facing tedious tasks like taking screenshots for audit evidence and completing spreadsheets for compliance paperwork, creating roadblocks and slowing down growth. Scy is an extension of Scytale and a natural progression of that mission, which we've already advanced through our platform. Scy breaks GRC barriers and makes security and compliance even faster and smarter by automating the most challenging and monotonous parts of compliance. From checking evidence to mitigating risks and getting an instant answer to any question you have – our AI GRC agent has got it covered in real time.   You can ditch the compliance busywork and focus on driving growth and building a stronger GRC program - easily.   AI Roles That Help You Complete Every Compliance Requirement  Scy elevates your compliance program with speed and accuracy, and is customized to your unique environment. By integrating our AI agent, you get immediate answers to any questions relating to your GRC program, eliminating the associated lengthy and manual action items, and ensuring error-free, continuous audit-readiness. AI Evidence Reviewer: Automatically reviews your audit evidence, ensuring it's complete... --- ### How Scytale Turns GRC Complexity into GRC Simplicity > GRC doesn’t have to be complicated. See how Scytale makes security and compliance effortless with its AI-powered automation platform. - Published: 2025-08-04 - Modified: 2025-08-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytale-turns-grc-complexity-into-grc-simplicity/ Watch how Scytale's AI-powered automation platform simplifies compliance for 30+ security and data privacy frameworks. Meet Scytale, the AI-powered platform that makes compliance fast, easy, and stress-free. From automating workflows to real-time monitoring and full compliance visibility, Scytale helps you stay audit-ready 365 days a year. Forget the hassle of juggling multiple tools and vendors. Watch to see how Scytale streamlines compliance across 30+ security and data privacy frameworks - all in one powerful platform. --- ### The 5-Step Guide to IT General Controls for SOX Compliance > Learn how to implement and automate IT General Controls (ITGC) for SOX compliance with this simple step-by-step guide. - Published: 2025-07-31 - Modified: 2025-08-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-5-step-guide-to-it-general-controls-for-sox-compliance/ Learn how to implement and automate IT General Controls (ITGC) for SOX compliance with this simple step-by-step guide. When it comes to SOX ITGC compliance, having strong IT General Controls (ITGC) in place is essential. These controls help protect the integrity of your financial systems, reduce risk, and keep external auditors happy. But designing and managing ITGC doesn’t have to be complicated. This 5-minute guide walks you through the key steps to implementing ITGC effectively, including ownership responsibilities, a simple ITGC for SOX compliance checklist, and why continuous monitoring (and automation) matters. TL;DR: IT General Controls IT General Controls (ITGCs) are IT-focused controls required under SOX to ensure financial reporting accuracy and reduce fraud risk. Senior leadership is responsible, but IT, finance, and audit teams all play a role in implementation and oversight. ITGC automation can save time and reduce errors, making continuous monitoring easier and audit prep for SOX compliance more efficient. ITGC Guide Here’s a snapshot of what we’ll cover in this guide: the essential steps for implementing IT General Controls (ITGC) and ensuring SOX compliance. StepWhat It Involves1. Establishing Your Controls EnvironmentBuild a strong foundation by defining goals, culture, and leadership support for ITGC. 2. Conducting an ITGC Risk AssessmentIdentify and prioritize risks affecting financial reporting and operations. 3. Implementing Controls ActivitiesAssign responsibilities, set clear access controls, and document all actions to ensure accountability. 4. Strengthening Information & Communication SystemsUse secure, centralized platforms to track ITGC performance and communicate across teams. 5. Monitoring Your ITGCRegularly review performance and address gaps. 6. Automating ITGC MonitoringLeverage automation tools like Scytale to simplify tracking, improve efficiency, and reduce... --- ### HIPAA Compliance Made Simple: Step-By-Step Checklist > Discover how your business can protect PHI, reduce risk, and stay compliant with ease using our step-by-step HIPAA compliance checklist. - Published: 2025-07-25 - Modified: 2025-07-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-compliance-checklist/ Discover how your business can protect PHI, reduce risk, and stay compliant using our step-by-step HIPAA compliance checklist. If you're running a SaaS company, especially one in or even remotely related to healthcare, you've probably come across HIPAA compliance by now. And if you’re like most businesses, that word likely triggers one thing: stress.   While HIPAA is a serious regulation with real consequences, it doesn’t have to be overly intimidating. In fact, once you break it down, achieving and maintaining HIPAA compliance is very doable - especially with the right roadmap and support. In this checklist, we’ll walk you through exactly what HIPAA compliance means for SaaS companies, why it matters, and the exact steps you need to take to simplify the process. This will help clarify HIPAA without watering it down, so you can build lasting trust while staying on the right side of the law. TL;DR HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) sets the U. S. national standard for protecting sensitive patient data. If your SaaS company handles protected health information (PHI), whether directly or indirectly, HIPAA compliance is non-negotiable. Our 8-step HIPAA compliance checklist breaks down the process into clear, actionable steps, helping you prepare for audits and safeguard patient data. What is HIPAA Compliance? HIPAA compliance refers to the ongoing process of meeting the regulatory and security requirements set by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. This U. S. law was created to streamline the flow of healthcare information, reduce fraud and abuse, and - most importantly for your business - ensure that protected health information (PHI) stays confidential,... --- ### IT General Controls (ITGC): Everything You Need to Know > IT General Controls (ITGC) are essential to IT governance, ensuring the reliability and security of an organization's IT systems and data. - Published: 2025-07-25 - Modified: 2025-07-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/it-general-controls-itgc-everything-you-need-to-know/ IT General Controls (ITGC) are vital to IT governance, ensuring the reliability and security of a business's IT systems and data. With data breaches and security incidents skyrocketing globally, the integrity, reliability, and security of IT systems have never been more critical. For businesses, ensuring their IT systems run effectively and securely is key to maintaining trust, operational continuity, and compliance with key regulatory requirements. This is where IT General Controls (ITGC) come in. These controls are the backbone of IT governance, helping businesses protect their systems, data, and processes from threats, vulnerabilities, and system failures.   Let’s dive into ITGC basics, why they matter, the different types of controls, and how compliance automation makes the ITGC auditing process smoother from start to finish. TL;DR IT General Controls (ITGC) are crucial for securing your IT systems and ensuring data confidentiality, integrity, and availability. These controls form the foundation for compliance with key regulatory frameworks like SOX, GDPR, HIPAA, and more. Automation platforms streamline ITGC audits, making the process faster, improving efficiency, and reducing human error. What are IT General Controls? IT General Controls (ITGC) are the policies, procedures, and activities businesses put in place to ensure their IT systems operate smoothly. These controls aren’t tied to just one app or system but apply broadly across the entire IT infrastructure. Their goal? To protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your information systems and the data they handle - otherwise known as the CIA triad. ITGCs are a crucial part of any company’s internal controls framework, especially when it comes to financial reporting, data protection, and meeting regulatory requirements. Without proper ITGCs... --- ### SOC 2 vs. HIPAA Compliance: What’s the Difference? > Discover the key differences and benefits of SOC 2 and HIPAA compliance, and how together they can enhance your organization's data security. - Published: 2025-07-18 - Modified: 2025-08-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-vs-hipaa-compliance/ Explore the differences between SOC 2 and HIPAA and how both boost your data security. So, you need a security framework for your business? Or perhaps you’re just really curious about what on earth we keep hammering on about. Nevertheless, we’re diving into HIPAA and SOC 2 once again, but this time we’re putting the two against each other to see how they compare. Any starting bets for a favorite? Before getting into the nitty-gritty, there’s one overarching disclaimer that needs to be addressed immediately (and throughout the article) - if your organization classifies as a covered entity or a business associate, you’re subject to The HIPAA Privacy Rule. That means that there’s little wiggle room for decision-making. Why? Well, HIPAA compliance is a federal law.   SOC 2, however, is a voluntary security framework. But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t numerous benefits of implementing each or both. Here's what you need to know if you’d like to compare the two and see which one would best benefit your organization.   TL;DR: SOC 2 vs. HIPAA Compliance SOC 2 is a voluntary framework that helps you demonstrate your company’s commitment to security, covering controls like availability, confidentiality, and processing integrity. HIPAA is required for healthcare-related businesses dealing with protected health information (PHI) and ensures compliance with federal laws regarding healthcare data. SOC 2 vs. HIPAA: SOC 2 focuses on data security, while HIPAA has specific rules about the management of health data and includes breach notification requirements. SOC 2 vs. HIPAA Compliance: Which Does Your Business Need? Can your business tick off three in... --- ### The GRC Balancing Act: Managing Multiple Frameworks Without Losing Your Mind > Scaling while staying compliant? Kyle Morris and Ben Sand share key insights on managing frameworks and building scalable compliance programs. - Published: 2025-07-09 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-grc-balancing-act-managing-multiple-frameworks-without-losing-your-mind/ Kyle and Ben share key insights on managing frameworks and building scalable compliance programs. If staying compliant while scaling feels like a full-time job, this session is for you. Kyle Morris, Head of GRC at Scytale sat down with Ben Sand, VP of Global Ops & Compliance at Guesty, to talk about what happens after the first audit (when the real challenge begins). How to manage multiple frameworks without losing your mind Keeping compliance from slowing down product teams What a scalable, risk-based program actually looks like (with real examples) Ben’s done it. Kyle’s seen it. And they broke it down without the BS. --- ### The CCPA Compliance Checklist: Ensuring Data Protection and Privacy > The comprehensive CCPA compliance checklist helps your business meet all CCPA requirements effortlessly and avoid compliance issues. - Published: 2025-07-08 - Modified: 2025-07-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-ccpa-compliance-checklist-ensuring-data-protection-and-privacy/ This CCPA compliance checklist helps your business meet all CCPA requirements and avoid compliance issues. As a business leader, ensuring your company's compliance with privacy laws like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is critical. The CCPA sets strict standards for data compliance, collection, storage, and sharing, to protect consumers' personal information. Following the comprehensive CCPA compliance checklist ensures your business stays on track, meets all the essential requirements, and avoids potential compliance issues down the road.   TL;DR The CCPA gives California residents control over their personal information, requiring businesses to meet certain privacy standards. Key CCPA requirements include reviewing data collection practices, updating privacy policies, and providing consumers with opt-out options. Businesses that fail to comply may face serious consequences including fines, lawsuits, and reputational damage. What is the CCPA? The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is a data privacy law that gives California residents more control over their personal information. As of January 1, 2020, the CCPA applies to businesses that collect personal information of California residents, including names, Social Security numbers, biometric data, geolocation, and purchasing behavior. To comply, companies need to provide transparency into data collection and allow consumers to opt out of data sales. It’s a lot to take in, we know, but fulfilling these CCPA compliance checklist items now will save you numerous headaches later. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=vg2vldlt6Ng Who is Required to Comply with the CCPA? Let’s cut to the chase – does this even apply to your business? In short, the CCPA applies to businesses that come into contact with data from Californian residents and meet one... --- ### How Startups are Getting Compliant Faster with Automation  > Information security compliance is the necessary ordeal that most startups must endure prior to doing business with any company. - Published: 2025-07-04 - Modified: 2025-08-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-startups-are-getting-compliant-faster-with-automation/ Information security compliance may be overwhelming for many startups that are in the infancy stages of their businesses. Information security compliance is a key challenge that most startups must endure prior to doing business with any company that processes sensitive information. This is the harsh reality and it may be overwhelming for many startups that are in the infancy stages of their businesses. TL;DR: Compliance Automation for Startups Compliance is essential for startups, with frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, and HIPAA required by most businesses to ensure data security. Startups often struggle with compliance due to limited resources, causing disruption to core operations. Automation tools can streamline compliance processes, saving time and money while ensuring continuous compliance with all key standards. Why Information Security Compliance Frameworks Matter for SaaS Startups Most companies today require you to prove that you’ve got the internal controls in place to ensure their data is secure, by obtaining the relevant stamps of approval from an accredited auditor prior to doing business with you. Complying with common security compliance and data privacy frameworks such as SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and HIPAA has become an unwritten rule for best practice for most companies today who store customer data on the cloud.   SaaS startups, therefore, implement SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliance primarily for two reasons: To assure their customers of the highest levels of data security. To have the right protocols in place to meet those high standards. Information security compliance refers to the standards and regulations that govern how companies keep data secure, private, and safe from breaches or damage. Essentially,... --- ### Scytale Now Supports ISO 22301, Simplifying Business Continuity for Modern Teams > Scytale now supports ISO 22301:2019, helping businesses automate business continuity compliance, minimize downtime, and stay resilient. - Published: 2025-07-03 - Modified: 2025-07-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-supports-iso-22301-compliance/ Scytale supports ISO 22301, helping businesses automate business continuity compliance and ensure operational resilience. Scytale adds ISO 22301 to its growing list of security compliance and data privacy frameworks, empowering businesses of all sizes to maintain business continuity and demonstrate reliability. New York, NY, 3 July, 2025 From cyberattacks and technical outages to natural disasters, disruptions are inevitable. How your business prepares, responds, and recovers is what truly matters.   We’re excited to announce that Scytale now supports ISO 22301, the global standard for Business Continuity Management Systems (BCMS). ISO 22301 provides a framework to help you maintain operations even when the unexpected strikes. Let’s take a closer look at what ISO 22301:2019 is all about. What is ISO 22301 exactly? ISO 22301:2019 is a voluntary, internationally recognized framework that helps businesses of all sizes and industries identify potential threats, understand their impact, and create plans to keep essential services running during disruptions. It offers valuable guidance on assessing risk, protecting critical assets, and responding quickly when things go sideways. ISO 22301 Benefits: Ensuring Continuity and Building Trust Whether you're a fast-growing startup or a large enterprise, downtime is expensive. ISO 22301 not only helps keep your systems running smoothly but also protects your reputation, builds customer trust, and shows stakeholders your organization is prepared for the long haul. Simplify ISO 22301 Compliance with Scytale Whether you're aiming for ISO 22301 certification, complementing your ISO 27001 compliance, or simply want to enhance your business continuity processes, Scytale has you covered. Our AI-powered, compliance automation platform automates everything from risk assessments to evidence collection, so... --- ### DORA Compliance Checklist: From Preparation to Implementation > Learn how to navigate the DORA compliance checklist and meet DORA cybersecurity regulation requirements with our step-by-step guide. - Published: 2025-07-02 - Modified: 2025-07-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/dora-compliance-checklist/ Learn how to navigate the DORA compliance checklist and meet DORA cybersecurity regulation requirements with our easy guide. Think of the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) as the EU’s way of making sure that financial institutions can stay strong, even when the digital world gets messy. With cyberattacks becoming smarter and more frequent, and everything from system glitches to natural disasters throwing wrenches in the works, DORA steps in to help organizations stay resilient when things go sideways. TL;DR DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act) is the EU regulation ensuring that financial institutions are resilient against digital disruptions like cyberattacks and system failures. DORA's key components include ICT risk management, incident reporting, digital resilience testing, third-party risk, and governance structures. Achieving and maintaining DORA compliance involves key actions like risk assessments, incident response plans, third-party evaluations, and regular testing. This DORA guide provides a clear overview to help you understand the process. What is DORA? In simple terms, the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) is a regulation introduced by the European Union to ensure that financial institutions can handle whatever’s thrown at them—whether that’s a cyberattack, system meltdown, or even something as unpredictable as a freak storm. Since so much of the financial world relies on digital infrastructure these days, the risks are higher than ever. That's where DORA comes in. With this DORA compliance checklist and clear outline of the DORA compliance requirements, financial entities have a clear roadmap of what they need to follow to stay safe and sound. Tune in to our podcast below to dive deeper into what DORA is all about and explore how... --- ### Scytale Joins the AWS Global Security and Compliance Acceleration Program > Scytale joins the AWS Global Security & Compliance Acceleration Program, providing faster compliance and expert cloud security guidance. - Published: 2025-07-02 - Modified: 2025-07-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-joins-the-aws-global-security-and-compliance-acceleration-program/ Scytale joins the AWS GSCA Program, providing faster compliance and expert cloud security guidance. Scytale is now a proud member of the AWS Global Security & Compliance Acceleration Program, offering customers faster compliance roadmaps and expert guidance for secure cloud environments. New York, NY, July 2, 2025 We’re excited to share some big news: Scytale is now part of the AWS Global Security & Compliance Acceleration (GSCA) Program! What is the GSCA Program? Chosen by AWS, the GSCA Program includes partners who are trusted to guide businesses in building secure cloud environments and meeting compliance requirements faster. That includes compliance for frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, and more. AWS only picks partners they trust, and now Scytale is one of them! What does this mean for you? By aligning with GSCA, Scytale customers benefit from: Accelerated compliance roadmaps using AWS-native services. Validated best practices and architectural guidance from AWS security specialists. Simplified compliance within the AWS environment without the added complexity or cost of external consultants. Whether you’re just getting started with compliance or scaling your GRC program, we make it easier than ever for you to meet compliance requirements on the AWS cloud. See our official AWS listing here. --- ### What Is the GDPR? > In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, unpacks the GDPR - what it is, and who it applies to. - Published: 2025-07-01 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-the-gdpr/ In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, unpacks the GDPR - what it is, and who it applies to. In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, unpacks the GDPR - what it is, and who it applies to. Perfect for teams needing a GDPR refresher. --- ### GDPR: What Are the Grounds for Lawful Processing? > In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, breaks down the 6 lawful bases for processing personal data under the GDPR. - Published: 2025-07-01 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-what-are-the-grounds-for-lawful-processing/ Tracy breaks down the 6 lawful bases for processing personal data under the GDPR and when each ground applies. In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, breaks down the 6 lawful bases for processing personal data under the GDPR. Tracy explains when each ground applies - from consent and contract to legal obligation and legitimate interest - and how to choose the right one for your use case. If you're unsure whether your data processing is truly lawful, this is a must-watch. --- ### What Are the GDPR Core Principles? > In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, breaks down the 7 core principles of the GDPR and what they mean in practice. - Published: 2025-07-01 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-are-the-gdpr-core-principles/ Tracy breaks down the 7 core principles of the GDPR, and what each principle means in practice. In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, breaks down the 7 core principles of the GDPR. Tracy explains what each principle means in practice and why they’re essential for any organization handling personal data in or from the EU. If you're building a privacy program or brushing up on GDPR basics, this is a must-watch. --- ### GDPR: What is Processing? > In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, explains what processing really means under the GDPR. - Published: 2025-07-01 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-what-is-processing/ Tracy explains what processing really means under the GDPR, and why it’s broader than you might think. In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, explains what processing really means under the GDPR, and why it’s broader than you might think. From collecting and storing to deleting and analyzing data, Tracy outlines the full scope of what counts as processing and what that means for compliance. If you touch personal data in any way, this video is for you. --- ### GDPR: What are Data Subject Access Rights? > In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, explains what data subject access rights are under the GDPR and why they matter. - Published: 2025-07-01 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-what-are-data-subject-access-rights/ Tracy explains what data subject access rights are under the GDPR and why they matter. In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, explains data subject access rights under the GDPR - what they are, why they matter, and how your organization should respond to requests. --- ### GDPR: What are Special Categories? > In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, explains special categories of personal data, and why they require extra protection. - Published: 2025-07-01 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-what-are-special-categories/ Tracy explains explains what the GDPR calls special categories of personal data, and why they require extra protection. In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, explains what the GDPR calls special categories of personal data, and why they require extra protection. From health and biometric data to political beliefs and racial origin, Tracy breaks down what’s considered sensitive data, when it can be processed, and what safeguards are required. If your organization handles high-risk data, this is essential viewing. --- ### What Counts as Personal Data Under the GDPR? > In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, answers one of the most common GDPR questions: What counts as personal data? - Published: 2025-07-01 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-counts-as-personal-data-under-the-gdpr/ Tracy answers one of the most common GDPR questions: What counts as personal data? In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, answers one of the most common GDPR questions: What counts as personal data? --- ### What Are Data Transfers Under the GDPR? > Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, unpacks how data transfers work and how to stay compliant under the GDPR. - Published: 2025-07-01 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-are-data-transfers-under-the-gdpr/ Tracy explains when international transfers are allowed, and how to stay GDPR compliant when moving personal data across borders. In this video, Scytale’s Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, unpacks how data transfers work under the GDPR. She explains when international transfers are allowed, and how to stay compliant when moving personal data across borders. --- ### Who Are the GDPR Role Players? > In this video, Scytale's Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, unpacks the key role players under GDPR—who they are, what they do, and why it matters. - Published: 2025-07-01 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/who-are-the-gdpr-role-players/ Tracy unpacks the key role players under GDPR—who they are, what they do, and why it matters. In this video, Scytale's Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, unpacks the key role players under GDPR—who they are, what they do, and why it matters. --- ### GDPR: What Is a DPA (Data Processing Agreement)? > In this video, Scytale's Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, dives into what a DPA is, why it matters, and how it fits into your GDPR compliance. - Published: 2025-07-01 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-what-is-a-dpa-data-processing-agreement/ Tracy dives into what a DPA is, why it matters, and how it fits into your GDPR compliance. In this video, Scytale's Head of Privacy, Tracy Boyes, dives into the Data Processing Agreement (DPA) – what it is, why it matters, and how it fits into your GDPR compliance. --- ### Scytale Named a Leader in Security Compliance in G2's Summer 2025 Report > Scytale dominates the G2 Summer 2025 Report, earning multiple badges, including Best Leader in GRC, Security Compliance, and Cloud Security. - Published: 2025-06-26 - Modified: 2025-08-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-named-g2-leader-in-summer-2025-report-across-multiple-categories/ Scytale dominates the G2 Summer 2025 Report, securing multiple badges, including Best Leader in Security Compliance. We're thrilled to announce that Scytale has been named the Best across multiple categories in the G2 Summer 2025 report, cementing our position as the top compliance automation solution. New York, NY, June 26, 2025 As the summer heats up, so does Scytale’s unstoppable momentum in the compliance and security space. We’re proud to announce that G2 has awarded Scytale multiple new badges, including several Leader and Momentum Leader titles. Scytale Recognized as the Best in GRC and Security Compliance This summer, Scytale has dominated the Governance, Risk, and Compliance, Security Compliance, and Cloud Security categories. We’ve also been crowned Regional Leader in both EMEA and the Middle East & Africa. These top-performing Leader badges prove our commitment to delivering the best software solution that tackles the toughest GRC challenges for businesses worldwide, no matter where they operate. Top Ranked for ROI and Go-Live Time We’re also excited to be recognized for delivering fast results and key outcomes with the Best Estimated ROI and the Fastest Implementation and Go-Live Time in Audit Management. On top of that, we’re proud to have earned the Best Relationship award in Audit Management, highlighting the strong partnerships we build with our customers. These awards show that with Scytale, companies don’t just get and stay compliant — they do it faster, smarter, and more efficiently. Momentum Leader in Cloud Compliance We’ve maintained our Momentum Leader position in Cloud Compliance and Vendor Security and Privacy Assessment, reflecting our explosive growth, rising customer satisfaction, and continued dominance... --- ### SOC 2 Audit: The Essentials for Data Security and Compliance > Learn how to prepare for a SOC 2 audit to strengthen your data security and meet key compliance requirements. - Published: 2025-06-25 - Modified: 2025-06-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-audit-the-essentials-for-data-security-and-compliance/ Learn how to prepare for a SOC 2 audit to strengthen your data security and meet key compliance requirements. Spoiler alert: money doesn't make the world go around. It's data security and compliance. But don't just take our word for it. Consumers worldwide are significantly more concerned about their data privacy now than they were a few years ago. But the importance of data security and compliance is old news, and customers no longer prefer companies with robust security standards - they demand it. It's as simple as that. So, with most consumers stating that they will not do business with a company if they have concerns about its security practices, organizations are amplifying their data security and compliance. However, it's no walk in the park, and the compliance landscape is everything but beginner-friendly.   So naturally, it doesn't come as a surprise that organizations often consider compliance a serious burden. And frankly, we don't blame them - especially if they don't have their friendly neighborhood Scytale to show them the ropes. Fortunately, you do. TL;DR SOC 2 is a widely recognized security framework that demonstrates your internal controls effectively protect customer data, boosting trust and unlocking new business opportunities. There are two types of SOC 2 reports: Type I (a snapshot in time) and Type II (tested over several months). Compliance automation platforms like Scytale help you get audit-ready faster and stay continuously compliant without the stress. What is SOC 2?   Need a quick recap on the ins and outs of SOC 2? Sure thing! Now, in a (tiny) nutshell, it's a set of data security standards... --- ### How to Create an Effective Plan for Penetration Testing Reports > Penetration tests are only as effective as the clarity, practicality, results and recommendations within the final report - here’s why. - Published: 2025-06-20 - Modified: 2025-06-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-create-an-effective-plan-for-penetration-testing-reports/ Penetration tests are only as effective as the clarity, practicality, results and recommendations within the final report - here’s why. When it comes to cybersecurity, pen tests are definitely one of the cooler kids on the block. However, you need the correct documentation and critical reports. If the proof is in the pudding, then pen tests are pretty sweet, but the final report is the dessert you're looking for.   Join us as we dive into penetration testing reports, their importance, and what they should include to best support the evaluation and the organization's remediation efforts.   Here's what you need to know.   TL;DR Penetration testing reports are essential for identifying vulnerabilities and improving your security posture, especially for compliance with frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, PCI DSS, and GDPR. A great pen test report outlines critical vulnerabilities, their impact, and provides actionable remediation steps for your team. Customizing your pen test report to align with compliance frameworks proves your security and helps prevent costly breaches. What's a pen test again? If you missed our blog on how penetration testing can help in SOC 2 compliance or achieving PCI DSS compliance through penetration testing - no stress. Perhaps you're working on getting (and staying) ISO 27001, HIPAA, or GDPR compliant, or you'd like to bolster your security posture and gauge whether or not you've missed any vulnerabilities, threats, or weaknesses within your system. Either way, we're here to give you the low-down.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=22bkXSLii3E Penetration testing, also known as pen tests or "ethical hacking," tells the bad guys where to stick it by using their... --- ### The Smarter Way to Manage AI Threats and Risk > Scytale’s enhanced Risk Assessment empowers businesses to tackle AI threats and fast-track compliance with smarter, simpler risk management. - Published: 2025-06-10 - Modified: 2025-06-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ai-threat-and-risk-assessment-update/ Scytale’s enhanced Risk Assessment helps tackle AI threats and fast-tracks compliance with smarter risk management. Scytale’s newest Risk Assessment capabilities simplifies how you identify, manage, and monitor risks, saving time and making compliance effortless. New York, NY, June 10, 2025 We’re excited to introduce our latest update to our compliance automation platform: Scytale’s all-new Risk Assessment feature. This update brings a smarter, more automated way to identify, map, and manage risks, reimagining the process with an intuitive user experience that streamlines the entire risk assessment journey, helping you move faster without compromising control. What’s New: Smarter Automation  No more long questionnaires. Our rule-based automation intelligently populates your risk register with relevant risks, severity levels, and mapped controls – giving you smart, AI-generated insights to help you assess risks confidently and save hours of manual work.   Pre-Mapped Controls for SOC 2 & ISO 27001 Risks are automatically mapped to the appropriate controls for SOC 2 and ISO 27001, streamlining your compliance efforts and accelerating your path to compliance. Automated Status Sync Between Risks and Controls Update a risk, and your linked controls reflect the change instantly. With seamless alignment across your environment, your compliance status stays accurate and up to date - without any extra effort. Bulk Actions to Update Multiple Risks in Seconds Easily manage large risk portfolios with bulk editing by updating statuses, priorities, or details across numerous risks in one go. Addressing Modern AI Threats With AI risks on the rise, we've expanded our risk register to address the most common AI-related threats using our AI Risk Generator. From training models on... --- ### Compliance Controls: Clearing Up the Confusion > Simplify key concepts in cloud environments and organizational IT security controls for better compliance and risk management. - Published: 2025-06-05 - Modified: 2025-06-12 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/compliance-controls-clearing-up-the-confusion/ In this article, we are going to unpack and simplify concepts within cloud environments, and organizational IT security controls. In compliance and cloud security, controls play a critical role. These controls ensure the organization follows specific standards and frameworks required for maintaining security. But what exactly are compliance controls, and why are they so crucial? TL;DR Compliance controls are essential for ensuring that organizations meet security and regulatory standards. Implementing control standards helps manage risks and meet critical security compliance and data privacy frameworks like SOC 2 and ISO 27001. Different controls like preventive, detective, and corrective work together to mitigate security threats, saving companies from steep penalties and data breaches. What are compliance controls? To put it simply, controls are measures organizations implement to reduce risks and meet compliance requirements. Different controls serve different purposes depending on the framework you follow. For instance, let's consider SOC 2 - one of the most widely recognized frameworks in the U. S. Within SOC 2, there are five Trust Service Principles (TSP), with Security being mandatory. Furthermore, let's consider COSO Principle 1. 2 in SOC 2, which stresses that the board of directors must maintain independence from management and oversee the development and performance of internal controls. To comply with this, a control must be established that ensures regular board meetings to assess risks and decisions. The importance of control compliance In this context, control compliance refers to ensuring that the implemented controls meet the required standards to maintain a compliant system. When you apply these controls, such as a board meeting schedule, you are following the compliance control standards set... --- ### Scytale Acquires AudITech, Building the First Fully Integrated Compliance Enterprise Suite > Scytale acquires AudITech to create the first fully integrated enterprise suite for seamless, scalable SOX ITGC and security compliance. - Published: 2025-06-04 - Modified: 2025-06-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-acquires-auditech-building-the-first-fully-integrated-compliance-enterprise-suite/ Scytale acquires AudITech to create the first complete enterprise suite for scalable SOX ITGC and security compliance. Combining the premier provider of SOX ITGC automation with the global leader in security compliance automation to create the first complete compliance enterprise suite. New York, NY, June 4, 2025 We’re super excited to finally share some BIG news - Scytale has officially acquired AudITech, a leading provider of SOX IT General Controls (ITGC) automation!   AudITech’s expertise in automating some of the trickiest (but most important) parts of ITGC - like user access and change management - is second to none, and I couldn’t be more thrilled about what this means for Scytale and, most importantly, for our customers. This is a major milestone in our journey to reimagine compliance and accelerates our vision to become the go-to enterprise-grade solution for tackling complex compliance frameworks. With AudITech now onboard, we can continue transforming trust and security compliance in the enterprise space - offering complete solutions for companies at every stage, from startup to IPO, and strengthening our position as a global leader. We’re proud to welcome AudITech’s co-founders, Eli Edry and Roni Beeri, to the Scytale team as we integrate their core solutions directly into our Enterprise Suite. This means even stronger automation capabilities, seamless ITGC compliance, and an all-in-one platform that makes compliance faster, smarter, and more scalable than ever before. Why Scytale + AudITech?   AudITech has built an exceptional SOX ITGC automation platform and earned the trust of high-profile customers like Monday. com, Fiverr, Pagaya, and Perion Networks - helping them maintain SOX ITGC Audits, simplify... --- ### SOC 2 for Startups > We have created the ultimate SOC 2 guide for startups, highlighting everything you need to know about the process with tips and expert advice along the way. - Published: 2025-06-03 - Modified: 2025-06-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-for-startups-ebook/ We have created the ultimate SOC 2 guide for startups, highlighting everything you need to know about the process. --- ### SOC 2 for Startups > We have created the ultimate SOC 2 guide for startups, highlighting everything you need to know about the process with tips and expert advice along the way. - Published: 2025-06-03 - Modified: 2025-06-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ug-soc-2-for-startups-ebook/ We have created the ultimate SOC 2 guide for startups, highlighting everything you need to know about the process. --- ### Security Compliance Automation for SaaS: Reducing Costs and Increasing Sales > Managing compliance manually can be a burdensome and never-ending task, but there is a simpler solution: automated security compliance. - Published: 2025-06-02 - Modified: 2025-06-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-for-saas/ Managing compliance manually can be a tedious task. However, there is a simpler solution: Automated Security Compliance. More and more SaaS companies are turning to compliance automation, and for good reason. Automating security and data compliance processes not only reduces risk but also saves valuable time and resources. Instead of drowning in manual tasks, teams can streamline everything from evidence collection to reporting, making achieving compliance faster and far less painful. Whether you're just getting started or looking to scale securely, automating compliance is a strategic move that improves efficiency, reduces risk, cuts costs, and sets your business up for long-term success. Let's explore why. TL;DR Security compliance automation streamlines the process of meeting regulatory and industry standards, helping SaaS companies protect customer data, build trust, stay audit-ready, and avoid costly penalties - essential for any growing SaaS business. Reduce costs by replacing time-consuming manual tasks with automated workflows that speed up audit prep and free your team to focus on higher-impact work. Turn compliance into a competitive edge by showcasing transparency and trustworthiness, giving prospects and customers a compelling reason to choose you over competitors. In the world of modern business, SaaS compliance management is a huge concern, and the importance of SaaS security compliance cannot be overstated enough. Managing compliance manually can be a burdensome and never-ending task. It consumes a lot of valuable time and financial resources, especially with regulations and requirements in a constant state of flux. However, there is a simpler solution: Automated Security Compliance. The journey to automating compliance begins with an analysis of current procedures, identifying areas suitable for automation,... --- ### 10 Information Security Compliance Tips for 2025 > Check out our top 10 information security compliance tips to protect your customers' data and keep your business secure and compliant. - Published: 2025-05-30 - Modified: 2025-06-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/information-security-compliance-tips/ Here are our top 10 tips for information security compliance you need to know about in 2025! Good information security never goes out of fashion. The economy is digital, interconnected, and driven by data. Virtually every business needs effective systems and technologies to protect sensitive data, ensure reliable operations, and reassure customers.   TL;DR Information security compliance is crucial for protecting sensitive data and maintaining customer trust, and it applies to businesses of all sizes across various industries. Automation and compliance frameworks like SOC 2 and ISO 27001 simplify compliance and help to mitigate risks. A culture of security and proactive incident response plans are essential for long-term success. For many businesses, information security compliance should be a top priority. SaaS companies, and anyone who manages sensitive information, need a comprehensive strategy to manage risks and comply with the latest regulations.   But with new risks popping up and becoming more advanced, keeping up with the latest data security developments has become non-negotiable to ensure ongoing compliance. So with no further ado, here are our top ten tips for information security compliance you need to know about in 2025!   Top 10 tips for information security compliance in 2025 1. Zero trust security: Trust no one! Zero trust is a hot topic in InfoSec circles in 2025. The zero trust model requires validation at every point in a user’s engagement with a network. Zero trust offers tighter data security generally. It also ensures that even internal employees need to verify their identities to access sensitive data.   If your employees work remotely, the model can create more... --- ### How to Turn CCPA Regulations into a Competitive Advantage > Learn how CCPA compliance can build trust, reduce risks, and help your business stand out in a highly competitive US market. - Published: 2025-05-29 - Modified: 2025-07-31 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-turn-ccpa-regulations-into-a-competitive-advantage/ Learn how CCPA compliance can build trust, reduce risks, and help your business stand out in a highly competitive US market. If you’re running a SaaS business that collects or processes data from California residents, chances are you’ve heard about the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and its impact on how you manage personal information. But what if I told you that CCPA regulations aren’t just another regulatory headache to endure? In fact, CCPA compliance can be the key to building trust, setting your business apart in a highly competitive US market, and strengthening your security posture. Join us as we explore how you can turn the CCPA from a compliance burden into a real competitive advantage for your company. TL;DR CCPA compliance is more than just a legal requirement for businesses handling California residents’ data - it’s a powerful way to build customer trust and boost your brand’s reputation. Taking a proactive approach to data privacy and protection sets your SaaS business apart in a crowded market and opens doors to new opportunities. Leveraging compliance automation tools makes managing CCPA regulations easier and helps you avoid costly mistakes and breaches. What is CCPA? Let’s start with the essentials. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is one of the most impactful data privacy laws in the U. S. , created to give California residents greater control over their personal information. It sets clear rules for how businesses collect, use, and share personal data, and imposes serious penalties for non-compliance. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=vg2vldlt6Ng The CCPA final regulations took effect in 2020. Since then, the CCPA new regulations have been continuously updating... --- ### HIPAA Violation Penalties: What Happens if You Break The Rules > Discover what happens if you violate HIPAA rules and regulations and how your business could be penalized for non-compliance. - Published: 2025-05-19 - Modified: 2025-05-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-violation-penalties/ Discover what happens if you violate HIPAA’s rules and regulations and how you could be penalized. Do you know the saying “no risk, no reward”? We’d like to formally announce that it’s the worst possible advice regarding navigating HIPAA compliance. There’s zero room for risky business when dealing with federal law. But unfortunately, compliance can get tricky, and threats creep into even the slightest of gaps. So, what happens if something goes wrong and slips through the cracks? We’ve compiled your go-to HIPAA penalty guide to help you know what to expect, what to avoid, and when to fear the worst.   TL;DR HIPAA violations range from accidental mishandling to willful neglect, and are penalized based on intent and response time. Most common causes include poor record disposal, expired authorizations, and unsecured devices accessing PHI. The OCR investigates all suspected breaches, and regular risk assessments can reduce penalties or even prevent fines altogether. Who needs to comply with HIPAA?   No use in letting your imagination run wild. When it comes to compliance, clarity is critical. So, let’s clear up the facts. HIPAA’s Privacy Rule clearly distinguishes who is subject to mandatory HIPAA compliance and who is not. The Privacy rule puts the responsibility on two key entities; Covered Entities and Business Associates. Therefore, the first step in knowing what happens in the event of a breach is knowing if you’re subject to regulatory compliance. If you need HIPAA compliance, it’s critical to note that it’s each organization’s responsibility to ensure that they’re compliant and meet all the HIPAA rules and regulations.   It's important to... --- ### EU Cyber Resilience Act: Key Requirements, Impact, and Compliance Strategies > Discover what the EU Cyber Resilience Act means for your business, its key requirements, and what it takes to stay compliant. - Published: 2025-05-14 - Modified: 2025-05-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/eu-cyber-resilience-act-key-requirements-impact-and-compliance/ Discover what the EU Cyber Resilience Act means for your business, its key requirements, and what it takes to stay compliant. Did you know that 60% of businesses that experience a cyber attack go out of business within six months? Now, that's a pretty scary stat, right? Even more alarming is that hackers are increasingly turning their attention to smaller companies because they often lack proper cybersecurity defenses and the resources needed to recover from an attack. This is exactly why the European Union (EU) is taking bold steps to strengthen cybersecurity across the continent. The EU Cyber Resilience Act, which entered into effect in December 2024, aims to ensure that businesses across all industries - from SaaS to healthcare - are prepared to fend off cyber threats, from data breaches to IoT vulnerabilities. Whether you're well into your compliance journey or just starting to scratch the surface, the EU Cyber Resilience Act (and its impact) is definitely something you’ll want to keep an eye on. TL;DR The EU Cyber Resilience Act sets mandatory cybersecurity requirements for all digital products sold in the EU – including software, hardware, and IoT devices. Non-compliance can lead to fines of up to €15M or 2. 5% of global turnover, making early preparation essential for avoiding penalties and enhancing operational security. SaaS, healthcare, finance, and IoT-driven industries must prioritize CRA compliance to protect digital products, meet strict reporting rules, and stay ahead of cyber threats. What is the EU Cyber Resilience Act? The EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) is a new law aimed at improving cybersecurity for all digital products sold in the European Union... --- ### RFP vs. Security Questionnaires: Key Differences and When to Use Each in Vendor Assessments > Learn the key differences between RFPs and security questionnaires, when to use each, and how to streamline vendor risk assessments. - Published: 2025-05-09 - Modified: 2025-05-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/rfp-vs-security-questionnaires/ Learn the key differences between RFPs and security questionnaires, when to use each, and how to streamline vendor assessments. Working with third-party vendors isn’t just common - it’s practically inevitable, especially as your business scales. But as you’re probably aware by now, with great partnerships come great responsibilities (and risks). Even if your own security posture is rock solid, your compliance and GRC efforts can still fall apart if your vendors don’t hold up their end of the bargain. Managing internal security is hard enough. Add third parties into the mix, and it becomes a whole new challenge. Whether you're building a product, processing customer data, or scaling infrastructure, your vendors' security practices can directly impact your own risk exposure and ability to stay compliant. That’s where two key tools come into play: RFPs and security questionnaires. Both are essential to vendor assessments, but they’re not interchangeable. Each serves a different purpose, and knowing when to use which one (or both) can make your life a whole lot easier. So, what exactly is the difference between an RFP and a security questionnaire? And how do you know which one to use, when? Let’s dive in! TL;DR Use RFPs to evaluate and compare new vendors based on capabilities, pricing, and fit. Use security questionnaires to assess a vendor’s security and compliance posture—especially post-selection or for existing vendors. Use both for high-risk vendors, and automate the process with Scytale to save time, reduce risk, and stay compliant. What is an RFP (Request for Proposal)? An RFP, or Request for Proposal, is like the dating profile your company sends out to potential... --- ### AI Compliance: ISO 42001, EU AI Act & All the Fun Yet to Come > Explore AI compliance frameworks like ISO 42001 & the EU AI Act with experts from Scytale & Lasso. Learn how to stay ahead in AI regulation. - Published: 2025-05-08 - Modified: 2025-05-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ai-compliance-iso-42001-eu-ai-act-all-the-fun-yet-to-come/ Get expert guidance on ISO 42001 and the EU AI Act with practical tips and insights to help you stay compliant and ahead in the AI race. As AI continues to make waves, stronger regulations are a must to keep it from spiraling out of control. But don't worry, we're here to help you make sense of it all. In this session, Tracy Boyes, Head of Privacy at Scytale, and Elad Schulman, CEO and Co-Founder of Lasso Security, unpack the latest AI compliance frameworks, including ISO 42001 and the EU AI Act. Here’s what the session covers: The latest AI compliance frameworks (They’re more interesting than they sound, we promise. ) Why these regulations matter—and why your business will thank us later (spoiler: penalties could reach up to 7% of global revenue for noncompliance) How Scytale and Lasso can help you navigate the compliance maze with ease Packed with practical tips, sharp insights, and maybe even a few laughs, this session is your shortcut to staying ahead in the AI race. --- ### Scytale Supports TISAX: Driving Secure Compliance in the Automotive Industry > Scytale adds TISAX compliance support, helping automotive companies streamline information security management and meet industry requirements. - Published: 2025-05-07 - Modified: 2025-06-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-supports-tisax-compliance/ Scytale now supports TISAX, helping automotive businesses manage their information security requirements with ease. Scytale announces support for the TISAX framework, empowering businesses in the automotive industry to easily manage their information security requirements and prove they’re a trusted partner. New York, NY, 7 May, 2025 We’re excited to announce the addition of the TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) framework to Scytale’s growing portfolio of supported security and data privacy frameworks, making it easier than ever for businesses to meet their information security requirements. As businesses of all industries and sizes continue to place greater emphasis on protecting sensitive data, Scytale remains committed to helping them simplify their security and compliance processes. Adding TISAX to our offering reflects our ongoing commitment to meeting the unique needs of different customers and growing alongside them.   With this latest addition, we’re equipping automotive businesses with the tools they need to get and stay secure and compliant - the smart way. Let’s take a closer look at what the TISAX framework is all about. So, what exactly is TISAX? TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) is a standardized information security framework designed to protect sensitive information in the automotive industry.   Developed by the ENX Association, TISAX helps companies within the automotive sector - such as manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers - safeguard everything from personal data and intellectual property to confidential business and contractual information. It lays out clear security requirements for information security management - covering essentials like data protection, access control, and risk management - to help minimize the risk of attacks and... --- ### NIST AI RMF vs. ISO 42001: Similarities and Differences > Explore key AI risk management frameworks - NIST AI RMF and ISO 42001 - and how they promote ethical, compliant AI deployment for businesses. - Published: 2025-04-30 - Modified: 2025-05-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/nist-ai-rmf-vs-iso-42001-similarities-and-differences/ Explore key AI risk management frameworks, NIST AI RMF and ISO 42001, and how they promote ethical AI deployment. When you think about AI, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For many, it’s risk management. With 72% of businesses globally already integrating AI in some form, it’s no wonder so many are scrambling to get a handle on the risks that come with it. Whether you’re a startup stepping into the AI space for the first time or a fast-growing scale-up, understanding AI governance frameworks is crucial for ensuring the ethical deployment of AI systems and of course, staying compliant. In the spotlight today are two key players in AI risk management - NIST AI RMF and ISO 42001. Both frameworks are designed to help organizations tackle AI risks, but they each bring their own unique approach and set of goals to the table. In this article, we’ll break down their similarities, differences, and how to pick the right one for your business. But before we dive into the details, let’s cover the basics of AI risk management and why standardization is key. Let’s jump in! Understanding AI Risk Management Frameworks At the heart of any AI governance strategy is risk management. Simply put, AI risk management is about identifying, assessing, and mitigating potential risks that arise when deploying artificial intelligence (AI) systems. These risks can range from security vulnerabilities and data privacy concerns to even biases in decision-making. To tackle these challenges, AI risk management frameworks like NIST AI RMF and ISO 42001 provide organizations with guidance on how to handle these risks in an organized... --- ### How Automation Simplifies Data Compliance in Healthcare > Discover how automated HIPAA compliance helps healthcare organizations and businesses handling PHI stay secure and reduce risks. - Published: 2025-04-29 - Modified: 2025-04-29 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/automation-data-compliance-health-care/ Discover how automated HIPAA compliance helps healthcare organizations and businesses handling PHI stay secure. HIPAA compliance should be embedded in the DNA of any healthcare organization or business storing or processing PHI. But it’s tricky to manage, and even if organizations are 99. 9% sure they’re fully compliant, there’s always that tiny room for doubt - and it’s starting to take its toll. Healthcare organizations are still among the most targeted and heavily fined industries for data breaches. In fact, in 2024, the average cost of a healthcare data breach was $9. 77 million, maintaining the sector's position as the most expensive industry for data breaches for the 14th consecutive year. The year also witnessed the largest healthcare data breach in U. S. history when UnitedHealth's technology unit, Change Healthcare, was hacked, affecting the personal information of 100 million people. Jaw-dropping, right? And yet another reminder why healthcare security can’t be taken lightly. So, how are Covered Entities (CEs) and Business Associates (BAs) keeping up with complex HIPAA laws and regulations, and how can they ensure they’re always on course? Cue: Automation; revolutionizing healthcare compliance - and we’re not sorry about it. What is HIPAA compliance and why does it matter?   HIPAA compliance is a federal law that applies to all organizations that handle or process Protected Health Information (PHI). https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=kNBVAE2DEck The Privacy Rule - one of HIPAA’s core rules - dictates how organizations must legally collect, store, handle, and dispose of PHI. This rule also defines the two types of organizations subject to it and, therefore, legally obligated to... --- ### Scytale Partners with Lasso Security to Streamline AI Compliance and Governance > Scytale partners with Lasso Security to simplify AI compliance, helping businesses stay ahead of the latest AI regulations and standards. - Published: 2025-04-24 - Modified: 2025-04-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-partners-with-lasso-security-to-streamline-ai-compliance/ Scytale partners with Lasso to simplify AI compliance, helping businesses stay ahead of AI regulations and standards. New York, NY, April 24, 2025 We’re excited to announce that Scytale has teamed up with Lasso, a leader in GenAI security!   This partnership is driven by one goal: to help organizations tackle AI compliance and governance with ease. It empowers businesses of all sizes to strengthen their AI compliance strategies, ensuring they stay ahead of emerging regulations like the EU AI Act and align with key AI frameworks such as NIST AI RMF and ISO/IEC 42001 for proper AI system management. "AI is changing the way businesses operate, and as organizations adopt these technologies, ensuring strong compliance and governance is more critical than ever. Our partnership with Lasso combines Scytale’s compliance automation with Lasso’s GenAI security solutions, helping businesses meet emerging regulatory requirements and stay in control, so they can confidently navigate the evolving AI landscape. " — Guy Horovitz, COO, Scytale. What This Means for Our Customers:  Strengthening AI Compliance Together As AI continues to advance, businesses face growing regulatory and security challenges. Partnering with Lasso brings together Scytale’s powerful automation features and Lasso’s GenAI security expertise, equipping companies with the tools they need to confidently meet new AI standards and regulations. Overcoming AI Compliance Hurdles With more businesses integrating GenAI into their operations, managing risks and complying with AI standards has become both essential and more complex. This union simplifies the compliance process by offering built-in controls, automated audit readiness, continuous risk mitigation, and policy enforcement - all tailored to the unique needs of AI deployments.... --- ### Prioritizing SOC 2 in 2025 > Understanding the importance of SOC 2 can create real value for your business and is key to making more strategically-informed decisions. - Published: 2025-04-23 - Modified: 2025-04-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/prioritizing-soc-2-in-2022/ Understanding the importance of SOC 2 can create real value for your business and is key to making strategic decisions. SOC 2 isn’t just about meeting a set of criteria temporarily and moving on. In fact, SOC 2 isn’t about passing a test at all. Despite common misconceptions, SOC 2 is not a certification, but rather an attestation report. A CPA firm attests that an organization’s internal controls are designed effectively (Type I SOC 2), or designed effectively and operated effectively over a period of time (Type II SOC 2). In short, the auditor provides an opinion whether the internal controls meet the five SOC 2 Trust Service Principles (TSP). And this is not just an abstract conceptual issue. Understanding what SOC 2 is actually for, and how implementing SOC 2 can create real value for your company, is key to making more strategically-informed decisions. Why is a SOC 2 audit important for your business? In an era where security concerns are increasing on a daily basis, it's time to revisit that SOC 2 compliance project you put on hold two years ago. Though daunting at first, SOC 2 compliance is critical for many cloud-based solutions that store customer data, ensuring your organization meets those security compliance demands from customers, has the highest levels of data protection, and wins more deals, faster. In short, a SOC 2 report provides the official 'stamp' of confirmation that your security systems, policies and procedures meet the high standards of the AICPA's SOC 2 compliance framework. Why SOC 2 compliance is more than just a box-ticking exercise It’s one thing if the law requires... --- ### Beyond Your First Audit: The Go-To Checklist For Scaling Your GRC Program > A practical GRC checklist to help you scale compliance beyond your first audit. Stay prepared, efficient, and always audit-ready. - Published: 2025-04-23 - Modified: 2025-05-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/beyond-your-first-audit-the-go-to-checklist-for-scaling-your-grc-program/ Compliance is no walk in the park - and as your company grows, so do your Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) challenges. --- ### Top 10 Security Tools for Startups (Free & Paid) > Explore the top 10 security tools for startups and learn how to maximize your security strategy to protect your business. - Published: 2025-04-16 - Modified: 2025-04-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-security-tools-for-startups/ Explore the top 10 security tools for startups and learn how to maximize your security strategy to protect your business. The fact is, startups have a lot on their plate. You’re building a product, managing a small (but mighty! ) team, talking to investors, and probably wearing about 17 hats before your morning coffee kicks in. But there’s one thing you really can’t afford to ignore: security. Whether you’re dealing with sensitive user data, building a SaaS platform, aiming to get or stay compliant with ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, or another key framework, or simply making sure your team’s login info doesn’t end up on the dark web, security for startups is a must. Simply put: it deserves your full attention. But don’t worry. You don’t need a 10-person security team or a six-figure budget to stay protected. There are some incredible (and often free! ) security tools out there to help cover your bases, and today, we’ll walk you through a few top picks. What to Look for in a Security Tool Whether you're looking for automated risk assessments, cloud monitoring, password management, vulnerability scanning, identity and access management (IAM), or a combination of these capabilities - before diving into our top tools list, here are a few factors to consider when choosing an IT security tool for your startup: Ease of use - You don’t want to spend hours setting up security tools that are difficult to understand or use. The easier the tool is to set up and manage, the quicker your team - from developers to non-technical staff - can get up to speed and... --- ### Security Awareness Training: Strengthening Your First Line of Defense > Regular security awareness training is a core requirement for most compliance frameworks and a key step in managing organizational risk. - Published: 2025-04-14 - Modified: 2025-04-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/security-awareness-training-strengthening-your-first-line-of-defense/ Regular security awareness training is a core compliance requirement for many frameworks and a key step in managing risk. Here's the thing; you could have the most robust security system, implement all the proper security controls and pass your security audits with flying colors; however, these measures can fall short if you neglect the human factor - your first line of defense. Even the most advanced security systems can be compromised due to human error or lack of awareness. Regarding effective risk management, pretty much all compliance frameworks include regular security awareness training (SAT) programs as a basic requirement. Frameworks like ISO 27001, GDPR, and HIPAA explicitly require regular SAT to ensure staff are aware of and can respond to cybersecurity threats. Considering the changing workforce dynamics, including remote and hybrid work models, their preferred learning methods, and their ability to retain knowledge are vital in designing effective SAT programs. Sure, you may get away with implementing a SAT program that ticks off the right boxes in obtaining a certification. Still, you don't have a fighting chance without influencing the day-to-day security culture of operating securely or without implementing a behavioral change. But how do you know whether or not you're choosing the right SAT for a younger, growing workforce that is more connected than ever? Join us as we dive into the top factors to consider to ensure your staff become your greatest asset in terms of security and not your most significant liability. Let me pause here for a second. Can your people truly be your most significant liability? Here's a look at the stats. In 2024,... --- ### 2025 NIST Password Guidelines: Enhancing Security Practices > Discover how NIST password guidelines evolved to prioritize longer, user-friendly passwords, reducing resets and boosting security for 2025. - Published: 2025-04-01 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/2024-nist-password-guidelines-enhancing-security-practices/ Discover how NIST password guidelines evolved to prioritize longer, user-friendly passwords, boosting security for 2025. The NIST password guidelines have come a long way, adapting to the forever changing cybersecurity space and, just as importantly, to how people actually behave. When NIST first introduced its password recommendations back in 2017 (under NIST Special Publication 800-63B), the focus was all about security through complexity. You know the drill - passwords filled with uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. The idea was that more complexity equals more security. But soon after, it became clear that all this complexity wasn’t really doing the trick. Instead, it led to users getting creative in all the wrong way - writing passwords down, reusing them, or making them super predictable (looking at you, "Password123! "). Recognizing this, NIST started to shift its focus in later updates. Rather than pushing complexity, the guidelines began to emphasize password length. Why? Because longer passwords are way harder to crack with brute-force attacks, and they're usually easier to remember than overly complex combinations. By 2020, NIST password guidelines took an even bolder step, recommending that people only change their passwords if there was evidence of a breach. This was a huge departure from the old standard of changing passwords every 60-90 days. Turns out, making people change passwords frequently often leads to weaker ones. People would fall back on patterns or slightly tweak old passwords, making them just as vulnerable. Now, as we look ahead to the NIST password expiration guidelines 2025, the trend is clear - NIST is making security smarter and... --- ### What are CCPA Penalties for Violating Compliance Requirements? > Learn what CCPA penalties look like, who enforces them, and how your business can avoid costly fines with the right compliance strategy. - Published: 2025-03-31 - Modified: 2025-03-31 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ccpa-penalties-for-violating-compliance-requirements/ Learn what CCPA penalties look like and how your business can avoid costly fines with the right compliance strategy. More than ever, consumers are keeping a close eye on how companies handle their personal data - which means your customers are definitely paying attention. If your business collects personal information from California residents, you better believe the CCPA isn’t something you can afford to ignore. As of February 2025, 19 U. S. states have signed consumer privacy laws, but California led the way back in 2018 developing the first state-level privacy bill. Since then, the momentum around data privacy has only grown stronger. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) was designed to give consumers more control over their personal data while helping businesses handle it responsibly, meaning it’s far from just another piece of red tape. For SaaS companies, not taking it seriously could mean facing some serious CCPA penalties. But don’t sweat it - we’re here to break it all down for you (in plain English, promise). Understanding the CCPA So, what exactly does the CCPA mean for your business?   It lays out a clear set of rights for California residents when it comes to their personal information - from knowing what data is being collected, to requesting its deletion, and even opting out of having it sold. In other words, it puts the power back in the hands of the consumer. In short: if your company is collecting or sharing personal data - think names, emails, IP addresses, and even browsing behavior - you might be on the hook to follow CCPA rules. And let’s make... --- ### Top 10 Penetration Testing Solutions in 2025 > Explore the top 10 penetration testing solutions of 2025 to find the perfect tool for safeguarding your data and enhancing security. - Published: 2025-03-24 - Modified: 2025-06-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-penetration-testing-solutions/ Explore the top 10 penetration testing solutions of 2025 to find the perfect tool for safeguarding your data and enhancing security. With massive volumes of data constantly swirling in that mystical cloud, protecting your company’s data is more than just a good idea, it’s absolutely essential. With cyber threats evolving every day, penetration testing solutions are your best defense against potential attacks. But with so many options out there, how do you know which ones are truly worth your time and investment? Let’s dive into the top-rated penetration testing companies of 2025 and figure out which one’s the perfect match for your needs. What is a Penetration Testing Tool? First things first, let’s talk about what penetration testing tools actually are. Think of them as your company’s digital bodyguards. These software applications are designed to simulate cyberattacks on your systems, networks, or applications to identify vulnerabilities before cyber criminals get to them. Essentially, they’re a preemptive strike against potential cyber threats, helping you fortify your defenses. These tools generally come in two varieties: Automated penetration testing solutions: These are fantastic for quickly and efficiently scanning for known vulnerabilities, taking a lot of the heavy lifting off your shoulders by generating detailed reports on your system’s weak spots. Manual testing tools: These rely on human expertise to dig deeper and uncover more complex vulnerabilities that automated tools might miss. The best approach often combines both - automated tools for their speed and efficiency, and manual tools for a thorough, nuanced assessment. https://youtu. be/HMQRjX8U6vU Types of Penetration Testing Tools When it comes to penetration testing, one tool definitely doesn’t fit all. A pen... --- ### How to do Penetration Testing for AI Models > This webinar uncovers key insights to help businesses stay ahead of AI security threats with penetration testing best practices. - Published: 2025-03-19 - Modified: 2025-03-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-do-penetration-testing-for-ai-models/ This session uncovers key insights to help businesses stay ahead of AI security threats with penetration testing best practices. GenAI is everywhere, but is your AI truly secure? Hackers are constantly finding new ways to exploit AI vulnerabilities, putting your security and compliance at risk. In this session, we took a deep dive into: - The real security risks hiding in AI models - How attackers exploit vulnerabilities in GenAI - Strategies to secure AI and maintain SOC 2 compliance Led by Nikita Goman, Scytale’s Penetration Testing Team Leader, and Avi Lumelsky, AI Security Researcher at Oligo. --- ### Penetration Testing vs. Vulnerability Assessment: What’s the Difference and Which One Do You Need? > Discover the differences between penetration testing and vulnerability assessments, and how both can enhance your cybersecurity defenses. - Published: 2025-03-18 - Modified: 2025-03-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/penetration-testing-vs-vulnerability-assessment/ Discover the differences between pen testing and vulnerability assessments, and how both can boost your cybersecurity defenses. Cybersecurity threats are at an all-time high, and businesses cannot afford to take risks when it comes to security. If you’ve been researching ways to protect your organization and strengthen your cybersecurity posture, you’ve likely come across penetration testing and vulnerability assessments. While both play a critical role in risk management and identifying security weaknesses, they serve distinct purposes and are not interchangeable. A vulnerability assessment is a proactive security check designed to identify and categorize potential security flaws before they can be exploited. A penetration test, on the other hand, simulates a real-world attack to assess how an attacker could exploit these vulnerabilities. Understanding the differences between these two approaches is essential for making informed security decisions. So, which one do you need? Let’s clear up the confusion. What is a Vulnerability Assessment? A vulnerability assessment is an automated process that scans your systems, applications, and networks for known security weaknesses. It helps organizations identify, categorize, and prioritize vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by cybercriminals. How Vulnerability Assessments Work Asset Discovery - Identifies all devices, applications, and servers within the network. Scanning & Detection - Uses automated tools to scan for weaknesses, misconfigurations, and outdated software. Risk Evaluation - Categorizes security vulnerabilities based on severity and potential business impact. Reporting & Remediation - Provides a detailed report outlining vulnerabilities and recommendations for fixing them. Common Tools Used for Vulnerability Assessments Nessus Qualys OpenVAS Rapid7 Nexpose When to Use a Vulnerability Assessment A vulnerability assessment is vital for maintaining... --- ### Top 10 Tech Startup Founders in the UK for 2025 > Discover the top 10 tech startup founders in the UK for 2025, driving innovation, reshaping industries, and defining the future of tech. - Published: 2025-03-12 - Modified: 2025-03-12 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-tech-startup-founders-uk/ Discover the top 10 tech startup founders in the UK for 2025, driving innovation, reshaping industries, and defining the future of tech. As the UK’s tech startup ecosystem continues to thrive, visionary founders are driving innovation across various industries, shaping the future of technology, finance, healthcare, and beyond. Apart from building successful companies, these entrepreneurs are taking it a step further - rewriting the rules of business and disrupting traditional models. In this article, we highlight the top 10 tech startup founders in the UK for 2025 (who you should be following if you aren’t already! ), exploring their achievements and the impact they’re making within the prospering UK tech sector. Top UK Tech Startup Founders: Our Must-Follow List 1. Rishi Khosla Rishi Khosla is a seasoned entrepreneur and investor, and is truly dedicated to innovation. As the co-founder and CEO of leading fintech company, OakNorth, - valued at over £1 billion - he has revolutionized lending for scale-up businesses through advanced data analytics, providing fast, flexible financing solutions for SMEs. Previously, he built and sold Copal Amba to Moody’s Corporation, delivering over 200x returns for seed investors.   Beyond business, Rishi is committed to fostering entrepreneurial talent through initiatives like the ‘Mentorpreneurship’ Program and his philanthropic efforts via The Rishi and Milan Khosla Foundation. His investment portfolio spans fintech, biotech, and deep tech, reinforcing his passion for driving progress across industries. 2. Victor Riparbelli As co-founder and CEO of Synthesia, the world's leading AI video creation platform, Victor Riparbelli is a force to be reckoned with in AI-powered video production. Thanks to him, businesses can easily create and scale professional-quality videos... --- ### Top 7 CCPA Compliance Tools in 2025 > Discover the top 7 CCPA compliance tools of 2025 to protect your organization's customer data and streamline your CCPA compliance process. - Published: 2025-03-11 - Modified: 2025-03-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-7-ccpa-compliance-tools/ Discover the top 7 CCPA compliance tools of 2025 to protect customer data and streamline compliance. If you’re running a SaaS business that handles the personal data of California residents and are not actively addressing CCPA compliance, you’re missing a seriously big piece of the puzzle. I hate to break the bad news but the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) isn’t going anywhere - it’s only getting stricter. If the thought of navigating compliance feels like an endless maze of legal jargon, you’re in luck. CCPA compliance automation tools can make your life a whole lot easier.   Let’s explore the true impact of these tools and how the top seven CCPA compliance tools can save your business from headaches, fines, and frustrated customers. Why CCPA Compliance Tools are Essential in 2025 First things first, why do you even need a CCPA compliance tool? Can’t you just handle it yourself? Well, not really. Keeping up with CCPA requirements - like providing opt-out options, managing data requests, and maintaining airtight data security - takes a lot of time and experience. CCPA compliance tools are a must-have for several key reasons. For starters, they automate complex tasks like tracking data requests, generating reports, and updating policies, saving you countless hours and minimizing the risk of whoopsies (aka human errors). Manual processes often leave room for mistakes, and one missed deadline or overlooked data request could lead to severe fines. On top of that, today’s customers and business partners value transparency and control over their data - understandably so, given the increasing number of data breaches. Using a reputable... --- ### Security Compliance in 2025: The SaaS Guide > Here's what you need to know (and do) to ensure your organization has a strong SaaS security posture for 2025. - Published: 2025-03-10 - Modified: 2025-03-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-in-saas/ Here's what you need to know (and do) to ensure your organization has a strong SaaS security posture for 2025. We live in a technology-driven market where old-school alarm systems are replaced with cloud-based security controls. But what is SaaS (software as a service) security really? To fully understand SaaS security, you must first consider the inherent risk. So let's take a look at our main characters. The hero? SaaS applications that simplify, streamline and grow almost every aspect of your business. The arch nemesis? Data threats, information security breaches, and cyber-attacks. Although SaaS organizations have become the Mr. Miyagi of protecting data, as the tech climate adapts faster than ever, there is no rest for even the most prepared SaaS organizations. Hence, the need for omnipresent SaaS security. So, what is SaaS security really? SaaS refers to the delivery of applications over the internet as a service, eliminating the need for internal infrastructure or hardware, and SaaS security is the general term for managing, monitoring, and safeguarding your sensitive data from cyber threats, breaches, and violations (both internally and externally). But how does one know whether or not your SaaS security is a strong enough line of defense? Cue your SaaS security frameworks. Some are mandatory; some are not - all are beneficial. Security frameworks help secure an organization's security posture and ensure no critical gaps within the organization's internal structure. Without the proper SaaS security measures, your organization's safety will be a game of luck, what-ifs, and damage control. Fortunately, authorities and regulatory bodies worldwide have issued security guidelines such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation of EU),... --- ### Top 10 Offensive Security Tools for 2025 > Discover the top 10 offensive security tools for 2025 to proactively identify vulnerabilities, strengthen defenses, and maintain compliance. - Published: 2025-03-05 - Modified: 2025-03-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-offensive-security-tools/ Discover the top 10 offensive security tools for 2025 to identify vulnerabilities, strengthen defenses, and stay compliant. With data breaches skyrocketing and millions of records exposed every year, it’s no wonder cybersecurity keeps business leaders up at night. The reality? As information security threats become more sophisticated, sitting back and waiting for an attack is simply no longer an option. One proactive way to combat these threats is through conducting offensive security - actively testing your systems for vulnerabilities before the bad guys can exploit them. To help you stay ahead of potential threats and find the best tools for the job, we’ve rounded up the top 10 offensive security tools for 2025 - ensuring your business remains resilient.   What is Offensive Security? Offensive security - also known as penetration testing - is all about taking a proactive approach to information security and risk management. Instead of relying solely on defenses and hoping for the best, offensive security focuses on actively testing systems, networks, and applications for vulnerabilities - before malicious actors can find and exploit them. Essentially, it’s like hiring an ethical hacker to (purposefully) break into your own systems so you can identify and fix weak spots before a real hacker gets the chance. Why You Need Offensive Security Tools Cyber threats aren’t slowing down, and neither should your approach to security and compliance. Keeping sensitive data safe isn’t just about defense - it’s about staying one step ahead and proving that you take data protection, security, and compliance seriously. Offensive security tools help SaaS businesses do exactly that by simulating real-world attacks, exposing... --- ### Top 6 Most Recommended OneTrust Alternatives > We've researched the top 6 OneTrust alternatives so you don't have to. Our list includes Scytale, Ketch, Secureframe, and more. - Published: 2025-03-03 - Modified: 2025-03-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/onetrust-alternatives/ We've researched the top 6 OneTrust alternatives so you don't have to. Explore your options here. When it comes to data security and privacy compliance, businesses often have little wiggle room when it comes to adhering to the respective requirements. Similarly, when working towards a compliance framework, companies want to rest assured that they're implementing industry-leading standards without letting any vulnerabilities or risks slip through the cracks. This should also be the case when evaluating and choosing the right compliance management and security solution.   However, choosing the right one in a saturated market can be complex (and daunting), especially if you don't know what to look out for. Fortunately, we do - so we've gathered the top six OneTrust alternatives so you don't have to.   What Does OneTrust Do? OneTrust is a well-known risk management and data compliance software. What makes it stand out above dozens of other competitors? Good question! OneTrust is preferred by many due to its ability to streamline the usual resource-intensive compliance tasks. In brief, OneTrust enables you to implement security compliance requirements by automating evidence collection and other compliance-related tasks. But despite its capabilities to help organizations operationalize their efforts across governance and compliance activities, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each organization has unique compliance needs, a unique risk landscape, and varying technical capabilities, which is why it's critical to keep an open mind and do due diligence regarding the best solution for your business.   The Best 6 OneTrust Alternatives Users gravitate towards alternative choices for a number of valid reasons, be it budget restraints, more customization, scaling... --- ### A Comprehensive Guide to User Access Reviews: Best Practices and Pitfalls > Master user access reviews by avoiding common pitfalls and implementing best practices for streamlined, secure access management. - Published: 2025-02-26 - Modified: 2025-03-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/guide-to-user-access-review/ Discover how to perform accurate user access reviews and avoid the most common pitfalls in this quick guide. We say it all the time; your employees are your first line of defense; however, they can also pose a significant risk. This is why almost all compliance frameworks agree on one critical process that can't be overlooked, especially in a growing digital landscape: user access reviews.   Monitoring user access across different departments and employees is critical to mitigating compliance risks and enhancing an organization's security posture. However, that by no means makes it an easy task. In this piece, we're diving into what it means to perform an accurate user access review without succumbing to the common pitfalls. Here's what you need to know. What is a User Access Review and Why is it Essential? User access review is critical to information security and user account management and is paramount in ensuring that organizations have a periodic overview of all access rights across the organization, including those granted to employees and vendors. To ensure their access control processes align with their security compliance requirements, user access reviews should focus on an assessment of the following: All designated user roles Access rights and privileges All credentials provided to users Additionally, user access reviews help in maintaining an up-to-date and accurate record of who has access to what within your organization, ensuring tight control over user access. This is particularly important for maintaining compliance with various regulatory requirements, as well as for identifying and mitigating potential security risks. Frequent user access reviews are specifically critical concerning long-term employee accounts, recently... --- ### Cyber Essentials Plus Checklist for 2025 > The Cyber Essentials Plus Certification focuses on 5 fundamental security controls. Here's a checklist to make sure you're on the right track. - Published: 2025-02-24 - Modified: 2025-05-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/cyber-essentials-plus-checklist/ The Cyber Essentials Plus Certification targets 5 key security controls - here's your checklist to keep you on track. The Cyber Essentials UK government-backed scheme is one of the most straightforward information security frameworks (in theory). Why? Well, simply put, regardless of your industry, a baseline foundation of cybersecurity is imperative. We know it, you know it, and your competitors know it. However, it's one thing to understand the importance of following a strong security standard and a whole other ball game to actually implement the right controls for your specific threat landscape. So, practically speaking - what is Cyber Essentials? Moreso, what’s the fuss about Cyber Essentials Plus, in particular?   In brief, Cyber Essentials Plus is a part of the Essentials scheme but can be regarded as the ‘higher level. ’ When comparing Cyber Essentials with Cyber Essentials Plus, Plus is a more comprehensive and rigorous evaluation that provides a higher level of assurance for your organization's security, involving external audits and more detailed technical checks. https://youtu. be/4pRrocLuHqc? list=PL495JGqlB4DLg2oORhWAtRrUKsiAVbceN Understanding Cyber Essentials Plus To recap, Cyber Essentials has two different types of certifications, both overseen by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in the UK. Seeing as the Cyber Essentials Plus certification is considered the advanced, more technical certification, this automatically means that the process of obtaining it isn’t as straightforward as its self-assessment counterpart. Here's how they differ:  Cyber Essentials:  Cyber Essentials refers to a series of self-assessments. These self-assessments require organizations to gauge their cybersecurity posture and implement the basic controls to cover the most common threats. Most organizations lean towards Cyber Essentials because it... --- ### Showcase Your Security and Compliance Program in Minutes with Scytale’s Trust Center > Launch a fully customized Trust Center in minutes with Scytale and effortlessly showcase your security and compliance posture. - Published: 2025-02-24 - Modified: 2025-02-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/showcase-your-security-and-compliance-program-in-minutes-with-scytales-trust-center/ Launch a fully customized Trust Center in minutes with Scytale and effortlessly showcase your security and compliance posture. We’re over the moon to announce the launch of Scytale’s Trust Center, a new feature that makes demonstrating your security and compliance posture easier than ever. With Scytale, you can now not only achieve and maintain compliance but also launch a fully customized Trust Center in minutes. A Trust Center That’s Ready to Go Forget the hassle of building a Trust Center from scratch with repetitive data entry or manual updates. Scytale automatically pulls and syncs your existing compliance data from our platform, so your Trust Center is pre-filled and ready to go live instantly.   One Ecosystem for Everything Security and Compliance Scytale is your one hub for every aspect of your security and compliance portfolio. From automating your audit-readiness and maintaining frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001 and GDPR, to effortlessly launching your Trust Center, we simplify every workflow. Why Build Your Trust Center with Scytale? Customize your Trust Center to reflect your organization’s specific compliance frameworks, security policies, controls, and vendor management – all within Scytale. Say goodbye to endless back-and-forths. Manage policy and report requests in a few clicks with real-time notifications. Share audit reports and easily direct partners, customers and prospects to your Trust Center, highlighting your commitment to security and compliance without draining your team’s time. Scytale’s Trust Center eliminates the headaches often associated with sharing your information security best practices and compliance, and helps you put your best foot forward with ease. --- ### AI Compliance for Startups: What You Need to Know Before Your Prospects Start Asking for ISO 42001 > Watch this webinar to get ahead in AI compliance with ISO 42001, before your prospects start asking for it. - Published: 2025-02-20 - Modified: 2025-02-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ai-compliance-for-startups-what-you-need-to-know-before-your-prospects-start-asking-for-iso-42001/ Watch this webinar to get ahead in AI compliance with ISO 42001, before your prospects start asking for it. ISO 27001 has been your go-to for security and compliance this far, but if AI is becoming a core part of your operations, it might not be enough anymore. Enter ISO 42001, the new compliance standard specifically designed for businesses integrating AI into their systems, processes, or products. Watch this webinar to learn: What ISO 42001 covers and how it differs from other standards When and why your customers might expect you to comply How being ISO 27001 certified can fast-track your journey to AI compliance This session is led by Ronan Grobler, Scytale's Senior GRC Manager, who has helped countless companies achieve ISO certifications (including ISO 27001, ISO 42001) and navigate complex legal frameworks like GDPR, HIPAA, and CCPA, and more. --- ### Scytale Dominates as G2's 2025 Best GRC Software Winner > Scytale has been crowned G2's Best GRC Software Product of 2025, securing our spot as a top leader in security compliance automation. - Published: 2025-02-20 - Modified: 2025-08-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-named-2025-g2-best-grc-software-winner/ Scytale has been crowned G2's Best GRC Software Product 2025, securing our spot as the top leader in security and compliance. As we kick off 2025, we’re thrilled to announce that Scytale has been crowned Best GRC Software Product by G2, solidifying our position as the dominant leader in the compliance and security space. New York, NY, February 20, 2025 We’re beyond excited to share some BIG news - Scytale has been crowned a winner of G2’s 2025 Best Software Awards!   And this isn't just any award - we’ve been recognized as one of the very Best Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) Software Products of 2025, voted #12 based on verified user reviews. This recognition holds far more weight than just another industry nod - it’s unquestionable validation from the people who matter most: our customers. At Scytale, we’ve always challenged the status quo, believing that compliance should be simple, automated, and stress-free - regardless of your company's size or stage. From SOC 2 to ISO 27001, HIPAA, GDPR, PCI DSS, and beyond, our mission has always been to help SaaS businesses achieve and maintain compliance with the most critical data privacy and security frameworks - effortlessly. This award is undeniable proof that we’re doing just that and leading the way as the top compliance automation solution. What Does Winning G2's Best GRC Software Award Mean for Scytale? G2, the world’s largest and most trusted software marketplace, reaches 100 million buyers annually. Its annual Best Software Awards rank the top software companies and products based on authentic, timely reviews from real users and publicly available market presence data. Earning a... --- ### Steps to Ready Your SOC 2 Compliance Documentation > Discover the essential steps to get your organization's SOC 2 compliance documentation audit-ready and effortlessly stay compliant. - Published: 2025-02-19 - Modified: 2025-02-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/steps-to-ready-your-soc-2-compliance-documentation/ Discover the essential steps to get your organization's SOC 2 compliance documentation audit-ready - faster and stress-free. Have you ever imagined your worst nightmare?   For many SaaS companies, it’s the thought of sensitive customer data slipping into the wrong hands. In the third quarter of 2024 alone, a staggering 422. 61 million records were leaked in data breaches, impacting millions of individuals worldwide. If data security isn’t already a top priority for your business, consider this your wake-up call. As your SaaS company grows and takes on more customer data, the need for effective security measures becomes that much more crucial. The good news? This is where SOC 2 compliance comes in - a vital trust factor for your customers and stakeholders, especially if your business handles sensitive customer data. But - here’s the catch (there’s always a catch! ) - before you can show off your SOC 2 report to customers, you need to start at the very beginning by getting your compliance documentation in order. If the thought of prepping your SOC 2 documentation makes you want to run for the hills, don’t worry - we’ve got you covered with a step-by-step guide that even your least security-savvy colleague can understand. SOC 2: A Quick Recap SOC 2 (Service Organization Control 2) is like a VIP pass to your customers' trust. Developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), this widely recognized security framework evaluates how well a SaaS company protects customer data based on five SOC 2 Trust Service Principles (TSP): Security (mandatory), availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. While security... --- ### 10 Best Startup Conferences to Attend in 2025 > The 10 best startup conferences to attend in 2025 for startups interested in security compliance, growth, and the latest tech innovations. - Published: 2025-02-17 - Modified: 2025-02-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/best-startup-conferences-to-attend/ The 10 best startup conferences in 2025 for startups interested in security compliance, growth, and tech innovation. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and in many ways, that rings true for startups - especially when it comes to finding your foothold in the market. We’ve created a list of the 10 best startup conferences to attend in 2025. But first, let’s take a look at what these conferences can mean for startups.   Why Attend Startup Conferences?   For starters, it’s important to acknowledge that as a startup, there are times when you don’t even know what you don’t know. Startup conferences allow business owners to leverage a trove of insights and information that is particularly crafted to help them wherever they are in their startup journey - whether that be at the very beginning or not. Startup summits also address the specific pain points that startups face, taking into account a possible lack of resources, expertise, or tools to streamline crucial processes. More so, it also speaks to your specific business goals as a startup, which could include scaling your business, expanding into new markets, or securing venture capital funding, and the role that compliance plays in it all. As an added bonus, these events are also a prime opportunity to network with sought-after industry leaders and like-minded entrepreneurs.   However, that doesn’t mean that businesses should simply throw a dart at a map and travel to any startup conference. There are a few things that need to be taken into consideration.   Things to Consider When Attending a Startup Conference When... --- ### Navigating PCI DSS Controls: Your Path to Secure Payments > Learn how SaaS businesses can navigate PCI DSS controls to secure payments, ensure compliance, and protect cardholder data effortlessly. - Published: 2025-02-11 - Modified: 2025-02-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/navigating-pci-dss-controls-your-path-to-secure-payments/ Learn how SaaS businesses can navigate PCI DSS controls to ensure compliance and protect cardholder data effortlessly. Did you know the total value of losses due to fraudulent card payments worldwide - including both credit and debit cards - is expected to reach $43 billion by 2028?   That’s an astronomical number, and businesses accepting card payments must take security seriously to avoid falling victim to fraud. If your SaaS company handles payment card data, understanding and implementing PCI DSS controls is essential - not just for compliance but for protecting your customers, reputation, and bottom line. In this article, we’ll break down PCI DSS controls, explain why they matter, and guide you on implementing them effectively - without getting lost in technical jargon. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=nyid4_2WZlg PCI DSS: A Quick Recap Before we dive into the controls, let’s make sure we’re on the same page about the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This set of security requirements was established by major credit card companies (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover Financial Services, and JCB) to ensure businesses take the necessary measures to protect cardholder data and maintain a secure cardholder data environment. Not sure if your organization needs to comply? Here’s who must follow PCI DSS requirements:  Any business that processes, stores, or transmits payment card data. SaaS companies offering payment solutions, subscriptions, or integrations that handle transactions. Third-party service providers supporting businesses that process payments. Simply put, if your SaaS company stores, processes, or transmits cardholder data - even indirectly - you must comply with PCI DSS. Although not mandated by law,... --- ### Show Your Customers You Mean Business: Why You Need Compliance Framework Badges On Your Website > Boost trust and credibility by proving your ongoing compliance with Scytale's compliance framework badges. - Published: 2025-02-11 - Modified: 2025-02-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/why-you-need-compliance-framework-badges/ Boost trust and credibility by proving your ongoing compliance with Scytale's compliance framework badges. Let’s begin with the facts: trust is everything. Whether you’re a SaaS startup or a scaling enterprise, your customers need to know they can trust you. They’re willingly handing over their sensitive data when they choose to support your business, and they want to know it will be kept safe. That’s where security compliance badges come in. You’ve likely come across them on websites before: those little icons saying “ISO 27001 Certified” or “SOC 2 Compliant. ” They’re not just pretty decorations - they’re incredibly valuable tools for building trust and boosting confidence, helping you show your customers, prospects, and partners that you’ve got their backs when it comes to information security and data privacy compliance.   However, not all security badges are created equal - and we’ll explain why.   Why Security Badges Are Non-Negotiable First impressions matter, especially if you’re the new kid on the block. Your website is often the first point of contact for customers and partners, and security badges send a clear message to your visitors: “This business knows what it’s doing. ”  Showcasing your proof of compliance on your website is essential for many reasons, including: Instant Credibility: Compliance badges immediately demonstrate that your organization is responsible and complies with strict information security or data privacy requirements outlined in respective frameworks - showcasing your commitment to security and privacy compliance while reinforcing that you’re a trustworthy business partner. You can also leverage them to promote and amplify your compliance efforts. Eliminate Doubt: Compliance badges... --- ### ISO 27001 Certification Costs Stressing You Out? Let's Break it Down for You > Understand the real ISO 27001 certification costs for companies and discover how you can increase productivity without increasing the budget. - Published: 2025-02-10 - Modified: 2025-02-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-certification-costs/ Understand the ISO 27001 certification costs and discover how you can increase productivity without increasing the budget. While ISO 27001 certification is undeniably valuable, understanding its associated costs is crucial for budgeting and decision-making. But before we explore these expenses and provide insights on navigating them effectively, let's dip our toes into ISO 27001 and what it entails.   What is ISO 27001? There are three main things you need to know when it comes to ISO 27001.   ISO 27001 is the leading data security standard, trusted by companies worldwide. The certification is recognized as the international gold standard. ISO 27001 stipulates specific requirements for establishing, maintaining, and improving an organization's information security management system (ISMS). For more information on ISO 27001, take a quick detour to our ISO 27001 under 27001 milliseconds guide, wrapping up the most significant aspects of the leading global security standard. ISO 27001 is valuable, but it doesn't always come cheap. So, in the spirit of saving (time and money), let's cut to the chase - what's the cost of compliance?   Understanding the ISO 27001 certification cost for companies Now, we could blurt out a ballpark figure right out the gate, but that won't do you any good. Why? Because each ISO 27001 cost will differ depending on a variety of factors, including:  The size of your organization The approach you're taking to obtain ISO 27001 (DIY or not) The risk profile of your company Whether or not you invest in automated compliance (hint-hint) The complexity of your Information Security Management System (ISMS) That being said, saying "it depends" to... --- ### 7 Top Compliance Audit Software for 2025 > Discover the 7 top compliance audit software solutions for 2025, designed to streamline your compliance processes. Dive in now! - Published: 2025-02-05 - Modified: 2025-07-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-compliance-audit-software/ Discover the 7 top compliance audit software solutions for 2025, designed to streamline your compliance processes. We get it - keeping up with new, ever-changing compliance requirements can be a nightmare, often resulting in a mild headache at best. There’s, however, no easy way around it as maintaining an effective corporate compliance program in today’s dynamic business world is essential not only for building trust with your key stakeholders but also for ensuring an effective and smooth risk management strategy.   Fortunately, this is where compliance audit software comes in - making all the difference when it comes to managing your security and compliance tasks efficiently. Among the countless decisions you’ll make on your business journey, choosing the right compliance audit management software is a biggie. But why? The answer is simple: going full steam ahead with the right solution gives you the tools necessary to tackle compliance frameworks... wait, wait, wait - there’s more! It also helps boost your organization’s productivity and ultimately, enables your business to get serious and level up your security and privacy compliance, without sucking up hundreds of hours.   Now that we know why compliance audit software deserves some serious attention, let’s dive into everything you need to know about it, including the top 7 options for 2025 and how to choose the best fit for your business. What is Compliance Audit Software?   Let’s break it down. Compliance audit software is an automation tool that helps your organization to easily manage, track, and ensure adherence to internal policies, industry regulations, and audit requirements.   Instead of relying on time-consuming... --- ### Top 15 Cloud Compliance Tools in 2025 > Explore the top 15 cloud compliance tools in 2025 that you can leverage to effectively protect your organization and customer data. - Published: 2025-02-04 - Modified: 2025-02-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-cloud-compliance-tools/ Explore the top 15 cloud compliance tools in 2025 that you can leverage to protect your organization and customer data. Keeping your head in the clouds might sound dreamy, but managing compliance up there doesn’t quite hit the same. With data breaches on the rise and regulations always changing, staying compliant in the cloud isn’t just for the big guys - it’s a must for everyone, from startups tackling their first audit to enterprises keeping things above board. Thankfully, with the right tools in your corner, managing cloud compliance becomes far more straightforward, less stressful, and - dare we say - manageable. If you’re on a mission to keep your business protected, ensure your cloud-based data is secure, stay on top of compliance requirements, and reduce those sleepless nights, you’ve come to the right place.   Join us as we dive into the top cloud compliance tools for 2025 and see how they can help your business soar with confidence. What’s Cloud Security Compliance, Anyway? Moving to the cloud comes with big perks - lower IT costs, increased speed of operations, flexibility of product offerings, and seamless collaboration, to name a few. But with that convenience comes a new layer of security challenges and risks.   Whether you're using AWS, GCP, or MS Azure as your IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) provider, hosting your data in the cloud doesn’t automatically mean it’s secure. Without proper data security and cloud compliance measures, SaaS businesses risk security vulnerabilities, data breaches, and violation penalties.   That’s where cloud security compliance comes in - ensuring that your cloud infrastructure meets the necessary industry standards,... --- ### The 10 Best SaaS Conferences in 2025 > Here's our list of the 10 Best SaaS Conferences to attend in 2025, when and where they're happening, and why you don't want to miss out. - Published: 2025-02-03 - Modified: 2025-02-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-5-best-saas-conferences/ Here's our list of the 10 Best SaaS Conferences to attend in 2025 and why you should be there. In the whirlwind world of SaaS, staying in the loop isn’t just nice - it’s necessary. And what better way to do that than diving into the heart of where innovation, wisdom, and connections come together? Yes, we’re talking about conferences! As we look towards 2025, there are a few events that stand out as must-visits. Before we walk you through some of the best SaaS conferences that are absolutely worth circling on your calendar this year, let’s chat about why these events are more than just listening to keynote speeches. Why Attend SaaS Conferences? SaaS conferences are the living, breathing core of the SaaS community. Here, amidst exciting conversations and the clinking of coffee cups, you'll find inspiration, innovation, and insight in overflow. It’s where challenges meet solutions, questions find answers, and connections spark opportunities. For the ‘Aha! ’ Moments Ever had one of those moments in business when a concept suddenly clicks, and you wonder how you ever saw things differently? SaaS conferences are the perfect environment for these breakthroughs. Perhaps it’s a new approach to customer success, an exciting marketing strategy, or a tech solution that could rescue you from spending hundreds of hours on audits and data compliance tasks (hint hint: we’ve got you covered on this one).   Networking That’s Actually Fun Imagine finding your next partner or investor over coffee, or a mentor in a workshop. Maybe it’s a chance encounter with someone who just gets the challenge you’ve been tackling for months. The... --- ### SOC 2 Report Examples for 2025: Insights into Top-Tier Compliance > A SOC 2 report demonstrates how effectively your business has implemented SOC 2 security controls across the five TSC. - Published: 2025-01-28 - Modified: 2025-01-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-report-examples/ A SOC 2 report demonstrates how effectively your business has implemented SOC 2 security controls across the five TSC. In the world of security compliance, things can get complicated. Even when searching the internet for answers, understanding the technical jargon in the information security industry can be challenging. That's why we're here to clarify some aspects of SOC 2 compliance, particularly SOC 2 reports, and their significance for your security posture. Let's explore what a SOC 2 report is and how to interpret one. What is a SOC 2 Report? Getting SOC 2 compliant can be a lengthy and resource-intensive process. However, as you reach the end of the road, you receive the SOC 2 Type II report (or attestation). Your SOC 2 Type II report will prove that your company's data management practices meet the relevant SOC 2 criteria and requirements over a specific historical period. Independent CPAs issue it after your audit journey and affirm that you are SOC 2 compliant - finally!   To simplify, a SOC 2 Type II report demonstrates how effectively your business has implemented SOC 2 security controls across the five Trust Services Categories (TSC) laid out by the AICPA. Need a quick refresher on the five Trust Service Principles? No worries, we've got you covered.   The Five Trust Service Categories The "trust services criteria" (aka the full list of requirements) are principles established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) specifically for service organizations. These "trust services criteria” provide the basic guidelines to assure that a service organization has implemented the required internal controls over its operations. They... --- ### What are the Best Practices for GDPR Compliance? > Explore GDPR compliance best practices for your organization, setting you up for a successful and efficient GDPR certification process. - Published: 2025-01-27 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/best-practices-for-gdpr-compliance/ Discover some GDPR compliance best practices for your business, setting you up for a successful GDPR certification process. Welcome to the world of GDPR compliance requirements! It’s pretty tough to navigate but we’re here to be your guide on this conquest towards compliance. Here, you'll find all the juicy info and top-notch tips needed to make sure your business is totally compliant with this data protection regulation. By following these best practices, you can help keep your customers' personal data safe and sound and stay clear of any hefty fines. So let's get this show on the road and make sure your organization reaches its GDPR goals! The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a regulation in European law on data protection and privacy in Europe and the European Economic Area. This regulation has been developed to ensure the safety and security of individuals’ information in the digital age. It emphasizes transparency, accountability, and the need for explicit consent when processing personal information. Since its enforcement, GDPR has not only reshaped the digital landscape but has also compelled organizations to adopt a more stringent approach to data handling. To remain compliant with GDPR technical requirements, it is essential for organizations to develop best practices on how they handle data. In this article, we will explore GDPR compliance best practices and provide guidance on how businesses can ensure they stay compliant. How to prepare for GDPR compliance Knowing how to prepare for GDPR compliance is a must-have in any business' toolkit! Especially considering GDPR vendor compliance involves making sure that the necessary vendors you work with are also GDPR... --- ### Why Penetration Testing is Essential for Regulatory Compliance  > Learn how penetration testing keeps your business compliant with regulatory frameworks by identifying vulnerabilities and mitigating risks. - Published: 2025-01-22 - Modified: 2025-01-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/penetration-testing-regulatory-compliance/ Learn how penetration testing keeps your business secure and compliant with regulatory frameworks. From GDPR to HIPAA, data security and penetration testing go hand in hand in addressing the challenge of achieving - and maintaining - compliance with key security and privacy frameworks.   Penetration testing, also known as “pen testing,” plays a critical role in identifying vulnerabilities within information security systems. Despite its importance, many companies still question whether major information security and data privacy frameworks mandate penetration testing as part of their compliance requirements. Even if you’ve never heard of "pen testing," we’re here to clear up any confusion.   In this article, we explore how penetration testing fits into the compliance journey, why it’s essential, the different types of penetration testing, how to leverage your pen testing results, and how innovative compliance automation software can streamline the entire process, making your path to compliance a whole lot smoother. What is Penetration Testing? Before we go any further, let’s specify exactly what penetrating testing in compliance is. Penetration testing is a method used to evaluate the security of an information system by simulating an attack from malicious outsiders (and insiders). The goal of this testing is to identify and fix any weaknesses that could be exploited at a later stage. Given the rise in data breaches globally, it’s easy to see why this is so important.   Pen testing is typically conducted by security experts - also known as “ethical hackers” - whose main purpose is to spot vulnerabilities in your system, processes, applications, or networks before real hackers can take... --- ### Biggest Data Breaches of 2024: Emerging Threats, Impact, and Proactive Prevention Strategies > Learn from 2024’s biggest data breaches, the lessons learned, and how to protect your business from becoming the next headline. - Published: 2025-01-21 - Modified: 2025-05-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/biggest-data-breaches-impact-prevention-strategies/ Learn from 2024’s biggest data breaches, the lessons learned, and how to protect your business from becoming the next headline. Data breaches are a modern-day nightmare for all types of businesses, particularly for SaaS companies handling sensitive customer information. While it often feels like we’re constantly hearing about “the biggest data breaches in US history,” 2024 truly set the bar for some of the most significant security crises to date.   Let’s take a closer look at the major data breaches of 2024, the lessons learned, and how your business can proactively protect itself from becoming the next headline. Emerging Security Threats in Today’s Tech-Driven World Cybercriminals are becoming both smarter and bolder, and 2024 highlighted just how rapidly the threat landscape is evolving. From sophisticated phishing schemes to exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities, malicious actors now use AI tools to mimic human behavior, making attacks more convincing than ever. Ransomware groups have also started targeting smaller SaaS providers, knowing their security defenses may not be as impermeable as larger enterprises.   Quite simply, if you’re not actively staying ahead of these threats and taking the necessary measures to mitigate the associated risks, you’re falling behind. And what does that mean? It means you’re leaving your business vulnerable. Biggest Data Breaches of 2024 2024 witnessed some of the biggest and most impactful data breaches to date. If it wasn’t clear before, these crises have further emphasized the growing urgency for businesses to recognize that robust cybersecurity measures are more critical than ever. Let’s dive into five of the biggest data breaches that occurred globally in 2024: National Public Data Breach Date: April... --- ### 10 HIPAA Violations to Watch Out for While Working Remotely > The transition from paper to technology has improved care, connection, and processes, but it has also added more cybersecurity risks. - Published: 2025-01-20 - Modified: 2025-01-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-violations-to-watch-out/ The transition from paper to technology has improved care, connection, and processes, but it has also added more security risks. The rise of telehealth and remote work environments in the last few years poses a potential threat to patients’ protected health information (PHI). This is largely due to our increased reliance on technology and its ability to bridge the distance between patients, health care providers, and healthcare organizations.   While the transition from paper to technology has improved care, connection, and processes, it comes with the added risk of cybersecurity threats and attacks.   What is HIPAA?   The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) is a federal law regulating and safeguarding PHI through standards. HIPAA was introduced initially to ensure that employees could keep healthcare coverage between employment and not face discrimination for any pre-existing conditions that they may have. HIPAA Privacy Rule  The HIPAA Privacy Rule was issued by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to implement the standards of HIPAA. The Privacy Rule outlines strict guidelines to ensure HIPAA safeguard requirements are followed and implemented effectively.   HIPAA Security Rule  The HIPAA Security Rule provides national standards to protect an individual's electronic personal health information (e-PHI). The Security Rule ensures that the appropriate technical, physical, and administrative safeguards are employed to protect the integrity, security, and confidentiality of e-PHI.   The HIPAA BibleEverything you need to know about HIPAA compliance! Download the Whitepaper Who is required to follow HIPAA?   The following organizations and individuals are required to follow the privacy rule and are treated as conversed entities:  Health care providers ... --- ### Large Language Models and Regulations: Navigating the Ethical and Legal Landscape > Leverage the full potential of Large Language Models (LLMs) for your business while ensuring responsible AI use and maintaining compliance. - Published: 2025-01-15 - Modified: 2025-01-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/large-language-models-and-regulations-navigating-the-ethical-and-legal-landscape/ Leverage the full potential of Large Language Models (LLMs) for your business while staying compliant. Artificial intelligence (AI) has gone from being a futuristic concept to a practical tool we interact with daily. Not sure of something? “Just ChatGPT it,” right? At the heart of this AI revolution are Large Language Models (LLMs), which power everything from virtual assistants and chatbots to content generation tools and customer service applications. But as exciting as this technology may sound, it comes with its fair share of challenges. How do we strike a balance between innovation and responsibility? How can your business harness the power of LLMs while staying compliant with evolving and complex regulations? In this article, we dive into how to navigate the ethical and legal maze surrounding LLMs. We’ll start by breaking down what LLMs are and why they’ve become such a big deal. Then, we’ll delve into the current regulatory landscape, highlighting the rules and frameworks you need to know. We’ll also explore the risks associated with these models - from data privacy concerns to potential biases and misinformation. Finally, we’ll show you how tools like Scytale can simplify compliance, helping your business stay on the right side of security and regulatory requirements while leveraging the full potential of LLMs. Whether you’re completely new to security compliance frameworks like SOC 2 or ISO 27001, a CISO or GRC Manager tasked with managing compliance in your organization, or simply an AI enthusiast, this blog has something for you.   Let’s dive into the fascinating - and sometimes tricky - field of LLMs and regulations. What... --- ### Best 5 Regulatory Compliance Conferences to Attend in 2025 > To stay ahead with industry-leading expertise, insights, and best practices for security compliance, this is where you want to be. - Published: 2025-01-13 - Modified: 2025-01-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/best-regulatory-compliance-conferences-to-attend/ Attending annual compliance conferences keeps your organization informed about any new developments in the space. It’s time to start marking your calendars because you’re not going to want to miss any of these. If you want to upskill your team and tap into industry-leading knowledge, expertise and best practices for security compliance, this is where you want to be.   Let’s get into it! Why you should attend a regulatory compliance conference Conferences are calling, and there’s still more than enough time to prep your team and plan the itinerary. Regulatory compliance has become ingrained in everyday business operations, and if you’re not ahead of the curve, you’re playing catch-up. Unfortunately, exposure and risk don’t wait for you to get caught up to speed. But you know this by now – so, how can a conference help?   We get it; business conferences can sometimes span over several days and stack up in expenses. So, is it worth it and what’s the return on investment? Before we dive into our list, let’s explore the top reasons why attending regulatory compliance events in 2025 should be a no-brainer. It’s not about getting compliant; it’s about staying compliant Attending annual regulatory compliance conferences is a surefire way to help your organization become aware of and understand any new developments in the space and regulations you must comply with. Knowing about the latest changes in the world of compliance also allows your organization to tap into best practices and the latest technology to best prepare for and implement any change. Ultimately, this mitigates the risk of data breaches,... --- ### Maintaining SOC 2 Compliance: A Strategic Approach for Businesses > Explore this blog to discover how a strategic approach can help your SaaS business maintain SOC 2 compliance effectively. - Published: 2025-01-09 - Modified: 2025-01-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/maintaining-soc-2-compliance/ Explore this blog to discover how a strategic approach can help your SaaS business maintain SOC 2 compliance effectively. When you think of data security and customer trust, one thing should come to mind - and if it doesn’t, it should: SOC 2 compliance. Simply put, SOC 2 compliance is like a VIP badge for your business. It tells the world, “We’ve got our act together when it comes to protecting sensitive data. ” However, maintaining SOC 2 compliance can often feel like walking through a maze blindfolded, but with the right strategy - and a little help (hint: automation) - you can find your way through with ease. In this blog, we break down how to navigate SOC 2 compliance in a way that won’t make your head spin - or your team ready to push back. Let’s dive in!   Understanding SOC 2 Compliance First things first: what exactly is SOC 2 compliance? In simple terms, it’s a set of standards designed to ensure that your organization manages customer data in a responsible and secure manner. SOC 2 focuses on five Trust Service Principles (TSP), namely: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Here’s the catch though: SOC 2 isn’t a one-and-done deal. It’s not just a report you can hang on the wall and forget about. Maintaining SOC 2 compliance is an ongoing commitment, requiring regular audits, up-to-date compliance documentation, and continuous improvements.   Before diving into how your business can stay compliant with SOC 2, let’s first explore why making information security a top priority is vital for your business. Why Your Business Needs a... --- ### Eliminate the Data Privacy Guesswork with a virtual Data Protection Officer (vDPO) > Eliminate the data privacy guesswork with Scytale's vDPO services, offering expert support and privacy management directly to your business. - Published: 2025-01-07 - Modified: 2025-02-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/eliminate-the-data-privacy-guesswork-with-a-virtual-data-protection-officer-vdpo/ Scytale launches virtual Data Protection Officer (vDPO) services, offering expert support and privacy management. With so many data privacy regulations, like GDPR, CCPA, POPIA to name a few, compliance and protecting data is not always so straightforward. The regulations you need to comply with largely depend on the nature of your business, the regions you operate in, and the type of data you process. They each have their own distinct rules and security measures for compliance, but the question is where do you start? And more importantly, are you on the right track? That’s why we’re introducing our virtual Data Protection Officer (vDPO) services - a solution that brings expert support and privacy management directly to your business. What Does This Mean For You? Our solution is designed to simplify compliance with privacy laws for businesses without the in-house expertise. Whether it’s handling cross-border data transfers, consent management, or Data Processing Agreements (DPAs), our team of privacy experts is here to ensure that every aspect of your data protection is in good hands. With Scytale, you’ll receive tailored guidance to meet legal requirements and track your compliance progress step-by-step - so you’re never left wondering if your business is fully protected. Scytale’s Data Protection Services Scytale provides a full range of services to help your business achieve and maintain compliance. Here’s a rundown of what we offer: Expert Data Privacy Guidance: Our team of privacy experts will work closely with you and provide step-by-step guidance to ensure you’re fully covered under the relevant data privacy laws. Privacy Laws Simplified: From helping you map your... --- ### 5 Best Vendor Risk Management Solutions > Discover the 5 best vendor risk management solutions, designed to help you effectively mitigate third-party risks while ensuring compliance. - Published: 2024-12-31 - Modified: 2025-06-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/best-vendor-risk-management-solutions/ Discover the 5 best vendor risk management solutions, designed to help you mitigate third-party risks while ensuring compliance. Managing vendor risk can feel a lot like trying to keep up with a game where new problems keep arising. Just when you think you’ve got everything under control, another risk pops up. But here’s the good news: vendor risk management (VRM) solutions are here to make sure you win that game and keep your business safe, secure, and ready for whatever may lie ahead.   If you’re tired of the headaches that come with managing third-party vendors, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up the 5 best vendor risk management software options for 2025.   From innovative compliance automation platforms to transparency-focused vendor risk assessment tools, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive in! TL;DR Managing third-party risk can be challenging, but these 5 top-rated tools make the process a whole lot easier. From automation to real-time monitoring, vendor risk management solutions help you stay secure and compliant. Whether you're a SaaS startup or a well-established scale-up, these platforms make managing third-party risk simple, smart, and scalable. Why Vendor Risk Management is Essential in 2025 Picture this: it’s 2025, and security threats are multiplying faster than internet memes - showing up at the worst times and causing nothing but chaos. Data breaches, ransomware attacks, and regulatory fines are not the kind of surprises anyone wants. Working with suppliers, partners, and other third parties means sharing sensitive data and trusting their processes.   In this high-stakes game, with regulations becoming more stringent, hoping for the best when it... --- ### Your Essential Guide to ISO 42001 Certification and Compliance > Dive into this guide to discover how ISO 42001 can empower your business to build ethical, secure, and trustworthy AI systems. - Published: 2024-12-30 - Modified: 2025-03-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/your-essential-guide-to-iso-42001-certification-and-compliance/ Dive into this guide to discover how ISO 42001 can empower your business to build ethical and secure AI systems. If you’ve ever heard the phrase “with great power comes great responsibility,” you’ll know it perfectly sums up the world of artificial intelligence (AI). That’s where ISO 42001 steps in - the unsung superhero of ethical AI management, ensuring your business’s AI systems are as trustworthy as they are powerful. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about ISO 42001 certification. From its key principles and benefits to the steps for achieving it, we’ve kept it clear, simple, and to the point. We’ll also explore how compliance automation software works its magic to streamline ISO 42001 processes. Let’s get started! Introducing ISO 42001: The AI Superhero ISO 42001, officially known as ISO/IEC 42001, is the international standard for AI management systems. It provides a structured framework to help businesses like yours develop, deploy, and govern AI in an ethical, responsible, and secure way. By implementing this standard, organizations can ensure their AI systems are aligned with best practices, addressing AI-specific risks like bias, transparency, and accountability. Sounds like a big deal, right? Well, it is. As AI becomes more powerful and pervasive, the need to manage it effectively has never been more critical. This is where ISO 42001 certification shines - helping you foster trust with customers and stakeholders while positioning your business as a leader in ethical AI. Simply put, achieving ISO 42001 certification can be a game-changer for your business, giving you a competitive edge and ensuring your AI systems operate with integrity and... --- ### NIS2 vs. DORA: Key Differences and Implications for Cybersecurity and Operational Resilience > Discover the key differences between the EU's NIS2 and DORA frameworks and their role in enhancing your business's overall security posture. - Published: 2024-12-23 - Modified: 2024-12-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/nis2-vs-dora/ Discover the key differences between the EU's NIS2 and DORA frameworks and what they mean for your business. Making sense of EU regulations can feel overwhelming for anyone, especially when trying to distinguish between frameworks like NIS2 and DORA. If your business is trying to understand these frameworks, you’re not alone. Although both focus on boosting cybersecurity and resilience, they each have unique purposes and scopes that impact businesses in different ways. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between NIS2 and DORA, explore what they mean for your operations, and highlight how compliance automation software can simplify the compliance process for both frameworks.   Let’s kick things off by exploring exactly what NIS2 and DORA are all about. Key Objectives and Scope of NIS2 and DORA First things first, what are NIS2 and DORA? The Network and Information Systems Directive (aka the EU NIS 2 Directive) is the updated version of the original NIS Directive (2016). This framework focuses on improving the cybersecurity posture of essential and important entities within vital sectors across the European Union (EU), like energy providers, health organizations, and digital service companies. Essentially, the EU has put its foot down and is saying, “Time to level up, everyone! No more playing games when it comes to keeping critical infrastructure and services secure. ” https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=vsWWwPgF0H4 NIS2 Explained On the other hand, DORA (the Digital Operational Resilience Act) is all about ensuring that financial entities - banks, insurance companies, payment providers, etc. - within the EU can withstand, respond to, and recover from security threats. To put it simply, if... --- ### Penetration Testing Now Fully Integrated in Scytale! > Scytale is the only platform to fully manage penetration testing, end-to-end, within a single compliance automation solution. - Published: 2024-12-17 - Modified: 2024-12-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/penetration-testing-now-fully-integrated-in-scytale/ Scytale is the only platform to fully manage penetration testing, end-to-end, within a single compliance automation solution. We’re thrilled to announce that Scytale is the only compliance automation platform that officially enables customers to complete and manage their entire penetration testing process directly within the platform, being your one end-to-end, go-to space for every part of your security and compliance workflows.   We eliminate the need for external tools or endless back-and-forth communication, with every process, request, and task related to your penetration testing project managed inside Scytale - bringing clarity, transparency, and efficiency to ‘pen testing’ like never before. Here’s how Scytale makes Pen Testing a lot cooler Direct Communication: Communicate with penetration testers directly within the platform through in-app messaging. Progress Tracking: The platform reflects all key steps, including Scoping and Requirements, Testing, Initial Report, Re-testing, and Final Report, with notifications at every key touchpoint and clear guidance at every step of the process. Centralized Management: All tasks, from submitting requirements to final reporting are centralized inside the platform, which eliminates friction and saves time for customers and pen testers. How It Works Submit scoping requirements. Get full visibility into findings as testers upload reports. Create tickets in your ticketing system to streamline follow-ups. Submit re-testing requests and review and download your final report, all without leaving the platform. By centralizing and automating the penetration testing workflow, Scytale reduces unnecessary delays, eliminates inefficiencies, and ensures clear communication at every step. Our unique solution eliminates the chaos associated with pen testing and streamlines every step of the process, making it completely effortless and a key no-brainer... --- ### Top 10 Compliance Automation Tools for 2025: An In-Depth Comparison > This blog dives into the best compliance automation tools for 2025 to streamline your regulatory processes with ease. - Published: 2024-12-10 - Modified: 2025-03-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-compliance-automation-tools/ This blog dives into the top 10 compliance automation tools for 2025 to streamline your regulatory processes with ease. You're not alone if staying on top of compliance feels like a full-time job. With regulations constantly changing, it's tough to keep up. But what if there was an easier way?   Enter compliance automation tools.   These clever software tools can take the grunt work out of compliance, freeing you up for more strategic initiatives. And in this post, we'll countdown the top 10 compliance automation tools for 2025.   From user-friendly interfaces to robust automation capabilities, we've compared the key features so you can find the right fit for your business.   Whether you're a startup or large enterprise, you're sure to discover tools to make compliance not-the-worst-thing to do on your to-do list this year.   Let’s dive in.   Key Benefits of Compliance Automation Compliance automation offers numerous advantages for organizations of all sizes. Here are some of the most significant benefits: 1. Time Efficiency Automating compliance processes saves a significant amount of time. Instead of manually gathering and organizing data, compliance automation tools automatically collect, analyze, and report compliance information. This allows compliance teams to focus on more strategic tasks. 2. Enhanced Accuracy Human errors are inevitable, especially when dealing with vast amounts of data. Compliance automation tools reduce the risk of errors by consistently applying compliance rules and standards across all data and processes. 3. Cost Savings By automating compliance tasks, organizations can reduce the need for additional compliance staff and vendors, and minimize the costs associated with non-compliance, such as fines and legal... --- ### No More Scary Audits with Scytale’s Audit Management  > Streamline your business's compliance audits with Scytale's Audit Management, ensuring faster, smoother, and more efficient audit workflows. - Published: 2024-12-09 - Modified: 2024-12-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/no-more-scary-audits-with-scytales-audit-management/ Streamline your business's audits with Scytale's Audit Management, ensuring faster, smoother, and more efficient audit workflows. We get it. Audits can be scary - there’s no tiptoeing out of that one. Between finding the right auditor, attending to endless requests, and juggling different pieces of evidence in different places, it’s easy for your audit to feel like one super chaotic process. This is where Scytale comes in as your all-in-one compliance hub, designed to simplify and accelerate every step of the audit process. A core part of our platform, the Audit Management feature, offers teams a seamless audit and a centralized space, creating a faster and smoother experience between our customers and auditors. With Scytale’s Audit Management, every element of your audit journey - from requests to approvals - is housed in one platform with all your compliance workflows, including both your audit-readiness and official audit. No more bouncing between emails, Slack, and Zoom calls, as Scytale consolidates all communications and data gathering, so that your team and auditors are always on the same page. The Perks of Scytale’s Audit Management  1. Faster Audits that are Easy to ManageOur Audit Management feature allows you to share files and manage auditor requests effortlessly inside Scytale and keep track of all necessary evidence and actions. With tagging and status visibility on action items, you can always see who’s working on what, approvals of evidence and where your audit currently stands - all in real time. 2. Centralized CommunicationKeep every interaction with your auditor in one place. Scytale’s centralized hub eliminates the need for multiple platforms and redundant communications,... --- ### PCI DSS Explained > Here's a break down of PCI DSS, why it matters, and how Scytale can help businesses like yours achieve compliance without the stress. - Published: 2024-12-06 - Modified: 2024-12-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/pci-dss-explained/ Here's a break down of PCI DSS, why it matters, and how Scytale can help businesses like yours achieve compliance without the stress. Struggling to make sense of PCI DSS and its 300+ controls? Hear from our Senior GRC Manager, Robyn Ferreira, as she breaks down the essentials of PCI DSS, why it matters, and how Scytale can help businesses like yours achieve compliance without the stress. --- ### Penetration Testing vs. Compliance Audits: What's the Difference? > Learn the key differences between penetration testing and compliance audits, and why both are essential to help your business stay compliant. - Published: 2024-12-03 - Modified: 2025-06-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/penetration-testing-vs-compliance-audits-whats-the-difference/ Learn the key differences between penetration testing and compliance audits, and why both are essential for your business. When it comes to keeping your business secure and meeting regulatory requirements, two big concepts often pop up: penetration testing and compliance audits. Both are essential, but they’re not the same thing. You can think of them as different tools in your information security toolkit - each with its own purpose, focus, and results.   Let’s dive into what sets these key terms apart, why your business needs both, and how to understand the world of pen testing and compliance audit requirements without turning gray at the thought. Penetration Testing Explained Imagine you hire someone to try to break into your business - not physically, but digitally. That’s essentially what penetration testing is (aka “pen testing”). Simply put, these ethical hackers' core purpose is to exploit your vulnerabilities before the bad guys do. The goal? To identify vulnerabilities in your systems, applications, or network so you can fix them before an actual cyberattack occurs. Why Do You Need It? Cybercriminals are at the top of their game and they know just how to find those sweet spots. Unfortunately, your business’s information security is only as strong as its weakest link, so whether it’s a misconfigured firewall, outdated software, or a simple human error, vulnerabilities can happen. Meeting penetration testing requirements often forms part of staying compliant with key industry standards like SOC 2 or PCI DSS. Beyond compliance, it simply makes good business sense. Who wouldn’t want a sneak peek into how hackers think and how they might attempt to... --- ### Scytale Leads the Way in EU Compliance, Announcing Support for the DORA Framework > Scytale supports key EU regulatory framework, DORA, empowering businesses to strengthen their digital operational resilience. - Published: 2024-12-02 - Modified: 2024-12-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-leads-the-way-in-eu-compliance-announcing-support-for-the-dora-framework/ Scytale supports the DORA framework, empowering businesses to strengthen their digital operational resilience. Scytale adds the DORA framework to its list of leading security and privacy compliance frameworks, enabling businesses to ensure effective and all-inclusive management of digital risks in financial markets within the EU. New York, NY, 02 December, 2024 With January just around the corner, Scytale takes the leap and adds the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) - yet another key European regulatory framework - to its compliance automation platform, building on its fast-growing list of security and privacy frameworks. In addition to offering highly sought-after security frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001 and GDPR, we continue to ensure businesses - of all sizes and across a number of industries - can meet their varying compliance and regulatory requirements with peace of mind and minimal effort.   As a new and highly relevant European framework, your business needs to care about DORA for two key reasons: It is a regulatory framework, meaning compliance is required by law in the EU (not optional). The implementation date for DORA is 17 January 2025, giving financial institutions and their third-party providers a clear deadline to meet DORA requirements and achieve full compliance by this date. Let’s take a closer look at what the DORA framework entails. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=gQhCa9b8G8M&list=PL495JGqlB4DLoWUbJGyVwQxS8iYdgxm8K&t=1s So, What is DORA? DORA is a comprehensive ICT risk management framework designed specifically to strengthen the digital operational resilience of financial entities within the European Union. At its core, DORA cyber security requirements are all about addressing ICT-related risks. From third-party providers to... --- ### DORA the Risk Explorer: Transforming How We Handle Third-Party Trouble > Discover how DORA revolutionizes third-party risk management and digital resilience for financial organizations and beyond. - Published: 2024-11-27 - Modified: 2025-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/dora-the-risk-explorer-transforming-how-we-handle-third-party-trouble/ Discover how DORA revolutionizes third-party risk management and digital resilience for financial institutions and beyond. Third-party partnerships are critical to delivering efficient and innovative services in today’s digital economy. But with that dependence comes a complicated cocktail of risks, threatening operational resilience - especially for financial firms, where one weak link can seriously cause havoc on essential services.   The EU is no stranger to this, announcing the Digital Operational Resilience Act - otherwise known as DORA - which raises the bar on risk key assessments and third-party obligations. A systematic, continuous third-party risk management focus lies at the heart of DORA’s vision of digital resilience. It sets out new rules and requirements that financial entities and ICT service providers need to follow. With financial firms so reliant on third-party partnerships, these dependencies pose significant risks. To address this, the EU introduced DORA - an initiative designed to set strict requirements aimed at ensuring critical third-party risks are effectively managed. Accordingly, DORA requires financial entities to continuously monitor third-party ICT risks, enforce minimum controls, and directly oversee critical service providers.   In this article, we explore how DORA - the new standard for a secure, digital financial sector of the future - complements existing third-party risk management practices, enhancing ICT resilience and establishing a collective baseline for securing the digital landscape of European finance.   DORA at a Glance: Operating with Resilience in Today's Digital-First World DORA compliance aims to guarantee that financial institutions can withstand, respond and recover from all relevant ICT disturbances. Third-party ICT risk management is fundamental to DORA, requiring institutions to... --- ### Key Questions for Enhancing Your Security Questionnaire > Discover how to enhance your security questionnaires by asking the right questions to build stronger partnerships and streamline compliance. - Published: 2024-11-27 - Modified: 2025-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/key-questions-for-enhancing-your-security-questionnaire/ Discover how to enhance your security questionnaires by asking the right questions to build stronger partnerships. In B2B transactions, trust is your most valuable asset, which is why security questionnaires are much more than just dishing out a survey - they're your key to building meaningful partnerships and carrying on with your day-to-day operations with peace of mind. But let’s face it, crafting and responding to these questionnaires can feel like pulling teeth, especially if you don’t have a proper system in place or the help of AI. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry - we're here to show you how to enhance your security compliance questionnaires to make sure you’re asking all the right questions. So, let’s get started - one question at a time! Understanding the Purpose of Security Questionnaires Before we get to the juicy bits (a. k. a. the areas you should be focusing on when drafting your questions), let’s take a step back. Why do security questionnaires exist in the first place? At their core, these handy documents help businesses assess the security posture of their vendors, partners, or service providers, enabling them to effectively evaluate and manage vendor risk. In a climate where data breaches are making headlines on a daily basis, cyber security questionnaires act as a first line of defense. They ensure everyone is playing by the rules, adhering to information security best practices, and protecting sensitive data. For companies on the receiving end of these questionnaires, it’s a chance to show off your security credentials and win over potential clients. But poorly structured or overly complex questionnaires... --- ### Our AI Vision: The Future of Compliance Automation and AI > Scytales announces its vision to revolutionize compliance with AI-driven processes while staying committed to ethical and responsible use. - Published: 2024-11-20 - Modified: 2024-11-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/our-ai-vision-the-future-of-compliance-automation-and-ai/ Scytales announces its vision to revolutionize compliance with ethical and responsible AI-driven processes. Scytale announces its vision for implementing an AI-driven future of compliance, as well as fully supporting AI security and privacy frameworks in its compliance automation platform. New York, NY, 20 November, 2024 At Scytale, we see AI as the catalyst for a new era in compliance, one where technology not only assists but actively transforms how businesses meet security, privacy and AI standards. In this age of automation and AI, compliance doesn’t have to be a tedious, manual process filled with inefficiencies, human error and lack of insights. We see AI as a critical tool that can significantly enhance the speed, accuracy, and overall quality of compliance efforts, and we aim to leverage AI to empower organizations to navigate complex frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and many others with greater ease and confidence. Our vision is clear: Revolutionize compliance by harnessing AI-driven processes, delivering faster, smarter, and more accessible solutions that empower our customers to achieve seamless regulatory alignment. However, AI must also be implemented with caution, respect for data privacy, and adherence to ethical standards. With great innovation comes responsibility and we are deeply committed to ethical, responsible, and compliant AI use. We believe that expert human oversight is essential in the collaboration of AI and compliance, ensuring that automated decisions are guided by professional judgment, where technology and human expertise work together to deliver compliant, reliable, and transparent outcomes. Introducing AI Features for Compliance Scytale is taking bold steps to actively build and implement relevant AI... --- ### The 2-minute NIS2 Breakdown > Learn everything you need to know about NIS2, a European Union directive aimed at strengthening cybersecurity, in just 2 minutes. - Published: 2024-11-20 - Modified: 2024-11-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-2-minute-nis2-breakdown/ Learn everything you need to know about NIS2, a European Union directive aimed at strengthening cybersecurity, in just 2 minutes. THE 2-MINUTE NIS2 BREAKDOWN WHAT IS NIS2? NIS2 is a European Union directive aimed at strengthening cybersecurity across ‘Essential’ and ‘Important’ entities. It updates and expands the original NIS Directive by setting stricter security requirements, broadening the scope to include more organizations, and imposing tougher penalties for non-compliance. The goal of NIS2 is to improve resilience against cyber threats and ensure consistent security practices across the EU. WHO NEEDS TO BE NIS2 COMPLIANT? NIS2 compliance is required for ‘Essential’ and ‘Important’ entities within the EU, including: Essential (Sectors of High Criticality) Important (Other Critical Sectors) Energy Postal and Courier Services Transport Waste Management Banking Manufacture, Production and Distribution of Chemicals Financial Market Infrastructures Production, Processing and Distribution of Food Health Manufacturing Water Digital Providers Digital Infrastructure Research ICT Service Management Public Administration Space WHY DO YOU NEED TO BE NIS2 COMPLIANT? NIS2 mandates legal obligations, so non-compliance can result in reputational damage and loss of business opportunities. You need to be NIS2 compliant to avoid hefty fines, protect your business from cyber threats, and ensure you can continue operating in critical sectors across the EU. Compliance builds trust with customers and partners by demonstrating your commitment to cybersecurity. KEY STEPS IN YOUR NIS2 PROCESS Assess Your RiskIdentify potential cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities. Implement Security MeasuresAdopt strong cybersecurity controls like incident response, network monitoring, and access management. Set Up Incident ReportingEstablish a process for reporting major cybersecurity incidents within 24 hours. Ensure Vendor SecurityEvaluate and secure third-party vendors and partners. Conduct... --- ### Scytale Launches New Partnership Program with Managed Service Providers (MSPs), Helping Transform Compliance into a Competitive Advantage > With Scytale's new partnership program, MSPs can seamlessly scale compliance offerings to their clients and increase overall efficiency. - Published: 2024-11-18 - Modified: 2024-12-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/partnership-program-managed-service-providers-msps/ With Scytale's new partnership program, MSPs can seamlessly scale compliance offerings to their clients and increase efficiency. With Scytale’s compliance automation platform, MSPs can seamlessly scale compliance offerings to their clients, increase efficiency, and improve customer satisfaction. New York, NY, 18 October, 2024 Scytale is excited to announce the launch of its support for partnerships with Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs). This partnership empowers MSPs in delivering scalable, high-quality compliance solutions through Scytale’s innovative automation tools, enabling MSPs to simplify security and regulatory complexities for their clients and stand out from competitors. MSPs are under increasing pressure to keep up with both increasing client demands and rapidly changing regulatory requirements. However, attempting to manage compliance at scale can be overwhelming as well as resource-intensive. Scytale’s compliance automation platform, paired with a dedicated compliance team, simplifies these challenges by automating time-consuming tasks like evidence collection, continuous monitoring, and audit management, significantly reducing manual efforts for MSPs. “Our new MSP offering is a transformative solution for our partners,” said Guy Horowitz, Head of Partnerships at Scytale. “By automating compliance and security processes and integrating our software with infosec audits, we enable MSPs to provide enhanced value to their clients while minimizing the demands of manual work. ” With Scytale enabling businesses to add Compliance as a Service (CaaS) to their offering, MSPs of all sizes can help clients achieve and maintain compliance across multiple security and privacy frameworks such as SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, GDPR, PCI DSS, NIS 2, and more. The solution’s continuous compliance approach allows MSPs to manage numerous standards from a single platform, adapting quickly... --- ### The 2-minute DORA Snapshot > DORA is an EU regulation that strengthens the financial sector’s ability to handle cyber incidents. Here’s a quick breakdown. - Published: 2024-11-15 - Modified: 2024-11-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-2-minute-dora-snapshot/ DORA is an EU regulation that strengthens the financial sector’s ability to handle cyber incidents. Here’s a quick breakdown. THE 2-MINUTE DORA SNAPSHOT DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act) is an EU regulation that strengthens the financial sector’s ability to handle digital disruptions, like cyber incidents and technology failures. Here’s a quick guide to the essentials. Who Needs to Comply? DORA applies to a broad range of financial institutions and their service providers: Category Examples Traditional Financial Entities Banks, insurance companies, investment firms. Non-Traditional Entities Crypto-asset providers, crowdfunding platforms. Third-Party ICT Providers Cloud services, data analytics firms. WHY DOES DORA MATTER? Boosts Cyber ResilienceHelps your organization withstand and recover from cyber incidents. Unified Regulations Simplifies compliance across the EU, making it easier for companies operating in multiple countries. Avoids Penalties Non-compliance can result in up to 2% of your annual turnover or €5 million for critical ICT (Information and Communications Technology) providers. KEY REQUIREMENTS OF DORA Here are the main things you need to implement to meet DORA standards: ICT Risk Management Set up frameworks for managing technology-related risks. Incident Reporting Establish a process to report significant disruptions. Third-Party Risk Management Ensure your service providers comply with DORA. Regular Testing Continuously test your resilience and recovery capabilities with penetration testing. STEPS TO ACHIEVE DORA Compliance Here’s a simplified process to get compliant with DORA: Determine ScopeIdentify if your organization falls under DORA’s categories. Remediation PlanBuild a roadmap to address any compliance gaps. Gap AnalysisCompare your current practices to DORA’s requirements. Risk ManagementImplement ICT risk management and regular testing. Manage Third-Party RisksEnsure all third-party providers meet DORA standards. How Scytale Simplifies... --- ### How to Get a SOC 3 Report: 4 Easy Steps  > Learn how to get a SOC 3 report in 4 easy steps and boost your business’s credibility, customer trust, and competitive edge. - Published: 2024-11-04 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-get-a-soc-3-report-4-easy-steps/ Learn how to get a SOC 3 report in 4 easy steps and boost your SaaS business’s credibility, customer trust, and competitive edge. Whether you're a new entrepreneur in the software industry, scaling your startup, or a seasoned SaaS provider, securing a SOC 3 audit report can be a game-changer for your business, helping you strengthen customer trust while demonstrating your unwavering commitment to data security. The good news? It's easier than you might think.   In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of SOC 3 in boosting your business’s credibility and reveal four easy steps that you can follow to get your hands on a SOC 3 report.   Let’s dive in!   What is SOC 3?   SOC 3 or Service Organization Control Report focuses on providing a general-use overview of an organization’s security, integrity, availability, confidentiality, and privacy controls.   Established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) as a security framework to help organizations show their commitment to data security, SOC reports aren't legally required, but your customers and stakeholders are likely requesting the compliance report - especially if you handle customer data. SOC 3 consists of 5 controls or Trust Service Principles (TSP):  Security – The systems and information are protected against any damage, unauthorized access, and unauthorized disclosure of information. Availability – The systems and data are available for use. Integrity – The data is processed completely and accurately. Confidentiality – All information classified as confidential is protected accordingly.   Privacy – Any personal information is collected, archived, utilized, kept, disclosed, and removed accordingly.   The above controls reassure potential customers that your software safeguards... --- ### NIS2 the Rescue: A Startup Survival Guide > This webinar breaks down NIS2, who needs to comply, the risks of non-compliance, and some immediate actions you can take right now. - Published: 2024-10-31 - Modified: 2024-10-31 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/nis2-the-rescue-a-startup-survival-guide/ This webinar breaks down NIS2, who needs to comply, the risks of non-compliance, and some immediate actions you can take right now. Have you been hearing a bunch lately about NIS 2 and the October 17th deadline to comply? Don't fret—join us for "NIS 2 the Rescue: A Startup Survival Guide," where we’ll help you navigate the essential steps for compliance, who needs to comply, and how to avoid potential pitfalls. This session cuts through the noise and gives you the survival strategies your startup needs to stay compliant and secure, fast and efficiently. --- ### Achieving Excellence through ISMS Implementation > An Information Security Management System (ISMS) is key to safeguarding your business and ensuring sensitive data is handled the right way. - Published: 2024-10-29 - Modified: 2024-10-30 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/achieving-excellence-through-isms-implementation/ An Information Security Management System (ISMS) is key to safeguarding your business and protecting sensitive data. Navigating the world of information security isn’t for the faint of heart - that’s for sure - and it’s easy to see why. Between password management and protecting sensitive data, safeguarding your business can feel like an endless uphill battle. But what if there was a system that didn’t just patch things up here and there but provided an organized, strategic approach to managing your information security? Let us introduce the Information Security Management System, or ISMS for short.   In this article, we dive into what an ISMS is, why it’s awesome for your business, and how you can get started on the path to a secure (and stress-free) business environment. Understanding ISMS: A Foundation of Security Think of an ISMS as the ‘blueprint’ for your security architecture. An ISMS isn’t a product or an off-the-shelf software you can install and call it a day; rather, it’s a comprehensive approach, a mindset if you will. It's all about creating a systematic framework for managing sensitive company data, ensuring that every step you take aligns with your security objectives as an organization. This system sets up policies, procedures, roles, and responsibilities - everything needed to ensure that your company’s security isn’t just something you think about during good old security awareness week but forms part of your day-to-day operations. The best part? An ISMS isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s flexible and tailored to meet the specific security demands of your business. It takes into account everything from how you handle sensitive data... --- ### Why Early-Stage Startups Need to Be Compliant to Attract Investors > Dive into this blog to find out why early-stage startups need to prioritize compliance to attract investors and mitigate risks. - Published: 2024-10-28 - Modified: 2025-03-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/why-early-stage-startups-need-to-be-compliant-to-attract-investors/ Dive into this blog to find out why early-stage startups need to prioritize compliance to attract investors and mitigate risks. There’s no denying it, startups have to navigate a ton of challenges. Between building a product, attracting customers, and hiring the right team, it's a lot. But one thing you definitely don’t want to overlook is compliance. In fact, being compliant can directly impact your ability to attract investment. Here’s why nailing compliance early on can be a game-changer when it comes to securing those crucial investor dollars. Compliance: The Silent Deal Closer When investors evaluate a startup, they have to do their due diligence, and of course, they take it seriously. They want to be sure that you're a viable, trustworthy investment. Financials? Check. Operational efficiency? Check. But there's one area that often holds more weight than startups realize: compliance. Because, ultimately, it’s more than just a checkbox, it’s like the ultimate green flag signaling trust and proving you’ve got your house in order. Being compliant demonstrates to investors that you’re running a business built for scale, one that won’t fall apart as soon as your security and privacy practices are put under the microscope. It tells them, "We're not just focused on growth, we’re focused on doing things right. " Why Compliance is a Big Deal for Investors Investors are in the game to reduce risk and maximize returns. When they see that your startup is compliant, it significantly de-risks their investment. Here’s how: Trust factor: Compliance shows investors that you care about safeguarding data, managing risk, and protecting your operations. Essentially, it’s an indicator that you’ve thought... --- ### Scytale Supports the CIS Controls Framework > Scytale now supports the CIS Controls Framework, allowing businesses to streamline their security and compliance processes with ease. - Published: 2024-10-23 - Modified: 2024-10-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-supports-the-cis-controls-framework/ Scytale now supports the CIS Controls Framework, allowing businesses to streamline their security and compliance processes. Scytale announces support for the CIS Controls Framework, enabling businesses to ensure cybersecurity best practices in a fast, simple fashion. New York, NY, 23 October, 2024 Scytale’s compliance automation platform supports the CIS (Center for Internet Security) Controls Framework, which has recently been added to our growing list of security and privacy frameworks supported by Scytale. As more and more businesses of different shapes and sizes are looking to automate and streamline their security and compliance processes, we continue to expand our offering to meet their different requirements and to make it easier and faster than ever to get and stay secure and compliant. Let’s take a closer look at the Center for Internet Security (CIS) benchmark. So What Exactly is the CIS Controls Framework? The CIS Critical Security Controls (CIS Controls) is a globally recognized set of best practices designed to help organizations safeguard themselves against the most common cybersecurity threats. Created by the Center for Internet Security (CIS), these controls outline specific actions that any organization, large or small, can take to improve their security posture. It’s a practical and prioritized approach, focusing on key areas such as asset management, access control, data protection, and incident response. By implementing the CIS Controls, businesses not only meet compliance requirements but also protect themselves from cyberattacks in a systematic, cost-effective way. How Scytale Makes Implementing CIS Controls Real Easy  By now you know that at Scytale, everything we do is with one goal in mind: to help companies automate, fast-track,... --- ### SOC 2 Certified: The Secret Weapon for Winning Over Big Clients > Dive into this blog to determine the importance of SOC 2, how to get SOC 2 certified, and the powerful benefits it brings to organizations. - Published: 2024-10-21 - Modified: 2024-10-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-certified-the-secret-weapon-for-winning-over-big-clients/ Dive into this blog to determine the importance of SOC 2 and how your organization can get SOC 2 certified. We know how difficult it can be for organizations to gain the trust of BIG clients, which is why getting that "SOC 2 Certified" badge is the solution you may not have realized you needed. Regardless of whether you’re running a startup or a more established business, this certification is the key to unlocking deals you once thought were out of reach. As data-driven initiatives become the center of our world, security remains a top concern. Being SOC 2 certified shows potential clients that you are C for Serious when it comes to data security. But how do you get there, and why is it so important? Let’s dive into the nitty gritties. Understanding SOC 2 Certification Before we go any further, let’s clear up what being SOC 2 certified actually means. SOC 2 stands for "Service Organization Control 2," and it’s a standard that evaluates how well a company manages customer data. It’s all about ensuring the security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy of the information your business handles - aka: the SOC 2 Trust Service Principles. It’s particularly relevant for SaaS companies, cloud providers, and tech-based services that manage sensitive client data. You might be wondering what the difference is between being SOC 2 compliant vs certified. Well, the good news is they’re essentially the same: both indicate that your company adheres to SOC 2’s security standards and guidelines. An independent third-party auditor assesses your company’s security practices, and if you meet the requirements, you receive the... --- ### Scytale Makes Tekpon’s Top Compliance Software List (Again!) > Scytale makes Tekpon’s Top Compliance Software list again for seamless solutions and expert guidance. Discover why businesses choose us! - Published: 2024-10-14 - Modified: 2025-02-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-makes-tekpons-top-compliance-software-list-again/ Scytale makes Tekpon’s Top Compliance Software list again for seamless solutions and expert guidance. Discover why businesses choose us! New York, NY, 14 October, 2024 We’re so excited to once again be featured in Tekpon’s list of Top Compliance Software, and it’s all thanks to our incredible team here at Scytale. This recognition reflects the hard work of our talented product team who ensure we're building the features and solutions our customers need to make their compliance processes seamless, and of course, the dedication of our amazing compliance expert team who guide customers from start to finish of their compliance journey, ensuring compliance isn't so overwhelming after all. At Scytale, we have one simple mission and this recognition speaks to exactly what we’re here to do - make compliance easy. We couldn’t be more proud of our team that makes this recognition possible. “Being recognized by Tekpon shows us that we’re right on track, and it pushes us to keep improving. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished, but we’re even more excited about where we’re headed. ” - Melissa Dil, VP Marketing at Scytale This shoutout from Tekpon cements Scytale’s spot at the top of the data security compliance game, highlighting our commitment to delivering excellence and keeping our customers happy. As we celebrate this recognition, we’re also looking forward to what’s next. We’ll keep building and refining our platform, always with the goal of earning the trust of our customers. Compliance doesn’t have to be hard - and we’re here to prove that, one framework or regulation at a time! About Tekpon Tekpon is a B2B SaaS marketplace... --- ### Unpacking DORA: Everything Startups Need to Know Before January > This webinar breaks down who needs to comply with DORA, why the January deadline is critical, and how to prepare if your startup is affected. - Published: 2024-10-09 - Modified: 2024-10-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/unpacking-dora-everything-startups-need-to-know-before-january/ Hear a break down of who needs to comply with DORA, why the January deadline is critical, and how to prepare if your startup is affected. Been hearing buzz about DORA but not sure if it applies to your startup? Join us for a live session where we break down exactly what the Digital Operational Resilience Act is, who needs to comply, and why the January deadline matters. We’ll cut through the noise and give you clear, actionable steps to figure out if DORA impacts your startup and how to prepare if it does. --- ### Fast-track ISO 27001 Compliance > Download this handbook for everything you need to know about ISO 27001 compliance for your startup and how best to achieve compliance. - Published: 2024-10-01 - Modified: 2025-04-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ug-fast-track-iso-27001-compliance/ Your ultimate startup playbook for everything ISO 27001 certification. --- ### The Importance of the CIS Framework in Modern Cybersecurity > Learn about the CIS framework's role in cybersecurity, its key controls, and how it compares to NIST and ISO 27001. - Published: 2024-10-01 - Modified: 2024-10-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-importance-of-the-cis-framework-in-modern-cybersecurity/ Learn about the CIS framework's role in cybersecurity, its key controls, and how it compares to NIST and ISO 27001. Cyber threats aren't slowing down anytime soon, and securing your business from them is now more critical than ever. That's where the CIS framework steps in. Designed by the Center for Internet Security, it offers a clear, practical path to strengthening your cybersecurity without needing to be a massive corporation with endless resources. Whether you’re a small startup or an established enterprise, the CIS framework has your back with actionable steps that help protect your systems and data from the ever-increasing threat of cyberattacks. What is the CIS Framework? At its core, the CIS cybersecurity framework is a set of best practices for securing IT systems and data from cyber threats. The CIS purpose is to provide businesses, regardless of their size or industry, with a straightforward roadmap to improve their cybersecurity posture. It’s built around CIS controls and CIS security standards which ensure that organizations can address cybersecurity risks effectively and prioritize actions that yield the highest impact. Level 1 controls: Think of these as your cybersecurity essentials, like knowing what’s on your network, keeping systems up-to-date, and ensuring your configurations are secure. These controls alone can reduce risk significantly. Level 2 controls: Now we’re stepping it up a notch. With Level 2 controls, you're adding more defense measures such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and stronger incident response capabilities. Level 3 controls: For organizations with more advanced cybersecurity needs, Level 3 includes elite measures like sophisticated threat detection systems and advanced monitoring techniques. These are more suited to larger... --- ### Fast-track ISO 27001 Compliance > Download this handbook for everything you need to know about ISO 27001 compliance for your startup and how best to achieve certification. - Published: 2024-10-01 - Modified: 2024-11-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/fast-track-iso-27001-compliance/ Your ultimate startup playbook for everything ISO 27001 certification. --- ### Scytale Crowned the Best in Security Compliance and GRC in G2's 2024 Fall Reports  > Scytale named Leader in G2’s 2024 Fall Reports with top spots in Governance, Risk, Compliance & Security Compliance across multiple regions. - Published: 2024-09-26 - Modified: 2025-08-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-named-leader-in-g2s-2024-fall-reports/ Scytale named Leader in G2’s 2024 Fall Reports with top spots in Governance, Risk, Compliance & Security Compliance globally. As the leaves fall, we’re thrilled to announce that Scytale has secured multiple G2 badges for Fall 2024, solidifying our position as the undisputed leader in the security and compliance space. New York, NY, September 26, 2024 Scytale Wins Top Leader (Again) in GRC and Security Compliance This season, Scytale has reinforced its Leader status in Governance, Risk, and Compliance, claimed Leader status in the best Security Compliance category (EMEA, small business), and dominated the #1 spot as Security Compliance Leader across the Middle East and Africa. These leader badges solidify Scytale as the undisputed go-to software solution for businesses worldwide, shaping the future of compliance automation. Momentum Leader in Cloud and Security Compliance In addition to maintaining our Leader status, we’ve crushed our position as a Momentum Leader in Cloud Compliance, Vendor Security and Privacy Assessment, and Security Compliance. This means we’re continuing to dominate these categories, helping businesses stay secure and compliant faster and with greater precision than ever before. https://youtu. be/dIB_BX4kOfI Scytale Dominates Across Cloud, Security Compliance & GRC Categories: Leader: Governance, Risk, and Compliance Security Compliance (EMEA, Small Business) #1 in Security Compliance across the Middle East & Africa! Momentum Leader: Cloud Compliance Vendor Security and Privacy Assessment Security Compliance Most Implementable #1 in Vendor Security and Privacy and Assessment! High Performer Audit Management  Cloud Compliance  Cloud Security Security Compliance Vendor Security and Privacy Assessment Easiest to do Business with Audit Management Scytale Tops G2 Fall Compliance Rankings Thanks to You We couldn’t have achieved this... --- ### Penetration Testing: A Complete Guide for SaaS Companies > This guide explores how penetration testing enhances security and ensures compliance for SaaS companies with SOC 2 and PCI DSS. - Published: 2024-09-25 - Modified: 2024-09-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/penetration-testing-a-complete-guide-for-saas-companies/ This guide explores how penetration testing enhances security and ensures compliance for SaaS companies with SOC 2 and PCI DSS. Introduction to Penetration Testing Penetration testing, or pen testing for short, is like a “friendly” cyberattack, where ethical hackers simulate attacks on your system, network, or application to uncover weaknesses before malicious actors do. For Software as a Service (SaaS) companies, where software is cloud-based and often handles sensitive customer data, implementing software penetration testing is a must. It’s more than just finding vulnerabilities, it’s about protecting your business, maintaining compliance, and building trust with your customers. Penetration testing involves using various tools and techniques to check for security gaps. These include weaknesses in your software applications, networks, or cloud environments. With the growing reliance on cloud services, cloud penetration testing has become a key piece of the puzzle. By regularly running these tests, SaaS companies can identify and fix vulnerabilities before cyber attackers can exploit them. Importance of Penetration Testing for Compliance Software For SaaS companies, staying compliant with frameworks like PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) and SOC 2 isn’t just a box to tick. It’s vital for securing customer data and keeping the trust you've worked hard to build. PCI DSS Penetration Testing If your SaaS platform handles payment data, PCI DSS penetration testing is a non-negotiable. This testing focuses on securing payment data and making sure your system is tough enough to fend off breaches. Since payment information is one of the most sensitive data types, compliance comes with strict security rules, like: Regular security tests: You’ll need to conduct security penetration testing at... --- ### How Much Will It Cost to Get PCI DSS Audited? > Explore PCI DSS audit costs, key factors that influence pricing, and practical tips for managing and optimizing your compliance expenses. - Published: 2024-09-18 - Modified: 2024-09-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-much-will-it-cost-to-get-pci-dss-audited/ Explore PCI DSS audit costs, key factors that influence pricing, and practical tips for managing and optimizing your compliance expenses. If your organization handles credit card transactions, you're likely aware of the importance of PCI DSS compliance. But what often gets overlooked is the cost. PCI DSS audits aren’t a one-size-fits-all process, and the price can vary significantly based on several factors. If you’re curious about the PCI DSS certification price, this guide will break down everything you need to know to plan for those expenses without any surprises. What is PCI DSS? The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of security standards designed to safeguard credit card information. These standards, developed by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC), ensure that businesses accepting, processing, or transmitting credit card data create a secure environment for their customers. Simply put, if your company handles any kind of cardholder data, PCI DSS compliance is a must. It protects sensitive information from breaches, fraud, and other security risks. Compliance with PCI DSS isn't just a nice-to-have—it’s essential to avoid penalties, fines, or worse, a damaged reputation. The PCI DSS framework consists of 12 core requirements, ranging from securing networks to regularly testing systems and maintaining an information security policy. By adhering to these guidelines, companies can demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding their customers' payment information, which in turn builds trust and loyalty. Importance of PCI DSS Compliance Why should your organization care about PCI DSS compliance? For starters, failing to comply can leave your business vulnerable to cyberattacks. If a data breach occurs due to non-compliance,... --- ### CMMC vs NIST: Decoding the Differences for Enhanced Cybersecurity > Explore the differences between CMMC and NIST to enhance your cybersecurity posture and secure government contracts. - Published: 2024-09-17 - Modified: 2024-09-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/cmmc-vs-nist/ Explore the differences between CMMC and NIST to enhance your cybersecurity posture and secure government contracts. Let’s be real. In this high-tech hyperconnected world, cyber threats are lurking around every corner. So, keeping data safe isn’t just important, it’s essential. For organizations that work with the U. S. government, especially those handling sensitive information for the Department of Defense (DoD), cybersecurity is more than just a checkbox. That's where frameworks like the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines come into play. But understanding the differences between CMMC vs NIST can feel like wading through a sea of acronyms and policies. Don’t worry—we’re here to simplify things. In this guide, we'll dive deep into what these frameworks are, why they matter, and how you can leverage both to enhance your organization’s cybersecurity posture. Understanding CMMC The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) was launched to address growing concerns about cybersecurity threats specifically within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). It aims to ensure that contractors handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI) meet certain cybersecurity standards. https://youtu. be/4ElZfnWmh70 Key Features of CMMC CMMC is designed with layers of security maturity that are structured across three levels: LevelDescriptionLevel 1Covers 17 fundamental practices focused on protecting FCI. Requires self-assessment, meaning contractors can evaluate themselves to demonstrate compliance with basic requirements. Level 2This level aligns with NIST SP 800-171, which focuses on safeguarding CUI. Organizations must document their practices and undergo third-party assessments. Level 3Incorporates even more rigorous standards, including additional controls from NIST SP 800-172 for advanced threats. These... --- ### AI: With Great Innovation Comes Great Responsibility > In this tech talk with Mischa, Scytale's CSM, explore balancing AI innovation with responsibility, focusing on bias and transparency. - Published: 2024-09-10 - Modified: 2025-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ai-with-great-innovation-comes-great-responsibility/ In this tech talk with Mischa, Scytale's CSM, explore balancing AI innovation with responsibility, focusing on bias and transparency. We’ve all experienced firsthand the opportunities artificial intelligence has opened in the way we work. It automates routine tasks. It informs strategic decisions. It integrates into our daily business processes quickly and with ease. But AI’s big promises come with challenges. Ethical and regulatory risks, if ignored, could bring severe legal, financial, and reputational consequences. Regulators and the public are now keeping a close eye on AI’s ethical risks of bias, transparency, accountability, and data privacy.   Companies that fail to address these issues risk their sustainability and the trust they've worked so hard to build. And that’s why we need to talk about them. https://youtu. be/ia2fwWr_Er4 Algorithmic Bias As AI becomes central to high-stakes decisions - hiring, lending, healthcare, and law enforcement - the potential for ethical missteps will grow. Many of these AI systems make decisions by analyzing large sets of data; if the data is biased or unrepresentative, then the AI can become inadvertently discriminatory or unfair. This is a significant issue in areas with social implications. It matters in creditworthiness assessments, job candidate selections, and crime detection. Left unchecked, historical biases can reinforce inequalities and deepen discrimination against underprivileged groups. Take recruitment, for example. AI algorithms sift through candidate pools. If trained on biased data, they can exclude diverse talent. A company that historically favored one demographic will likely have an AI that repeats those patterns. This perpetuates inequality. Worse, it exposes the company to anti-discrimination lawsuits. The damage isn’t just legal - it hits reputation... --- ### What is HIPAA Compliance and Why is it a Must for Your Company? > Learn what HIPAA compliance is and how your business can ensure that it’s safe from any financial penalties regarding HIPAA violations. - Published: 2024-09-03 - Modified: 2024-09-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-hipaa-compliance/ In this article, we’re focusing on HIPAA compliance and how your organization can stay ahead of the compliance curve. Many organizations struggle to find a clear path to HIPAA compliance. They are constantly led off course by trying to understand the complicated terminology, policies and requirements surrounding compliance. They frequently fall short due to misinterpreted jargon or changes in policies and ‘close enough’ is becoming good enough. Unfortunately, when it comes to HIPAA compliance organizations can no longer afford to stay out of the loop and they’re either 100% compliant, or not at all.   In this article, we’re focusing on HIPAA compliance and how your organization can stay ahead of the compliance curve and ensure easy and sustainable adherence to the strict standards of The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. HIPAA 101: All the Basics and Terminology You Need to Know Before we can guide you through the intricacies of HIPAA compliance, we’d like to start with the basics, which as you’re probably aware by now, in the world of compliance isn’t always as straightforward as you’d like it to be. Here’s our quick look-book on key terms.   The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS):HHS is responsible for issuing HIPAA regulations and guidance. They also update the regulations periodically to adapt to changes in technology and healthcare practices. The Office for Civil Rights (OCR):The OCR, a division of HHS, enforces HIPAA regulations. They investigate complaints, conduct compliance reviews, and provide education and outreach to foster compliance. HIPAA:HIPAA stands for The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and is the bedrock for both regulatory compliance... --- ### How Scytale’s Continuous Compliance Monitoring Feature Keeps You Compliant > Hear Robyn Ferreira as she breaks down how Scytale’s Continuous Compliance feature monitors your systems 24/7 to keep you compliant. - Published: 2024-08-30 - Modified: 2024-08-30 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytales-continuous-compliance-monitoring-feature-keeps-you-compliant/ Hear Robyn Ferreira as she breaks down how Scytale’s Continuous Compliance feature monitors your systems 24/7 to keep you compliant. So, you’ve got compliant now, but what happens next? Hear Robyn Ferreira, a Compliance Success Manager at Scytale, as she breaks down how Scytale’s Continuous Compliance Monitoring feature acts like a digital assistant, keeping an eye on your systems 24/7 to keep you compliant. --- ### From SAS 70 to SOC 2: Understanding the Timeline > Discover the key differences between SOC 2 and SAS 70, and learn why SOC 2 is the modern standard for ensuring data security and compliance. - Published: 2024-08-28 - Modified: 2024-08-29 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-vs-sas-70-a-comprehensive-comparison/ Discover the key differences between SOC 2 and SAS 70, and learn why SOC 2 is the modern standard for ensuring data security and compliance. Accurately differentiating between different auditing standards, frameworks and naming conventions can easily feel like trying to navigate a foreign language. However, it doesn’t have to be so complicated! Allow us to translate.   SOC 2 vs SAS 70 in a Nutshell Simply put, SSAE 18 governs SOC reports - it outlines the criteria and requirements for conducting SOC 2 audits to ensure consistency when evaluating controls across different organizations. Understanding SOC 2 Let's be honest; we all have a teacher's pet - and at Scytale, SOC 2 is a strong contender. SOC 2 (Service Organization Controls 2) is one of the more well-known security frameworks. It's primarily geared toward technology-based companies that use cloud-based storage of customer data, providing them with a set of compliance requirements to ensure they meet leading security standards.   In a nutshell, SOC 2 focuses on five Trust Service Principles. These TSPs were developed by the AICPA (The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) and are set criteria that standardize and structure how the design and effectiveness of a service organization's security controls should be evaluated. These five principles include:  Security Availability Processing Integrity Confidentiality Privacy When pursuing SOC 2 compliance, each organization can determine which TSPs to include in the scope of their SOC 2 report. Security, however, is the one mandatory TSP and a non-negotiable for SOC 2 compliance. To become SOC 2 compliant, an external audit, which is an independent review of your organization's security controls, will assess your security posture, test... --- ### Scytale Leads the Way for the EU’s NIS2 Directive > Scytale supports the EU's NIS2 Directive, offering streamlined compliance and enhanced cybersecurity for European businesses. - Published: 2024-08-14 - Modified: 2024-08-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/eu-nis2-directive-compliance-solutions/ Scytale supports the EU's NIS2 Directive, offering streamlined compliance and enhanced cybersecurity for European businesses. Scytale announces full support for the NIS2 Directive, strengthening cybersecurity for essential and important service providers across the European Union and enabling a simplified compliance process. New York, NY, August 14, 2024 You’ve probably heard about the EU’s new NIS2 cybersecurity legislation and wondered, “what does this mean for my company? ” No need to wonder with Scytale announcing full support for the NIS2 Directive, designed to help European businesses ramp up their cybersecurity measures, in a completely streamlined process. With NIS2 compliance now built into Scytale’s cybersecurity solutions, Scytale once again shows their dedication to keeping companies across the world secure and in line with the latest regulatory standards, blending compliance automation and expert services to get (and stay) compliant.   Let’s take a closer look at the EU regulation. https://youtu. be/vsWWwPgF0H4 What is the NIS2 Directive? The NIS2 Directive is an upgrade from the original NIS Directive, introducing tougher requirements for risk management, incident reporting, and vendor security for entities categorized under "essential services" and "important services” which, in short, are services that play a vital role in the economy. Key objectives of the NIS2 Directive include: Expanded Scope: NIS2 covers more sectors, ensuring broader adoption of stringent cybersecurity measures. Enhanced Security Requirements: It mandates comprehensive cybersecurity measures to improve system resilience. Incident Reporting: NIS2 requires prompt reporting of cyber incidents for rapid response. Stronger Cooperation: It promotes better coordination among EU states for managing cybersecurity incidents. Stricter Enforcement and Penalties: NIS2 imposes severe penalties to enforce cybersecurity... --- ### How to Achieve POPIA Compliance: Complete Checklist > Get the essential checklist for POPIA compliance. Learn key requirements and steps to meet South Africa's data protection law. - Published: 2024-08-12 - Modified: 2024-08-12 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-achieve-popia-compliance-complete-checklist/ Get the essential checklist for POPIA compliance. Learn key requirements and steps to meet South Africa's data protection law. Ready to tackle POPIA compliance? If you're navigating the data protection maze in South Africa, you've probably heard about the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). It’s South Africa’s way of saying, "it’s time to get serious about protecting people's data. " Whether you're a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into the compliance waters, it’s key to get your head around the ins and outs of POPIA. It’s not only about staying on the right side of the law, it’s key to earning your customers' trust and keeping a solid reputation. This guide is here to break it all down for you. We’ll walk you through what POPIA is, why it matters, and give you a practical POPIA compliance checklist to get your compliance game on point. No need to get fancy—just straightforward tips and advice to help you nail POPIA compliance. So, let’s get started on making sure your business is not just compliant but thriving in all things data protection. Understanding POPIA First thing’s first. The Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) is South Africa's response to the global demand for data protection. It’s a comprehensive law designed to safeguard personal information processed by public and private entities. Officially enforced on July 1, 2020, POPIA lays down rules for how personal data should be handled, balancing privacy with the practicalities of data processing in the digital age. POPIA’s main objective is to promote the constitutional right to privacy, which let’s be honest, is crucial in today’s... --- ### Scytale’s Onboarding Feature Enables Employees to Easily Accept Policies and Complete Security & Privacy Training  > Automate policy sign-offs and training with Scytale’s new People Compliance feature for seamless onboarding and tracking. - Published: 2024-07-31 - Modified: 2025-05-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytales-onboarding-feature-enables-employees-to-easily-accept-policies-and-complete-security-privacy-training/ Automate policy sign-offs and training with Scytale’s new People Compliance feature for seamless onboarding and tracking. Scytale’s new People Compliance feature automates policy sign-offs and training, making onboarding smoother and compliance tracking effortless. New York, NY, July 31, 2024 At Scytale, we’re constantly building and updating more and more key features with one goal in mind: to make all your compliance processes faster and simpler. Today, we’re excited to introduce the launch of our latest new People Compliance feature that streamlines the way your organization assigns and manages security and privacy policy sign-offs, as well as awareness training for your employees.   In a nutshell, our latest update does two things: Simplifies the process for employees to acknowledge and accept company policies, ensuring a seamless and automated experience. Streamlines the process to assign, complete and manage employee Security and Privacy Awareness Training, cutting out redundant work. Easily Implement, Manage and Track Employee-Related Compliance Items You already know by now that we’ve taken the tedious, time-consuming and admin-heavy stuff out of policy implementation with our auditor-approved policy templates. On the other hand, we also have awareness training built into our platform, making us your one solution for all your different compliance requirements. So, what’s new in the world of Scytale?   Comprehensive Tracking: Monitor and track all employees acknowledging and accepting company policies effortlessly, as well as training assignments for your different teams. Seamless Onboarding: Mark the starting point of the employee onboarding process in Scytale, ensuring a smooth transition for new employees. Automated Sign-Off: Automate the entire policy sign-off process for employees, saving valuable time and... --- ### Achieving PCI DSS Compliance Through Penetration Testing > PCI DSS penetration testing is not just about compliance—it’s about securing your business’s most sensitive data. - Published: 2024-07-29 - Modified: 2024-07-31 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/achieving-pci-dss-compliance-through-penetration-testing/ In this blog post, we will discuss the ins and outs of PCI DSS compliance and the role of penetration testing. If you're reading this blog post, chances are you already know what PCI DSS and penetration testing is. But don't worry – if you don't, we're breaking it down for you! PCI DSS compliance is an essential part of businesses that have to process, store, or transmit cardholder information. But with so many PCI DSS requirements, it can be super challenging to know exactly how to meet them all.   When diving into PCI DSS penetration testing, it's important to understand that compliance penetration testing isn't just about meeting a requirement—it's about securing your business's most sensitive data. The PCI DSS penetration testing requirements are designed to help you identify and rectify security gaps before they can be exploited by malicious actors. This involves rigorous testing of your network and systems, ensuring they can withstand potential threats and maintain the integrity of cardholder data. So if you need to reach PCI DSS compliance but have no idea where to start, listen up! In this blog post, we'll discuss the ins and outs of PCI DSS compliance and the role of penetration testing. What is PCI DSS Penetration Testing? If you understand the importance of penetration testing (or pen testing) in PCI DSS compliance but feel a bit lost when it comes to achieving it, don’t worry – we're here to help. Say it with me: penetration testing! It's like the underappreciated hero of the security world, and for good reason. In a nutshell, penetration testing is an essential step for... --- ### The NIS2 Directive: Implications for Your Organization > Learn about the NIS2 Directive's impact on your organization and key steps for compliance with new cybersecurity standards. - Published: 2024-07-29 - Modified: 2024-07-30 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-nis-2-directive-implications-for-your-organization/ Learn about the NIS2 Directive's impact on your organization and key steps for compliance with new cybersecurity standards. Meeting the NIS2 Directive requirements can seem like a big challenge for any organization. This EU law sets high standards for cybersecurity, demanding a lot of measures to keep your network and systems safe. But don't worry, it doesn't have to be overwhelming.   In this blog, we'll break down what exactly the NIS2 Directive is, the regulation’s key requirements, and the importance of these proactive cybersecurity measures. We'll cover everything from risk assessments and encryption to employee training and securing your vendors. Read on to see how you can achieve compliance with the NIS2 Directive without the stress. What is the NIS2 Directive? The European Commission recently adopted a revised directive called NIS2 (Directive on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union). It updates and replaces the previous NIS Directive from 2016. The NIS2 Directive aims to strengthen cybersecurity requirements and build more resilient critical entities across multiple sectors vital to the economy and society. NIS2 significantly expands the scope and applicability of the original NIS Directive. It now covers more sectors deemed as essential or important entities, including the public administration sector. The directive also establishes cybersecurity rules for entities operating within these sectors to manage cyber risks better. Some key points about the NIS2 Directive: It creates a system of best practices and binding cybersecurity requirements for in-scope entities. It requires essential and important entities to take cybersecurity measures and report incidents. It promotes a culture of risk management and accountability for cybersecurity.... --- ### South Africa's POPIA Compliance: Everything You Need to Know > Learn the essentials of South Africa's POPIA, its impact on data protection, and how it compares to global privacy laws. - Published: 2024-07-24 - Modified: 2024-08-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/south-africa-popia-compliance/ Learn the essentials of South Africa's POPIA, its impact on data protection, and how it compares to global privacy laws. What is POPIA? Welcome to the world of POPIA—the South African Protection of Personal Information Act. Think of it as South Africa's ultimate guardian for personal data—ensuring your information stays secure with its thorough data protection measures. Introduced in 2013 and fully in action since July 2021, POPIA is kind of like South Africa’s own version of EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), but with a few key differences. Understanding POPIA So, what is POPIA all about? Its ultimate goal is to protect personal information, covering details about identifiable living people and, when relevant, identifiable businesses too. Think race, age, mental health, sexual orientation, marital status, social origin, and biometric data, and the list goes on. The law applies to any person or company that processes personal data and is: Based within South Africa, or Based worldwide but uses automated or non-automated means in South Africa. In simple terms, if you’re dealing with personal data in South Africa or using South African resources to handle that data, POPIA’s got your number. This covers a whole spectrum of activities from storing customer details, recording CCTV footage, to crunching data for marketing purposes. POPIA’S Core Principles: The Basics POPIA is like the ultimate playbook that makes sure everyone's on the same page: Accountability: Responsible parties must own up to how they handle personal data. This means they need to ensure all processing activities are on point with POPIA. Processing limitations: Only collect the data that you actually need, and there's got to... --- ### Why PCI Penetration Testing is the Key to Unbreakable Data Security > Secure your data with PCI penetration testing—essential for protecting credit card information, staying compliant, and avoiding breaches. - Published: 2024-07-23 - Modified: 2024-07-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/why-pci-penetration-testing-is-the-key-to-unbreakable-data-security/ Secure your data with PCI penetration testing—essential for protecting credit card information, staying compliant, and avoiding breaches. Have you ever wondered if your business's data security could withstand a malicious cyber attack? If customer payment card information was stolen in a breach, it could be a public relations and financial nightmare. And that's why Payment Card Industry (PCI) penetration testing is so critical.   In this blog, you'll learn what PCI penetration testing is, why it's the key to bulletproof data security, the testing process, the main benefits, and best practices for effective testing.   Let's dive in and explore why PCI penetration testing is a data security safeguard that no business can afford to overlook. https://youtu. be/22bkXSLii3E Understanding PCI Penetration Testing  You've likely heard of penetration testing before - ethical hackers trying to break into systems to expose vulnerabilities. But did you know there's a special type of pen testing specifically for protecting credit card data? PCI penetration testing is all about ensuring your cardholder data meets the strict security standards set by the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). These tests simulate real-world cyber attacks to identify any gaps in your defenses that could lead to a disastrous data breach. Why it Matters Think about all the credit card numbers, expiration dates, and security codes your business handles every day. That's an absolute goldmine for hackers. A single breach could devastate your reputation and customer trust - not to mention the hefty fines for non-compliance with PCI rules. That's why PCI penetration testing is so critical. It validates that your security controls are... --- ### Announcing Our Latest Feature: Create Tickets in Jira, Streamlining Compliance Management > Streamline compliance with Scytale's new Jira integration! Sync tasks seamlessly, enjoy two-way status updates, and simplify audit-readiness. - Published: 2024-07-22 - Modified: 2024-10-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/announcing-our-latest-feature-create-tickets-in-jira-streamlining-compliance-management/ Simplify compliance with Scytale's new Jira integration—sync tasks, get two-way updates, and streamline audit readiness! Scytale launches a new feature, allowing customers to create tickets in Scytale and have them sync directly in Jira for easy compliance management. New York, NY, July, 22, 2024 We are thrilled to introduce an exciting new feature to our compliance automation solution – a Jira Integration, designed to revolutionize your audit-readiness process by allowing you to address action items directly in Jira. Managing compliance tasks across various stakeholders and platforms can be challenging. So we've made it easier for you. Now, you can effortlessly sync tasks from Scytale to Jira, significantly optimizing your compliance management and audit-readiness processes by reducing effort and workload for your key team members. When integrating Scytale to Jira, your Scytale action items are automatically pulled through to your Jira account, reducing the need for users to even open Scytale and significantly impacting streamlined task management. 2-Way Status Sync Our new Jira integration features a two-way sync capability, ensuring that when a ticket is closed or reopened in Jira, it automatically closes or reopens in Scytale and vice versa, saving you time and reducing the effort required for your compliance processes. This feature is incredibly useful for companies that are very active in Jira, as it streamlines their day-to-day operations with their compliance processes.   Easily Close Out Items on Your Compliance To-Do List When compliance is added to your mix of daily to-do items, it just adds more stress, and we get that. With our new Jira integration, you can complete open items in... --- ### ISO 42001 in a Nutshell > Hear from our compliance expert, Ronan Grobler, as he gives a quick rundown on ISO 42001 and its role in the age of AI. - Published: 2024-07-17 - Modified: 2024-07-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-42001-in-a-nutshell/ Hear from our compliance expert, Ronan Grobler, as he gives a quick rundown on ISO 42001 and its role in the age of AI. Hear from our compliance expert, Ronan Grobler, as he gives a quick rundown on ISO 42001 and how it is changing the compliance game in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). In this short video, Ronan dives into the similarities between ISO 42001 and ISO 27001, highlighting the key difference: a greater focus on the risks that AI presents. --- ### The Matias Experiment Podcast: Simplifying Security Compliance for Startups > Check out Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis, on the The Matias Experiment podcast as he talks about his journey. - Published: 2024-07-16 - Modified: 2024-07-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-matias-experiment-podcast-simplifying-security-compliance-for-startups/ Check out Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis, on the The Matias Experiment podcast as he talks about his journey. The Matias Experiment brings together the world’s entrepreneurs, industry, and domain experts to discuss the future. Check out Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis, on the The Matias Experiment podcast as he shares his journey from tech risk management to founding Scytale, addressing the pain points of security compliance for startups. Discover how Scytale's innovative approach simplifies and automates compliance, making it accessible and efficient for growing companies navigating complex regulatory landscapes. --- ### Scytale Named Leader in G2's Summer Reports > Scytale named G2's summer 2024 Leader in governance, risk, & compliance, Momentum Leader, & High Performer in cloud and security compliance! - Published: 2024-07-15 - Modified: 2024-07-18 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-named-leader-in-g2s-summer-reports/ Scytale named G2's summer 2024 Leader in governance, risk, & compliance, Momentum Leader, & High Performer in cloud and security compliance! Scytale has earned the G2 Leader badge in governance, risk, and compliance for summer 2024, and we have maintained our status as a Momentum Leader and High Performer in cloud compliance, cloud security, security compliance, and vendor security and privacy assessment. New York, NY, July 15, 2024 Mamma, We Made It!   Earning the Leadership badge in governance, risk, and compliance for summer 2024 highlights our dedication to being trailblazers in the compliance game and our commitment to providing top-notch solutions is being recognized, and we couldn't be more proud. Being named a Leader means Scytale is rated one of the best solutions amongst its many competitors in the governance, risk and compliance category. Maintaining Standards and Meeting Expectations Additionally, we have maintained our recognition as a Momentum Leader and High Performer in cloud compliance,cloud security, security compliance, and vendor security and privacy assessment. This means we are not only meeting industry standards but also driving progress and setting new benchmarks. Our G2 Wall of Fame: Leader: Governance, Risk and Compliance Security Compliance Middle East and Africa Momentum Leader: Security Compliance Cloud Compliance High Performer: Vendor Security and Privacy Assessment Security Compliance Cloud Security Cloud Compliance https://youtu. be/dIB_BX4kOfI Onwards and Upwards! A huge thank you to our customers for their stellar reviews and recognition on G2. Our G2 recognition fuels our drive to lead the way, innovate, and streamline all things privacy and security compliance. We're all about staying at the top, setting the gold standard, and continually raising the... --- ### Do Vendors Need HIPAA Compliance if Their Customers Are Compliant? > Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, addresses whether vendors need to be HIPAA compliant if their customers are. - Published: 2024-07-10 - Modified: 2024-07-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/do-vendors-need-hipaa-compliance-if-their-customers-are-compliant-2/ Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, addresses whether vendors need to be HIPAA compliant if their customers are. In this video, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, addresses a common question: Do vendors need to be HIPAA compliant if their customers are? Tracy breaks down the responsibilities and requirements for vendors working with HIPAA-compliant customers, helping you understand your obligations and how to stay compliant. --- ### How Scytale Can Help You Comply with the POPI Act > Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, breaks down how Scytale can assist you in achieving compliance with POPIA. - Published: 2024-07-10 - Modified: 2024-07-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytale-can-help-you-comply-with-the-popi-act/ Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, breaks down how Scytale can assist you in achieving compliance with POPIA. Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, breaks down how Scytale can assist you in achieving compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). Tracy outlines the steps and services we offer to ensure your organization meets all POPIA requirements efficiently and effectively. --- ### HIPAA versus POPIA > Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, talks about the difference between HIPAA and POPIA. - Published: 2024-07-10 - Modified: 2024-07-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-versus-popia/ Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, talks about the difference between HIPAA and POPIA. In this video, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, talks about the difference between HIPAA and POPIA, and when and why your organization must comply with these important regulations. Whether you're handling health information or personal data, Tracy breaks down when you need to comply to HIPAA or to POPIA. --- ### NIS2 Compliance: Why It's Everyone's Business > Discover how the NIS2 Directive enhances EU cybersecurity and protects digital assets. Learn why compliance is crucial for your business. - Published: 2024-07-10 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/nis2-compliance-why-its-everyones-business/ Discover how the NIS2 Directive enhances EU cybersecurity and protects digital assets. Learn why compliance is crucial for your business. Did you know that globally, there are 2,200 cyber-attacks every day? That’s an attack happening approximately every 39 seconds! We're living in an increasingly digitized world where our dependence on SaaS systems and platforms is continually expanding. Each online service requires a bunch of personal data upon sign-up, and the more valuable data that is stored in the cloud, the more vulnerable we become to the escalating cyber threats.   From phishing scams to sophisticated malware and ransomware attacks, the digital realm is under constant siege, and it takes no prisoners. So, in this age, staying ahead of the cybersecurity curve is not just a luxury, but a necessity. NIS2: The Cybersecurity Watchdog In this cyber landscape where every digital move is critical, some big guns were needed to enter the ring to combat these threats. Enter the NIS2 Directive. Some might think it's just more red tape from the EU, but we see it as a crucial guide helping us through the tricky landscape of cybersecurity. https://youtu. be/vsWWwPgF0H4 So, What’s the Deal with the NIS2 Directive? Think of NIS2 (Network & Information System Security) Directive as the upgraded version of its 2016 predecessor, NIS, which, let's face it, left much room for improvement.   The evaluation was ineffective, the penalties were unclear, and there was a lack of consistency among member countries. Unlike its predecessor, NIS2 is all about clarity, consistency, and collaboration. It’s designed not only to equip, but to safeguard Europe for the digital age. Its objective... --- ### Scytale Joins AWS ISV Accelerate Program > Scytale joins the AWS ISV Accelerate Program to enhance its cloud compliance solutions with better performance and reliability. - Published: 2024-07-08 - Modified: 2024-07-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-joins-aws-isv-accelerate-program/ Scytale joins the AWS ISV Accelerate Program to enhance its cloud compliance solutions with better performance and reliability. Scytale joins AWS ISV Accelerate Program to enhance cloud-based compliance automation solutions. New York, NY, July 8, 2024 Scytale is excited to have recently joined the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Independent Software Vendor (ISV) Accelerate Program, a prestigious co-sell program for AWS Partners offering software solutions that run on or integrate with AWS. This partnership will help Scytale reach new heights by directly connecting with the AWS Sales organization, which means direct access to more AWS tools that better serve Scytale’s customers in their compliance journeys. Known for being industry leaders in compliance, Scytale will now be able to reach an even broader range of prospective customers needing to get compliant. Participation in the AWS ISV Accelerate Program will also provide Scytale with co-sell support and collaboration opportunities with AWS field sellers globally, better customer outcomes and a strong mutual commitment from both AWS and Scytale. What This Means for Scytale’s Customers Joining the AWS ISV Accelerate Program brings a bunch of exciting benefits to Scytale’s customers: Enhanced Solutions Scytale's compliance automation tool will now perform even better on AWS, offering faster and more reliable solutions. Customers can expect innovative features driven by the latest AWS technologies. Improved Support for AWS Tools Customers will benefit from the combined expertise of Scytale and AWS technical teams, leading to quick issue resolution and continuous platform improvements.   Faster Implementation Collaboration with AWS streamlines the deployment process, allowing customers to start benefiting from Scytale and AWS’s solutions quicker. This means less hassle and... --- ### Does the GDPR Really Say That? Clearing Up Common Misunderstandings > Despite extensive information available about the GDPR, many misconceptions still persist. This blog breaks down some of them. - Published: 2024-07-01 - Modified: 2024-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/does-the-gdpr-really-say-that-clearing-up-common-misunderstandings/ Despite extensive information available about the GDPR, many misconceptions still persist. This blog breaks down some of them. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive data privacy law enacted by the European Union (EU) to protect the personal data of EU citizens and residents. Despite its significance and the extensive information available about it, many misconceptions still persist. Let’s break down some of the common misconceptions.   Public Personal Data Still Needs Protection One common misunderstanding is that personal data found in the public domain does not require protection under the GDPR. This is incorrect. The GDPR applies to any personal data, regardless of its source, including data that is publicly accessible. A good example would be social media data. Think about social media profiles. Even though people voluntarily share a lot of personal data on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn, this data still qualifies as personal data under the GDPR. It is not advisable to freely take personal data from these websites and use it for your own commercial benefits. You must still handle such information with the same care and respect as with any other personal data. This means being cautious against further processing, ensuring data security, and respecting the individual's rights regarding their data. Transatlantic Data Transfers and the EU-US Data Privacy Framework Another misconception is that personal data cannot be safely processed in the United States as they lack robust privacy laws in many states. In 2023, the European Commission approved its adequacy decision for the EU-U. S. Data Privacy Framework. This decision confirms that the United States provides a level of... --- ### What is Considered Personal Data Under the GDPR? > Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, gives a brief breakdown of what is considered personal data under the GDPR. - Published: 2024-06-24 - Modified: 2024-06-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/understanding-gdpr-in-depth/ Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, gives a brief breakdown of what is considered personal data under the GDPR. Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, gives a brief yet informative breakdown of what is considered personal data under the GDPR. --- ### Steps to Achieve GDPR Compliance > Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, outlines the key steps your organization needs to take to achieve GDPR compliance. - Published: 2024-06-24 - Modified: 2024-06-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/steps-to-achieve-gdpr-compliance/ Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, outlines the key steps your organization needs to take to achieve GDPR compliance. Hear from Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, as she outlines the essential steps your organization needs to take to achieve GDPR compliance. From initial assessments to implementing effective data protection measures, Tracy provides a comprehensive guide to navigating the GDPR compliance process. --- ### Key Roles in GDPR Compliance > In this video, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, outlines the key roles in GDPR compliance. - Published: 2024-06-24 - Modified: 2024-06-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/key-roles-in-gdpr-compliance/ In this video, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, outlines the key roles in GDPR compliance. In this video, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, outlines the key roles in GDPR compliance. --- ### Scytale's Team of GDPR Experts > Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, talks about her extensive experience with GDPR and deep knowledge of the tech space. - Published: 2024-06-24 - Modified: 2024-06-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/expert-gdpr-assistance-with-scytale/ Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, talks about her extensive experience with GDPR and deep knowledge of the tech space. In this video, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, talks about how her extensive experience with GDPR and deep knowledge of compliance technology assists customers in achieving and maintaining GDPR compliance. Learn how Tracy's expertise can help streamline your compliance processes and ensure your organization meets all necessary GDPR requirements. --- ### Why the US Needs Federal Privacy Laws: Tracy Boyes on Privacy and the TikTok Ban > Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, discusses the significant impact a US federal law could have on privacy protection. - Published: 2024-06-24 - Modified: 2024-06-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/why-the-us-needs-federal-privacy-laws-tracy-boyes-on-privacy-and-the-tiktok-ban/ Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, discusses the significant impact a US federal law could have on privacy protection. In this video, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, discusses the absence of federal privacy laws in the United States and the significant impact a federal law could have on privacy protection. Tracy highlights the current privacy concerns, including the US's efforts to ban TikTok, and explains how a unified federal privacy law would help address these issues effectively. --- ### Achieve GDPR Compliance with Scytale > Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, explains how Scytale can help your organization achieve compliance with the GDPR. - Published: 2024-06-24 - Modified: 2024-06-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/achieve-gdpr-compliance-with-scytale/ Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, explains how Scytale can help your organization achieve compliance with the GDPR. In this video, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, explains how Scytale can help your organization achieve compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Tracy details the comprehensive solutions and expert guidance Scytale provides to ensure your data protection practices meet GDPR standards. --- ### Do Vendors Need HIPAA Compliance if Their Customers Are Compliant? > Tracy Boyes, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, discusses whether vendors must be HIPAA compliant if their customers are. - Published: 2024-06-24 - Modified: 2025-02-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/do-vendors-need-hipaa-compliance-if-their-customers-are-compliant/ Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, addresses whether vendors need to be HIPAA compliant if their customers are. In this video, Scytale's DPO & Compliance Success Manager, Tracy Boyes, addresses a common question: Do vendors need to be HIPAA compliant if their customers are? Tracy breaks down the responsibilities and requirements for vendors working with HIPAA-compliant customers, helping you understand your obligations and how to stay compliant. --- ### How to Leverage Tech to Stay Ahead of the Game > Raymond Cheng, experienced compliance auditor and CEO of Decrypt Compliance sits down with Scytale to discuss how to stay ahead of the game. - Published: 2024-06-24 - Modified: 2024-06-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-leverage-tech-to-stay-ahead-of-the-game/ Raymond Cheng, experienced compliance auditor and CEO of Decrypt Compliance sits down with Scytale to discuss how to stay ahead of the game. Raymond Cheng, experienced compliance auditor and CEO of Decrypt Compliance sits down with Scytale to discuss how to stay ahead of the game. His secret? Keeping up with the latest technology in the industry. Learn more about Decrypt here. --- ### Say Hello to Scytale’s Newest Integrations, Enabling Deeper Compliance Automation > Take a look at Scytale's newest integrations added in 2024 including Deel, Hubspot, Asana, Cloudfare, and more. - Published: 2024-06-24 - Modified: 2024-06-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/say-hello-to-scytales-newest-integrations-enabling-deeper-compliance-automation/ Take a look at Scytale's newest integrations added in 2024 including Deel, Hubspot, Asana, Cloudfare, and more. As more critical platforms get added to our family of integrations, more benefits are unlocked for our customers. We’re talking about more automated functionalities making your data privacy and security compliance processes faster and more effortless.   We kicked off 2024 by integrating some big names to our compliance automation platform. By integrating Scytale with all your key tools, such as your HR management, task management, identity providers and mobile device management tools, it means you can enjoy automated control monitoring as well as automated evidence collection for your audits. It’s really this simple:  Connect your tech stack with Scytale Map the relevant controls Start automated evidence collection Let’s take a look at the integrations added so far in 2024, with many more exciting ones on the way. Cloudflare Cloudflare is the leading connectivity cloud company, empowering organizations to make their employees, applications and networks faster and more secure everywhere, while reducing complexity and cost. Cloudflare’s connectivity cloud delivers the most full-featured, unified platform of cloud-native products and developer tools, so any organization can gain the control they need to work, develop, and accelerate their business Hubspot HubSpot is a leading CRM platform that provides software and support to help businesses grow better. Their platform includes marketing, sales, service, and website management products that meet their customers’ needs at any stage of growth. Snowflake Snowflake delivers the Data Cloud, a global network where thousands of organizations mobilize data with near-unlimited scale, concurrency, and performance. Inside the Data Cloud, organizations unite... --- ### ISO 27001 2022 Updates: What Every Startup Should Know > Hear Scytale’s compliance expert Wesley Van Zyl and Cosmo Tech’s CIO, Jean-Baptiste Briaud discuss the ISO 27001:2022 updates in detail. - Published: 2024-06-19 - Modified: 2024-06-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-2022-updates-what-every-startup-should-know/ Hear Scytale’s compliance expert Wesley Van Zyl and Cosmo Tech’s CIO, Jean-Baptiste Briaud discuss the ISO 27001:2022 updates in detail. Struggling with ISO 27001 compliance? Not sure what the 2022 updates mean for your business? Hear from Scytale’s compliance expert Wesley Van Zyl and Cosmo Tech’s CIO, Jean-Baptiste Briaud as they discuss the ISO 27001:2022 updates in detail. Here's what you'll learn: How ISO 27001 affects your security strategy, R&D processes, and overall operations. Best practices for implementing these changes to ensure your startup remains secure, compliant, and competitive. This session is a must for startup leaders and teams navigating these new requirements. --- ### Mastering CMMC Compliance: A Complete Guide > This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about CMMC compliance, from understanding the basics to achieving certification. - Published: 2024-06-19 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/mastering-cmmc-compliance-a-complete-guide/ This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about CMMC compliance, from understanding the basics to achieving certification. In today's fast-paced digital landscape, safeguarding sensitive data is more important than ever, especially if your business works with the Department of Defense (DoD). The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a critical framework that ensures these organizations meet specific, stringent cybersecurity practices.   Our guide will walk you through everything you need to know about CMMC compliance, from understanding the basics to achieving and maintaining certification. What is Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)? The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a unified standard for implementing cybersecurity across the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Its primary goal is to protect sensitive unclassified information that your company shares with the DoD. The CMMC framework integrates various cybersecurity standards and best practices into a cohesive model with different maturity levels. https://youtu. be/4ElZfnWmh70 Why is CMMC So Important? In a nutshell, CMMC is so crucial because it ensures that all contractors and subcontractors working with the DoD have a robust cybersecurity posture, reducing the risk of cyber threats and breaches, safeguarding national security and protecting sensitive defense information. Without proper CMMC compliance, you may lose DoD contract opportunities. Compliance with CMMC not only protects your organization, but also demonstrates a commitment to high standards of cybersecurity, enhancing your company’s reputation and trust among clients and partners. Key Components of CMMC These components form the backbone of the CMMC framework and include: Domains CMMC is structured around 17 domains, which are broad categories of cybersecurity practices. These domains cover all aspects of cybersecurity, from Access... --- ### CMMC 1.0 & CMMC 2.0 - What’s Changed? > This blog delves into CMMC, the introduction of CMMC 2.0, what's changed, and what it means for your business. - Published: 2024-06-18 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/cmmc-1-0-cmmc-2-0-whats-changed/ This blog delves into CMMC, the introduction of CMMC 2.0, what's changed, and what it means for your business. Navigating the landscape of cybersecurity can feel overwhelming, especially for businesses in the defense sector. That’s where the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) comes in, designed to provide a standardized approach to security compliance across the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Originally rolled out in 2020, the CMMC framework aimed to ensure that contractors handling Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) adhere to necessary cybersecurity practices. Fast forward and we've already seen a significant update with the introduction of CMMC 2. 0. So, what exactly has changed, and what does it mean for your business? The Importance of CMMC The CMMC is more than just a regulatory requirement, it is a crucial element in safeguarding national security. With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, ensuring that all contractors in the DIB adhere to stringent cybersecurity practices is vital, helping to mitigate risks by enforcing a baseline of security measures that protect sensitive data. CMMC and the Defense Industrial Base The Defense Industrial Base (DIB) is a critical component of national security, comprising hundreds of thousands of contractors and subcontractors. These entities handle a wide range of sensitive data, making them prime targets for cyberattacks. By implementing the CMMC framework, the Department of Defense (DoD) aims to secure this vast and diverse network, ensuring that all participants adhere to a standardized set of cybersecurity practices. Evolution from CMMC 1. 0 to CMMC 2. 0 CMMC 1. 0 was a comprehensive framework featuring five maturity levels, each including specific... --- ### How Scytale Optimizes the Compliance Process Through Automation > In this video, Aleksandra Klosowska explores how automation can streamline your compliance efforts and reduce manual workload. - Published: 2024-06-14 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytale-optimizes-the-compliance-process-through-automation/ In this video, Aleksandra Klosowska explores how automation can streamline your compliance efforts and reduce manual workload. Discover the benefits of automating your compliance processes with Scytale! In this video, Aleksandra Klosowska explores how automation can streamline your compliance efforts, reduce manual workload, and ensure your organization stays ahead in meeting regulatory requirements. --- ### The Future of Security Compliance: How Emerging Technologies are Setting New Rules > This blog takes a look at the role, benefits, and considerations of technological innovations in security compliance. - Published: 2024-06-12 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/future-of-security-compliance/ This blog takes a look at the role, benefits, and considerations of technological innovations in security compliance. Although the evolving tech landscape can yield unprecedented opportunities, it presents formidable challenges, especially regarding security compliance. Organizations and regulators are now forced to rethink their attitudes towards innovative (albeit risky) solutions to many of the gaps in traditional compliance processes.   Let’s take a look.   The Role of Technology in Reshaping Security Compliance With the rapid development and integration of emerging technologies, the security landscape can utilize significant opportunities for innovation and efficiency. Gone are the days of check-the-box compliance, as all the more organizations lean into a more strategic approach.   However, at the same time, the use of emerging technology raises significant concerns about security, privacy, and data protection. This raises the question: Is implementing emerging tech simply a case of keeping up with competitors while scaling business operations, or does it truly hold profound GRC benefits? What about the speed at which regulators are able to adapt to these new technologies? Compliance will very quickly lag behind tech if they do not act quickly.   Despite varying opinions regarding the role of emerging tech in the compliance landscape, the results speak for themselves. In fact, 93% of surveyed respondents in a compliance risk study conducted by Accenture agree that emerging tech, such as AI and cloud compliance tools removes human error, automates manual tasks, and proves to be more effective and efficient.   Additionally, in a recent study, 71% cite early risk detection as the main benefit of using emerging technology in compliance, risk, and... --- ### Vendor Risk Management > Senior Compliance Success Manager, Kyle Morris, breaks down Scytale's latest automation feature: Automated Vendor Risk Management. - Published: 2024-06-11 - Modified: 2024-06-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/vendor-risk-management/ Senior Compliance Success Manager, Kyle Morris, breaks down Scytale's latest automation feature: Automated Vendor Risk Management. Senior Compliance Success Manager, Kyle Morris, breaks down the latest addition to Scytale’s suite of compliance automation features: Automated Vendor Risk Management. Say goodbye to tedious, one-off vendor checks! With our Automated Vendor Risk Management, you can automate the dull stuff like vendor onboarding, risk checks, and mitigation, putting hours back on your clock. --- ### NIS2 Explained > Senior Compliance Success Manager, Kyle Morris, breaks down NIS2, who needs to comply, and how Scytale can help you achieve compliance. - Published: 2024-06-11 - Modified: 2024-06-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/nis2-explained/ Senior Compliance Success Manager, Kyle Morris, breaks down what NIS2 is, who needs to comply, and how Scytale can help you achieve full compliance. Hear our Senior Compliance Success Manager, Kyle Morris, as he breaks down what NIS2 is, who needs to comply, and how Scytale can help you achieve full compliance. Whether you're new to NIS2 or looking to deepen your understanding, this video covers all the essentials. --- ### The Benefits of Effective Security Questionnaire Automation > Change the way you’re answering security questionnaires and learn how to leverage effective security questionnaire automation. - Published: 2024-06-11 - Modified: 2025-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-benefits-of-effective-security-questionnaire-automation/ Change the way you’re answering security questionnaires and learn how to leverage effective security questionnaire automation. Understanding Security Questionnaires No business is an island, or at least it shouldn't be. In today's digital landscape, almost any business utilizes at least one third-party vendor for their business processes. Moreover, YOU may be that third party yourself. Either way, this means one thing: security questionnaires.   Simply put, external vendors offer significant opportunities for businesses to scale and streamline operations without necessarily draining their resources (or budget). However, these third-party vendor relationships come at a cost, and that cost is security. This is where the importance of security questionnaires comes into play. Security questionnaires are essential for assessing the security practices of potential and existing third-party vendors. Businesses want concrete proof that vendors aren’t adding unnecessary vulnerabilities or exposing them to threats concerning data privacy or information security.   Cue security questionnaires.   Security questionnaires play a critical role in vendor risk management and are generally created by following industry best practices with frameworks like SOC 2 and ISO 27001. The purpose of these questionnaires is to determine whether the organizations that complete them have security policies and processes that are aligned with what "secure" organizations do—helping companies gauge vendors before and during their partnership.   The Primary Objectives of Security Questionnaires Before we get into the nitty-gritty of creating and completing an effective security compliance questionnaire, it's essential to consider the primary objectives of security questionnaires in the first place. Here's why they're essential:  To help organizations responsibly vet all third-party vendors before continuing with the onboarding... --- ### Scytale Announces On-Premise Integration: Compliance Automation for Every Company > Scytale now supports on-premise environments, enabling companies of all types to streamline their compliance processes efficiently. - Published: 2024-06-10 - Modified: 2024-06-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-announces-on-premise-integration-compliance-automation-for-every-company/ Scytale now supports on-premise environments, enabling companies of all types to streamline their compliance processes efficiently. Scytale announces the expansion of their compliance automation platform to support on-premise environments, enabling companies of all types to streamline their compliance processes efficiently. New York, NY, June 10, 2024 Scytale is excited to share a significant milestone that marks a new era in the world of compliance automation. Since inception, Scytale has been on a mission to streamline and simplify the compliance process for tech startups and modern businesses, primarily those leveraging cloud-native infrastructure. Scytale's platform has been a cornerstone for companies aiming to achieve and maintain standards like SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and many more, eliminating the manual and tedious efforts traditionally associated with compliance. Today, Scytale is thrilled to announce an expansion of capabilities to support on-premise environments. Bridging the Gap Between Cloud and On-Prem Environments In the fast-paced world of technology, cloud-native infrastructure has become the norm, especially for tech startups. However, Scytale recognizes that not all companies operate on the cloud, as many established and traditional businesses have their roots and operations in their own data centers and local networks. Scytale wanted to enable companies with this ‘traditional’ infrastructure to also automate evidence collection and testing for their security and privacy audits and streamline their compliance checks. Scytale's goal is clear: to ensure that their cutting-edge compliance automation solutions are accessible to all companies, regardless of their technological infrastructure. This new development means Scytale can now pull data from both cloud-native applications and those residing in on-premise environments. A Future Without Boundaries By extending... --- ### Navigating Cybersecurity: In-House Security Teams vs. Virtual CISOs > Discover the difference between a CISO and a vCISO and the benefits each hold concerning cybersecurity (and budget). - Published: 2024-06-03 - Modified: 2025-05-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/navigating-cybersecurity-in-house-security-teams-vs-virtual-cisos/ Discover the difference between a CISO and a vCISO and the benefits each hold concerning cybersecurity (and budget). For many scaling businesses, investing in a full-stack, in-house security team can be challenging both in terms of the necessity and financial implications. However, in an unforgiving threat landscape, companies can't afford to stagnate in terms of cybersecurity. This begs the question - is there an equally effective alternative to navigating cybersecurity instead of hiring an in-house security team, and if so, would that compromise the security standard?   Let's take a look.   According to a 2023 IBM report on the cost of a data breach, researchers found organizations that appointed a CISO saved $130,086 on average compared to those without a CISO in place per incident. However, the same report stated that only one-third of companies discovered data breaches through their security teams, highlighting a need for better threat detection. In fact, 67% of breaches are reported by a benign third party or the attackers themselves. Although the role of a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is critical in maintaining a company's cybersecurity standards, if you're a small or mid-sized business that doesn't need a full-time CISO, there's an alternative solution at hand: a virtual CISO (vCISO). Needless to say, there's a fair debate surrounding the topic: In-House Security Teams vs. Virtual CISOs (vCISO) - what's the verdict?   How Does a vCISO Differ From a CISO? Both CISOs and vCISOs share the goal of safeguarding information. However, their approaches and execution differ significantly. Traditionally, the CISO works full-time for an organization as an executive. They oversee the... --- ### Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis, at Infosecurity Europe > Hear from our CEO, Meiran Galis, on how compliance with data security frameworks can help startups looking to make it BIG. - Published: 2024-06-03 - Modified: 2024-06-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytales-ceo-meiran-galis-at-infosecurity-europe-2022/ Hear from our CEO, Meiran Galis, on how compliance with data security frameworks can help startups looking to make it BIG. Hear from our CEO, Meiran Galis, on how compliance with data security frameworks like SOC 2 and ISO 27001 can help startups looking to make it BIG. And the best part? You don't have to do it alone - that's what we're here for. --- ### Traditional vs Automated Audits > Raymond Cheng, CEO at Decrypt Compliance sits down with Scytale to break down the difference between traditional audits and automated audits. - Published: 2024-05-30 - Modified: 2024-07-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/traditional-vs-automated-audits/ Raymond Cheng, CEO at Decrypt Compliance sits down with Scytale to break down the difference between traditional audits and automated audits. Raymond Cheng, CEO and Managing Director at Decrypt Compliance sits down with Scytale to break down the difference between traditional audits and automated audits. --- ### Scytale's Automated Vendor Risk Management Ensures a Seamless Process for Managing Vendors > Scytale’s Automated Vendor Risk Management ensures your vendors adhere to top data security practices to maintain compliance standards. - Published: 2024-05-27 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-launches-vendor-risk-management/ Scytale’s Automated Vendor Risk Management ensures your vendors adhere to top data security practices to maintain compliance standards. Scytale’s Vendor Risk Management ensures your vendors adhere to top data security practices to maintain compliance standards through automated continuous monitoring and advanced risk management.   New York, NY, May 27, 2024 Scytale understands that risk management is a critical, yet complex, component of maintaining a secure and compliant organization, which is why they’re excited to announce the latest addition to their suite of compliance automation features: Vendor Risk Management. This new feature demonstrates Scytale's commitment to simplifying and centralizing the entire compliance process for SaaS companies, ensuring that they can leave all the moving parts of their compliance processes to Scytale. What Scytale’s Vendor Risk Management Feature Means for Their Customers A Complete Compliance Hub for SaaS Companies This feature is a significant milestone in Scytale's ongoing mission to be the all-in-one compliance hub, offering a comprehensive and simplified solution for monitoring vendor risk levels and conducting risk mapping and assessments. By centralizing and automating these processes, Scytale accelerates their customers' path to continuous compliance, making it easier than ever to meet and maintain industry standards and regulations. Seamless Vendor Risk Tracking With the rise of SaaS solutions and the increasing reliance on both physical and cloud vendors, keeping track of all vendors can be daunting. Through Scytale's automated functionalities, customers will now be able to easily monitor and manage all the risks associated with their vendors in one place and have a clear overview of every vendor, ensuring optimized risk management tailored for today's SaaS-driven landscape. Built with... --- ### Tekpon SaaS Podcast: How to Automate Your Security Compliance > Check out Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis, on the Tekpon podcast as he discusses security compliance automation. - Published: 2024-05-23 - Modified: 2024-07-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/tekpon-saas-podcast-how-to-automate-your-security-compliance/ Check out Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis, on the Tekpon podcast as he discusses security compliance automation. Tekpon is a SaaS marketplace born out of the genuine desire to help people change how they consume and purchase software products and services. Tekpon has a team of enthusiastic tech lovers whose main goal is to help users boost their lives and businesses with the right software. Check out Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis, on the Tekpon podcast as he discusses how security compliance automation helps companies get and stay compliant with security frameworks like SOC 1, SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, GDPR, PCI-DSS, and more without breaking a sweat. --- ### Exploring the Role of ISO/IEC 42001 in Ethical AI Frameworks > This blog delves into ISO/IEC 42001 and its role in the ethical and responsible development, deployment, and use of AI technologies. - Published: 2024-05-22 - Modified: 2024-06-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/exploring-the-role-of-iso-iec-42001-in-ethical-ai-frameworks/ This blog delves into ISO/IEC 42001 and its role in the ethical and responsible development, deployment, and use of AI technologies. Understanding ISO/IEC 42001 ISO/IEC 42001 provides guidance on building trust in AI systems. It offers a comprehensive framework that organizations can utilize to ensure the ethical and responsible development, deployment, and use of AI technologies. By emphasizing trustworthiness, ISO/IEC 42001 aims to address concerns related to transparency, accountability, fairness, reliability, and privacy in AI systems. The Principles of Ethical AI in ISO/IEC 42001 ISO/IEC 42001 outlines several key principles that underpin ethical AI development: Transparency: AI systems should be transparent in their operations and decision-making processes, enabling stakeholders to understand how they work and the rationale behind their actions. Accountability: Organizations developing AI systems are accountable for their behavior and must be able to justify their decisions and actions. Fairness: AI systems should be designed and implemented in a manner that promotes fairness and prevents discrimination or bias against individuals or groups. Reliability: AI systems should consistently perform as expected within their intended scope and should be resilient to errors or adversarial attacks. Privacy: AI systems should respect individuals' privacy rights and handle personal data in accordance with relevant privacy laws and regulations. ISO 42001 vs Europe’s AI Act: How They Compare The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is renowned for its comprehensive standards across diverse industries. ISO 42001, specifically, pertains to AI and provides guidelines for the ethical design and development of AI systems. It emphasizes principles such as transparency, accountability, fairness, reliability, and privacy. One of its key strengths lies in its global applicability, providing a common ground... --- ### ISO 27001:2022 Updates > Compliance expert, Wesley Van Zyl, breaks down everything you need to know about ISO 27001:2022 in one quick and easy, bite-sized video. - Published: 2024-05-21 - Modified: 2024-05-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-270012022-updates/ Compliance expert, Wesley Van Zyl, breaks down everything you need to know about ISO 27001:2022 in one quick and easy, bite-sized video. You know a thing or two about ISO 27001. But what about the latest version - ISO 27001:2022? If your answer was anything other than “Yes, obviously” then this is for you. Compliance expert, Wesley van Zyl, breaks down everything you need to know about ISO 27001:2022 in one quick and easy, bite-sized video. --- ### What is ISO 42001? Structure, Responsibilities and Benefits > This quick read will get you up to speed on ISO 42001 - what it is, who's responsible for what, and why it matters for ethical AI. - Published: 2024-05-21 - Modified: 2024-06-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-iso-42001-structure-responsibilities-and-benefits/ This quick read will get you up to speed on ISO 42001 - what it is, who's responsible for what, and why it matters for ethical AI. You walk into the office and all everyone can talk about is AI. As AI continues to grow and transform industries, keeping company and personal data secure has never been more important. And that's where ISO 42001 comes in. This international standard provides a comprehensive framework for tackling the unique challenges of AI data security. This quick read will get you up to speed on ISO 42001 - what it is, who's responsible for what, and why it matters. In just a few minutes, you'll have the basics down about structure, the responsibilities it sets out, the benefits of getting certified, and how Scytale can help you every step of the way. Understanding the purpose behind the standard helps put it in perspective, so you can thoughtfully consider how it might impact you and how you use AI tools in your own business. Sound useful? Read on for the lowdown on ISO 42001! What is ISO 42001 and Why Does it Matter? ISO 42001 is an international standard developed to provide guidelines and best practices for safeguarding data within AI systems. Introduced by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), this framework aims to mitigate the risks associated with AI-driven data processing, storage, and transmission. In the context of fast-evolving technologies, such as machine learning and deep learning, traditional data security measures may prove inadequate. AI systems often operate autonomously, making complex decisions based on vast amounts of data. As a result, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data within... --- ### Scytale to Support ISO 42001, Ensuring Companies Sail Smoothly into AI Compliance > We're thrilled to announce that Scytale will support ISO 42001, the cornerstone framework for AI compliance standards. - Published: 2024-05-20 - Modified: 2024-06-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-to-support-iso-42001-ensuring-companies-sail-smoothly-into-ai-compliance/ We're thrilled to announce that Scytale will support ISO 42001, the cornerstone framework for AI compliance standards. Scytale now offers comprehensive support for companies to adhere to ISO 42001 in AI systems. New York, NY, May 20, 2024 In an era marked by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), regulatory landscapes are evolving at a similar pace, emphasizing the importance of robust compliance frameworks. Today, we're thrilled to announce a significant expansion to our platform's capabilities: Scytale will support ISO 42001, the cornerstone framework for AI compliance standards. Understanding ISO 42001: The AI Compliance Blueprint ISO 42001 is a globally recognized standard designed to guide your organization in the ethical development, deployment, and governance of AI systems, addressing critical areas such as fairness, transparency, accountability, and privacy and providing a solid foundation for responsible AI utilization. As AI technologies increasingly become an integral part of businesses of all shapes and sizes, adherence to such standards is not just about compliance; it's about building trust with customers and partners in this new digital age. Why ISO 42001 Matters Now More Than Ever In today's fast-paced technological landscape, where AI systems play a pivotal role in all sorts of day-to-day processes, the potential for bias, privacy breaches, and ethical dilemmas is ever-present. ISO 42001 offers a framework to navigate these challenges, ensuring that AI technologies are used in a way that is in line with the highest information security standards. ISO 42001 compliance is not only a compliance framework, it's a competitive advantage, demonstrating your organization's commitment in handling your AI systems ethically. Need quick answers for questions relating... --- ### 5 Must-Haves to Get (and Stay) Compliant With Privacy and Security Frameworks > This blog will provide you with a clear roadmap of must-haves for compliance so you can make informed decisions when evaluating solutions. - Published: 2024-05-15 - Modified: 2024-05-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/5-must-haves-to-get-and-stay-compliant-with-privacy-and-security-frameworks/ This blog will provide you with a clear roadmap of must-haves for compliance so you can make informed decisions when evaluating solutions. Achieving and maintaining compliance with data privacy and security frameworks is a complex undertaking that requires a multi-faceted approach. From automation tools to consultancy services, penetration testing to third-party audits, there are several crucial components that organizations must consider.   This comprehensive list of must-haves will help you understand some key elements required to ensure your organization meets and sustains compliance standards effectively. Our goal is to provide you with a clear roadmap of must-have capabilities so you can make informed decisions when evaluating solutions. With the right preparation and partners, you'll be compliant and cyber-resilient in no time. Automation Platform To streamline compliance, you’ll want to invest in a compliance automation platform. These specialized software solutions help automate evidence collection, and give you a central place to manage policies, controls, audits, risk assessments, security awareness training, and more. They provide a solution to monitor compliance across your organization and ensure nothing slips through the cracks. When evaluating automation platforms, look for ones tailored to your industry and specific compliance needs. For gold standard data security, look for SOC 2 and ISO 27001 support. If you’re in healthcare, look for HIPAA capabilities. For privacy regulations, look for platforms with GDPR and CCPA capabilities built-in. The platform should integrate with your existing security and IT systems and be customizable to your environment. Look for a solution that can manage and automate processes such as: Evidence collection for your audits and assessments  Risk and vulnerability assessments Policy management  User access reviews Continuous... --- ### Trends in B2B Compliance [Key Insights From Our 2023 Survey Report] > Here are our key insights from our 2023 Survey Report of 250 compliance leaders across the U.S., Canada and the UK. - Published: 2024-05-13 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/trends-in-b2b-compliance-key-insights-from-our-2023-survey-report/ Here are our key insights from our 2023 Survey Report of 250 compliance leaders across the U.S., Canada and the UK. At Scytale, we've long understood that rigorous security compliance isn't just a check-box exercise - it's an absolutely essential driver of business growth, customer trust and competitive advantage. This truth is clearly borne out in the findings from our most recent industry survey of 250 compliance leaders across the U. S. , Canada and the UK. The vast majority (85%) of respondents agreed that achieving and maintaining robust security compliance with frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, PCI DSS and others is "very important" or "critical" to attracting new customers and signing more business deals. With increasingly sophisticated cyber threats and data breaches, companies rightly demand assurance that their sensitive data will be kept secure before doing business. Failing to meet stringent data security and compliance standards is essentially a deal-breaker. The Resource Struggle However, while the importance of compliance is well understood, our survey reveals that most companies simply lack the necessary resources and capabilities to tackle it effectively through manual methods. An eye-opening 98% of companies admitted they don't have the required in-house expertise, staffing levels, budget or tools to adequately embark on and maintain the rigorous security compliance processes and evidence collection required for continuous audit-readiness. The Costly Burden of Manual Compliance Indeed, quantifying just how much of a productivity drain legacy manual compliance methods have become, companies with under 500 employees reported spending on average over 2000 hours per year on routine activities like implementing security controls, collecting audit evidence, testing effectiveness, managing audit processes... --- ### Benefits of Pen Testing with Scytale > Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman discuss the benefits of getting your pen test done with our experienced team of pen testers at Scytale. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/benefits-of-pen-testing-with-scytale/ Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman discuss the benefits of getting your pen test done with our experienced team of pen testers at Scytale. You know you need pen testing to get compliant with most security standards, but why would you work with an external team of pen testers? Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman discuss the benefits of getting your pen test done with Scytale, and why our team of experienced pen testers are next level! Don't neglect your pen test, work with Scytale today. --- ### Pen Testers vs State Actors > Pen Testers Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman dissect the crucial role of penetration testing in defending against state actors' cyber threats. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/pen-testers-vs-state-actors/ Pen Testers Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman dissect the crucial role of penetration testing in defending against state actors' cyber threats. Pen Testers Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman dissect the crucial role of penetration testing in defending against state actors' cyber threats. Organizations face increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks orchestrated by state-sponsored actors, making cybersecurity a paramount concern for businesses of all sizes. Discover why proactive measures, such as rigorous pen testing, are essential to protect your organization's defenses against malicious intrusions and data breaches. --- ### Ask a Hacker: Why is the First Pen Test the Most Important? > Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why the first test is usually the worst one, but also why it's the most important. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ask-a-hacker-why-is-the-first-pen-test-the-most-important/ Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why the first test is usually the worst one, but also why it's the most important. The first Pen Test gives an organization an idea of the true state of their systems and how secure their systems really are. Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why the first test is usually the worst one, but also why it's the most important. --- ### Ask a Hacker: Why Work With a Pen Tester? > Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why you should work with a pen tester to save you costs in the long run. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ask-a-hacker-why-work-with-a-pen-tester/ Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why you should work with a pen tester to save you costs in the long run. Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why working with a pen tester not only saves you money, but also possibly the reputation of your organization. Because if you don't want to do a pen test to make sure your systems are secures, an outside, malicious attacker definitely will. And the results will be disastrous. --- ### Why Pen Testing is Required for Multiple Frameworks > Scytale Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why pen testing is important across multiple security frameworks. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/why-pen-testing-is-required-for-multiple-frameworks/ Scytale Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why pen testing is important across multiple security frameworks. A lot of companies don't know, but pen testing is actually a requirement to comply to multiple security frameworks. From SOC 2 to PCI DSS, a pen test is necessary to prove that the data that your company is using/gathering is protected from outside threats. Scytale Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, explain why pen testing is important across multiple security frameworks, and why you need to do a pen test to comply. --- ### Ask a Hacker: Why is Pen Testing Critical? > Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, break down why penetration testing is critical for your your organization's cyber security. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-05-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ask-a-hacker-why-is-pen-testing-critical/ Pen Testers Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman break down why penetration testing is critical for your your organization's cyber security. Pen Testers, Beni Benditkis and Nikita Goman, break down why penetration testing is critical for your organization's cyber security. Having a third party pen testing team brings new perspective to your systems, ensuring that nothing is missed and that your systems are secured as much as possible. --- ### Compliance Made Easy: How Scytale Helps Customers Every Step of The Way > Compliance Success Director, Adar Givoni, breaks down how Scytale helps customers with their compliance journey every step of the way. - Published: 2024-05-08 - Modified: 2024-05-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/compliance-made-easy-how-scytale-helps-customers-every-step-of-the-way/ Compliance Success Director, Adar Givoni, breaks down how Scytale helps customers with their compliance journey. Walk into your audit with confidence. Compliance Success Director, Adar Givoni, breaks down how Scytale helps customers with their compliance journey from audit-readiness to certification and everything in between. The best part of working with Scytale? You don't need to be a compliance guru. That's our job! --- ### What are Cyber Essentials? Requirements, Preparation Process & Certification > Here's everything you need to know about Cyber Essentials and whether or not this may be a tailor-made fit for your company. - Published: 2024-05-07 - Modified: 2025-02-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-are-cyber-essentials-requirements-preparation-process-certification/ Here's everything you need to know about Cyber Essentials and whether or not this may be a tailor-made fit for your company. Great, so we know you’re no stranger to the compliance neighbourhood. In fact, you may have heard of frameworks such as SOC 2, ISO 27001 or even the odd regulatory legislation like HIPAA or GDPR. However, for many smaller businesses or startups, bigger (more complex frameworks) seem just a tad out of reach. Perhaps once you scale, but for now you only need the essentials. Fortunately, you’re not alone. That’s exactly what we’re talking about: The Cyber Essentials Certification. Tailor-made for those businesses that (at the very least) want a baseline security posture that covers the essentials, and this UK-specific framework is designed to be accessible and practical for smaller companies. At first glance, Cyber Essentials may sound like an absolute must-have for your business. But let's be honest: anything with the word 'essentials' in it is bound to grab our attention. However, understanding yet another cybersecurity certification may be daunting and time-consuming. Moreover, you wouldn’t want to invest in anything that isn’t relevant to your specific business goals, priorities and threat landscape of course. That’s why we've consolidated everything you need to know about Cyber Essentials and whether or not this may be a tailor-made fit for your company. https://youtu. be/4pRrocLuHqc? list=PL495JGqlB4DLg2oORhWAtRrUKsiAVbceN Who Should Get Cyber Essentials Certified Before diving head-first into the article, you’re probably wondering, ‘does this even apply? ’ So, straight out the gate, you must hold an up-to-date Cyber Essentials certificate if you’re a supplier planning on bidding for UK government contracts involving handling certain... --- ### Got Your Eyes on Cyber Essentials Plus? We've Got You Covered! > Scytale now supports Cyber Essentials Plus, the UK government's enhanced cybersecurity framework that goes above core requirements. - Published: 2024-05-06 - Modified: 2025-02-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/got-your-eyes-on-cyber-essentials-plus-weve-got-you-covered/ Scytale now supports Cyber Essentials Plus, the UK government's enhanced cybersecurity framework that goes above core requirements. With data breaches and hacking attacks in the headlines way too often, strengthening digital defenses has become mission critical. But where do you start when threats are evolving daily? Here's the good news - you don't have to figure it all out alone and compliance shouldn’t be a dreaded, lengthy process. We're excited to announce that we now offer comprehensive support for Cyber Essentials Plus, the UK government's enhanced cybersecurity framework that goes above core requirements.   From initial assessment to implementation and beyond, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. We'll help you identify vulnerabilities, tighten security controls, and ace that third-party audit. Plus, we'll provide ongoing support to ensure your defenses stay strong in the face of evolving threats. What is Cyber Essentials Plus? Cyber Essentials Plus is a certification program from the UK government to help organizations guard against online threats. It builds on the basic Cyber Essentials standard by requiring extra verification that security controls are working right, adding penetration testing to validate technical controls. The "Plus" takes certification to the next level by including a third-party audit to provide further assurance of your company’s cybersecurity posture. The key controls under Cyber Essentials Plus that an auditor will check include: Boundary firewalls and internet gateways Secure system configuration Access control Malware protection Patch management The goal with these controls is to validate that your cybersecurity policies aren't just theoretical - they are actively blocking real-world threats. Scytale + Cyber Essentials Plus... --- ### The Startup Founder’s Go-to Guide To GDPR > This GDPR startup guide breaks down everything you need to get up to speed on the regulation and the fastest way to get there. - Published: 2024-05-02 - Modified: 2024-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-startup-founders-go-to-guide-to-gdpr/ This GDPR startup guide breaks down everything you need to get up to speed on the regulation and the fastest way to get there. --- ### A Beginner's Guide to the Five SOC 2 Trust Service Principles > To understand the scope and process of SOC 2, you need to be familiar with the Trust Service Principles (TSP). - Published: 2024-04-29 - Modified: 2025-02-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/a-beginners-guide-to-the-five-soc-2-trust-service-principles/ To understand the scope and process of SOC 2, you need to be familiar with the 5 TSPs. To understand the scope and process of SOC 2, you need to be familiar with the Trust Service Principles (TSP). Before we start, we promise, this is not overwhelming, so just keep on reading.   SOC 2 Trust Service Principles and Categories The Trust Service Principles are a set of principles for assessing the risk and opportunities associated with the information security of an organization. The five criteria were developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and cover the following categories: Security: Ensuring systems are safeguarded against unauthorized access through robust measures like firewalls and intrusion detection. Availability: Guaranteeing services are consistently accessible and operational as per agreed terms, crucial for industries relying on uninterrupted service delivery. Processing Integrity: Certifying error-free processing and timely delivery of data, vital for sectors like finance where accuracy and consistency are paramount. Confidentiality: Restricting data access to authorized individuals and implementing rigorous measures to prevent breaches, including encryption and access controls. Privacy: Managing data in accordance with privacy regulations, determining how, when, and why user information is used, stored, and shared. In fact, System and Organization Controls (SOC 2) is a reporting framework developed by the AICPA for service organizations, which is obviously super credible because whenever an acronym organization is involved, you don’t question it! SOC 2 is a framework especially created for SaaS companies to demonstrate that they meet the highest standard of data security. Trust us, if a company approaches you and asks if you have SOC 2... --- ### The 5 Best Practices for PCI DSS Compliance > This blog discusses the essentials of PCI DSS compliance and the 5 best practices for maintaining compliance. Read more here. - Published: 2024-04-24 - Modified: 2024-05-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-5-best-practices-for-pci-dss-compliance/ This blog discusses the essentials of PCI DSS compliance, and the 5 best practices for maintaining compliance. Often, anything related to compliance can feel resource-intensive and complex. Truth be told, it is - at least it is if you’re tackling it alone. So naturally, for something that takes up a large portion of your capacity, when you're working towards getting (and staying) compliant, you want to make extra sure that you're doing it right. That’s where our best practices for PCI DSS compliance come into play. After all, there's hardly anything 'straightforward' about PCI DSS compliance, especially if you're trying to manage and maintain it yourself. So, to make sure you're on the right track and you stay on it, here are five best practices for PCI DSS compliance. First, let's recap the essentials.   What is PCI DSS Compliance?   PCI DSS, also known as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, sets the security standard for organizations that process payment information, especially cardholder data. This standard was developed in 2004 by the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) with one mission in mind: to secure cardholder data. Now, whether you’re a small startup or a well-established company, if you store, process, and/or transmit cardholder data - you’re subject to PCI DSS compliance. But what does that mean exactly?   The Three Main Components of PCI DSS Simply put, there are three main components that help us understand the PCI DSS basics, namely:  1:  Managing Access This includes creating a security standard to determine how organizations should manage access to credit card data to protect sensitive... --- ### More Time Selling, Less Time Questioning - Introducing Scytale’s AI Security Questionnaires! > Scytale’s AI Security Questionnaires helps you respond to prospects’ security questionnaires quicker than ever. - Published: 2024-04-23 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/more-time-selling-less-time-questioning-introducing-scytales-ai-security-questionnaires/ Scytale’s AI Security Questionnaires helps you respond to prospects’ security questionnaires quicker than ever. Any sales team member at a SaaS company would see the below scenario as familiar... You spend hours inputting 100+ responses related to your data security and compliance for prospects - pulling in your developers, compliance officer (if you’re lucky), CEO, CTO - ANYONE that can help! It’s a long, hard, time-wasting, copy-and-pasting trudge. We know how time-consuming and tedious it can be to respond to those lengthy security questionnaires prospects send your way.   But here’s the good news - your life’s about to get a whole lot easier. We’re excited to announce Scytale’s newest solution that helps you respond to prospects’ security questionnaires quicker than ever: AI Security Questionnaires.   Here’s the rundown on how it works: It imports your prospect’s questionnaire into the platform. Then, it cross-references the questions to your existing compliance frameworks (like SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, etc. ). Next, it auto-populates responses by pulling the relevant information from your compliance documentation you’ve already put together. Finally, it produces a completed questionnaire for you to review and tweak before sending back to your prospect.   Certified and Qualified (for Big Sales! ) With Scytale’s AI Security Questionnaires solution, you can now respond to questionnaires 90% faster. No more pulling your hair out starting from scratch each time. Plus, it ensures your responses are consistent across the board and accurately demonstrates your stance on security. Most importantly, it'll help speed up those sales cycles by getting detailed responses back to prospects ASAP.   Reach out... --- ### Scytale’s Multi-Framework Cross-Mapping: Your Shortcut to a Complete Compliance Program > With Scytale's Multi-Framework Cross-Mapping, companies can implement and manage multiple security frameworks without the headaches. - Published: 2024-04-22 - Modified: 2024-05-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytales-multi-framework-cross-mapping-your-shortcut-to-a-complete-compliance-program/ With Scytale's Multi-Framework Cross-Mapping, companies can implement and manage multiple security frameworks without the headaches. In the world of compliance, where the landscape is as diverse as it is complex, companies often find themselves facing not just one, but multiple frameworks. From SOC 2 and ISO 27001 to GDPR and many more, each framework brings its unique set of requirements to the table. But with our Multi-Framework Cross-Mapping, fast-moving companies can implement and manage multiple security and privacy frameworks without all the unnecessary redundant work - and without the headache. Understanding Multi-Framework Cross-Mapping Let’s break it down simply. Imagine you're playing several games of dominoes simultaneously, and you discover that some pieces can be played in more than one game. That's the essence of our Multi-Framework Cross-Mapping. Scytale identifies the commonalities - also known as crosswalks - across different compliance frameworks, and maps these overlaps, ensuring that when evidence and documentation is collected for a specific control, it’s automatically collected for other applicable frameworks too. Here’s a very common scenario: If your organization is already compliant in SOC 2 and has decided to pursue ISO 27001 too, these 2 frameworks have many overlapping controls, and the good news? You won’t need to do the same work twice, as you’ll be able to leverage the controls you’ve already implemented for your SOC 2 report, for your ISO 27001 certification too. This same scenario can be applied to many different frameworks, say GDPR and CCPA, SOC 2 and HIPAA, etc.   Compliance Should Support Your Growth and Security, Not Hinder It While it's clear that our Multi-Framework... --- ### To Comply or Not to Comply: GDPR Guidelines for Startups > This webinar is your opportunity to demystify GDPR compliance and ensure your startup is on the right track to compliance. - Published: 2024-04-17 - Modified: 2024-04-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/to-comply-or-not-to-comply-gdpr-guidelines-for-startups/ This webinar is your opportunity to demystify GDPR compliance and ensure your startup is on the right track to compliance. We’ve all heard about the EU regulation GDPR, but what exactly is GDPR? And more importantly, does your company need to comply? This webinar will leave you with a solid understanding of GDPR essentials, practical steps for achieving compliance, and insights into leveraging compliance as a strategic advantage. Tailored for the startup community, this session is your opportunity to demystify GDPR compliance and ensure your business is on the right track. Speakers: Tracy Boyes, Data Protection & Privacy Expert at ScytaleWouter Sliedrecht, President at Kor Financial --- ### Scytale and Kandji Partner to Make Compliance Easy for Apple IT > Scytale and Kandji have partnered to become your all-in-one solution for all things Apple security, management and compliance. - Published: 2024-04-17 - Modified: 2024-05-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-and-kandji-partner-to-make-compliance-easy-for-apple-it/ Scytale and Kandji have partnered to become your all-in-one solution for all things Apple security, management and compliance. Got a ton of Apple devices keeping your business running? We've got some epic news that will have your IT team doing a happy dance! Scytale (your go-to partner in compliance) and Kandji, the most user-friendly device and security platform for Apple, have partnered to become your all-in-one solution for all things Apple security, management and compliance. Here’s what you’re in for... Secure Apple Setups If you’re a Scytale customer that loves Apple products, here’s your chance to level up your company’s Apple setup game with Kandji. And if you’re a Kandji customer needing to amp up your data security and privacy compliance, Scytale has your back when it comes to getting you compliant with frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and many more, in record speed. An Apple a Day... That Keeps Your Data Secure and Compliant See everything, stop anything: Gain a centralized view of all your Apple devices and user activity, allowing for early identification and mitigation of potential threats. Apple made easy: Setting up and managing your Mac computers, as well as your iPhone and iPad devices is a breeze with Kandji's intuitive interface. You can focus on what matters, while Kandji handles the rest. Security and compliance that won’t slow you down: Both Scytale and Kandji are built for speed, so you can stay secure and compliant without sacrificing performance. Happy users, happy IT: With Kandji's user-friendly tools, your employees can be productive and secure, while your IT team gets valuable time back. Making... --- ### Lessons From the Sisense Breach: Security Essentials Companies Can’t Afford to Forget > This blog gives an overview of the Sisense breach, the types of data compromised in the hack, and lessons for companies to learn from. - Published: 2024-04-16 - Modified: 2024-04-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/lessons-from-the-sisense-breach-security-essentials-companies-cant-afford-to-forget/ This blog gives an overview of the Sisense breach, the types of data compromised in the hack, and lessons for companies to learn from. You know the drill. Another company’s data is breached, another harsh reminder is served about the reality of cyber threats. This time, the company in the headlines is Sisense, a business intelligence software company that allows users to access and analyze big data. These high-profile breaches serve as teachable moments for companies to review their own security practices. Did Sisense let its guard down? What can you learn from their missteps? How vigilant are your own systems and employees?   Read on to get an overview of the breach, the types of data compromised, and lessons for companies to learn from. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Overview of the Sisense Data Breach The Sisense breach has raised significant cybersecurity concerns, prompting the involvement of the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). The breach was severe enough to trigger a CISA alert due to the compromise of millions of sensitive data elements, including access tokens, email account passwords, and SSL certificates.   While the company has declined to comment on the validity of the details emerging from the investigation, insights from various sources shed light on the incident's technical intricacies and its implications for data security practices. According to reports, the breach originated from unauthorized access to Sisense's GitLab code repository. This repository contained a crucial token or credential, granting intruders entry into Sisense's Amazon S3 buckets within the cloud infrastructure. Notably, Sisense was using the self-managed deployment option of GitLab, which offers... --- ### Cyber Essentials Explained > Compliance Success Manager, Ronan Grobler, walks us through the essentials of the Cyber Essentials framework. - Published: 2024-04-15 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/cyber-essentials-explained/ Compliance Success Manager, Ronan Grobler, walks us through the essentials of the Cyber Essentials framework. Cyber Essentials: What is it? Who needs it? Why should you care? Compliance Success Manager, Ronan Grobler, walks us through the essentials of Cyber Essentials. --- ### How Scytale Helps Organization Get Compliant and Stay Compliant > Compliance Success Manager, Lee Govender, explains how Scytale helps organizations get (and stay) compliant with our technology and people. - Published: 2024-04-15 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytale-helps-organization-get-compliant-and-stay-compliant/ Compliance Success Manager, Lee Govender, explains how Scytale helps organizations get (and stay) compliant with our technology and people. Compliance Success Manager, Lee Govender, explains how Scytale helps organizations get compliant, and stay compliant with our combo compliance automation platform and team of compliance experts! And now, we have a built-in audit function too! ! Scytale is everything you need to get compliant, all in one place. Leave your security compliance to us, as we help you get compliant and stay compliant without breaking a sweat. --- ### A Day in the Life of a Scytale CSM > Compliance Success Manager, Robyn Ferreira, walks us through what a normal day as a CSM looks like at Scytale. - Published: 2024-04-15 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-scytale-csm/ Compliance Success Manager, Robyn Ferreira, walks us through what a normal day as a CSM looks like at Scytale. Scytale's Compliance Success Managers are second to none. Even with our smart compliance technology, we know security compliance can still be complicated and overwhelming, with the truckload of requirements! And that’s where our highly experienced, information security experts come in! Compliance Success Manager, Robyn Ferreira, walks us through a normal day as a CSM at Scytale. --- ### Scytale's Audit Readiness Process from Start to Finish > Compliance Success Manager, Robyn Ferreira, shares a quick overview of what the audit readiness process will look like. - Published: 2024-04-15 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytales-audit-readiness-process-from-start-to-finish/ Compliance Success Manager, Robyn Ferreira, shares a quick overview of what the audit readiness process will look like. Not sure what to expect when you start working with Scytale? Compliance Success Manager Robyn Ferreira walks us through the onboarding process for new clients and shares a quick overview of what the audit readiness process will look like. From start to finish, Scytale's CSMs guide you every step of the way. --- ### The Benefits of Scytale's Platform > Compliance Success Manager, Robyn Ferreira, shares how Scytale makes the audit readiness process stress-free for both CSMs and customers. - Published: 2024-04-15 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-benefits-of-scytales-platform/ Compliance Success Manager, Robyn Ferreira, shares how Scytale makes the audit readiness process stress-free for both CSMs and customers. Compliance Success Manager, Robyn Ferreira, walks us through the benefits of Scytale's compliance automation platform, and how it makes the audit readiness process stress-free for CSMs, and more importantly, YOU. --- ### What it's like working as a CSM at Scytale > From the amazing company culture to working with global customers, Robyn Ferreira walks us through her experience of working at Scytale. - Published: 2024-04-15 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-its-like-working-as-a-csm-at-scytale/ From the amazing company culture to working with global customers, Robyn Ferreira walks us through her experience of working at Scytale. Compliance Success Manager Robyn Ferreira walks us through her experience of working at Scytale. From the amazing company culture to working with customers all around the globe, it's hard not to love being part of the Scytale team. --- ### Breaking Down the EU's AI Act: The First Regulation on AI > This blog breaks down the key objectives of Europe's first AI Act and why this critical Act is already making its impact felt. - Published: 2024-04-15 - Modified: 2024-09-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/breaking-down-the-eus-ai-act-the-first-regulation-on-ai/ This blog breaks down the key objectives of Europe's first AI Act and why this critical Act is already making its impact felt. If you've been following the growth of artificial intelligence, you're likely aware that the EU's new AI Act is set to officially come into effect at the end of May 2024. This groundbreaking legislation will regulate AI systems based on their risk potential. But what exactly will this mean, and why is it such a big deal? Well, it will be the first of its kind in the world. The EU will successfully tackle the complex challenge of balancing innovation and responsible AI development. Their 4-tiered risk framework will ensure proportional oversight without stifling progress. However, it’s not without controversy. The debate around regulating versus encouraging new tech is heating up. Read on for a breakdown of the Act's key objectives and why this critical Act is already making its impact felt. Categorizing AI Systems: The EU's Risk-Based Approach To understand the EU AI Act, you first need to comprehend how it classifies AI systems based on risk. The Act establishes four levels: minimal risk (MR), limited risk (LR), high risk (HR), and unacceptable risk (UR). Minimal Risk (MR): This category includes most AI systems like spam filters or video game bots. They pose little risk and require no intervention. Limited Risk (LR): Systems like chatbots (like GPT-trainer) or deepfakes fall under LR. They have lighter rules focused on transparency so people know they're interacting with AI. Unless it's obvious, users must be informed. High Risk (HR): High risk systems are used in healthcare, transport, education, and more. Think AI-assisted... --- ### Achieving CCPA Compliance: A Guide for SaaS Companies > This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know to get your SaaS company up to speed on CCPA compliance. - Published: 2024-04-09 - Modified: 2024-04-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/achieving-ccpa-compliance-a-guide-for-saas-companies/ This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know to get your SaaS company up to speed on CCPA compliance. You're running a SaaS business with data in California and just heard about a privacy law called the CCPA. At first glance it seems complicated, with lots of legal jargon about "personal information" and "data rights. " Don't stress! This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know to get your SaaS company up to speed on CCPA compliance.   We'll start with the basics - what is the CCPA and does it even apply to your business? Then we'll walk through the key provisions and exactly what you need to do to comply, including a handy checklist. Read on to become a CCPA pro and ensure your SaaS company has its legal ducks in a row. What Is CCPA Compliance and Why It Matters for SaaS Companies If you run a SaaS company, you need to get up to speed on the California Consumer Privacy Act or CCPA. This comprehensive privacy law gives California residents more control over their personal information and how companies collect, use, and share it.   CCPA compliance means your company has policies and processes in place to honor the rights California residents have over their data under the CCPA. This includes things like giving them access to their personal information, the right to delete it, and the ability to opt out of the sale of their data. https://youtu. be/vg2vldlt6Ng Why CCPA Compliance Matters for SaaS Companies The CCPA applies to any company that collects personal information from California residents and determines a company's... --- ### How to Get CMMC Certified > This quick guide breaks down the steps of achieving CMMC so your business can protect sensitive government data. - Published: 2024-04-08 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-get-cmmc-certified-2/ This quick guide breaks down the steps of achieving CMMC so your business can protect sensitive government data. If your company handles sensitive government data and/or your customers are part of the U. S. Department of Defense (DoD)’s supply chain and you have access to their data, you will require CMMC - the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification.   This quick guide breaks down the steps so you can protect sensitive data while keeping your business running smoothly. We'll cover the CMMC model levels, the certification process, and tips for choosing a partner in getting you CMMC certified. You'll learn key factors in determining your CMMC level, building a System Security Plan, and picking a certified third-party assessment organization (C3PAO) to conduct your assessment.   With the right prep, you can tackle CMMC without major disruptions. Let's dive in! https://youtu. be/4ElZfnWmh70 What is CMMC Certification? CMMC certification stands for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification. It's a certification developed by the U. S. DoD to help protect sensitive information related to Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUl) within the defense industrial base. CMMC Maturity Levels The CMMC framework defines three levels of cybersecurity maturity, from basic hygiene (Level 1) to advanced (Level 3). Each level builds on the previous level and consists of practices and processes to achieve a higher degree of cybersecurity maturity. The specific level of CMMC certification required depends on the sensitivity of the data and systems to which a company needs access. Why is CMMC Important? The DoD created the CMMC framework to help ensure that any company handling FCI or CUl implements adequate... --- ### How SaaS Companies are Tackling SOC 2 and ISO 27001 in 2024 [Hebrew] > Hear from industry leaders as they spill the tea on how AI is revolutionizing compliance processes for these standards and beyond. - Published: 2024-04-04 - Modified: 2024-09-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-saas-companies-are-tackling-soc-2-and-iso-27001-in-2024/ Hear from industry leaders as they spill the tea on how AI is revolutionizing compliance processes for these standards and beyond. Security compliance has become a must-have for SaaS companies who understand just how critical proving their security posture is for closing deals. Explore how these companies are leveraging AI technologies to streamline and enhance their compliance processes for SOC 2 and ISO 27001 standards in 2024. Discover the latest trends, tools, and strategies being adopted to simplify audits, improve security measures, and ensure data protection, setting a new benchmark for compliance efficiency and effectiveness. Speakers: Meiran Galis, CEO at Scytale Lior Mistriel, Head of Digital Audit, PWC Yuval Abadi, Co-Founder & COO, Lasso Security --- ### Continuous Monitoring and Frameworks: A Web of Security Vigilance > This blog delves into how continuous monitoring enhances the effectiveness of security frameworks, like ISO 27001, NIST CSF and SOC 2. - Published: 2024-04-03 - Modified: 2024-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/continuous-monitoring-and-frameworks-a-web-of-security-vigilance/ This blog delves into how continuous monitoring enhances the effectiveness of security frameworks, like ISO 27001, NIST CSF and SOC 2. In today's ever-evolving threat landscape, reactive security is no longer enough. Organizations need a proactive approach that continuously identifies and addresses security risks. This is where continuous monitoring comes in – a persistent process of collecting, analyzing and interpreting data to maintain real-time awareness of an organization's cyber resilience. But continuous monitoring isn't an island. When integrated with established cybersecurity frameworks, it becomes a powerful tool for organizations to systematically manage their security risks. This blog delves into how continuous monitoring enhances the effectiveness of security frameworks, including popular options like ISO 27001, NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) and SOC 2. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Understanding Continuous Monitoring Continuous monitoring is an ongoing cycle of activities focused on: Data CollectionGathering data from various sources like security information and event management (SIEM) systems, network devices, applications and user activity logs. Data AnalysisUtilizing tools and techniques to analyze collected data for anomalies, suspicious activities and potential vulnerabilities. Threat DetectionIdentifying security incidents, breaches and potential threats based on the analysis. Alerting and ReportingPromptly notifying relevant personnel about identified threats and generating reports that summarize security posture and trends. Response and RemediationTaking appropriate actions to address identified threats, including containment, eradication and recovery measures. Continuous Monitoring: The Engine that Drives Frameworks By integrating continuous monitoring with frameworks, organizations can elevate their security landscape from static to dynamic. Let's explore how: Real-Time Risk Assessment: Frameworks help identify potential risks, but continuous monitoring provides real-time insights into the actual... --- ### How To Speed Up Your SOC 2 Audit Without Breaking A Sweat > What’s the fastest way to pass a SOC 2 audit? Simple: you need to plan carefully and avoid taking any shortcuts. Find here the best way. - Published: 2024-03-24 - Modified: 2024-03-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-speed-up-your-soc-2-audit-without-breaking-a-sweat/ What’s the fastest way to pass a SOC 2 audit? Simple: you need to plan carefully. What’s the fastest way to pass a SOC 2 audit? Simple: you need to plan carefully and avoid taking any shortcuts. Hmmm... that might sound paradoxical but we’ve seen way too many businesses attempt to rush through the compliance process and suffer the consequences: delays, high costs and unsuccessful audits. With a little planning and focus on what matters most, you can get the clean audit report you want without the headaches. So take a deep breath and keep reading - we'll have you feeling audit-ready in no time. Understanding the SOC 2 Audit Process To speed up your SOC 2 audit, it’s important to first understand what’s involved. A SOC 2 audit evaluates your organization’s controls relevant to security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality or privacy of a system or service. The auditor will check that you have policies and procedures in place to meet the trust services criteria. Documentation Review: The auditor will review documentation like system descriptions, security manuals, and operating procedures.   Interviews: Auditors will interview key personnel and perform walkthroughs to confirm that controls are implemented properly.   Testing: Auditors will test a sample of controls to ensure they are operating effectively. Provide any accounts, system access or tools needed to perform testing.   Tips to Speed Up Your SOC 2 Audit Report Prepare in Advance The key to speeding up your SOC 2 audit is preparation. Gather all relevant documents like security policies, data flow diagrams, and access control matrices ahead of time. Review them... --- ### Preparing for Third-Party Audits: Best Practices for Success > In this blog, we'll walk through best practices for getting audit-ready, from getting your documentation together to prepping your team. - Published: 2024-03-20 - Modified: 2024-03-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/preparing-for-third-party-audits/ In this blog, we'll walk through best practices for getting audit-ready, from getting your documentation together to prepping your team. You know it's coming. The annual third-party audit looms ahead, and you've got a million things to do before the auditors arrive. Don't panic! With a solid audit preparation plan, you can tackle the necessary steps efficiently and effectively.   In this blog, we'll walk through best practices for getting audit-ready, from getting your documentation together to prepping your team. We'll share insider tips to help you approach your next audit with confidence, sail through with flying colors, and get back to business as usual.   But first... What Are Third-Party Audits? A third-party audit is an assessment of a company's internal controls, security practices, or compliance processes conducted by an independent auditing firm. The auditors will evaluate how well you meet industry standards or regulatory requirements. Third-party audit reports are important for building trust and credibility with your customers and business partners. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Why Do Companies Need Third-Party Audits? Companies pursue third-party audits for a few key reasons: Compliance: To demonstrate you meet framework requirements in your industry like ISO 27001 or SOC 2. Non-compliance can lead to major fines and damage to your reputation. Security: To validate your information security controls and ensure sensitive data and systems are properly protected. This is important for any company that handles customer information or intellectual property. Trust and credibility: Completing an audit from a reputable firm signifies to customers and partners that you operate with integrity and have strong controls... --- ### NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0: What's Changed and Why It Matters > This blog covers the key changes in NIST CSF 2.0, the first major update since the creation of the CSF a decade ago. - Published: 2024-03-19 - Modified: 2024-03-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/nist-cybersecurity-framework-2-0/ This blog covers the key changes in NIST CSF 2.0, the first major update since the creation of the CSF a decade ago. Cyber threats never sleep, which means neither can your defenses. That's why the US Government’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recently updated its Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) to version 2. 0, the first major update since the creation of the CSF a decade ago. The biggest addition is the Govern function, emphasizing the importance of governance in managing cyber risks. Things like policies, procedures, oversight, and resource allocation now have a home in the framework. Another big shift in the new framework is its expanded scope beyond critical infrastructure sectors. While the original 2014 version focused on industries like energy, finance, and transportation, this new iteration is designed to help organizations of all types and sizes. Let’s dive further into the key updates of version 2. 0, but before we do that, let’s walk through why the framework was established in the first place and what it covers at a high level. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Overview of the NIST CSF  NIST CSF was formed to provide guidance to help organizations manage cyber risks. When it was first introduced back in 2014, it outlined 5 core functions that remain central to the framework today: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover. Identify and Protect help you understand and manage cybersecurity risks. Detect, Respond, and Recover help you handle cybersecurity events. Now, in Cybersecurity Framework 2. 0, NIST has added a sixth function: Govern. So, What's Covered in the New Govern Function? The... --- ### Scytale Partners with Deel to Help Global Companies Get Compliant Seamlessly   > Scytale has officially partnered with Deel, the leading global platform for hiring, HR, payroll, and compliance. - Published: 2024-03-12 - Modified: 2024-05-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-partners-with-deel-to-help-global-companies-get-compliant-seamlessly/ Scytale has officially partnered with Deel, the leading global platform for hiring, HR, payroll, and compliance. We are thrilled to announce that Scytale has officially partnered with Deel, a leading global platform that integrates hiring, HR, payroll, and compliance into one seamless system. This collaboration is designed with one goal in mind: to provide a hassle-free way for companies to grow their teams globally, while maintaining data security and privacy compliance every step of the way.   What Does This Partnership Mean For You? The Deel and Scytale team-up is bringing some awesome perks your way! If you're a Scytale customer, you get a 10% off on Deel’s suite of solutions. And for all the Deel customers? Dive into Scytale's world of compliance automation and you'll score the same discount on our platform. Why Deel is the Real Deal: A Look Into the #1 Global HR Platform Deel’s technology helps companies simplify every aspect of managing an international workforce, from hiring globally and onboarding, to culture and local payroll.   With Deel, startups and large enterprises can: Hire global talent while Deel takes care of employee contracts, minimum wage rules, terminations, and compliance with other local labour laws.   Onboard employees from anywhere in minutes with everything they need - including contracts, laptops, monitors, and more.   Pay all employees and contractors with one bulk payment while Deel manages complex tax deductions, pensions, benefits, and government fees. Solutions Tailored to Your (Scaling) Needs At the core of this partnership is our shared commitment to your success. Whether you're a small startup or scaling business, we know... --- ### Secureframe Alternatives: Compare Top 5 Competitors > Here’s our list of the top five Secureframe alternatives and what to consider when choosing the right automation platform. - Published: 2024-03-11 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/secureframe-alternatives/ Here’s our list of the top five Secureframe alternatives and what to consider when choosing the right automation platform. If security compliance wasn’t complicated enough, along comes the task of choosing the right automation platform for your specific business - yikes! When it comes to evaluating different compliance platforms and tools, companies not only need to understand the intricacies of the relevant security framework (or regulation), but they also need to understand the ins and outs of each platform to ensure that the one they end up choosing aligns with their industry, compliance goals, budget, and many other factors. It’s a full-time job (to say the least), but that doesn’t mean it has to be yours.   We’ve done the heavy lifting for you! Here’s our list of the top five Secureframe alternatives and what to consider when making your choice.   What is Secureframe? Secureframe is a compliance automation platform that streamlines compliance tasks. Their arsenal includes end-to-end support for frameworks such as SOC 2, ISO 27001, PCI DSS, HIPAA, GDPR, CCPA, and NIST. Most customers gravitate towards Secureframe for its GRC capabilities, such as allowing businesses to monitor their compliance status in real-time. Additional benefits of partnering up with Secureframe include leveraging helpful insights into security protocols, identifying and classifying risks and facilitating vendor risk management. However, as with all things in the compliance landscape, there is never a one-size-fits-all solution.   The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Why Look for an Alternate to Secureframe? Secureframe has a firm foothold in the compliance and security space, which brings up a good... --- ### From Prep to Pass, Scytale Launches Its Built-In Audit, Transforming It Into The Complete Compliance Hub for SaaS > Scytale's built-in audit enables customers to track their audit progress, receive updates in real-time, and communicate with their auditor. - Published: 2024-03-06 - Modified: 2024-03-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/built-in-audit-tool-complete-compliance-hub/ Scytale's built-in audit enables customers to track their audit progress, receive updates in real-time, and communicate with their auditor. For SaaS companies, it’s hard not to hear the word ‘audit’, without your heart skipping a beat or two. Finding the best audit firm for your company's culture and tech stack, hundreds of back-and-forth requests, and manually collecting and sharing evidence, takes up so much valuable time and resources. Let’s just be honest: audits are annoying. And so, we decided it was about time to make audits easier. We are thrilled to announce our Built-In Audit, completely rewriting the way audits are carried out to certify your product with both rigor and speed. In a nutshell, the day you start working with Scytale, you won’t need to leave our platform for any steps in your compliance journey, as everything you need is right inside, including your official audit too. As we like to say in more simple terms: from prep to pass, we're officially your fully-packed security compliance hub. This means that not only do we streamline your audit-readiness processes, but now, your official audit process too. So how does it all work? With our built-in audit: We team you up with the perfect independent auditor on day #1, so you don’t have to take on this chore yourself.   Your auditor understands how to work with SaaS companies and cloud-native environments, delivering the highest quality audits at the pace of your business. You receive special bundle pricing for everything Scytale + your audit, being able to get compliant without draining resources. Since our auditors know Scytale inside and out,... --- ### Why Implementing Third-Party Risk Management Software is Essential > Find out how businesses can leverage the advantages of third-party relationships without adding an additional risk factor. - Published: 2024-03-05 - Modified: 2024-03-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/why-implementing-third-party-risk-management-software-is-essential/ Find out how businesses can leverage the advantages of third-party relationships without adding an additional risk factor. Let's be frank: most organizations boast an extensive third-party network. In fact, many daily operations will come to a sudden halt without the intricate involvement of trusted third-party tools.   But there's a flip side: What data and information do they have access to, and what does it mean regarding your own security compliance? Still, no business is an island, and in modern times, running a business without the help of third-party tools or partners will only cause you to lag behind.   So, how can businesses leverage the growth opportunities and advantages of third-party relationships without adding an additional risk factor or vulnerability?   Easy! Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM).   What is Third-Party Risk Management? Third-party risk management, also known as Vendor Risk Management, is the process of identifying, assessing, and reducing any security risks associated with a third-party business partnership. Naturally, when letting any external party into your inner circle, it's imperative that they don't expose you to any risks, threats, or unknown areas of noncompliance.   Although this may seem relatively straightforward on surface value, it gets exponentially more challenging as your business (and third-party network) scales. To help businesses get (and stay) compliant, TPRM software closes the gap and provides the necessary transparency and guidance into your vendor's list to ensure that you're protected from all angles, even the less obvious ones.   That is, however, if you do it correctly. But first, let's look at why it's essential to implement Third-Party Risk Management Software.  ... --- ### Quebec Law 25: All You Need to Know > Quebec Law 25 regulates how companies operating in Quebec manage people's data. Read here on the law's key requirements and how to comply. - Published: 2024-02-21 - Modified: 2024-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/quebec-law-25-all-you-need-to-know/ Quebec Law 25 regulates how companies operating in Quebec manage people's data. Read here on the law's key requirements and how to comply. Picture this: June 2020, the year our lives moved online. Quebec’s provincial government introduces Bill 64, a response to the privacy regulations evolving worldwide to address data protection in the digital age. Fast forward to September 2021, and voila – Bill 64 transforms into Quebec Law 25, the Canadian law that modernizes how businesses handle personal information. Quebec Law 25 adopts a phased approach to implementation, with key privacy requirements becoming active in three stages over the course of three years: September, 2022; September, 2023; and September, 2024. This phased rollout allows businesses time to gradually prepare for new data security obligations. And yet, despite this phased approach, many organizations are still struggling with their strategy to comply. Let's explore the key requirements of this legislation so you can understand how it impacts organizations and residents alike. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper What is Quebec Law 25? Quebec made headlines by passing Law 25, also previously known as Bill 64, in September 2021. This comprehensive law regulates how companies and organizations operating in Quebec manage people's personal data. It makes companies get real careful about collecting, using and sharing private details, with stiff penalties if they don't follow the rules. The main goal? Empower Quebec residents with more choice and transparency about how their data is handled. It updates privacy practices to restore public trust in today's digital world where so much of our lives happen online. The internet boom means way more... --- ### Drata vs Vanta Compared: Similarities and Differences  > Looking for the best Drata and Vanta alternative? Look no further. Find out how Scytale goes beyond mere compliance automation. - Published: 2024-02-19 - Modified: 2024-05-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/drata-vs-vanta/ Looking for the best Drata and Vanta alternative? Look no further. Find out how Scytale goes beyond compliance automation. In today's rapidly evolving information security landscape, organizations are increasingly turning to compliance automation solutions to streamline their processes and ensure adherence to complex compliance requirements. As the demand for efficient compliance management grows, companies such as Drata and Vanta have emerged as leaders in the field, offering innovative platforms designed to simplify and enhance the compliance journey.   But how do Drata and Vanta compare to one another, and are either of them the right fit for your company? Let’s find out.   Understanding Compliance Automation: The Foundation of Drata vs Vanta Compliance automation serves as the bedrock of companies like Drata and Vanta, offering a streamlined approach to navigating complex regulatory landscapes. This innovative practice harnesses cutting-edge technology to revolutionize traditional compliance processes. Rather than relying on cumbersome manual checks and audits, compliance automation empowers organizations to automatically scan systems and infrastructure for compliance gaps and vulnerabilities, as well as automatically collect evidence for the audit. By employing automation tools, businesses can manage their compliance processes and automatically collect evidence for their audit. Additionally, compliance automation monitors user access and activity to uphold principles such as the separation of duties and least privilege, while providing built-in remediation capabilities to swiftly address security issues. This proactive approach not only identifies sensitive data that may contravene security frameworks and regulations like ISO 27001 or GDPR but also facilitates the necessary corrective actions to mitigate risks and maintain compliance. One of the key advantages of compliance process automation is its ability... --- ### Scytale Earns Spot in Tekpon's Top 10 Compliance Software List > Scytale is thrilled to announce a top 10 spot in Tekpon’s prestigious 2024 list of the best compliance software. Learn more. - Published: 2024-02-16 - Modified: 2024-05-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-earns-spot-in-tekpons-top-10-compliance-software-list/ Scytale is thrilled to announce a top 10 spot in Tekpon’s prestigious 2024 list of the best compliance software. Learn more. Scytale is thrilled to announce a top 10 spot in Tekpon’s prestigious 2024 list of the best compliance software. This recognition reaffirms Scytale as a trusted partner for companies navigating the complexities of security compliance frameworks and requirements. We are grateful for Tekpon's recognition and remain committed to delivering best-in-class compliance solutions that help our customers stay ahead in today's complex information security environment. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=dIB_BX4kOfI Award-Winning Features and Team Tekpon recognized Scytale for the platform's comprehensive suite of features, intuitive user interface, and expert compliance team that has a proven track record of helping customers achieve and maintain compliance across various industries and sizes. Scytale's automated evidence collection and built-in risk assessment features were specifically highlighted for their ability to provide organizations with clear insights into their compliance posture. Other features that stood out among competitors include: Customized controls specific to an organization; Auditor-approved policy and procedure templates; Automated monitoring of controls and alerts when there is non-compliance.   These comprehensive features, along with our compliance expert team, enable our customers to drastically reduce hours on audits and compliance tasks, helping them to achieve and maintain compliance fast and sign more deals. Successful Track Record Over the years, Scytale has accumulated extensive experience helping customers across industries tackle compliance.   Customers consistently rate Scytale as a trusted partner that equips them to handle evolving regulations. Scytale’s software is used worldwide and scales to fit the unique needs of startups and scaling companies alike. Tekpon's recognition validates Scytale's... --- ### The 5 Functions of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework > The NIST Cybersecurity Framework lays out five core functions to focus your efforts: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover. - Published: 2024-02-12 - Modified: 2024-02-12 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-5-functions-of-the-nist-cybersecurity-framework/ The NIST Cybersecurity Framework lays out five core functions to focus your efforts: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover. With threats evolving at a rapid pace, it can feel overwhelming to determine what controls and safeguards to put in place. The good news is, the National Institute of Standards and Technology developed a helpful framework to simplify this process. Their Cybersecurity Framework lays out five core functions to focus your efforts: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover. By understanding each function and implementing controls within them, you can develop a robust and risk-based cybersecurity program. Over the next few minutes, we're going to unpack each of these functions so you have a blueprint to get started. cybersecurity doesn't have to be complicated when you have the right tools and resources. The NIST Framework is one of those tools, so let's dive in! History of NIST Compliance The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework was created in 2014 to help organizations manage cybersecurity risks. Originally designed for critical infrastructure sectors, the Framework has since been adopted by organizations across industries. It provides five key functions to help identify, protect, detect, respond to, and recover from cyberattacks. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework provides a common language and systematic methodology for managing cyber risks. Following these five functions can help strengthen your cyber defenses and build a more cyber resilient organization. Identify: Develop an Organizational Understanding of Cyber Risk The Identify function is all about understanding your organization’s cybersecurity risks. This means identifying your critical assets, like customer data, intellectual property, and operational systems. It also means pinpointing the vulnerabilities... --- ### Ask an Auditor Anything About SOC 2 [Live Chat] > Watch our Ask an Auditor Anything session where Raymond Cheng of Decrypt Compliance answers all SOC 2 questions in a live AMA chat. - Published: 2024-02-07 - Modified: 2024-02-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ask-an-auditor-anything-about-soc-2/ Watch our Ask an Auditor Anything session where Raymond Cheng of Decrypt Compliance answers all SOC 2 questions in a live AMA chat. Watch our Ask an Auditor Anything session where SOC 2 auditor Raymond Cheng of Decrypt Compliance answers all SOC 2-related questions in a live ask-me-anything chat. Raymond Cheng is CPA/CITP, CISSP, CISA, CCSK, and CIPP/E certified with over 9 years of experience in security compliance including over 50+ cybersecurity audits at EY. If you're struggling to wrap your head around everything you need to do to get SOC 2 compliant, this Ask an Auditor Anything session is for you! --- ### Key Considerations for NIST 800-53 Control Family Selection > Key Considerations for NIST 800-53 Control Families, How They Work, and How to Get Started With Implementing Them. - Published: 2024-02-05 - Modified: 2024-02-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/key-considerations-for-nist-800-53-control-family-selection/ Key Considerations for NIST 800-53 Control Families, How They Work, and How to Get Started With Implementing Them. As an information security professional, you understand the critical importance of selecting the right set of security controls to protect your organization's data and IT systems. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication 800-53 provides a catalog of security controls and control enhancements that can help strengthen the cybersecurity posture of federal agencies and private sector organizations. Within the NIST 800-53 framework are 17 control families that group related controls and span the range of security topics from access control to system and services acquisition. Choosing the appropriate control families to implement for your organization is a key first step to building a robust security program aligned with the NIST 800-53 guidelines.   What Are NIST SP 800-53 Control Families? The NIST SP 800-53 control families provide a structured set of information security controls for federal information systems and organizations. They are published by NIST as Special Publication 800-53 Revision 5 and are mandatory for federal information systems, but are also widely adopted in the private sector as a benchmark for best practices in information security. The control families within NIST 800-53 include: Access Control: Focuses on managing access to resources and protecting system components. Awareness and Training: Ensures personnel are adequately trained to carry out their information security-related duties and responsibilities. Audit and Accountability: Supports the assessment of information system controls and compliance with security requirements. Security Assessment and Authorization: Focuses on assessing the security controls in information systems and authorizing systems to operate. Configuration Management:... --- ### The Ultimate SOC 2 Checklist for SaaS Companies  > SaaS companies can use this SOC 2 compliance checklist to prepare for their audit and meet security requirements - Published: 2024-01-31 - Modified: 2025-02-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-ultimate-soc-2-checklist-for-saas-companies/ Here’s a handy SOC 2 compliance checklist to help you prepare for your SOC 2 compliance audit and realize your business’ security goals. A System and Organization Control 2 (SOC 2) audit involves a thorough assessment of your organization's procedures, systems, and safeguards in the context of security, availability, confidentiality, processing integrity, and privacy. Given the ubiquity of cloud - hosted applications in the contemporary IT landscape, adherence to industry standards such as SOC 2 is imperative.   While it may appear daunting, navigating this compliance doesn't need to be a complex endeavor. We've formulated a straightforward SOC 2 requirements checklist to assist you in initiating your path towards SOC 2 compliance.   https://youtu. be/VC8acNSuJFY Checklist for SOC 2 Preparing for an SOC 2 audit may entail months of meticulous planning, thorough preparation, and systematically addressing items on an extensive audit checklist. Choosing the type of report, defining objectives and scope, doing risk assessment, implementing gap analysis and performing controls monitoring, – seems just a few of obligations, but they require meticulous planning and attention to details. Let’s understand what each step under the SOC 2 checklist entails. 1. Type of SOC 2 Report Initiating the SOC 2 project requires a comprehensive understanding from the project team, management, and leadership regarding the type of SOC 2 report they want to pursue. There are two distinct types of SOC 2 reports, and the selection depends on customer requirements and the agreed-upon timelines for implementation. A Type 1 report encompasses a compliance audit focusing solely on the "design" of controls. Evidence collection involves policies, procedures, and limited samples to provide auditors with reasonable assurance that... --- ### How to Get SOC 2 and ISO 27001 Compliant with AI [Hebrew] > Join us as we explore real-world applications on navigating SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliance with the precision that AI brings to the table. - Published: 2024-01-31 - Modified: 2024-02-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-and-iso-27001-compliant-with-ai/ Join us as we explore real-world applications on navigating SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliance with the precision that AI brings to the table. SaaS companies are scrambling to get SOC 2 and ISO 27001, but getting compliant is super complicated and time-consuming and most companies don't even know where to start. Join us as we explore real-world applications, best practices, and real-life success stories on navigating SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliance with the agility and precision that AI brings to the table. Panelists: Meiran Galis, CEO at Scytale Mikael Yayon, Partner – Technology Risk EY Yulia Yamrom, VP at Ronet International Certification Services Baruch Oxman, Co-Founder & CTO at Honeydew --- ### CCPA Data Privacy: Safeguarding Personal Information in the Digital Era > The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is state legislation that sets data privacy rights for Californian residents. - Published: 2024-01-30 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ccpa-data-privacy-safeguarding-personal-information-in-the-digital-era/ The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is state legislation that sets data privacy rights for Californian residents. Understanding the CCPA Another day, another framework. Except, if you're a SaaS company potentially working with Californians' personal information, listen up! The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is state legislation that sets data privacy rights for Californian residents. Now, how does that affect your business? Well, suppose your website obtains and handles data on Californian residents. Tag - CCPA applies to you.   So what is this 'CCPA' all about? For starters, the CCPA and the GDPR have much in common as the CCPA is more than just inspired by the GDPR; it's based on its principles. This makes the CCPA the first comparable data privacy regulation in the United States. We discuss this at length in our blog CCPA vs. GDPR: Navigating Data Privacy Regulations for SaaS Companies, which is worth checking out. But for now, let's zoom in on CCPA and what it means for data privacy and safeguarding personal information in a digital era. More importantly, how can you make sure your company is compliant?   But first, let's double-check who needs to comply with CCPA.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=vg2vldlt6Ng Is My Business Subject to CCPA Compliance?   Let's cut to the chase - is this even relevant to your business? In brief, the CCPA will apply to all businesses that come into contact with data from Californian residents and that, as it currently stands, meet one of the following thresholds: The annual gross business revenue exceeds $25 million. A business receives or discloses the personal... --- ### Understanding the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) > What you need to know about getting CMMC certified as a contractor within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Read more here. - Published: 2024-01-29 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/understanding-the-cmmc/ What you need to know about getting CMMC certified as a contractor within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). You know things are getting serious when the Department of Defense (DoD) gets involved, and that's exactly the case with getting Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) certified. But no worries, just because it's serious doesn't mean it has to be daunting or complex.   Here's what you need to know about getting CMMC certified as a contractor within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB).   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=4ElZfnWmh70&t=3s Understanding CMMC The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), a framework created by the U. S. Department of Defense, aims to enhance information security compliance for companies in the defense industrial base (DIB). From a high-level perspective, it is a U. S. Department of Defense (DoD) program that applies to Defense Industrial Base (DIB) contractors, ensuring that they properly protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI). Is that you? Let's check. Am I Subject to CMMC Compliance? Simply put, if you're an individual or entity within the DoD supply chain, you're most likely subject to mandatory CMMC compliance. This includes all contractors who interact with the Department of Defense and all subcontractors.   However, this usually shouldn't come as a surprise, as the security requirements are usually incorporated into the contracts with the DoD. Why CMMC Certification Matters Ultimately, the CMMC framework was created in order to strengthen the cybersecurity posture for organizations within the DIB. Its primary objective is to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI) that moves between parties. However, that doesn't mean it... --- ### Getting SOC 2 and ISO 27001 Compliant with Scytale [Hebrew] > Adar Givoni, Director of Compliance at Scytale breaks down how we take over the compliance process with everything you need in one place. - Published: 2024-01-22 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/getting-soc-2-and-iso-27001-compliant-with-scytale-hebrew/ Adar Givoni, Director of Compliance at Scytale breaks down how we take over the compliance process with everything you need in one place We know you already have a million things on your plate as a startup – security compliance doesn’t have to be one of them! Let’s make this clear: your startup’s journey to compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. Startups don’t have hundreds of hours to spare, and we get that. Listen to Adar Givoni, Director of Compliance at ScytalScytale takes over the compliance process with literally everything you need to get compliant in one place, so you can focus on everything else involved in growing your startup. You’re off the hook! --- ### The Impact of SOC 2 on R&D: A CTO’s Roadmap to Compliance in 2024 > In this webinar, we chat with a startup CTO who shares his real-life challenges and wins of integrating SOC 2 compliance with R&D. - Published: 2024-01-18 - Modified: 2024-06-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-impact-of-soc-2-on-rd-a-ctos-roadmap-to-compliance-in-2024-webinar/ In this webinar, we chat with a startup CTO who shares his real-life challenges and wins of integrating SOC 2 compliance with R&D. In this webinar, you get to hear it straight from the source, as we chat with a startup CTO who shares his real-life challenges and wins of integrating SOC 2 compliance with R&D. Join Meiran Galis (CEO of Scytale), and Alexander Tilkin (Co-Founder & CTO of Complyt) in this webinar, as they share tips on how to weave SOC 2 compliance into your R&D processes and how to keep innovating while staying compliant. --- ### A CTO’s Roadmap to Security Compliance: Your Go-To Handbook for Attaining SOC 2 and ISO 27001 > Essential strategies for CTOs in B2B SaaS, focusing on navigating complex compliance environments and integrating robust security measures. - Published: 2024-01-18 - Modified: 2024-04-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/a-ctos-roadmap-to-security-compliance-your-go-to-handbook-for-attaining-soc-2-and-iso-27001/ In this eBook, we're deep-diving into security compliance for CTOs and how to best attain and manage InfoSec frameworks. Coffee, compliance, and CTOs: the three things essential in keeping startups safe while scaling up quickly. However, without the needed support and guidance to navigate a changing security landscape, one of the three is about to run dry - spoiler alert: it's not coffee.   For CTOs in the B2B SaaS space, grappling with complex regulatory environments like GDPR, SOC 2, ISO 27001, and HIPAA, while scaling technology infrastructure, is a daily challenge. This complex environment demands a nuanced approach to product architecture, data protection, and infrastructure security that aligns with stringent compliance requirements. If driving and managing these responsibilities wasn’t enough, CTOs must do these things while balancing the need to be agile and responsive with ensuring the startup integrates security compliance practices like ‘security by design’ and ‘privacy by default’ into their development.   It's crucial to understand that 'security by design' involves anticipating security issues right from the system design phase and embedding robust security protocols into every layer of the technology stack. Similarly, 'privacy by default' is not just a regulatory requirement but a strategic approach that ensures customer data is protected by default in every product or service. These concepts are integral to building a sustainable and secure SaaS platform. Yet, regardless of the hours spent managing it, something can always slip through the cracks. In this eBook, we're deep-diving into security compliance for CTOs and how to best manage InfoSec frameworks. This guide will delve into advanced strategies for navigating complex compliance frameworks, implementing... --- ### The Power of Gen-AI in Regulatory Compliance > For compliance professionals, Generative AI has emerged as a potential game-changer; however, it has its fair share of concerns. - Published: 2024-01-16 - Modified: 2024-06-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-power-of-gen-ai-in-regulatory-compliance/ For compliance professionals, Generative AI has emerged as a potential game-changer; however, it has its fair share of concern. Regulatory Compliance is Tough - But so is GenAI Although regulatory compliance can be straightforward with the right tools, for many organizations, navigating a labyrinth of complex regulations can be daunting. So, why is regulatory compliance so challenging? Simply being a law-abiding organization shouldn't feel so complicated. Understanding the intersection of evolving technology and compliance is crucial for modern businesses. However, as the threat landscape becomes more advanced, regulatory compliance standards must evolve, too - hopefully quicker than malicious actors.   Businesses must be prepared to face these challenges regardless of whether they consider themselves compliance professionals or not and develop strategies to overcome them to ensure that the organization complies with laws, regulations, and policies.   Some of the most evident challenges include:  Navigating evolving regulations that are prone to change. Interpreting complex regulations that risk being misunderstood and incorrectly implemented. Creating a culture that has adequate security awareness training.   Resource constraints regarding implementing and monitoring compliance programs effectively.   Staying updated with new tools and software to manage compliance effectively as technology advances. Ensuring that personal data is handled appropriately, securely, and in compliance with regulatory requirements. Globalization, including varying regulatory frameworks, cultural differences, and language barriers. Addressing these challenges effectively is essential for any organization aiming to remain compliant. Although these challenges are part and parcel of regulatory compliance, they by no means need to incapacitate teams, drain resources, or put your team at an unfair disadvantage. Here's why.   https://youtu. be/gfnwJbrJ8UQ Understanding GenAI What is... --- ### Best Practices for Vulnerability Scanning: When and How Often to Perform > Let's break down vulnerability scanning best practices, when and how to perform it, and how it differs according to organizational size. - Published: 2024-01-11 - Modified: 2024-01-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/best-practices-for-vulnerability-scanning-when-and-how-often-to-perform/ Let's break down vulnerability scanning best practices, when and how to perform it, and how it differs according to organizational size. Is your security strategy up to scratch? It might be, but it may also need a little fine-tuning. As cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, organizations must take proactive measures to protect their assets and sensitive information. One essential practice in cybersecurity is vulnerability scanning.   But knowing when and how often to perform vulnerability scanning can be tricky for many organizations, so today we're going to get into the nitty-gritty of vulnerability scanning best practices, when and how to perform it, and how it differs according to organizational size. Understanding the Importance of Vulnerability Scanning in Cybersecurity Don’t underrate the importance of vulnerability scanning— It is essentially a vital front-line defense for your security posture. Vulnerability scanning helps ensure that one weak link in the chain doesn't compromise your entire system, so you need to patch things up and keep everything strong. By regularly scanning for weaknesses, companies can be sure they’re aware of any security issues before hackers or malicious parties can exploit them.   It’s also key to helping companies remain compliant and meet relevant industry standards—not something to be scoffed at in today’s increasingly regulated environment! Without regular vulnerability scanning, loopholes can go unnoticed and organizations will have little chance of fortifying their networks against malicious intruders or complying with frameworks. The Role of Vulnerability Scanning in Compliance and Risk Management Vulnerability scanning plays a critical role in compliance and risk management. Many industry compliance frameworks, such as ISO 27001 and HIPAA, recommend... --- ### Tekpon SaaS Podcast: Getting Security Compliance Right to Win More Deals > Check out our very own Kyle Morris, on the Tekpon podcast as he discusses the advantages of automation when getting compliant. - Published: 2024-01-03 - Modified: 2024-01-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/tekpon-saas-podcast-getting-security-compliance-right-to-win-more-deals/ Check out our very own Kyle Morris, on the Tekpon podcast as he discusses the advantages of automation when getting compliant. Tekpon is a SaaS marketplace born out of the genuine desire to help people change how they consume and purchase software products and services. Tekpon has behind a team of enthusiastic tech lovers whose main goal is to help users boost their lives and businesses with the right software. Check out our very own Kyle Morris, Senior Compliance Success Manager on the Tekpon podcast as he discusses when SaaS companies should start with their compliance processes, common challenges and how automation platforms provide a simplified approach to compliance. --- ### The Importance of SOC 2 Templates > In this piece, we're talking about SOC 2 templates and their role in making the compliance process less complicated. Read more here. - Published: 2024-01-03 - Modified: 2024-01-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-importance-of-soc-2-templates/ In this piece, we're talking about SOC 2 templates and their role in making the compliance process far less complicated. Achieving and maintaining SOC 2 compliance is a complex but manageable process. Between navigating the SOC 2 landscape and implementing the proper controls and security systems, the to-do list quickly becomes overwhelming. Unfortunately, many tasks required for successful SOC 2 compliance don't come with a 'how-to' manual. This is especially true regarding developing your SOC 2 policies, protocols, and documentation.   Cue templates. Your automated ace up your sleeve for confident compliance.   In this piece, we're talking about SOC 2 templates and their role in making the compliance process smoother, more reliable, and far less complicated. But first, let's do a quick refresher on some of the SOC 2 basics to ensure we get started on the same page.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=VC8acNSuJFY What is a SOC 2 Report?   The gist of a SOC 2 report is for an independent certified auditor to communicate their stamp of approval. This includes evaluating management’s claims and testing the relevant controls stated by management. They do this via a detailed description of your SOC 2 audit.   In simple terms, it's an evaluation of whether your business successfully provides a secure, available, confidential, and private solution to your customers. Naturally, this is vital for securing potential new customers (and investors) and satisfying current ones.   Generally, the auditor will only release the report after thoroughly examining your organization's control over one or more of the Trust Services Criteria (that you have chosen). In essence, your SOC 2 report will be... --- ### The 5 Benefits of Continuous Controls Monitoring > Continuous Controls Monitoring (CCM) is a crucial aspect of GRC, helping firms improve their compliance, risk and controls management. - Published: 2024-01-02 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/benefits-of-continuous-controls-monitoring/ Continuous Controls Monitoring (CCM) is a crucial aspect of GRC, helping firms improve their compliance, risk and controls management. One of the most critical challenges for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) today is to maintain an accurate inventory of an organization's digital assets. In reality, a significant portion of organizations struggle to adequately control and identify their digital assets, providing a vast attack surface for adversaries. As companies rapidly adopt cloud and cloud-based technologies, the threat landscape adapts as well. With mergers, acquisitions, and scaling business operations to consider, the list of control issues becomes more complex by the day. The solution? Continuous Controls Monitoring (CCM) - a set of technologies created to reduce business losses and the cost of audits through the continuous monitoring and auditing of the controls in financial and transactional applications and relevant business processes and activities. So, how can CISOs and senior security leadership present the case to include one of the most critical components of a comprehensive risk management and compliance strategy for business? Here's what you need to know. What is Continuous Controls Monitoring? Continuous Controls Monitoring (CCM) is a crucial aspect of Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC), helping firms improve their overall compliance and enterprise risk and controls management. This is achieved by leveraging technologies that interface with other IT management systems, continuously monitoring critical applications, services, business processes, and functions. Generally speaking, CCM offers instant feedback and controls health with real-time data. This helps improve how enterprise compliance, control, and risk management systems are performing. This includes the automatic monitoring of controls to validate their effectiveness concerning risk mitigation and... --- ### Defending Against AI-Based Cyber Attacks: A Comprehensive Guide > As attackers begin to use AI to improve their tactics, defenders are forced to develop effective measures to protect their data. - Published: 2023-12-18 - Modified: 2024-07-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/defending-against-ai-based-cyber-attacks/ As attackers begin to use AI to improve their tactics, defenders are forced to develop effective measures to protect their data. In the evolving field of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a powerful tool for both attackers and defenders. As attackers begin to use AI to automate and improve their tactics, defenders are forced to adapt and develop effective measures to protect their data. Let's delve deeper into the world of AI cyberattacks to understand why attackers use them, the different methods available, and the potential dangers. Then we'll give you the knowledge you need to defend against these new threats. https://youtu. be/MwMyePI8OFs Understanding AI-Based Cyber Attacks AI-based cyberattacks harness the power of algorithms and machine learning to automate and optimize different phases of the attack lifecycle. These include: Reconnaissance: AI can scan and analyze massive amounts of data to identify vulnerabilities in networks and systems. Exploit development: AI can automatically generate and tailor exploits to specific vulnerabilities, increasing the likelihood of attacks being successful. Lateral movement: AI can move through networks more efficiently, allowing attackers to gain access to critical resources and sensitive information. Social Engineering: Artificial intelligence can be used to create personalized and convincing phishing emails or social media posts, making them difficult to detect and prevent. Attacks are getting increasingly more advanced with future attacks including realistically sounding phone calls from direct managers.   DDoS attacks: Artificial intelligence can be used to create massive botnets and coordinate their activities, launching powerful DDoS attacks that can harm websites and networks. These are just a few examples of how AI can be used in cyberattacks. As AI technology... --- ### Top CISOs to Follow in 2024: Germany Edition > Here are just some of the top CISOs in Germany going into 2024 and some of their insights and experiences we can learn from. - Published: 2023-12-13 - Modified: 2023-12-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-cisos-to-follow-germany-edition/ Here are just some of the top CISOs in Germany going into 2024 and some of their insights and experiences we can learn from. Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) play an integral role in protecting companies from cyber threats in today's digital world. CISOs face a challenging landscape with emerging technologies, security and privacy compliance, and an increasing number of cyberattacks targeting businesses.   To gain insights into the priorities and perspectives of leading CISOs in Germany, we analyzed the career paths, responsibilities, and key accomplishments of the top 10 CISOs going into 2024. These CISOs are responsible for information security strategy and governance, risk management, compliance, threat intelligence, vulnerability management, and security awareness training across major companies.   The Evolving Role and Responsibilities of a CISO The CISO's primary responsibilities include: Developing and implementing enterprise-wide information security strategies and policies. This includes compliance with regulations like the GDPR. Conducting risk assessments and internal audits to identify vulnerabilities and threats. The CISO must determine the likelihood and impact of security events. Overseeing and approving information security projects and budgets. The CISO ensures that security solutions meet the organization's requirements. Promoting security awareness and education. The CISO cultivates a culture where security is a priority. Responding to and mitigating the effects of security incidents. The CISO coordinates with technical teams to contain breaches and prevent future attacks. Our List of the Top CISOs in Germany for 2024 Michael Shrank: Experienced Chief Information Security Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the automotive & banking industry. Skilled in Information Security, International Project Management, IT Service Management, and IT Strategy. Strong information technology professional with a... --- ### Top CISOs in the USA to Follow in 2024 > By following some of the top CISOs in the USA, you can gain valuable insights into developing a robust cybersecurity strategy. - Published: 2023-12-12 - Modified: 2023-12-12 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-cisos-in-the-usa-to-follow/ By following some of the top CISOs in the USA, you can gain valuable insights into developing a robust cybersecurity strategy. The threat of cybercrime looms over organizations of all shapes and sizes, but specific leaders in the field work to strengthen these defenses and instill a culture of robust data security. Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) aim to anticipate and mitigate risks pertaining to information security that could seriously impact business operations. By following some of the top CISOs in the USA, you can gain valuable insights into developing a robust cybersecurity strategy. The Importance of Cybersecurity Cybersecurity has never been more important. As digital transformation accelerates across all industries, the volume and sophistication of cyber threats are increasing exponentially. An organization's ability to protect its data, infrastructure, and applications is critical to success. Leading this charge are Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). CISOs are responsible for an organization's cyber risk management and information security strategy. They identify vulnerabilities, implement relevant controls and processes to reduce these gaps, and build cyber resilience. Following influential CISOs is a great way to stay on the cutting edge of cybersecurity. Here are the Top CISOs in the USA to Follow in 2024 Ricardo Lafosse: Ricardo’s career has encompassed over 16 years of senior level technical, management and consultative positions in government, health care, educational, financial services and legal services. Ricardo has architected innovative and successful incident management, risk management, application security programs, data protection policies and cloud security vendor assessment and frameworks. Ryan Kazanciyan: As Chief Information Security Officer, Ryan leads security operations, engineering, and risk & compliance across Wiz's corporate, development, and... --- ### 5 Reasons Why You Need a SOC 2 Report > SOC 2 is more than simply a compliance standard. Becoming SOC 2 compliant is a good business decision. A really good one. Discover the reasons. - Published: 2023-12-05 - Modified: 2024-07-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/5-reasons-why-you-need-a-soc-2-report/ Here’s five of the most compelling reasons why your business needs SOC 2. Your SOC 2 report is the evidence you (and your customers) need to demonstrate that your information security controls are up to the job of protecting users’ data. It’s a powerful way of communicating exactly how seriously you take information security while giving the peace of mind that you’ve taken effective measures to protect customer data and prevent breaches, data leaks and other data security mishaps that could wreck your reputation. In other words, SOC 2 is more than simply a compliance standard. Becoming SOC 2 compliant is a good business decision. A really good one. SOC 2 ACADEMYIf you’re leading SOC 2 compliance at your organization, then this course is for youEnroll Now Benefits of SOC 2 Compliance So why is SOC 2 so important? There are plenty of reasons for any SaaS company to prioritize SOC 2 compliance and why it is in the best interest of the company. SOC 2 can also place a company at an advantage when it comes to your operating market, as well as sales potential. Here’s our shortlist of a few of the most compelling reasons why your business needs a SOC 2 report.   1. It’s a Chance to Show, Not Just Tell A SOC 2 report is a special kind of compliance document. Becoming SOC 2 compliant isn’t simply about ticking the right boxes and getting your certification. In fact, SOC 2 is not a certification at all. Rather, your independent SOC 2 auditor attests that you have met the... --- ### Top CISO Communities to Join in 2024 > CISO communities are available around the world for cybersecurity leaders to collaborate with other professionals. - Published: 2023-12-05 - Modified: 2023-12-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-top-ciso-communities-to-join/ CISO communities are available around the world for cybersecurity leaders to collaborate with other professionals. If you are a cybersecurity leader for your organization, it can sometimes seem like a daunting task to take on alone. Having the responsibility to understand an ever-evolving cybersecurity threat landscape from both inside your organization and the outside is very demanding and requires continuously monitored security. However, cybersecurity threats are not unique to just one organization, every organization that utilizes electronics faces these threats, which is why CISO communities have been formed. CISO communities are available around the world for cybersecurity leaders so that they can meet with other professionals who face similar challenges in their positions in order to collaborate and find solutions.   What is a CISO Community? A CISO’s job is to identify and analyze threats within the field of cyber security through the use of critical thinking. Most of the time these threats are continuously evolving, and the best way to tackle these problems is through collaboration and information sharing with other intelligent cyber security professionals. CISO communities allow for this collaboration to be accomplished on a global scale by providing a space for like minded individuals who are leaders in cybersecurity to come together, forming a community. Security Compliance for CISOsSOC 2 and ISO 27001 Deep DiveDOWNLOAD THE EBOOK The Benefits of Joining a CISO Community CISO communities provide the opportunity for professionals who are cybersecurity leaders to participate in gatherings that offer in-depth discussions, collaboration, and networking with your fellow peers. Being a part of a CISO community will allow you to exchange... --- ### Pick Wesley's Brain on Anything ISO 27001! > In this Ask Me Anything webinar, our compliance expert, Wesley Van Zyl answers all the questions surrounding ISO 27001. - Published: 2023-11-29 - Modified: 2023-11-29 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/pick-wesleys-brain-on-anything-iso-27001/ In this Ask Me Anything webinar, our compliance expert, Wesley Van Zyl answers all the questions surrounding ISO 27001. In this Ask Me Anything session, our very own compliance expert, Wesley Van Zyl, walks you through everything ISO 27001 and answers any burning questions that many organizations ask when realizing they need that ISO 27001 certification, such as: How long does it take to get ISO 27001 compliant? How much does it cost to get ISO 27001 certified? , orWhat is the process of ISO 27001 compliance? --- ### Understanding the Levels of CMMC: Enhancing Cybersecurity Maturity > Here’s everything you need to know about CMMC, its compliance levels, and how businesses can ensure compliance with their appropriate level. - Published: 2023-11-28 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/understanding-the-levels-of-cmmc-enhancing-cybersecurity-maturity/ Here’s everything you need to know about CMMC levels, and how businesses can ensure compliance with the right level. Navigating cybersecurity is rarely a walk in the park, especially when the ‘park’ is highly-regulated, well-guarded, and developed by the US Department of Defense.   Navigating this complex landscape can be challenging - but fortunately, when it comes to protecting data, there’s no one better to call the shots than the actual DoD. Here’s everything you need to know about CMMC, its compliance levels, and how businesses can ensure compliance with their appropriate level.   The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) All frameworks constantly evolve and improve to ensure organizations can leverage cybersecurity best practices that are fully equipped to combat the ever-changing threat landscape. Given the dynamic nature of digital threats, this is particularly crucial regarding the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Threats against national security range from serious to critical and there is zero room for complacency. Due to this, in terms of contractual obligations with the DoD, every defense contractor would want to make real sure they’re compliant Cue CMMC.   This framework is specifically designed by The US Department of Defense (DoD) to help contractors within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) assess and improve their cyber security posture. But what does that mean for your business?   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=4ElZfnWmh70 Let's break down who needs to comply, what the levels are, and how to navigate them. Who is Subject to CMMC Compliance?   The CMMC framework is designed to elevate and bulletproof the cybersecurity posture for organizations within the DIB. It primarily protects Controlled Unclassified... --- ### New Framework on the Block: Hello CMMC! > You can now streamline your CMMC processes with Scytale, as CMMC has joined our arsenal of data security frameworks and regulations. - Published: 2023-11-27 - Modified: 2024-05-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/new-framework-on-the-block-hello-cmmc/ You can now streamline your CMMC processes with Scytale, as CMMC has joined our arsenal of data security frameworks and regulations. Does CMMC apply to you? Because we’ve got some exciting news for you!   You can now officially streamline your CMMC processes with Scytale’s automation platform, as CMMC has now joined the arsenal of data security frameworks and regulations that our compliance platform supports! This enables organizations to automate and manage all their CMMC processes in one central hub, including automatic evidence collection, CMMC-approved policy templates, multi-framework cross mapping, continuous control monitoring (CCM) and so much more. This update means we can help a wider range of organizations with different cybersecurity needs, to accelerate their compliance efforts. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=4ElZfnWmh70 So, What Exactly is CMMC? Meet the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). CMMC is a framework created to boost trust in compliance measures to a wide variety of standards published by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. It is a U. S. Department of Defense (DoD) program that applies to Defense Industrial Base (DIB) contractors, ensuring that they properly protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI). CMMC Compliance - Without the Sleepless Nights It's quite normal to feel stressed about whether you're correctly following the guidelines of CMMC. But here's the good news: you don't have to rely on endless research, in-house resources and outdated audit processes. Here at Scytale, we have the power combo of CMMC experts and smart technology to ensure a completely simplified compliance process from A-Z, saving your team hundreds of hours of back-and-forth communication, manual workloads and figuring out all... --- ### Security Compliance Giving You Nightmares? > Put an end to the sleepless nights caused by IT audits, with smart compliance automation and dedicated experts. - Published: 2023-11-22 - Modified: 2023-11-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-giving-you-nightmares/ Put an end to the sleepless nights caused by IT audits, with smart compliance automation and dedicated experts. Put an end to the sleepless nights with smart automation and dedicated experts:- Manage the entire compliance journey from a single source of truth. - Get compliant 90% faster with automated evidence collection. - Cross map controls across multiple frameworks - Enjoy continuous control monitoring (CCM) and get notified of any compliance issues immediately. --- ### Startups, Need to Get Compliant but Don’t Know Where to Start? > Running a startup? You have enough on your plate to manage - so let Scytale take care of your security compliance processes. - Published: 2023-11-22 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/startups-need-to-get-compliant-but-dont-know-where-to-start/ Running a startup? You have enough on your plate to manage - so let Scytale take care of your security compliance processes. Running a startup? You have enough on your plate to manage - so let Scytale take care of your security compliance processes. We'll manage your compliance journey from A to Z, and get you compliant FAST. --- ### Top Compliance Concerns For SaaS Companies > A careful compliance strategy is non-negotiable for SaaS businesses. That’s true for giant corporations. And it may be even more critical for smaller businesses. - Published: 2023-11-21 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-compliance-concerns-for-saas-companies/ Here are important compliance management concerns SaaS business need to consider. SaaS Compliance Management When we talk about Software as a Service (SaaS) compliance, we talking about the entire set of SaaS regulatory compliance standards (such as HIPAA and GDPR), as well as industry security frameworks (such as ISO 27001 and SOC 2) that SaaS companies are required to adhere to, in order to ensure information security to their customers. These companies come into contact with lots of sensitive data in one way or another and so, data security compliance has pretty much become a must in this digital and tech day and age. These security compliance requirements are set out as per differences in relevant locations, industry variations, customer demands, as well as market requirements. The key objective here however remains the same and that is, protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of any type of data these companies process, store, manage and transfer. Some companies will only need to be compliant in one security framework or regulation and others will need to undergo more than one, depending on specific factors, such as the ones already listed above. When we talk about SaaS compliance management specifically, we referring to how these SaaS companies manage all their security compliance efforts, including audit-readiness processes and continuous management. This could include leveraging relevant SaaS compliance solutions out there, including compliance management platforms or compliance automation software, in order to streamline efforts that used to manual, as well as efficiently manage the status of all needed action items, due dates, employee responsibilities and more.... --- ### Welcome Data Privacy Law, CCPA, to Scytale! > CCPA has officially joined the group of security standards and regulations that our compliance technology supports! - Published: 2023-11-14 - Modified: 2023-11-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/welcome-data-privacy-law-ccpa-to-scytale/ CCPA has officially joined the group of security standards and regulations that our compliance technology supports! Eager to make maintaining CCPA compliance more streamlined? Or perhaps it's your first time round and you’re looking for a solution that simplifies and fast tracks the process? Well, we’ve got good news for you!   You can ease the CCPA process with Scytale’s automation platform, as CCPA has officially joined the group of security standards and regulations that our compliance technology supports! This enables organizations to automate and centrally manage all their CCPA tasks! We’re talking about automated evidence collection, CCPA-approved policy templates, multi-framework cross mapping and so much more. The best part? It’s not too good to be true! This news means we can help a wider spectrum of organizations in different industries, locations and with different customer bases, to simplify their specific compliance needs. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=vg2vldlt6Ng Unsure What CCPA is Exactly? The California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (CCPA) gives consumers more control over their personal information that businesses collect and the CCPA regulations provide guidance on how to implement the law. In a nutshell, the CCPA is a data privacy law intended to enhance privacy rights and consumer protection for residents of California, United States. Does CCPA apply to your organization? Let’s take a quick look! The CCPA applies to organizations that do business in California and meet any of the following criteria: Have a gross annual revenue of over $25 million; Buy, receive, or sell the personal information of 100,000 or more California residents, households, or devices; or Derive 50% or more of... --- ### How an EOR Can Keep you GDPR Compliant in 2025 > As a data privacy framework, GDPR focuses on safeguarding personal information and enforces strict rules for data management. - Published: 2023-10-24 - Modified: 2025-03-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-an-eor-can-keep-you-gdpr-compliant/ As a data privacy framework, GDPR focuses on safeguarding personal information and enforces strict rules for data management. In 2025, GDPR continues to play a vital role in protecting personal data worldwide. As a data privacy framework, it focuses on safeguarding personal information and enforces strict rules for data management. For successful implementation, it requires cooperation and trust between Employer of Record services and their clients and a deep understanding of the guidelines for implementation. Read on to understand the importance of GDPR in 2025, how to successfully implement GDPR frameworks within your business and the benefit of using Employer of Record solutions (EORs) to streamline your compliance journey. The Importance of GDPR Compliance in 2025 In today's global business world, The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is crucial for protecting data and privacy. As data breaches continue to increase and privacy breaches making headlines, GDPR compliance offers a strong framework to prevent these problems. It mandates that businesses take a proactive approach to protecting data, promoting a culture of responsible and thorough data management. Regulations and compliance standards regularly change as the digital arena becomes more intricate and as data grows in value. So staying ahead means meeting legal obligations while demonstrating dedication to data security and privacy. Put simply, it's not just good practice; it's an imperative. Employer of Record Solutions Can Help you Navigate GDPR An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party service that helps businesses to navigate GDPR compliance and grow their global teams cost effectively, at the same time.   Employer of Record services, like Playroll, can help lower the risk of... --- ### Hear What Our Compliance Expert Has To Say About HIPAA > Kyle discusses the three rules that need to be followed under HIPAA and protecting health information of American citizens. - Published: 2023-10-23 - Modified: 2024-04-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/hear-what-our-compliance-expert-has-to-say-about-hipaa/ Kyle discusses the three rules that need to be followed under HIPAA and protecting health information of American citizens. Listen to our specialist's insights on HIPAA. Kyle Morris discusses the three rules that need to be followed under HIPAA and HIPAA's main objective - Protecting health information of American citizens. Acquire firsthand knowledge from this expert as he dissects the significance of HIPAA for your organization and offers valuable perspectives on how becoming HIPAA compliant can be made easier with the help of Scytale. --- ### Let's Talk About Getting GDPR Compliant > Gain direct insights from Kyle as he breaks down the specifics of GDPR and how Scytale can help your organization. Watch now. - Published: 2023-10-23 - Modified: 2024-04-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/lets-talk-about-getting-gdpr-compliant/ Gain direct insights from Kyle as he breaks down the specifics of GDPR and how Scytale can help your organization. Specializing in security and compliance, Kyle Morris delves deep into the significance of GDPR. He sheds light on GDPR's robust reputation for safeguarding personal data. Gain direct insights from this expert as he breaks down the specifics of GDPR and how Scytale can help your organization. --- ### Our Compliance Expert Breaks Down CMMC > Kyle, a compliance expert, discusses the intrinsic worth of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Watch now. - Published: 2023-10-23 - Modified: 2024-04-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/our-compliance-expert-breaks-down-cmmc/ Kyle, a compliance expert, discusses the intrinsic worth of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Kyle Morris, a specialist in the field of security and compliance, delves into the intrinsic worth of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), casting a spotlight on its well-established reputation as a strong foundation for safeguarding sensitive information. Hear it from the expert as he discusses who needs a Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification and imparts valuable perspectives on how it can reinforce your data security and enhance your overall business resilience. --- ### A Quick Discussion About CCPA Compliance by an Expert > Kyle discusses the benefits of a CCPA certification and provides perspectives on how it can strengthen your organization's security. - Published: 2023-10-23 - Modified: 2024-04-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/a-quick-discussion-about-ccpa-compliance-by-an-expert/ Kyle discusses the benefits of a CCPA certification and provides perspectives on how it can strengthen your organization's security. Kyle Morris, a specialist in security and compliance, delves into why the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) is so crucial. He sheds light on CCPA's strong reputation for safeguarding personal data. Gain direct insights from the expert as he breaks down the importance of CCPA for your organization and provides valuable perspectives on how it can enhance data security and strengthen your organization's resilience. --- ### Startups - Need to get compliant but don't know where to start? > Running a startup? Hear from Scytale CEO and Founder, Meiran Galis, about how to get compliant and stay compliant, fast. - Published: 2023-10-22 - Modified: 2023-11-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/startups-get-compliant-fast/ Hear from Scytale CEO and Founder, Meiran Galis, about how to get compliant and stay compliant, fast. Running a startup? You have enough on your plate to manage - let Scytale take care of your security compliance. We'll manage your compliance journey from A to Z, and get you compliant FAST. --- ### Top 10 Compliance Tips for Startups > As a startup trying to build your organization there’s a ton to do - Including security compliance regulations and industry standards. - Published: 2023-10-17 - Modified: 2024-01-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-10-compliance-tips-for-startups/ As a startup trying to build your organization there’s a ton to do - Including security compliance regulations and industry standards. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the compliance requirements of running a startup? You're not alone. As a startup founder trying to build your new organization from the ground up there’s a ton to do - And one of the commitments is keeping security compliance regulations and industry standards, and all that red tape! But the truth is, compliance is crucial for startups. It shows your customers you're trustworthy and helps ensure your long term success. Why Compliance Matters for Startups If you're a startup, compliance should be at the top of your priorities list. Here is why: Builds Trust Compliance certifications show your commitment to security posture, your clients’ privacy, meeting industry standards and regulatory requirements. This establishes customer trust, which is essential for startups. If you want people to use your product or service, they need to believe you will handle their private data properly. Enables Growth Startups are subject to various legal and regulatory obligations or industry best practices. Meeting these obligations through compliance allows you to scale your business. At times, non-compliance can lead to very hefty fines and legal issues. Compliance as a Strategic Asset Viewing compliance as a strategic asset rather than a mere legal requirement can transform how your startup approaches this crucial aspect. It's about weaving security and privacy into the fabric of your business, turning what could be seen as an obstacle into a competitive advantage. Close Deals Faster In the fast-paced world of startups, efficiency is vital. Compliance can be... --- ### ISO 27001 for Startups > This eBook unlocks the crux of ISO 27001 certification, especially made for SaaS startups new to the ISO 27001 scene. - Published: 2023-10-16 - Modified: 2025-04-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-for-startups/ This eBook unlocks the crux of ISO 27001 certification, especially made for SaaS startups new to the ISO 27001 scene. --- ### How Vendor Security Assessments Help Companies Identify Cybersecurity Risks > VSAs play a pivotal role in implementing due diligence and ensuring all parties are aligned regarding risk management, compliance, and more. - Published: 2023-10-10 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-vendor-security-assessments-help-companies-identify-cybersecurity-risks/ VSAs are vital in implementing due diligence and ensuring all parties are aligned in risk management, compliance, and security policies. Here's the thing: as much as modern-day business evolves and adapts to emerging technologies and innovations, there's one core truth that will stand the test of time: Business relationships are built on trust.   However, trust is not as quickly earned and kept as in the past, mainly because there are countless ways that technology can challenge and jeopardize a risk-free environment. So, although we hate going into business relationships with a cynical attitude, a healthy skepticism is not only needed but an effective way to protect all parties involved. That's where vendor security assessments play a pivotal role in implementing due diligence and ensuring all parties are aligned regarding risk management, compliance, and overall security policies. Let's dive into it. What is a Vendor Security Assessment Exactly? Before we dive into how vendor security assessments (VSA) help companies identify security risks, let's do a quick recap of what it looks like in practicality. In brief, vendor security assessments are tools that provide an overview and evaluation of the risks, threats and vulnerabilities that third-party vendors may present. They help identify gaps in security practices and ensure alignment with industry standards. It provides businesses with valuable insight into the security landscape of third-party vendors and service providers before or during business activities to ensure that sensitive information is protected and that they can accurately mitigate and minimize potential risks and vulnerabilities. Ultimately, the goal is for vendor security risk assessments to provide organizations with an accurate overview and evaluation of... --- ### Top CISOs in the United Kingdom in 2024 > In the UK, CISOs are playing an important role in navigating the complex cybersecurity landscape - Here are some CISOs that have stood out. - Published: 2023-10-09 - Modified: 2024-01-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-cisos-in-the-united-kingdom/ In the UK, CISOs are playing an important role in navigating the complex cybersecurity landscape - Here are some CISOs that have stood out. As the world continues to embrace rapid digital transformation, the importance of robust cybersecurity strategies has never been more apparent. Within organizations, the role of Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) has evolved into a critical position, responsible for safeguarding sensitive data, defending against cyber threats, and ensuring the overall security posture for its organization. In the United Kingdom, CISOs are playing a pivotal role in navigating the complex cybersecurity landscape. In this blog, we will highlight some of the top CISOs in the UK in 2024 and explore the qualities that make them stand out in this ever-changing environment. The Growing Importance of CISOs The rise of cyberattacks and data breaches in recent years has emphasized the need for robust cybersecurity measures. Organizations, both large and small, have recognized that a reactive approach is insufficient in the face of sophisticated threats. As a result, the role of CISOs has evolved from being a mere technical expert to becoming an integral part of the C-suite. Today's CISOs are strategic leaders who collaborate with other business units, understand the overall business objectives, and align their security strategies accordingly. Their expertise is sought not just for protecting the organization's digital assets, but also for maintaining customer trust and complying with ever-changing data protection regulations. Top CISOs in the UK Shaun Van Niekerk A professional with over 25 years of rich experience in IT and Cybersecurity. This is seen with the distinguished title of Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Specializing across diverse domains, ranging... --- ### The Expert's Take on ISO 27001 Compliance > In this video, Wesley Van Zyl, an expert in compliance and security, explores the inherent value of ISO 27001. Watch now. - Published: 2023-10-09 - Modified: 2024-04-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-experts-take-on-iso-27001-compliance/ In this video, Wesley Van Zyl, an expert in compliance and security, explores the inherent value of ISO 27001. Wesley Van Zyl, an expert in security and compliance, explores the inherent value of ISO 27001, shedding light on its widely recognized reputation as a robust framework for protecting sensitive data. Hear it straight from the expert as he simplifies the advantages that an ISO 27001 certification can offer your organization, and shares valuable perspectives on how it can strengthen your data security and bolster your overall business resilience. --- ### What is SOC 2? Hear it Straight From the Experts! > Hear it straight from Wesley Van Zyl from Scytale, as he simplifies everything you need to know about SOC 2 compliance. - Published: 2023-10-04 - Modified: 2024-04-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-soc-2-hear-it-straight-from-the-experts/ Hear it straight from Wesley Van Zyl from Scytale, as he simplifies everything you need to know about SOC 2 compliance. Your customers are requesting a SOC 2 report... now what? Usually, a reasonable amount of panic sets in as you read about a truckload of audit requirements with unfamiliar terminology, leading to a common question: "Where do we start? " Well, this video is right up your ally! Hear it straight from Wesley Van Zyl, Senior Compliance Success Manager at Scytale, as he simplifies everything you need to know about SOC 2 compliance. --- ### HITRUST vs HIPAA: Compliance for Healthcare Organizations > HIPAA and HITRUST are two frameworks that are commonly compared because they are used in the healthcare industry. Find more here. - Published: 2023-10-02 - Modified: 2025-04-29 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/hitrust-vs-hipaa-compliance-for-healthcare-organizations/ HIPAA and HITRUST are two frameworks that are commonly compared because they are used in the healthcare industry. HIPAA and HITRUST are two frameworks that are commonly used in the healthcare industry so it is understandable why they are compared so often. However, there are various differences. What is HIPAA? HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, is a set of rules created back in 1996 to keep people's medical info private. If you handle patient data, you have got to follow HIPAA or else you'll be breaking the law! Here are the major things you got to do: Protecting Patient Privacy: This involves only sharing someone's health data with their permission or for treatment. Ensuring Security: Use physical, technical, and administrative safeguards - like training your staff, locking up your facilities, and using robust encryption, ensuring you keep that data super safe.   Allowing Patients Access: This means ensuring that patients have the right to view, amend, and obtain copies of their medical records. Controlling Disclosures: Be stingy with who you share patient info with and when. Only give out the bare minimum necessary for the job.   Following HIPAA shows your patients you're serious about keeping their health information safe and it helps you avoid getting slapped with some big ol' fines. HIPAA compliance is also monitored and enforced by the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), adding another layer of oversight. It's not that hard to do when you start instilling a HIPAA-conscious culture within your organization. But here's the deal - there's no official certificate, as you don’t get a pat on the back... --- ### What is Fintech Risk and Compliance and How to Follow Regulations > Fintech Risk and compliance ensures fair lending practices, transparent disclosure of conditions, and availability of dispute resolutions. - Published: 2023-09-19 - Modified: 2024-01-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-fintech-risk-and-compliance-and-how-to-follow-regulations/ Fintech Risk and compliance ensures fair lending practices, transparent disclosure of conditions, and availability of dispute resolutions. The financial technology (fintech) industry has revolutionized the way we manage our finances, conduct transactions, and access financial services. Fintech, or financial technology, encompasses a wide range of technologies and innovations aimed at disrupting traditional financial markets and services. This includes digital payments, blockchain, and cryptocurrencies, among others. As fintech continues to grow and reshape the financial landscape, compliance with regulatory requirements becomes crucial to ensure customer data protection, maintain trust, and mitigate potential risks. Fintech compliance involves adherence to a variety of regulations and standards that govern the operations of fintech companies, and understanding and adhering to these regulations is essential for an organization's sustainable growth and data risk prevention. Why is Fintech Compliance So Important? Fintech compliance is critically important for several reasons, the first being that it plays a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of customers. Compliance measures help to prevent identity theft, fraud, and other financial crimes. Additionally, it's crucial to emphasize the role of compliance in maintaining the integrity of the financial system. Effective compliance helps to prevent money laundering and terrorism financing, which are significant risks in the fintech sector. Compliance also ensures fair lending practices, transparent disclosure of terms and conditions, and the availability of dispute resolution mechanisms, all of which contribute to customer trust in fintech services. Fintech compliance regulations also ensure data privacy and security. Fintech companies handle vast amounts of personal and financial data, making them a key target for cyber attacks. As a result, data privacy and security... --- ### Let’s Talk About How Scytale Makes User Access Reviews a Walk in the Park > User access reviews monitor the access privileges of those interacting with the organization’s data, applications and infrastructure. - Published: 2023-09-18 - Modified: 2025-02-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-scytale-makes-user-access-reviews-a-walk-in-the-park/ User access reviews monitor the access privileges of those interacting with the organization’s data, applications and infrastructure. User access reviews involve monitoring the rights and access privileges of those who can interact with your organization’s data, applications and infrastructure, including personnel, employees, vendors, service providers, and other relevant third parties. Furthermore, user access reviews are critical for the management and auditing of user account lifecycles, as well as ensuring that the access rights to your organization's data systems are authorized and appropriate for every user's particular role and functions. Some questions you should be asking yourself: What kind of access rights are authorized and approved? What level of access does each user have? Who has access to what applications within our organization? So how do access reviews and security compliance join worlds? User Access Reviews and Security Compliance In addition to safeguarding your organization's data assets, user access reviews are a mandatory requirement of pretty much all security compliance frameworks and regulations. However, without beating around the bush - they can be quite the headache. They have a reputation of being a manual-intensive, uber time-consuming, and costly task to take on.   And this is where automation comes in. Automating User Access Reviews with Scytale With Scytale, access reviews are now quick and simple. Customers simply need to integrate all their critical tools (such as GitHub, AWS, Google Workspace, Microsoft Azure, Okta, MongoDB, etc. ) and Scytale will pull its relevant user access data automatically. For example, if GitHub is a critical tool for your organization, Scytale will automatically pull all the people in your organization who... --- ### CCPA vs. GDPR: Navigating Data Privacy Regulations for SaaS Companies > Discover the main differences between the two significant consumer data privacy laws and how to navigate data privacy regulations. - Published: 2023-09-12 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/ccpa-vs-gdpr/ Discover the main differences between the two significant consumer data privacy laws and how to navigate data privacy regulations. Most consumers are pros at telling tiny white lies. Heck, most businesses too. Why? How often have you ticked the box that said, "Yes, I've read the terms and conditions"? Now, how many times have you actually read the terms and conditions?   We're all guilty of neglecting the privacy policies every now and again before using a product, service, or visiting a website - but what does that actually mean for data privacy, and how much data can businesses technically get away with obtaining and processing for business purposes?   As our lives become increasingly intertwined with digital platforms, the stakes for data privacy are higher than ever. As a consumer, you may get away with skimming through the data privacy laws but as a business? Not so much. In this era of heightened data consciousness, understanding and adhering to data privacy regulations are paramount for businesses, especially SaaS companies. We're looking at two of the most significant data privacy regulations and what SaaS companies need to know about regulatory compliance. So, what is the difference between CCPA vs. GDPR; here's the deal. What is GDPR Compliance? It's all fun and games until we get to GDPR. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is considered one of the strictest data processing and privacy regulations. If you're a SaaS company subject to GDPR, compliance is non-negotiable. Why? Well, GDPR compliance applies to any entity (regardless of size or geographical location) that offers goods or services to EU citizens or residents,... --- ### 5 Best Practices for Answering Security Questionnaires > These questionnaires are typically conducted prior to making a business decision and help determine the security posture of an organization. - Published: 2023-08-29 - Modified: 2025-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/best-practices-for-answering-security-questionnaires/ These questionnaires are typically conducted prior to making a business decision and help determine the security posture of an organization. What Is a Security Questionnaire? Most businesses rely on third-party vendors for their business processes, whether it's through partnerships or outsourcing. It's important for organizations to assess the security compliance of these vendors before engaging in any business transactions. This is where security questionnaires, including vendor security questionnaires and SIG security questionnaires, come into play. These questionnaires are typically conducted prior to making a business decision and help determine the security posture of an organization. In essence, security questionnaires allow organizations to evaluate whether a third-party vendor has undergone vulnerability scans, external penetration tests, and external audits, enhancing cyber security risk assessment questionnaire processes and automation, and are crucial for ensuring compliance with standards like SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, PCI-DSS, and HIPAA. Understanding the Purpose of the Security Questionnaire The utilization of a security questionnaire holds a huge significance within the realm of evaluating the compatibility of an organization with predetermined security benchmarks, thereby laying the foundation for a productive and secure collaborative partnership. Operating as a pivotal juncture in the vetting procedure, the security questionnaire assumes a multifaceted role, which encompasses an array of objectives that collectively contribute to the aim of ensuring robust security measures and risk mitigation strategies. At its core, the primary intent of the security questionnaire revolves around the meticulous validation of critical information pertaining to the prospective organization. This validation process extends beyond mere formality, delving into a comprehensive analysis of the organization's background, operational methodologies, and security protocols. By scrutinizing these elements,... --- ### Benefits of Implementing an Information Security Management System (ISMS) For Your Business > An ISMS provides a systematic approach to managing company information and enables businesses to safeguard their sensitive information. - Published: 2023-08-28 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/information-security-management-system-benefits/ An ISMS provides a systematic approach to managing company information and enables businesses to safeguard their sensitive information. You wake with a cold sweat running down your forehead, as the realization hits you – did you remember to enable two-factor authentication on your company's customer database last night?   In your haste to leave the office at a reasonable hour for once, it may have slipped your mind. Panic rising, you fumble for your phone to check, hoping against hope you didn't leave a gaping security hole that threatens to swallow your business whole.   If this scenario seems familiar, it may be time to consider implementing an Information Security Management System (ISMS). In an era where data breaches and cyber threats are increasingly common, the importance of robust information security cannot be overstated. Implementing an ISMS is more than just a safeguard; it's a strategic investment in the longevity and integrity of your business. An ISMS provides a systematic approach to managing sensitive company information and enables businesses to safeguard their sensitive information, comply with regulations, and protect themselves from potential risks. Let me not forget, they also ensure oversights that keep you up at night become a thing of the past. As cybersecurity threats grow more sophisticated, having a structured approach to manage these risks is crucial for businesses of all sizes. Read all about below as we dive deeper into what an ISMS is, what the needs and benefits are, and how your company can implement one effectively.   What is an ISMS? An Information Security Management System (ISMS) is a framework that encompasses policies,... --- ### Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan: How to Mitigate Risks and Protect Your Business > A cybersecurity incident response plan is a set of guidelines, best practices, and procedures for responding to cyber incidents. - Published: 2023-08-21 - Modified: 2024-01-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/cybersecurity-incident-response-plan-how-to-mitigate-risks-and-protect-your-business/ A cybersecurity incident response plan is a set of guidelines, best practices, and procedures for responding to cyber incidents. In today’s digital world, it is essential for businesses of all sizes to have a cybersecurity incident response plan in place. Picture this: You go to work one day, and your computer is suddenly overrun with a mysterious virus. It seems strange, almost out of this world. You pause, and then an alarming thought creeps into your mind – has my business just been attacked by cybercriminals? Unfortunately, this isn't a plot from a sci-fi movie – it's the unfortunate truth that many businesses may face. That's why it's important to have a cybersecurity incident response plan in place. But what exactly is a cybersecurity incident response plan? And how do you implement it?   What is a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan? Your Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan (CIRP) is like the fire extinguisher of the digital world.   A cybersecurity incident response plan is a set of guidelines, best practices, and procedures for responding to cyber incidents. It outlines the steps that should be taken when a security incident occurs, including how to assess, investigate, and remediate such an event. It also identifies roles and responsibilities for each team member involved in the process. TRENDS IN SECURITY COMPLIANCE EVERY SAAS STARTUP SHOULD KNOWGET THE FULL REPORT NOW Why Is a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan Important? You've heard it before: prevention is better than cure. And when it comes to cybersecurity, prevention is paramount. But planning for the worst-case scenario is equally important. Think of your CIRP as a security blanket... --- ### Mitigating Human Errors in Cybersecurity & Compliance: Practical Tips for Organizations > Despite robust security measures, human mistakes can compromise data, systems, and networks, leading to potentially devastating consequences. - Published: 2023-08-14 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/mitigating-human-errors-in-cybersecurity-compliance-practical-tips-for-organizations/ Despite robust security measures, human mistakes can compromise data, systems, and networks, leading to devastating consequences. The Importance of Cybersecurity Cybersecurity is of paramount importance in today's digital world. With the increasing reliance on technology and the interconnectedness of networks, the potential for cyber threats has grown significantly. Cybersecurity plays a critical role in protecting sensitive information, such as personal data, financial records, and intellectual property, from unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyberattacks. The importance of cybersecurity lies in its ability to protect individuals, businesses, and governments from the devastating consequences of cyber threats. A successful cyberattack can lead to financial losses, reputational damage, legal consequences, and disruption of critical services. Cybersecurity measures help prevent such incidents, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data and systems. In addition to protecting digital assets, cybersecurity also promotes trust and confidence in online interactions. Both businesses and its customers must feel confident that their transactions, communications, and sensitive data are secure from malicious actors. A robust cybersecurity framework bolsters this trust, encouraging e-commerce, digital innovation, and the adoption of new technologies. Common Human Errors in Cybersecurity: Understanding the Risks In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity has become a paramount concern for individuals and organizations alike. While advancements in technology have brought about numerous benefits, they have also exposed us to unprecedented cyber risks. Although sophisticated cyber threats are a major concern, it is important to recognize that one of the weakest links in the cybersecurity chain is often human error. Despite robust security measures, human mistakes can compromise data, systems, and networks, leading to potentially devastating consequences.   HOW... --- ### 2023 Trends In B2B Compliance Report > The survey results show that B2B companies spend an average of 1534 hours annually on achieving and maintaining security compliance. - Published: 2023-08-03 - Modified: 2024-01-30 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/2023-trends-in-b2b-compliance-report/ The survey results show that B2B companies spend an average of 1534 hours annually on achieving and maintaining security compliance. Trends in Security Compliance Every SaaS Startup Should Know The survey results are in and show that B2B companies are spending an average of 1534 hours annually on achieving and maintaining security compliance. Get the full report now Key Findings: Most Significant Consequence Associated with Manual Compliance Processes The Challenge 63% of companies say delays in business growth, admin-intensive workloads and security risks are the biggest consequences of manual compliance processes. Sales Driver 85% of companies find security compliance critical or very important to sign more deals. Importance of Security Compliance as a Driver to Business Growth Plans to Adopt a Security Compliance Automation Tool The Age of Automation 92% of B2B SaaS companies say they have either deployed or are in the process of adopting an automation tool. Get The Full Report Now Simply enter your details below to download the full report. --- ### Interning at Scytale Highlights > See what our rockstar interns Kaitlyn Johnson and Ryan Weiss have to say about their experience working with the Scytale team in Tel Aviv. - Published: 2023-08-02 - Modified: 2023-08-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/interning-at-scytale-highlights/ See what our rockstar interns Kaitlyn Johnson and Ryan Weiss have to say about their experience working with the Scytale team in Tel Aviv. See what our rockstar interns Kaitlyn Johnson and Ryan Weiss have to say about their experience working with the Scytale team in Tel Aviv. The Scytale team really enjoyed working with these phenomenal individuals and are thankful for the unwavering dedication they poured into their work throughout the summer. The experience of having you around the office was truly incredible and made for an unforgettable time. --- ### Understanding the Importance of a HIPAA Audit Log in Compliance > A HIPAA audit log, also known as an audit trail, is a chronological record of access to electronic protected health information (ePHI). - Published: 2023-07-24 - Modified: 2024-01-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/importance-of-a-hipaa-audit-log-in-compliance/ A HIPAA audit log, also known as an audit trail, is a chronological record of access to electronic protected health information (ePHI). The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a crucial legislation for healthcare professionals, ensuring the protection and confidentiality of patient health information. Understanding and complying with HIPAA regulations, including audit log requirements, is essential for maintaining patient trust and avoiding legal penalties. You thought HIPAA compliance was challenging enough, think again. As a healthcare professional, you understand the importance of protecting patient privacy and maintaining compliance with HIPAA regulations. A key requirement to achieve this is implementing and monitoring a comprehensive HIPAA audit log. Yes, maintaining HIPAA compliance, particularly through audit logs, can seem overwhelming. But don’t despair just yet, weary healthcare professionals, for audit logs serve a higher purpose. So embrace the audit log, however dull and dreary it may seem. Think of it as your trusty sidekick in the fight against hipaa breaches and privacy violations. The audit log has your back, even if no one else understands why you find it so crucial.   What is a HIPAA Audit Log? A HIPAA audit log, also known as an audit trail, is a chronological record of access to electronic protected health information (ePHI). It allows covered entities to track users who access PHI and monitor compliance with HIPAA regulations. They are more than just a box to check off on your HIPAA to-do list. Audit logs provide crucial evidence that your organization takes privacy seriously and has mechanisms in place to detect unauthorized access. They give you insight into the management of health records, so you... --- ### SOC 2 Compliance: Are You Just Checking Boxes or Adding Value to Your Business? > Are you just checking boxes or adding value to your business? Learn how to use SOC 2 to really set yourself apart. - Published: 2023-07-24 - Modified: 2023-12-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-compliance-are-you-just-checking-boxes-or-adding-value-to-your-business/ SOC 2 compliance opens up new markets. It helps SaaS companies stand out in a crowd. SOC 2 compliance opens up new markets. It helps SaaS companies stand out in a crowd. It gives you an edge over competitors without it. Sure, all things being equal, the discerning customer will choose the SaaS product with the more rigorous certification. But how much does the general public care about information security, really? Is there a genuine passion for information security and these certifications or examinations? Actually, yes. SOC 2 really does make customers stand up and take notice. The people demand, but mainly, expect exceptional security. But the what - getting SOC 2 certified - is only half the question. You also need to consider how you implement SOC 2. Because the way a business manages SOC 2 and their information security in general ultimately affects the quality of the organization. Are these organizations simply thinking about ticking the box regarding security standards or are they putting in enormous effort to actually develop the best of the best security systems and practices? When it comes to SOC 2 compliance, businesses often wonder if they're just going through the motions or actually making a difference. Achieving SOC 2 compliance isn't just about a quick security check; it requires a thorough and thoughtful approach. One important thing to consider is the SOC 2 certification cost. While it may seem like a big financial commitment, it's really an investment in the long-term success and reputation of your company. SOC 2 compliance is more than just paperwork; it creates a strong... --- ### Essential 8 Framework: Everything You Need to Know > The Essential 8 Framework was developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre and forms the baseline of cyber threat protection. - Published: 2023-07-18 - Modified: 2024-01-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/essential-8-framework-everything-you-need-to-know/ The Essential 8 Framework forms the baseline of cyber threat protection recommended by the Australian Signals Directorate. Anything with the word 'essential' in it grabs our attention. So, we decided to look closer at Essential 8 - Australia's highly-recognized cybersecurity framework. Now, although the world of cybersecurity doesn't seem as thrilling as the Marvel universe, The Essential Eight framework has some action-packed (cyber) powers of its own - here's a look into the framework and why it's (you guessed it) essential.   What is the Essential Eight Framework?   The Essential 8 Framework is developed and maintained by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC). It forms the baseline of cyber threat protection recommended by the Australian Signals Directorate. It's cybersecurity 101; however, in a landscape known for its rising complexity, understanding and implementing the basics is critical before moving on to the next step.   In brief, the framework sets out eight strategies divided into three primary objectives - prevent attacks, limit attack impact, and ensure data availability. So, what does it have to do with your business? Here's the low down. The Role of the Essential Eight Framework in Cybersecurity The primary goal of the Essential Eight framework is to help mitigate cybersecurity incidents by strengthening and hardening systems against threats, limiting the damage caused by potential attacks, and making it easier to recover from attacks should they otherwise impact an organization. It includes eight core strategies to cover all the vital areas of concern that most businesses in Australia face regarding cybersecurity.   HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO SECURITY COMPLIANCE? Get a quick view into your... --- ### Securing the Kingdom: Privileged Access Management (PAM) and ISO 27001 Compliance > In this article, we'll delve into the compliance aspects of privileged access management, with focus on ISO 27001. Find more here. - Published: 2023-07-17 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/privileged-access-management-and-compliance-iso-27001/ In this article, we'll delve into the compliance aspects of privileged access management, with a focus on ISO 27001. In today's digital landscape, admin accounts, service accounts, and break glass accounts have become synonymous with privileged access and elevated privileges in the IT environment. However, these accounts also pose a significant security risk with over 90% of successful cyberattacks targeting privileged accounts as their primary objective. With privileged access often being a prerequisite for installing malware, it's no wonder that almost every attack vector involves the misuse of these special accounts. As a result, the need for robust IT compliance and stringent regulations surrounding the hardening of privileged accounts becomes increasingly evident. In this article, we will delve into the compliance aspects of privileged access management (PAM), with a specific focus on the IT compliance framework, ISO 27001. Together, we will explore the critical importance of implementing PAM as a proactive measure to protect your organization from devastating security breaches and safeguard your valuable digital assets. The ISO 27001 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper The importance of privileged access management Privileged access refers to accounts with additional capabilities or rights beyond those of standard users. In the Windows Active Directory (AD) environment, users belonging to "Enterprise Admins," "Administrator," or "Domain Admins" security groups possess the highest privileges. They can add or remove users, install unwanted applications, and even modify or delete critical information. Similarly, the "root" account in the Unix/Linux environment has unlimited access to all system resources, allowing it to modify files, delete programs, or install malicious code. In the cloud, AWS’s TEAM (temporary elevated access... --- ### Effective Compliance Risk Management Strategies for Startups: A Step-by-Step Guide > Compliance risk management is an organization's way of monitoring systems and protecting your security. It's a needed and ongoing process. - Published: 2023-07-12 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/effective-compliance-risk-management-strategies-for-startups/ Compliance risk management is an essential, ongoing process required to monitor systems and bulletproof your security. As your startup gains momentum (and market share), compliance risks can feel all the more tricky to navigate. Unfortunately, more often than not, the more complex and time-consuming a task, the likelier humans are to procrastinate. However, the risks associated with non-compliance don't go away with time. The opposite, in fact. It festers, slowly snowballing into something that could cause critical damage to your small business.   Let's rip off the bandage and fix what needs fixing. For startups keen on scaling their business without relying on the one-year startup birthday wish as a risk management strategy, we've got you covered.   Here's everything you need to know about creating effective compliance risk management strategies for your startup. But first, in true Scytale fashion - let’s start off with the basics.   What is Compliance Risk Management? Compliance risk management is your organization's way of monitoring and evaluating your systems and ultimately bulletproofing your security and compliance posture. It's a much-needed and ongoing process to ensure that your business continues to meet industry and security standards as well as corporate and regulatory rules and requirements.   Effective compliance risk management should ultimately monitor your security controls, identify potential risks, analyze those risks and take appropriate corrective actions to mitigate the risks. Finally, your compliance risk management strategy works alongside your compliance framework of choice and manages the risks associated with non-compliance. Where Do Compliance Frameworks Fit Into the Picture?   Risks, however, aren't always easy to spot. And if you... --- ### You've Got a Great Business Idea, Secured Funding and Started Product Development. Now What? It's Called Compliance! > In this webinar speakers discuss how a proactive security compliance strategy can boost sales, trust and create a competitive advantage. - Published: 2023-07-06 - Modified: 2023-10-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/youve-got-a-great-business-idea-secured-funding-and-started-product-development/ In this webinar speakers discuss how a proactive security compliance strategy can boost sales, trust and create a competitive advantage. In this webinar hosted by Geektime and in collaboration with our customer, SQream, and partner, JumpCloud, Scytale's Meiran Galis takes a deep dive into how a proactive security compliance strategy can help boost sales, build trust, and create a competitive advantage for startups and why it should be a no-brainer to start on your compliance program as early as possible. Speakers:Idan Mashaal, Principal Product Strategist, JumpcloudYotam Steinberg, Product Manager, SQreamMeiran Galis, Founder and CEO, Scytale --- ### Understanding the Top Changes in PCI DSS 4.0 > There is a new version of PCI DSS - PCI DSS version 4.0. Here are the top changes that you must be aware of to help your business navigate. - Published: 2023-07-04 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/understanding-the-top-changes-in-pci-dss-4-0/ There is a new version of PCI DSS - PCI DSS version 4.0. Here are the top changes that you must be aware of to help your business navigate. We get it - just when you've cracked down the gist of PCI DSS version 3. 2. 1, here comes the new kid on the block with some significant plans to switch things up in the PCI DSS neighborhood.   Are you ready to navigate the change? Let’s dive in.   https://youtu. be/i59qqB7ttuA PCI DSS Version 4. 0 The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) was initially launched in 2006. Although the core objective remains the same, to ensure cardholder data security, the standard needs to consider the evolving threats within a changing cybersecurity landscape.   One of the key changes in PCI DSS 4. 0 is the shift towards a more risk-based approach. This change allows organizations to tailor their security measures more closely to the specific risks they face, encouraging a more dynamic and proactive security posture. This brings us to the latest version of the PCI DSS - version 4. 0. Version 4. 0 will come into effect on March 31, 2024, The new version brings significant changes in how businesses must comply with PCI DSS. These changes hone into the intricacies of the security standard and can be challenging to navigate without expertise in cybersecurity. In brief, all changes within the latest version update stem from four core goals:  To ensure that the standard meets the security needs of an evolving payment industry.   To promote continuous security processes To enhance validation methods and procedures To add flexibility and support for alternative approaches to... --- ### Doing Compliance with Automation: An ISO27001 Case Study > Hosted by the GRC Institute in collaboration with Scytale and Witz Cybersecurity, this webinar discusses ISO 27001 and compliance automation. - Published: 2023-06-30 - Modified: 2023-10-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/doing-compliance-with-automation-an-iso27001-case-study/ The GRC Institute collaborates with Scytale and Witz Cybersecurity to discuss ISO 27001 and compliance automation. Hosted by the GRC Institute in collaboration with Scytale and Witz Cybersecurity, this webinar dives into the world of ISO 27001 and the transformative power of compliance automation. Take a watch to see how Scytale's compliance automation engine and expert team completely simplified the ISO 27001 certification process for its customer, Totango. Speakers:Kyle Morris, Senior Compliance Success Manager, ScytaleAmit Bluman, SVP of Engineering, Totango --- ### Essential 8 Maturity Model: Achieving Cyber Security Excellence > The Australian Signals Directorate created the E8 Maturity Model to protect businesses, fortify defenses and mitigate rising cyber threats. - Published: 2023-06-27 - Modified: 2024-01-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/essential-8-maturity-model-achieving-cyber-security-excellence/ The process of attaining Essential 8 (E8) compliance and what it could mean for your business. The Essential 8 Maturity Model is quickly rising in rank and is known for helping businesses establish the baseline of cyber threat protection. But how exactly should organizations achieve Essential 8 compliance, and is it worth the fuss?   Although we’d love to skip the nitty-gritty and invite you to bypass any ‘fuss’ and automate the entire Essential 8 journey, we also love to see businesses gain a firmer understanding of the cybersecurity world without heavy tech jargon guarding the compliance gates. So, suppose you’re interested in achieving cybersecurity excellence, in line with Essential 8. In that case, it’s time to dive into the process of attaining Essential 8 (E8) compliance and what it could mean for your business.   A recap on the E8 essentials The Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) created the E8 Maturity Model to safeguard businesses, fortify defenses, and mitigate rising cyber security threats such as cyber intrusions, phishing attacks, ransomware, and malicious insider threats.   The security controls responsible for implementing the above? Meet the eight security controls: application control, patch applications, restrict administrative privileges, patch operating systems, configure Microsoft Office macro settings, user application hardening, multi-factor authentication, and regular backups. HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO SECURITY COMPLIANCE? Get a quick view into your GitHub compliance status with our open source tool! Check Your Status For FREE Understanding the Essential 8 Maturity Model When starting with the implementation process of Essential 8, there are four defined maturity levels (Maturity Level 0 to Maturity Level 3). The relevant... --- ### Here's What Happened at Fintech  Junction > We had an unforgettable experience at Fintech Junction. This awesome community got together to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration. - Published: 2023-06-27 - Modified: 2023-08-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/heres-what-happened-at-fintech-junction/ We had an unforgettable experience at Fintech Junction. This awesome community got together to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration. We had an unforgettable experience at Fintech Junction and so, we had to capture it all! This awesome fintech community got together to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration. And let's not forget about the great food, expert list of speakers, and, thought-provoking talks that left us inspired and ready to embrace the fintech revolution. --- ### What is GRCaaS, Anyways? > Take a look as we outline what exactly GRCaaS means, and the benefits it brings to companies, especially startups and SMBs! - Published: 2023-06-27 - Modified: 2024-04-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-grcaas-anyways/ Take a look as we outline what exactly GRCaaS means, and the benefits it brings to companies, especially startups and SMBs! Take a look as we outline what exactly GRCaaS means, and the benefits it brings to companies, especially startups and SMBs! From keeping up with changing regulations, coordinating tasks across multiple departments and spending a great deal of costs on more and more tools, GRC management is complex, especially as you scale. With our GRCaaS, companies can: Save up to 80% of resources by avoiding the crazy expensive costs of hiring inhouse. Get compliant (the smart way) with automation and experts, increasing sales, faster. Fuse all GRC tasks in one streamlined and cost-effective solution. --- ### For All Our Australian Friends, You Can Now Streamline Essential Eight with Scytale > The Australian Cyber Security Centre has developed the Essential Eight, a cybersecurity framework to help protect against cyber threats. - Published: 2023-06-22 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/for-all-our-australian-friends-you-can-now-streamline-essential-eight-with-scytale/ The Australian Cyber Security Centre has developed the Essential Eight, a cybersecurity framework to help protect against cyber threats. If you missed the news, we recently added CSA STAR to our growing group of compliance frameworks and regulations that we support, alongside SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, PCI DSS and GDPR.   And today, customers can implement the Essential Eight, the automated way, enabling relevant organizations to meet the minimum baseline of cyber threat protection recommended by the Australian Signals Directorate and streamline the process! By supporting the Essential Eight in our platform, we can help a wider range of organizations automate their unique security and compliance needs. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=-MqxloK4Gko Hold up! What’s the Essential Eight, anyway? The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) has developed the Essential Eight, an Australian cybersecurity framework consisting of eight essential mitigation strategies, helping organizations protect themselves against various cyber threats. The Essential Eight is designed to protect Microsoft Windows-based internet-connected networks. The mitigation strategies that constitute the Essential Eight are:  Application control Patch applications Configure Microsoft Office macro settings User application hardening Restrict administrative privileges Patch operating systems Multi-factor authentication Regular backups Meet the Essential Eight baseline with automation! Implementing the framework’s mitigation strategies and its respective controls can be quite the complex task at hand that consumes many hours. Leveraging our automation platform and compliance expertise means you don’t only centralize, complete and automate all your Essential Eight requirements in one place, but you also receive detailed insight into your cyber security controls posture and how to improve your controls maturity. Take a look at what our customers are saying... --- ### Essential 8: What it Means and Why it's So Important for Your Organization > Wesley Van Zyl, Senior Compliance Success Manager at Scytale, dives into what exactly the Essential Eight framework entails. - Published: 2023-06-22 - Modified: 2024-04-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/essential-8-what-it-means-and-why-its-so-important-for-your-organization/ Wesley Van Zyl, Senior Compliance Success Manager at Scytale, dives into what exactly the Essential Eight framework entails. Wesley Van Zyl, Senior Compliance Success Manager at Scytale, dives into what exactly the Essential Eight framework entails and its impact on an organization's security environment, specifically those with an Australian presence. --- ### Digesting Compliance: What Value Does Scytale Bring to its Customers? > Kyle Morris, Senior Compliance Success Manager at Scytale, shares how Scytale customizes the journey of each customer. - Published: 2023-06-21 - Modified: 2024-04-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/digesting-compliance-what-value-does-scytale-bring-to-its-customers/ Kyle Morris, Senior Compliance Success Manager at Scytale, shares how Scytale customizes the journey of each customer. Kyle Morris, Senior Compliance Success Manager at Scytale, shares how Scytale customizes the journey of each customer based on their specific compliance objectives, resources, audit scope and more. He discusses how Scytale's compliance expert team becomes part of each organization from the very start of the compliance project right to the very end. --- ### Scytale Recognized in G2 Summer 2023 Report, Including Named a Momentum Leader > Scytale is thrilled to announce its major recognition in the recently published G2 Summer 2023 Report, including named a Momentum Leader. - Published: 2023-06-20 - Modified: 2023-06-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-recognized-in-g2-summer-2023-report-including-named-a-momentum-leader/ Scytale is thrilled to announce its major recognition in the recently published G2 Summer 2023 Report, including named a Momentum Leader. Scytale is thrilled to announce its major recognition in the recently published G2 Summer 2023 Report. This recognition highlights Scytale's happy customers, reviewing our compliance automation technology and expert advisory solution. Momentum Leader Award Scytale has been recognized as a Momentum Leader in the Cloud Compliance category, for the very first time. This recognition is based on an evaluation carried out by G2 and takes into account specific factors that are believed to play a role in driving momentum in a company’s growth and presence. This new badge introduced by G2 identifies products that are on a high-growth trajectory based on user satisfaction scores, employee growth, and digital presence. A few of our other awards in G2’s Summer 2023 Report High Performer (Cloud Compliance, Cloud Security and Security Compliance): This badge is awarded as Scytale received very high customer satisfaction scores High Performer Small-Business (Small-Business Cloud Security and Small-Business Cloud Compliance): This badge is awarded as Scytale received very high customer satisfaction scores within the small-business arena Easiest To Do Business With (Cloud Security, Cloud Compliance, Security Compliance) Easiest To Do Business With for Small-Businesses (Cloud Security and Cloud Compliance) Users Love Us: This badge was attained as Scytale received more than 20 reviews with an average rating of 4. 0 stars Here’s just some of our awesome customers reviews: "The system is easy to use, and the automated integrations save plenty of time. But the best feature by far is the team - you know you're being taken care... --- ### GDPR in a Flash > Learn here everything you need to know about The General Data Protection Regulation in our insightful one-pager, GDPR in a Flash. - Published: 2023-06-14 - Modified: 2024-05-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-in-a-flash/ Learn all about The General Data Protection Regulation in our insightful GDPR one-pager. Gdpr in a flash What exactly is GDPR compliance? The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a set of regulations created by the European Union (EU) to protect the personal data of individuals within the EU. Personal data includes any information which, directly or indirectly, could identify a living person, such as name, phone number, and address etc. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a set of regulations created by the European Union (EU) to protect the PII (personally identifiable information) of individuals within the EU. PII includes any information which, directly or indirectly, could identify a living person, such as name, phone number, and address etc. Why do you need to be GDPR compliant? Ensures organizations are transparent about how they process and store personal data. Gives individuals more control over how their personal data is collected and processed. Shows that you value the privacy of your users and take the utmost care to protect their rights and personal information. Violators of GDPR may be fined up to €20 million, or up to 4% of its annual worldwide turnover of the preceding financial year, whichever is greater. Why do you need to be GDPR compliant? Ensures organizations are transparent about how they process and store personal data. Gives individuals more control over how their personal data is collected and processed. Shows that you value the privacy of your users and take the utmost care to protect their rights and personal information. Violators of GDPR may be fined up... --- ### The PCI DSS Bible > This whitepaper looks at the PCI DSS compliance framework and how it ensures secure payments and data privacy. Download now. - Published: 2023-06-14 - Modified: 2023-08-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-pci-dss-bible/ This whitepaper looks at the PCI DSS compliance framework and how it ensures secure payments and data privacy. Everything to know about securing payments and cardholder data Modern-day transactions have almost completely migrated to the digital landscape. Gone are the days when the security of your financial data depended on how well you guarded your wallet. Yet, security remains more critical (and complex) than ever. This whitepaper looks at the holy grail of securing payments and cardholder data - PCI DSS and how this compliance framework ensures secure payments and data privacy. In this whitepaper you will learn: The benefits of PCI DSS for the payment card industry Which merchant level you belong to and its relevant requirements The 12 requirements of PCI DSS compliance How automation is transforming the way organizations get PCI DSS compliant --- ### Digesting Compliance: How Scytale Gets You Audit-Ready > Hear straight from Scytale's Senior Compliance Success Manager, what to expect on your journey with us, and how our compliance experts will guide you. - Published: 2023-06-08 - Modified: 2024-04-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/digesting-compliance-how-scytale-gets-you-audit-ready/ Hear straight from Scytale's Senior Compliance Success Manager, Wesley Van Zyl, as he walks us through the process with Scytale. Hear straight from Scytale's Senior Compliance Success Manager, Wesley Van Zyl, as he walks us through the process with Scytale from start to finish, what to expect on your journey with us, and how our compliance experts guide you through the process, one requirement at a time. --- ### 10 Go-To Tips for HIPAA Compliance > To help you get the most out of the numerous benefits HIPAA can provide your business, here are our ten go-to tips for HIPAA compliance. - Published: 2023-06-06 - Modified: 2024-01-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/10-go-to-tips-for-hipaa-compliance/ To help you get the most out of the numerous benefits HIPAA can provide your business, here are our ten go-to tips for HIPAA compliance. If you’re subject to HIPAA compliance, navigating the different rules and regulations can feel like a daunting task — especially without a roadmap guiding you along the way. However, the only thing scarier than taking on HIPAA compliance alone is not taking it on at all. Needless to say, HIPAA has a reputation for stressing people out, and rightfully so - it's a federal law set out to protect critical health information in a landscape prone to breaches, threats, and data risks. Unfortunately, due to its criticality, complex rules, and severe penalties and fines, most businesses approach HIPAA compliance with a sense of urgency, caution, and dread. So, to help ease the burden, here are our top 10 handy HIPAA hacks to help you stay compliant while protecting your patients and your business from the legal and financial consequences of a breach. But first, let's do a quick refresher on the basics. What is protected health information (PHI)?   At the very crux of everything HIPAA-related lies the holy grail - protected health information (PHI). HIPAA sets out to do everything in the name of PHI and how to best protect and manage it in an ever growing threat landscape. But what is PHI exactly? PHI refers to any individually identifiable health information. Some examples of PHI include medical histories, insurance information, test results, payment information, and demographic data. So, in a nutshell, if your business comes in contact with any information that relates to a person’s healthcare, treatment, or... --- ### Security Compliance for Compliance Leaders > Everything you need to know about implementing a robust security program and understanding the requirements pertaining to data protection. - Published: 2023-05-25 - Modified: 2024-03-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-for-compliance-leaders/ Everything you need to know about implementing a robust security program and understanding the requirements of data protection. Being a compliance leader in today's ever-changing digital age is no easy feat. You have to be ever so vigilant, staying ahead of the latest regulations and compliance standards. And in this era of hackers and cyber criminals, it's more important than ever to ensure that your organization has state-of-the-art security measures in place to protect valuable data from falling into the wrong hands. But how do you know what security measures are necessary for you to remain compliant? How can you be sure that your organization is actually secure? What kind of system should you have in place to maintain an effective security program? We get it – security compliance can be complicated, especially when you don't know where to start! That's why we've compiled this deep dive on security compliance for compliance leaders, so you can feel confident that your critical data is safe and secure at all times. In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know, including best practices for implementing a robust security program and understanding the requirements and regulations pertaining to data protection. So let's get started! Understanding security compliance requirements As a compliance leader, you understand how important it is to protect your organization's sensitive information from risks such as data breaches and security vulnerabilities. That's why it's essential to stay up-to-date on the latest security compliance requirements. Understanding these rules and regulations can be confusing, but it doesn't have to be. With the right knowledge and tools, you can efficiently ensure... --- ### Digesting Compliance: Hear it Straight From the Experts > We asked our compliance expert team to walk us through how they help customers on a daily basis. Watch here. - Published: 2023-05-22 - Modified: 2024-04-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/digesting-compliance-hear-it-straight-from-the-experts/ We asked our compliance expert team to walk us through how they help customers on a daily basis. We asked our compliance expert team to walk us through how they help customers on a daily basis. --- ### ChatGPT for the Compliance Professional: Will It Change Data Privacy in 2024 > We're evaluating ChatGPT regarding its impact on data privacy, cybersecurity and compliance. Let's take a deep dive. - Published: 2023-05-11 - Modified: 2024-03-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/chatgpt-for-the-compliance-professional/ We're evaluating ChatGPT regarding its impact on data privacy, cybersecurity and compliance. Let's take a deep dive. It's hard to ace the game when the rules keep changing, and in the world of cybersecurity and data privacy, organizations are either compliant or complacent - you can't ever be both. The new kid on the block? ChatGPT, and we (and everyone else) have been sussing it out, especially regarding its impact on data privacy and cybersecurity.   In this article, we're looking at OpenAI's ChatGPT and how it could change data privacy and data compliance in 2024 and whether it's all doom and gloom or whether AI powers can be used for good.   What is ChatGPT? Although you may have heard the buzz around ChatGPT (which is hard to miss), a quick recap won't hurt. ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, is based on a Large Language Model (LLM). The language tool uses billions of data points to input prompts in a way that closely mimics a human response in mere seconds.   The user prompt gives the chatbot the needed context and generates unique text without showing source content. Quick and efficient, but the accuracy is (very) arguable. Users can prompt ChatGPT to produce almost any type of written response, from scientific concepts, poetry, academic essays and yes - compliance advice. And although ChatGPT can provide quick and plausible answers, users should consult with compliance professionals to ensure the accuracy and applicability of the advice, particularly in complex areas like data security. As with any new technology, some healthy skepticism is critical, especially regarding the potential for exploitation... --- ### Introducing the New Edition of Our Auditor Mode! > Let’s take a look at the latest exciting additions and enhancements to our security compliance automation platform! - Published: 2023-05-09 - Modified: 2023-06-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/introducing-the-new-edition-of-our-auditor-mode/ Let’s take a look at the latest exciting additions and enhancements to our security compliance automation platform! As you’ve probably noticed by now, we’re constantly taking our automation technology to the next level with continuous additions and enhancements, making security compliance more simple by the day! Not too long ago, we announced some new product launches, such as new integrations, adding quick comments and automating your audit scope, enabling our customers to fast-track their audit-readiness process and manage all their requirements in our streamlined compliance environment! Let’s take a look at the latest additions to Scytale! First, welcome NEW integrations! Jamf Pro is the Apple device management tool designed to automate device management while driving end-user productivity and creativity, empowering IT pros and the users they support by delivering a unified ecosystem management for Apple devices. Azure DevOps is a Microsoft product that provides version control, reporting, requirements management, project management, automated builds, testing and release management capabilities, covering the entire application lifecycle and enabling DevOps capabilities. So, what does this mean for our customers?   Companies need to ensure that all the tools they work with are operating in a secure environment, ensuring that the data being managed, stored and processed is protected. This kind of information needs to be documented and collected for your audit.   So, it’s simple. More integrations mean more automation. It means that our customers can enjoy more automated evidence collection for their audits and 24/7 monitoring of controls, instead of manually collecting this information. Say hello to our new auditor mode!   We are excited to introduce the auditors’ new... --- ### How to Evaluate Security Compliance Software Before Purchasing > To help you find the ideal security compliance software for your organization, here’s our checklist of top ten things to look out for. - Published: 2023-05-03 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-evaluate-security-compliance-software-before-purchasing/ To help you find the ideal security compliance software for your organization, here’s our checklist of top ten things to look out for. Staying compliant is a resource-intensive and exhaustive process that, unfortunately, never seems to get any easier; unless you have the right security compliance software to take over some of the heavy lifting.   However, with regulatory compliance and general information security as critical as it is, trusting a tool to take over your responsibilities may seem a tad risky. And unfortunately, sometimes it is.   That’s why companies must evaluate security compliance software before purchasing to ensure you’re leveraging the right software to streamline the process of getting and staying compliant. To help you find the ideal security compliance software for your organization, here’s our tipsheet of the top ten things to look out for.   But first, let’s cover the basics. Security Compliance for CISOsSOC 2 and ISO 27001 Deep DiveDownload the eBook What is security compliance software? The compliance landscape contains complex infosec jargon, definitions, acronyms, and abbreviations. Fortunately, you don’t need to be a compliance expert to navigate the most important definitions; in this case, it’s security compliance software.   Security compliance software ensures that your organization has implemented the correct requirements and controls, aligning with the specific laws, regulations, rules, or standards that apply to your organization. But furthermore, security compliance software streamlines the audit-readiness process for organizations through automating processes, task management and providing a one-stop solution for your compliance journey. Apart from some regulatory requirements being mandated by law, compliance is also critical for your organization’s reputation, security, and data integrity, all ultimately affecting your... --- ### Everything You Need to Know About The NIS 2 Directive > This webinar, in partnership with Brand Compliance, uncovers all the details regarding the new version of the NIS 2 Directive - Published: 2023-05-03 - Modified: 2023-05-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-nis-2-directive/ This webinar, in partnership with Brand Compliance, uncovers all the details regarding the new version of the NIS 2 Directive. This webinar, in partnership with Brand Compliance, uncovers all the details regarding the new version of the NIS 2 Directive that has come into force in 2023. We take a deep dive into how you should prepare and everything organizations should know. Speakers include:Kyle Morris, Senior Compliance Success Manager, ScytaleKoen Mathijs, Business Unit Manager, Brand Compliance --- ### Are You Compliant Yet? How to Streamline SOC 2 and ISO 27001 with Automation > Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis and Cloudflare's Regional Sales Manager, Guy Ben Zvi discuss best practices for streamlining compliance. - Published: 2023-05-03 - Modified: 2023-10-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-streamline-soc-2-and-iso-27001-with-automation/ Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis and Cloudflare's Regional Sales Manager, Guy Ben Zvi discuss best practices for streamlining compliance. SaaS companies today know they need to comply with security frameworks like SOC 2 and ISO 27001 in order gain the trust of their prospects - especially if they hope to convert them to customers. But security compliance is a pain and takes forever. Hear from Scytale's CEO, Meiran Galis and Cloudflare's Regional Sales Manager, Guy Ben Zvi as they discuss best practices for streamlining the compliance process and all the while increasing the security and performance of their websites and services. --- ### A Peek at PCI DSS > Learn everything you need to know about PCI DSS compliance in our insightful one-pager, A Peek at PCI DSS. - Published: 2023-04-27 - Modified: 2023-08-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/a-peek-at-pci-dss/ Learn all about PCI DSS compliance in our insightful PCI DSS one-pager. A Peek at PCI DSS What exactly is PCI DSS Compliance? Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) Information security standard that ensures all companies who accept, process, store or transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment Set of 12 security requirements, including the technical and operational standards to best secure and protect credit card data. Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) Information security standard that ensures all companies who accept, process, store or transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment Set of 12 security requirements, including the technical and operational standards to best secure and protect credit card data. Why do you need to be PCI DSS compliant? Ensures your infrastructure and business processes are secure when managing customer data. Mandated by the contracts that merchants sign with the card brands and with the banks that handle their payment processing. If you’re non-compliant, you can face heavy financial penalties Why do you need to be PCI DSS compliant? Ensures your infrastructure and business processes are secure when managing customer data. Mandated by the contracts that merchants sign with the card brands and with the banks that handle their payment processing. If you’re non-compliant, you can face heavy financial penalties Who must undergo a PCI DSS audit? The audit process differs depending on your merchant-level status: CATEGORY CRITERIA REQUIREMENTS Level 1 Any merchant having more than six million total combined Mastercard and Maestro transactions annually Any merchant meeting the Level 1 criteria of Vista Any... --- ### Security Compliance for CISOs > In this eBook, we're deep diving into security compliance for CISOs and how to best manage InfoSec frameworks. - Published: 2023-04-24 - Modified: 2023-08-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-for-cisos/ In this eBook, we're deep diving into security compliance for CISOs and how to best manage InfoSec frameworks. SOC 2 and ISO 27001 Deep Dive Security compliance often feels like the ever-present task that looms over every angle of your role as Chief Information Security Officer. Yet, regardless of the hours spent managing it, something can always slip through the cracks. In this eBook, we're deep diving into security compliance for CISOs and how to best manage InfoSec frameworks. We're looking at key tips and details to keep in mind when undergoing two leading security standards, freeing up critical time without compromising security. In this eBook you will: Understand how to best tackle security compliance at your organization Get to know some of the top security challenges for CISOs and how to overcome them Gain insights on how best to manage SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliance Learn how automation is transforming compliance management for CISOs --- ### PCI DSS Compliance Checklist: 12 Requirements Explained > Navigate the 12 security requirements for PCI DSS compliance and how to implement them into your organization. Learn here. - Published: 2023-04-12 - Modified: 2024-01-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/pci-dss-compliance-checklist/ Navigate the 12 security requirements for PCI DSS compliance and how to implement them into your organization. Let’s cut to the chase; at first glance (even after a dozen glances), PCI DSS compliance is no easy feat. With an overwhelming recipe of 300+ security controls, 12 requirements from six control objectives, businesses are understandably cautious and confused.   So, to alleviate some of the complexities associated with the mammoth task, we’ve created an all-you-can-read compliance checklist, complete with everything you need to know about the twelve PCI DSS requirements, the critical policies, processes and implementation steps.   But first things first, let’s have a quick overview of what PCI DSS compliance is in the first place.   What is PCI DSS compliance? Understanding PCI DSS compliance is a whole lot easier when you start by focusing on what it’s protecting. Every inch of the security standard is geared toward protecting consumers’ cardholder data. This includes the primary account number (PAN), cardholder name, expiration date, service code, and sensitive authentication data. PCI DSS defines required standards for securing and protecting this data. Hence, the name “The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. ” Naturally, such critical data and its safety can’t be left open to interpretation regarding how to best safeguard it. Hence, the need to ensure a baseline level of protection for businesses and consumers in the digital age. It's important to note that PCI DSS applies to all entities involved in payment card processing, including merchants, processors, acquirers, issuers, and service providers. This standard ensures comprehensive data security across the entire payment processing lifecycle. The PCI... --- ### Everything You Need to Know About SOC 1 Requirements for Your Startup > In this article, We'll share everything you need to know about SOC 1 requirements so that you can ace your audit with confidence. - Published: 2023-04-11 - Modified: 2024-07-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/everything-you-need-to-know-about-soc-1-requirements-for-your-startup/ In this article, We'll share everything you need to know about SOC 1 requirements so that you can ace your audit with confidence. Alright, startup owners, look alive: it's time to talk about something that can be a daunting topic for even the most seasoned of business owners. We're talking about the SOC 1 audit. You may have heard whispers of this mysterious attestation report document, but have no idea where to start. Well, you're in luck, because we are here to provide you with all the answers you need to navigate this beast. The SOC 1 is a report based on standards set by the AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants). The goal of the audit is to provide assurances regarding the IT general and business process controls an organization has implemented to ensure privacy of customer information when dealing with financial reporting. The SOC 1 audit is designed to ensure these controls are in place to protect this data from unauthorized access, manipulation, or improper disclosure – essentially, prove that your operation is in compliance with the SOC 1 standards. SOC 1 requirements can be confusing if you aren't familiar with the process. But fear not! In this article, We'll share everything you need to know about SOC 1 requirements so that you can ace your audit with confidence. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about compliance! Download the Whitepaper Understand the purpose of the SOC 1 audit Okay, so you've heard of SOC 1 audit, but what is it really? Well, a SOC 1 audit is basically the verification process that tells the world your startup has... --- ### Change Management and the SDLC > The change management process provides a higher level of control and consistency within the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). - Published: 2023-04-04 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/change-management-and-the-sdlc/ The change management process provides a higher level of control and consistency within the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). Change management is a process that helps organizations manage and control changes to their processes, systems, and technology. Effective change management helps organizations minimize the risk and impacts associated with the changes while ensuring that all benefits of the respective changes are realized. The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is the process of planning, designing, developing, testing, deploying, and maintaining software applications. The change management process in the SDLC ensures that changes are made in a controlled and systematic manner, minimizing the risk of errors or negative impacts on the application or product. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=Phcjn2vEb1c The change management process provides a higher level of control and consistency within the SDLC. It assesses the impact of the change and identifies risks to help the organization manage any potential negative effects on the application/product or its users. Additionally, the change management process provides the organization with transparency into the SDLC – allowing stakeholders and senior management to understand and track all changes made to the application/product. Benefits of a Change Management Process QualityReduced RiskEfficiencyCollaborationRegulatory ComplianceOrganizations can improve the quality of their products by ensuring that changes are performed, tested, and approved in a controlled environment. This minimizes the risk of errors or negative impacts on the application/product or its users. Change management controls, like segregation of duties (SoD), reduces the risk of unauthorized changes being made to applications/products. A consistent and transparent process for change management increases the efficiency of SDLC processes. Change management encourages collaboration and effective communication between... --- ### CSA STAR: Why is It Valuable for Your Company > Meet CSA STAR - the world's most extensive and consequential cloud provider security program. Here's what you need to know. - Published: 2023-03-30 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/csa-star/ Meet CSA STAR - the world's most extensive and consequential cloud provider security program. Here's what you need to know. What if we told you that you're ready to meet the ultimate boss of security compliance? You've successfully passed compliance 101, and you've aced the need-to-knows about SOC 2 and ISO 27001. What's next? Meet CSA STAR - the world's most extensive and consequential cloud provider security program.   If you're looking into obtaining a CSA STAR certification or attestation, first, let's start with the introductions. What is CSA STAR? Meet The Cloud Security Alliance: Security, Trust, Assurance, and Risk, or as most (probably everyone) prefer to call it, CSA STAR. The CSA STAR program was established in 2012 to verify and document which security and privacy controls are being implemented by cloud service providers (CSPs) and how they implement them.   However, as CSPs became less of a novelty and more common in modern-day business, the CSA STAR became a global harmonized solution in the cloud security scope, renowned for their industry-leading best practices supporting a more secure cloud environment.   However, to bring everyday folk up to speed and in the loop with their expertise, the CSA designed a program (CSA STAR) that helps CSPs enhance their security posture and assurance in the cloud.   A few core principles navigate the CSA STAR program; transparency, rigorous auditing, and harmonization of standards outlined in the Cloud Controls Matrix (CCM) - but we'll get to that soon. As cloud service providers become increasingly ubiquitous in modern business, CSA STAR emerges as a vital player, setting industry-leading best practices for a... --- ### Security Audits Haunting You? See How Mike Kicked His Compliance Nightmares to the Curb! > Stop the security compliance nightmares with Scytale, the ultimate security compliance automation platform. Learn more here. - Published: 2023-03-28 - Modified: 2023-03-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/security-audits-haunting-you/ Stop the security compliance nightmares with Scytale! Stop the security compliance nightmares with Scytale:- Manage the entire compliance journey all in one place. - Save hundreds of hours with automated evidence collection. - Cross map controls across multiple frameworks and get notified of any compliance issues instantly. --- ### Compliance Management System: Tips for Successful Compliance  > This blog looks at compliance management systems and which elements to look out for so compliance can work for you, not the other way around. - Published: 2023-03-16 - Modified: 2024-02-12 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/compliance-management-system-tips-for-successful-compliance/ In this blog, you'll discover the elements of a successful compliance management system. How confident are you in managing your information security compliance? If words like SOC 2, ISO 27001, or HIPAA leave you with an anxious lump in your throat - your compliance management system isn’t doing what it’s supposed to.   Regardless of your security framework, compliance is never something you can completely tick off your to-do list. But managing it doesn’t have to be so draining, time-consuming, or complex either. This blog looks at compliance management systems and which elements to look out for so compliance can work for you, not the other way around.   HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO SECURITY COMPLIANCE? CHECK YOUR STATUS NOW What is a compliance management system, anyway?   Running a business without a compliance management system is like entering a battle without armor. You may be able to survive for a bit if you stay small and hide in a corner, but if you’re hiding - how are you going to reach new clients and grow your business?   A compliance management system is your organization’s data bodyguard, line of defense, and an essential part of mitigating regulatory and reputational risk. We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again - security compliance isn’t a one-time thing. This means that once you’re compliant, you must ensure that you stay that way. How? A solid compliance management system. A compliance management system is tasked with constantly monitoring and evaluating your organizational systems to ensure that they meet all regulatory compliance rules and security standards.... --- ### Get a Good Look into Your Information Security with CSA STAR - and Let Automation Take You There! > We welcome CSA STAR to the list of security compliance frameworks customers can automate with Scytale! Find more here. - Published: 2023-03-14 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/csa-star-automation/ We welcome CSA STAR to the list of security compliance frameworks customers can automate with Scytale! Over the months, we have announced more and more compliance frameworks that organizations can automate with our platform, creating a better compliance world for all types of organizations! If you missed the news, we recently added PCI DSS and GDPR to our growing group of compliance frameworks supported by Scytale, alongside SOC 2, ISO 27001 and HIPAA. And today, we welcome CSA STAR too!   CSA STAR helps organizations gain visibility into their control environment, as well as sets them up for other security frameworks, like SOC 2 and ISO 27001, preparing them for stringent audit requirements with multi-framework cross mapping. GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo Ensure a robust information security program right from the start! The CSA STAR self-audit is super valuable for cloud providers, especially startups in the beginning stages of their security and compliance program, providing security assurance in the cloud and a solid foundation for the governance of their IT controls. Hold up! Who exactly is the CSA anyways? In short, The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) is the world’s leading organization committed to defining and raising awareness of best practices, ensuring secure cloud computing environments. Now where does the STAR come in? Well, The Security, Trust, Assurance, and Risk (STAR) Registry is a publicly accessible registry that documents the security and privacy controls provided by popular cloud computing solutions. We know it can sound a little intimidating at first, especially if you haven’t completed any compliance framework before - but that’s where Scytale... --- ### Your Complete ISO 27001 Checklist Guide > We’ve compiled an ISO 27001 checklist to help you develop a robust ISO 27001 strategy and undergo a successful certification process. - Published: 2023-03-14 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/your-complete-iso-27001-checklist-guide/ This checklist will help you make sure you’ve covered all your ISO 27001 bases. You need to undergo ISO 27001 compliance but don't know how it all works? We get it. There are so many details to take into consideration and figuring out where exactly to even start is all so common, especially for startups just starting their security compliance journey. We know you have probably googled 'ISO 27001' and the overwhelmingly amount of information is enough to make you start panicking. Undergoing ISO 27001 compliance, especially for the very first time, can cause a few nightmares, to say the least. With so many requirement boxes to tick and ensuring you do it all correctly, can be quite the task at hand. And that's where an ISO 27001 checklist comes in. Well, if you want to implement ISO 27001 successfully, you need to ensure you’ve covered all your bases. We’ve compiled an ISO 27001 checklist to help you develop a robust ISO 27001 strategy and undergo a successful certification process.  Look at this as your very own 'go-to' source of information you can turn back to anytime. So, what exactly is an ISO 27001 compliance checklist you may ask? In short, an ISO 27001 checklist is a summarized 'to-do' list to guide organizations on their ISO 27001 certification journey, providing all the main steps they need to take in order to ace their ISO 27001 certification audit and have full peace of mind that there are no roadblocks, surprises or key aspects missing. With that being said, another good term to use is an... --- ### Backing Up Your IAM to Stay Compliant: SOC 2, ISO 27001 and HIPAA [Hebrew] > In this webinar, you will learn the importance of security compliance and Identity and Access Management (IAM) in cloud infrastructure. - Published: 2023-03-09 - Modified: 2024-09-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/backing-up-your-iam-to-stay-compliant-soc-2-iso-27001-and-hipaa/ In this webinar, you will learn the importance of security compliance and Identity and Access Management (IAM) in cloud infrastructure. Catch Adar Givoni, Director of Compliance at Scytale and Muli Motola, CEO at accSenSe discuss the importance of security compliance and Identity and Access Management (IAM) in cloud infrastructure. --- ### Last Month’s Agenda: ISO 27001:2022 Updates, Add Quick Comments and Automate Your Audit Scope! > Take a look at what February had in store for our customers with some exciting updates to our compliance automation platform. - Published: 2023-03-07 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/product-updates-automate-audit-scope/ Take a look at what February had in store for our customers with some exciting updates to our compliance automation platform! We know all about the nightmares of endless requirements and manual efforts involved in security compliance. That’s why we’re constantly taking our automation technology to the next level with continuous additions and enhancements, making security compliance uncomplicated and pain-free! Last month, we announced some new product launches, such as integration updates, multiple audit management and automated risk assessments, enabling our customers to simplify more and more of their IT audit processes and manage all their requirements in our streamlined compliance environment! In case you missed our big announcements earlier this month, GDPR has been added to our pool of frameworks you can automate with Scytale, enabling customers to streamline their GDPR certification processes. But that’s not the only news you missed - check out how you can complete your penetration testing with us, too! GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo 2022 ISO 27001 updates added to our platform! The 2022 updates apply to the security controls of ISO 27002 and therefore, Annex A of ISO 27001 is updated accordingly. While new customers will use the updated version and existing customers will continue to work with ISO 27001:2013 until they finish their current audit, ISO 27001:2022 changes have been incorporated in our platform! Want to leave a note? Or ask a question? Leave quick comments inside our platform! In some cases, customers want to add comments on certain monitoring evidence, as well as communicate following the monitoring results of their controls. And so, this feature is officially added to... --- ### The Complete Guide to HIPAA Compliance > The ultimate HIPAA guide that takes a deep dive into everything you need to know about HIPAA compliance. - Published: 2023-03-03 - Modified: 2023-08-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-compliance-guide/ The ultimate HIPAA guide that takes a deep dive into everything you need to know about HIPAA compliance. Before we get into the actual guide, the first thing you should know about HIPAA is that it’s HIPAA, and not HIPPA or HIPPO. Although, you might face a similar wrath for not respecting a hippo, as you would with being non-compliant. Data security and privacy are increasingly top of mind these days, especially regarding sensitive data, such as our health information. If you’re a covered entity or business associate, transmitting health information, it is critical that you ensure you’re HIPAA-compliant. Non-compliance can result in serious penalties, such as costly fines and imprisonment. In addition, 79% of all reported breaches occur in the healthcare industry, and these breaches continue to increase every year. One thing is clear: non-compliance with HIPAA is not an option. The purpose of this comprehensive guide to HIPAA compliance is to take a deep dive into HIPAA, help you avoid data breaches, and ensure you are fully compliant with all HIPAA requirements. GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo What is HIPAA and what is its purpose? HIPAA is a federal law that requires compliance with HIPAA standards, ensuring all protected health information (PHI) is protected and managed responsibly. PHI, which stands for Protected Health Information, is a type of data regulated by HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. PHI is any data related to a person’s health or treatment that can be used to identify them. This includes information such as medical treatments and diagnosis, healthcare providers, insurance information, medications,... --- ### PCI DSS Audit: How to Prepare for Your Audit > Discover whether or not your organization needs to conduct a PCI DSS audit and how you should prepare for it. - Published: 2023-03-02 - Modified: 2024-01-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/pci-dss-audit/ Discover whether or not your organization needs to conduct a PCI DSS audit and how you should prepare for it. The feared a-word: audits.   The one thing about security compliance is that if you can't prove it - it doesn't count. So, audits are an organization's way of proving that they're walking the walk and that when it comes to security, although it's easier said than done - your organization's done it, and you've got the receipts to prove it. So, here's our ultimate guide on preparing for your PCI DSS audit so you can ace it the first time around.   GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo What is PCI DSS, anyway?   PCI stands for 'Payment Card Industry'. In 2004, all five major credit card companies joined forces and called themselves The PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC). Their first order of business? To create a set of security standards for companies that process payment information, specifically cardholder data. This security standard is known as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). If your business meets all of the PCI DSS requirements, you're PCI DSS compliant and have done due diligence to protect your business and customers from data theft, cyberattacks and credit card fraud.   What is a PCI DSS audit? A PCI DSS audit runs a series of tests to determine whether or not a business is PCI DSS-compliant. If the audit reveals that your business is exposed in some areas, no worries (okay, maybe some worries); your auditor or PCI DSS partner will present you with a clear roadmap highlighting... --- ### PCI DSS Requirements: What Your Business Needs to Know > In a fast-evolving economy, there’s no time to waste when protecting data. Get a high-level overview of the 12 security requirements for PCI DSS compliance. - Published: 2023-02-28 - Modified: 2024-01-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/pci-dss-requirements-what-your-business-needs-to-know/ Get a high-level overview of the 12 security requirements for PCI DSS compliance. In a fast-evolving digital economy, there’s no time to waste when protecting data and ensuring robust information security. In fact, did you know that a cyber attack occurs somewhere on the web every 39 seconds? So let’s cut to the chase and get to the nitty-gritty. It's crucial to understand that PCI DSS is a global standard, applicable to any business that processes, stores, or transmits credit card information. This includes businesses of all sizes and transaction volumes, emphasizing the universal importance of secure payment card processing. GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo What is PCI DSS Compliance? First things first, let’s get this acronym figured out! PCI DSS stands for The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. In 2004 Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover and JCB created the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) to improve the safety and security of consumer data and trust within the payment ecosystem. After that, they formed PCI DSS, a standard to determine and ensure a baseline level of protection for customer data.   Within PCI DSS, there are twelve security standards/requirements which set the minimum standard for data security. The twelve security standards revolve around the technical and operational standards businesses must follow to best secure and protect credit card data during and after purchase. It's important to note that these standards are not only about technical measures but also encompass administrative and policy controls. However, although straightforward in cause and objective, understanding the intricacies of PCI DSS... --- ### Security Compliance for SaaS: How to reduce costs and win more deals with automation > In this B2B Rocks webinar, you’ll learn the ins and outs of how automated security compliance can help you reduce costs and win more deals. - Published: 2023-02-28 - Modified: 2023-10-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/security-compliance-for-saas-how-to-reduce-costs-and-win-more-deals-with-automation/ In this B2B Rocks webinar, you’ll learn the ins and outs of how automated security compliance can help reduce costs and win more deals. In this B2B Rocks webinar, you’ll learn the ins and outs of how automated security compliance can help you reduce costs and win more deals. You’ll also hear from 3 seasoned vets on the world of compliance and how best to navigate your security and compliance processes. Speakers include: Meiran Galis, CEO, Scytale Ryan Lasmaili, CEO, VaultreeKevin Malka, Senior Manager IT Risk & Consulting, EY --- ### Scytale at Cybertech 2023 > Companies around the globe came to Cybertech for the latest innovations, challenges, and solutions in cyber in 2023. - Published: 2023-02-27 - Modified: 2023-04-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-at-cybertech-2023/ Companies came to Cybertech for the latest innovations in cyber. And so, we asked some guests what the best thing is about compliance. Companies around the globe came to Cybertech for the latest innovations, challenges, and solutions in cyber in 2023, and to connect with like-minded companies. And so, we wanted to ask some guests what the best thing is about security compliance. Think you know what their answers could be? --- ### How to Create a GDPR Data Protection Policy > In this blog, we will discuss what GDPR compliance entails and provide tips on how to create an effective GDPR data protection policy. - Published: 2023-02-23 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-data-protection-policy/ In this blog, we will discuss what GDPR compliance entails and provide tips on how to create an effective GDPR data protection policy. Creating a GDPR data protection policy is essential for businesses as GDPR stands for the General Data Protection Regulation in the European Union. However, this can seem like a daunting task, but following the right steps can ensure your business meets all the necessary requirements. In short, data compliance is imperative because it ensures that organizations are safeguarding the personal data of their customers, employees, and other stakeholders. Under GDPR, companies must have specific policies and procedures in place. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is an EU regulation that sets out a set of rules to protect the personal data of individuals within the European Union. It applies to any business or organization that processes or stores customer data, regardless of its size or location. As such, it’s essential for all businesses and organizations to create a GDPR data protection policy as part of complying with this new law. In this blog, we will discuss what GDPR compliance entails and provide tips on how to create an effective GDPR data protection policy. By taking these steps towards compliance, you'll be able to provide your customers and partners with peace of mind knowing their personal information is safe. What is a GDPR data protection policy? It is recommended that any company which collects personal data from European citizens and permits multiple employees to handle or process the information should have the necessary Data Protection Policy in place. This applies regardless of where the company is based. GDPR aims primarily to... --- ### SOC 2 Audit Exceptions: What Does This Mean And How To Address Them > Let’s take a closer look at what audit exceptions are, why it’s not the end of the world if they occur, and how to best prevent them in the first place. - Published: 2023-02-13 - Modified: 2024-02-12 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-audit-exceptions/ Audit exceptions are often an acceptable part of the audit process. SOC 2 audit exceptions are not inevitable but they happen more frequently than you might think. That’s fine! Audit exceptions are often an acceptable part of the audit process. They don’t necessarily mean a failed audit.   Let’s take a closer look at what audit exceptions are, why it’s not the end of the world if they occur, and how to best prevent them in the first place. GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo What are SOC 2 test exceptions? SOC 2 test exceptions are noted by the auditor in the course of testing a company’s SOC 2 compliance. In short, an exception is some instance of non-conformance to the SOC 2 requirements. That’s a fairly broad description, but we can drill down into the precise forms which test exceptions take.   But before we look at the technical details, let’s remind ourselves of how SOC 2 compliance works. SOC 2 isn’t simply a checklist of requirements. When a company chooses to become SOC 2 compliant, it carefully assesses which Trust Service Principles are relevant to its operations and develops controls to meet those criteria.   Measuring the space between goal and achievement  In practice, a SOC 2 audit is a test to determine whether those controls actually do what they’re designed to do. Any gap between that goal and how well the controls perform will count as an exception. With that background in mind, let’s consider the kinds of test exceptions in more detail. The SOC 2... --- ### GDPR Added to The Frameworks You Can Automate in Scytale > We are so excited to announce that customers can now get GDPR compliant through our compliant automation platform. Find more here. - Published: 2023-02-07 - Modified: 2023-04-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/gdpr-added-to-the-frameworks-you-can-automate-in-scytale/ We are so excited to announce that customers can now get GDPR compliant through our compliant automation platform. Let me guess. Your organization needs to tackle GDPR compliance BUT in the quickest and easiest way possible? Well, this is now all possible in Scytale! We are so excited to announce that customers can now get GDPR compliant through our compliant automation platform,  enabling organizations to automate and centrally manage all their GDPR workflows! We are talking about automated evidence collection, GDPR-approved policy templates, security awareness training and so much more! Is this music to your ears yet? ? GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo If PII rings a bell, GDPR compliance is most likely for you! The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a regulation in EU law on data protection and privacy. GDPR requires companies across the EU to protect the privacy and data of their employees, customers and third party vendors, and are under legal obligation to keep personally identifiable information (PII) safe and secure. So let's clarify what PII even means. PII is any information that can distinguish someone’s identity, such as name, social security number, date and place of birth, as well as any other information that is linkable to an individual, such as medical, educational, and financial information. Unsure if GDPR applies to your organization? Well, don’t think you’re off the hook just yet! GDPR applies to any organization operating in the EU, as well as any organizations outside of the EU which offer goods or services to customers or businesses in the EU.   GDPR can be stressful, so let... --- ### Multiple Audit Management, Automated Risk Assessments, and Of Course, More Integrations! > Take a look at how we kicked of 2023 with some exciting updates to our compliance automation platform! Find more here. - Published: 2023-02-07 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/multiple-audit-management-automated-risk-assessments-and-of-course-more-integrations/ Take a look at how we kicked of 2023 with some exciting updates to our compliance automation platform! We understand the headaches of never-ending audit requirements and all the manual processes involved in compliance. That’s why we’re always hard at work, advancing our automation technology with exciting additions and updates, making security compliance simpler and faster by the day! Not too long ago, we announced new product launches, including integration updates, policy center improvements and easier evidence collection, enabling our customers to automate more and more of their compliance processes and manage all audit requirements in our easy-to-use environment! Before we get into how we kicked off 2023, did you miss the big announcement? You can now automate PCI DSS with Scytale, ensuring you secure payments and cardholder data without breaking a sweat! GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo New integrations alert! Azure Cloud Services Azure SQL Database Azure Storage Accounts Datadog Monday AWS KMS Navigate between all your audits, easily! We created an environment where our customers can navigate between their different audits, such as SOC 2 and ISO 27001, being able to easily manage active audits and its control list, as well as review completed audits, making their audit management super organized and most of all, simple. Automatic status changes make all the difference! We care about both big and small features that can be automated, as it all contributes to faster compliance. This is why we built the ‘automated status change’ feature, where our platform recognizes uploaded evidence and the status automatically changes from ‘pending’ to ‘in progress’, reducing more manual work for... --- ### The Handiest Hack on HIPAA > Discover the best HIPAA compliance tips in our comprehensive guide. Protect your patient data and avoid penalties. - Published: 2023-01-27 - Modified: 2023-08-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-handiest-hack-on-hipaa/ Learn all about HIPAA compliance in our insightful HIPAA one-pager. The Handiest Hack on HIPAA What exactly is HIPAA compliance? The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) The bedrock for both regulatory compliance and healthcare cybersecurity A federal law that regulates and safeguards protected health information (PHI) Set out to protect all personal information about a person’s health and how this information is stored, protected, and shared Annual self-audit What exactly is HIPAA compliance? The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) The bedrock for both regulatory compliance and healthcare cybersecurity A federal law that regulates and safeguards protected health information (PHI) Set out to protect all personal information about a person’s health and how this information is stored, protected, and shared Annual self-audit The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) The bedrock for both regulatory compliance and healthcare cybersecurity A federal law that regulates and safeguards protected health information (PHI) Set out to protect all personal information about a person’s health and how this information is stored, protected, and shared Annual self-audit But why do you need to be HIPAA compliant? It is a federal law for covered entities and business associates who store or process PHI Develops a patient safety culture Improves client trust and retention HIPAA violations result in costly financial penalties Guarantees security and privacy of health information But why do you need to be HIPAA compliant? It is a federal law for covered entities and business associates who store or process PHI Develops a patient safety culture Improves client trust and retention HIPAA... --- ### Top 10 GRC Managers to Follow in Israel 2024 > We are highlighting the top 10 GRC managers to follow in Israel. We have chosen these experts based on their knowledge and experience. - Published: 2023-01-24 - Modified: 2024-01-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-grc-managers-to-follow-in-israel/ Let’s break down the top 10 GRC managers in Israel to keep your eye on in 2023. Managing information security compliance, governance, and the associated risks are one of the most important areas of responsibility within an organization, especially cloud-based organizations. It boosts customers' trust, enables sales, and makes sure the company complies with global standards of best practices.   But who, you may ask, is the superstar tasked with this massive charge? GRC managers! That’s who!   What is GRC management all about? Having a GRC manager is imperative to companies looking to align their IT activities to their business goals, manage risk effectively and stay on top of security compliance. The governance, risk, and compliance manager is responsible for assessing and documenting a company’s compliance and risk posture as they relate to its information assets, reducing risks to an acceptable level, and preparing the company to pass audits successfully. They literally need to understand all the procedures in the company and make sure employees understand and take the extra mile when it comes to security. The purpose of this position is to provide highly skilled technical and information security expertise for the development and implementation of the information security management program. Responsibilities require leadership and project management experience, as well as expertise to ensure effective system-wide security analysis, intrusion detection, standards and testing, risk assessment, awareness and education, and development of policies, standards, and guidelines. The GRC analyst or manager, in most cases, reports to the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).   By the way, if you’re interested in looking at our list of top... --- ### Introducing PCI DSS To Scytale’s Pool of Frameworks! > We are over the moon to announce that you can now automate PCI DSS with Scytale, ensuring you secure payments and cardholder data without breaking a sweat! - Published: 2023-01-16 - Modified: 2023-08-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/introducing-pci-dss-to-scytales-pool-of-frameworks/ We are over the moon to announce that you can now automate PCI DSS with Scytale. We are over the moon to announce that you can now automate PCI DSS with Scytale, ensuring you secure payments and cardholder data without breaking a sweat! Just the other day, we introduced SOC 1 to our automation tool, joining SOC 2, ISO 27001 and HIPAA. And today, we are doing the same with PCI DSS!   This news means we can now help a wider scope of industries with their relevant security compliance needs, and we are just loving that our customers can automate more and more security frameworks with Scytale! GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo Accept, process, store or transmit cardholder information? If the answer is yes to the question above, sorry to be the ones to break it to you, but you need to be PCI DSS compliant!   The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of security standards with the purpose of ensuring that companies that accept, process, store or transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment. PCI DSS means compliance to the set of policies and procedures developed to protect credit, debit and cash card transactions and prevent the misuse of cardholders' personal data. We know it sounds complicated and overwhelming, but Scytale is here to save the day! Say goodbye to losing sleep over complex PCI-DSS processes with Scytale! PCI DSS compliance is known for its detailed set of technical controls, and the reality is not all organizations understand all its requirements and confusing jargon!... --- ### HIPAA Compliance for Startups: Why Should Startups Care About Being Compliant? > Discover how to get HIPAA compliant for your startup and why it’s essential in protecting your business. Learn more. - Published: 2022-12-20 - Modified: 2024-01-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/hipaa-compliance-for-startups/ Discover how to get HIPAA compliant for your startup and why it’s essential in protecting your business. The process can seem complicated when it comes to being HIPAA compliant. However, one thing should always be crystal clear; HIPAA is a federal law. Therefore, if you're subject to The Privacy Rule, compliance isn't merely a matter of 'if' you should comply, but rather 'how'. Here's what you need to know to navigate HIPAA compliance as a startup and whether or not it applies to your business. GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo Who is required to follow HIPAA regulations? At its core, HIPAA is set out to protect one thing; protected health information (PHI). Protected Health Information is the holy grail, and if your organization (from startup to fortune 500) has even an ounce of PHI filtering through your business - tag you're it. And by ‘it,’ we mean subject to mandatory compliance. It's important to note that not every startup will handle PHI, and therefore, not all will be subject to HIPAA. The critical factor is whether your startup handles PHI in any capacity. To better understand whether or not your business comes into contact with PHI, it's best first to understand what exactly classifies as PHI. Protected Health Information is any individually identifiable health information. This includes medical histories, insurance information, test results, payment information, demographic data, or any additional information related to a person's healthcare, treatment, or coverage.   The Privacy Rule provides guidelines for knowing if you need HIPAA compliance. The Privacy Rule sets out two overarching categories of entities required by... --- ### 10 Best Compliance Podcasts You Should Listen To In 2024 > We asked our people at Scytale what podcasts they listen to in order to stay updated. Here are the 10 best compliance podcasts you should listen to. - Published: 2022-12-08 - Modified: 2025-03-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/10-best-compliance-podcasts/ With many quality podcasts, staying on top of compliance doesn’t have to be a chore. If your business is affected by compliance rules and regulations, it pays to stay up to date with the latest developments. As they say, knowledge is power. Fortunately, knowledge can also be fun, quirky, and entertaining. If that doesn’t sound like something you’d say about the world of compliance, you have probably missed the great selection of compliance podcasts out there. With a number of high-quality podcasts to choose from, staying on top of risk and compliance doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, the engaging and entertaining style of the hosts means you’ll likely make at least one of these shows part of your weekly routine.   GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo Why listen to compliance podcasts? Well, the simple answer is: it's the last thing from boring, as it doesn't require any lengthy reading, like you doing right now reading this blog. Compliance podcasts can be informative in the most entertaining way. Whether you're a compliance professional, working for a company in the compliance world, keen to learn more about security compliance, or whatever other reason that brings you here, these podcasts will give you all the deep insights and latest trends you need to know. Best part? You can enjoy listening to them while you're brushing your teeth, making lunch, driving, etc. Best security compliance podcasts We asked our people at Scytale what podcasts they listen to in order to stay updated. Here, in no particular order, is a selection of some of... --- ### London Summit: FMLS > Join this panel as they discuss disruptive security for disruptive FinTechs and how cybersecurity startups are making a difference. - Published: 2022-12-05 - Modified: 2022-12-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/london-summit-fmls/ Join this panel as they discuss disruptive security for disruptive FinTechs and how cybersecurity startups are making a difference. Join this panel as they discuss disruptive security for disruptive FinTechs and how cybersecurity startups are making a difference. Speakers include:Meiran Galis, CEO and Founder, ScytaleStav Pischits , Founder, Cynance and Co-Founder, CCLVladimir Krupnov, Threat Intelligence Lead, RevolutJason Ozin, Chief Information Security Officer, PIB GroupKaran Jain, CEO, NayaOneSharjeel Ahmed, Co-Founder & CEO, Cykube --- ### How Much Does an Internal HIPAA Audit Cost: Direct and Indirect Costs > We are taking a deep dive of all the costs involved in HIPAA compliance and the price you will pay without it. Read more. - Published: 2022-12-02 - Modified: 2024-01-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/internal-hipaa-audit-cost/ We are taking a deep dive of all the costs involved in HIPAA compliance and the price you will pay without it. You know the saying "let sleeping dogs lie"? Well, that doesn't apply to HIPAA compliance. Nap time’s over for this puppy.   Suppose your organization is subject to The Privacy Rule (which means you're either a covered entity or a business associate). In that case, HIPAA compliance is always in the back of your mind and forefront of your priority list (or at least it should be). With the Healthcare sector accounting for 79% of all reported breaches and these data breaches continuously increase by 25% year over year, organizations can no longer afford to be non-compliant. But - can they afford to get compliant in the first place? We're looking at the cost of compliance and the price you'll pay without it.   GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo HIPAA self-audits: What is it and why does it matter? HIPAA is a federal law. If you’d like to bookmark this tab and take a quick refresher on the HIPAA basics and what it means for your business, here’s your shot. But if you’re familiar with the concept, let’s keep going.   Although the fact that it’s a law may seem straightforward, in some ways, it can complicate the process. The simplicity of the matter is that you either abide by a law or not. There's no in-between. Similarly, organizations cannot be 'somewhat' or 'fully' HIPAA compliant. Either you're compliant, or you're not. However, the tricky thing is that compliance has an intricate web of dos and don'ts,... --- ### The Month of Integrations, Exciting Audit Management and Policy Center Updates! > What November had in store for our security compliance automation platform, including audit management and policy center updates. - Published: 2022-12-02 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-month-of-exciting-audit-management-and-policy-center-updates/ Take a look at what November had in store for our compliance automation platform, including audit management and policy center updates. We understand the struggle of never-ending requirements, back-and-forth admin and manual processes involved in security compliance. That’s why our automation technology is always advancing with both big and small additions and updates, making security compliance simpler and faster by the day! In October, we announced new product launches, including integration updates and HIPAA Awareness Training, enabling our customers to automate more and more of their compliance and manage all requirements in our organized and easy-to-use environment! Before we get into what November had in store for our SOC 2, ISO 27001 and HIPAA compliance automation platform - did you miss the big news last week? You can officially streamline the SOC 1 framework in our platform now too!   GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo Integrations, integrations, and more integrations! Trello Salesforce Service Cloud Jira Service Management Linear GitHub Issues Who said policies have to be stressful? Managing organizational policies and procedures are a crucial part of audit management, whether it be for SOC 2, ISO 27001 or another framework, making our policy center so valuable for our customers. That’s why this month, we made further functionality updates to the policy center, allowing our customers more independence and a better user-experience when creating and editing their policies. Easy evidence collection with policy automation! This month, we increased the number of evidence automatically collected from policies. Let’s explain. When implementing a policy relating to a particular control, such as role-based access control, it is automatically populated to the control... --- ### ISO 27001 vs SOC 2: How to Choose the Right Security Compliance Plan for Your Organization [Hebrew] > The expert panel in this Geektime webinar discuss how a proactive compliance strategy can boost sales and give your startup a competitive advantage. - Published: 2022-11-23 - Modified: 2022-11-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-vs-soc-2-how-to-choose-the-right-security-compliance-plan-for-your-organization/ The expert panel in this Geektime webinar discuss how a proactive compliance strategy can boost sales and give you a competitive advantage. The expert panel in this Geektime webinar discuss how a proactive compliance strategy can boost sales and give your startup a competitive advantage. Catch speakers: Adar Givoni, Director of Compliance, ScytaleArik Metzer, Chief Privacy Officer, ArborKnot Or David, Head of Cybersecurity GRC, IronSourceYulia Yamrom, Deputy General Manager, Ronet International Certification Services --- ### Level Up Your Compliance and Automate ISO 27001 Framework Extensions > We are very excited to announce that our customers can now expand their ISO 27001 arsenal and get compliant in the framework extensions. - Published: 2022-11-22 - Modified: 2023-06-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/level-up-your-compliance-and-automate-iso-27001-framework-extensions/ We are excited to announce that customers can now get compliant in ISO 27001 extensions with our automation platform. We are very excited to announce that our customers can now expand their ISO 27001 arsenal and get compliant in the following framework extensions with our automation platform: ISO/IEC 27017:2015 ISO/IEC 27018:2014 ISO/IEC 27701:2019 We have already helped tons of SaaS companies streamline their SOC 2, ISO 27001, and HIPAA compliance. Adding these framework extensions to our compliance automation tool means that we can now assist more and more organizations simplify their relevant security compliance needs and get compliant faster!   GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo Does cloud-service security, PII or PIMS apply to your organization? You may be wondering what these additional frameworks of ISO 27001 entail and who they apply to. So let’s break it down for you:ISO/IEC 27017:2015 entails additional information security controls and implementation applicable to the provision and use of cloud services. ISO/IEC 27018:2014 establishes commonly accepted control objectives, controls and guidelines for implementing measures to protect Personally Identifiable Information (PII) for the public cloud computing environment. ISO/IEC 27701:2019 specifies requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continually improving a Privacy Information Management System (PIMS) for privacy management for PII controllers and PII processors holding responsibility and accountability for PII processing. Transform security compliance with automation! Need to undergo ISO 27001 but feeling overwhelmed? Or perhaps you are already ISO 27001 compliant but now need to add ISO 27017, ISO 27018 or ISO 27701 under your belt? We understand the complex, lengthy and admin-heavy processes that come with security compliance. Our automation tool... --- ### New Framework Alert: Automate SOC 1 Compliance in Scytale! > We are over the moon to announce that our customers can now streamline and automate their SOC 1 compliance with Scytale! - Published: 2022-11-21 - Modified: 2023-06-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/new-framework-alert-automate-soc-1-compliance-in-scytale/ We are over the moon to announce that our customers can now streamline and automate their SOC 1 compliance with Scytale! We are so thrilled to be assisting more and more companies reach their respective compliance goals with our automation tool! Not too long ago, we added HIPAA compliance under our framework belt, alongside SOC 2 and ISO 27001, and today, we are over the moon that our customers can now streamline their SOC 1 compliance with Scytale!   This means implementing all necessary policies, mitigating any risks, automated evidence collection, 24/7 control monitoring, security awareness training and all other requirements needed to knock your SOC 1 audit out of the park!   Already SOC 2 compliant? Good news for you! Not only will you get a fully customized scope of SOC 1 controls, but also leverage any common IT general controls that will be automatically mapped from your SOC 2 audit, saving you a great deal of time, effort and resources.   GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo Store or process customers’ financial data? SOC 1 could be for you! So what exactly is SOC 1 and who needs the report? In short, SOC 1 compliance addresses a service organization’s internal controls over financial reporting. A SOC 1 report demonstrates that your organization has the necessary IT general controls and business process controls in place to protect customers’ valuable financial data, in the opinion of a credible auditor.   In summary, if the way your organization stores, holds or processes customer data has the potential to impact their financial reporting, SOC 1 is for you!   Tired of... --- ### What is a Security Questionnaire and Why is it Important? > Security questionnaires generally occur before a business decision is made and determine an organization's security posture. - Published: 2022-11-17 - Modified: 2025-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/what-is-a-security-questionnaire-why-is-it-important/ Everything you need to know to ensure accurate vendor risk management through understanding security questionnaires. Many businesses utilize at least one third-party vendor for their business processes. This includes anything from a dual partnership to outsourcing business processes to an external provider. No organization is an island, and if you’re considering a third-party vendor of any kind, it’s essential to gauge their security compliance before getting down to business.   That’s where security questionnaires come in. Here’s everything organizations need to know to ensure accurate and in-depth vendor risk management through understanding the importance of security questionnaires.   Organizations and third-party vendors 70% of businesses consider their dependence on outside vendors moderate to high. However, this reliance comes with its own set of security risks. It's important to recognize that the security posture of these third-party vendors directly impacts your organization's overall security. When working with external providers, many of them are granted access to sensitive information and client data. Due to this, third-party-caused risk incidents have become incredibly common.   As an organization, your own security compliance hinges on the security of a third-party vendor. So naturally, organizations need to be highly cautious and confident in their provider’s ability to safeguard sensitive data or bear the risk of non-compliance, security breaches, and reputational loss.   What is a security questionnaire? Security questionnaires generally occur before a business decision is made and are designed to evaluate an organization's security posture. In a nutshell, security questionnaires help organizations see whether or not a third party has undergone vulnerability scans, outside penetration tests, and external audits such... --- ### The HIPAA Bible > You've probably heard lots of HIPAA lingo, like 'HIPAA rules' or 'HIPAA violations', but don't know what it really means (or what it takes) to be HIPAA compliant. - Published: 2022-11-17 - Modified: 2023-08-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-hipaa-bible/ In this whitepaper, you will learn everything you need to know about HIPAA compliance, including PHI, self-audits, and HIPAA violations. Everything you need to know about HIPAA compliance Store or process Protected Health Information (PHI)? If your panic has hit that you need to be HIPAA compliant but don't really know all the ins and outs, our HIPAA Bible has got your back! By now, you've probably heard lots of HIPAA lingo, like 'HIPAA rules' or 'HIPAA violations', but don't know what it really means (or what it takes) to be HIPAA compliant. And that's why we created the ultimate HIPAA whitepaper! In this whitepaper, you will: Get an outline of a HIPAA self-assessment, the HIPAA process and insights on everything PHI Learn about the main HIPAA rules that govern the compliance standard Gain a thorough understanding of who exactly needs to be HIPAA compliant Understand the true benefits of being HIPAA compliant Learn about some common HIPAA violations to stay away from --- ### Scytale Awarded High Performer and Easiest to Do Business With in G2’s Fall 2022 Report > We are so proud to have been recognized by G2 for the Fall 2022 season, as a High Performer and with 4.9 star rating. Learn more. - Published: 2022-11-09 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/scytale-awarded-high-performer-and-easiest-to-do-business-with-in-g2s-fall-2022-report/ We are so proud to have been recognized by G2 for the Fall 2022 season, as a High Performer and Easiest to do Business With. As the leaves turn brown, red, and yellow, we at Scytale are so proud to have been recognized by G2 for the Fall 2022 season with 4. 9 star rating and in the following categories: High Performer Fall 2022 High Performer Small Business 2022 Easiest to do business with Fall 2022 Easiest to do business with Small Business 2022 This recognition is based on feedback from real users.   The High Performer badge is awarded to organizations with high customer satisfaction scores in their respective categories for each quarter. We are honored that our continual focus on customer satisfaction is being recognized by G2. The High Performer Small Business badge is awarded to organizations with high customer satisfaction scores in the small business category.   Here’s what some of our amazing customers shared in their reviews: "True professionals you can trust to get you SOC 2 compliant" Yahel G, Head Of Operations, Swipe “The platform is easy to use, very extensive in the knowledge it provides to become compliant in each control, and assists greatly in managing the audit process. ” Kirsten S, Development and Client Manager, ShareForce "Scytale is a fresh product that provides easy integrations with important tools" Alexander T, Lecturer in Computer Science, Complyt "Huge time savings to pass SOC 2 and ISO 27001 audits. " Maya Cohen, Co-Founder and CEO, Monto “Scytale saved our team hundreds of hours on manual audit-related tasks. ”. Aviv F, Head of Operations, Flow Learn more about how you can unlock... --- ### Why Your Cloud Provider Compliance Alone is Not Enough > Discover why your cloud service provider’s compliance isn’t enough and ensure that your organization complies with all necessary requirements. - Published: 2022-11-04 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/cloud-provider-compliance/ Learn why your cloud service provider’s compliance isn’t enough to ensure your organization remains compliant. Many businesses utilize the efficiency of cloud provider services for most (or all) of their IT requirements. However, there’s a common cloud compliance trap that many organizations fail to see until it’s too late. This trap is a misunderstanding of the extent of a cloud provider's role in compliance. Businesses beware, your cloud provider is not solely responsible for your information security compliance! It's crucial to understand that while cloud service providers manage specific aspects of security and compliance, particularly in hosting and maintaining the cloud infrastructure, the ultimate responsibility for ensuring compliance with various regulations (such as GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI-DSS) rests on the business utilizing these cloud services. But you know us; we wouldn’t simply give a warning and leave you to fend for yourself. So, here’s what you need to know about cloud provider compliance and why it alone isn’t enough.   What is a cloud service provider? Cloud service providers are companies that establish public clouds, manage private clouds, or offer on-demand cloud computing components like Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), and Software-as-a-Service(SaaS). It's vital to understand the specific compliance responsibilities associated with each service model. Cloud services can reduce business process costs when compared to on-premise IT. This allows businesses to get the most out of their business model without becoming software and IT experts. Once adopted, cloud service providers (CSP) enable businesses to migrate all (or part) of their IT functions to an external third party specializing in that area.   It's important to note... --- ### Integration Updates, HIPAA Training and More! > In our efforts to make security compliance simpler by the day, our compliance automation platform is always growing and evolving with enhancements. - Published: 2022-11-04 - Modified: 2023-07-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/integration-updates-hipaa-training-and-more/ Let’s take a look at what the last few weeks had in store for our compliance automation platform. In our efforts to make security compliance simpler by the day, our compliance automation platform is always growing and evolving with big and small enhancements. In September, we had some exciting new product additions and improvements, relating to easier task templates, automated evidence collection and of course, more integrations, enabling our customers to enjoy even more simple and smart security compliance! Let’s take a look at what the last few weeks had in store for our SOC 2, ISO 27001 and HIPAA automation platform! GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo Welcome to Scytale Integrations, Github Actions! Need HIPAA Training? We got your back! In order to get HIPAA compliant, SaaS companies have to complete HIPAA training. But what is HIPAA training you ask? Well, all employees must learn how to maintain best security practices in order to protect patients’ PHI. And now, instead of our customers spending more time and money on an external training tool, they can now complete the training inside Scytale, allowing them to easily track who has completed the training and saving lots of time. Integrate with your favorite tools easier! Got data in different regions or accounts? Scytale supports multiple connections to each integration and can make their own connection names to distinguish between their different connections. We have also made improvements to the authentication flow, making the user's life way easier with a better user experience when integrating their tech-stack. What can users expect? Number #1 - the design of each connection... --- ### Automate Evidence Collection, Complete Compliance Tasks Quickly and Easily Manage Different Frameworks! > Let’s take a look at what the last few weeks had in store for our SOC 2, ISO 27001 and HIPAA automation platform! - Published: 2022-10-03 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/automate-evidence-collection/ Let’s take a look at what the last few weeks had in store for our SOC 2, ISO 27001 and HIPAA automation platform! In August, we had tons of product updates including more exciting integrations, new features that transform security-controls management as well as easier task management, enabling our customers to enjoy simple, automated and fast security compliance! Let’s take a look at what the last few weeks had in store for our SOC 2, ISO 27001 and HIPAA automation platform! GET COMPLIANT 90% Faster WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo Introducing Jumpcloud SSO to our integration toolkit Edit evidence by yourself! Our users having the ability to add or remove monitoring from a control (and connect it to several controls in different audits) in our automation platform by a few quick steps, allows them to navigate within our tool easily and most importantly, more independently, creating a more fast, simple and efficient audit-readiness process. Additionally, the control related to the specific new evidence will be automatically generated for you. Complete security compliance tasks with task templates! Following the new feature discussed above, users can complete the process of creating new evidence, by creating the corresponding task template that will automatically provide them with the necessary tasks. Again, the related evidence to the specific task will be automatically generated for you. Understand which evidence belongs to each framework Some evidence items may apply to several controls from the same or different frameworks (for example, SOC 2 and ISO 27001) and it can get confusing! That’s why we made it easy for our users to check which monitoring (and control) is applicable to which audit. In... --- ### ISO 27001 in under 27001 milliseconds > What exactly is ISO 27001 compliance? ISO 27001 is the leading data security standard, trusted by companies around the world. - Published: 2022-09-26 - Modified: 2023-08-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-in-under-27001-milliseconds/ Learn all about ISO 27001 in under 27001 milliseconds, in our insightful one-pager. ISO 27001 in under 27001 milliseconds What exactly is ISO 27001 compliance? ISO 27001 is the leading data security standard, trusted by companies around the world. The certification is recognized as the international gold standard. ISO 27001 stipulates specific requirements for the establishment, maintenance, and improvement of an organization’s information security management system (ISMS). ISO 27001 is the leading data security standard, trusted by companies around the world. In Europe, the certification is generally recognized as the gold standard. ISO 27001 stipulates specific requirements for the establishment, maintenance, and improvement of an organization’s information security management system (ISMS). Why do you need to be ISO 27001 compliant? Avoid security breaches Meet demanding customer requirements Expand into new markets and win more deals Stand out in a competitive market Provide higher levels of customer trust Manage third-party vulnerabilities Ensure robust security systems and practices Why do you need to be ISO 27001 compliant? Avoid security breaches Meet demanding customer requirements Expand into new markets and win more deals Stand out in a competitive market Provide higher levels of customer trust Manage third-party vulnerabilities Ensure robust security systems and practices How do you get ISO 27001 compliant? Organize the implementation team Define the scope of your ISMS Implement your relevant policies Establish your risk management procedure Perform the risk assessment Statement of Applicability Monitor your security controls and procedures Conduct official audit How do you get ISO 27001 compliant? Organize the implementation team Define the scope of your ISMS Implement your relevant... --- ### Top 10 CISOs on the Israeli Tech Scene > Our team at Scytale gave a list of their favorite, most experienced and knowledgeable CISOs on the Israeli tech scene. Read more. - Published: 2022-09-23 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/top-10-cisos-on-the-israeli-tech-scene/ We asked our team at Scytale about some of the most experienced and knowledgeable CISOs. Here is a selection of just some of our favorites. When it comes to SaaS startups, CISOs play an imperative role in information security compliance and infrastructure. However, many people may not know what the role of a CISO actually entails. And when we say many people, we mean most people! So, let’s take some time to unmask these superheroes... The CISO is a senior-level executive, responsible for developing and implementing an information security program, which includes procedures and policies designed to protect enterprise communications, systems, and assets from both internal and external threats.   After suffering a series of cyberattacks from Russian hackers in 1994, Citigroup (formerly known as Citicorp) set up a specialized cybersecurity office and became the first company to implement a CISO (Chief Information Security Officer) role. Now, a quarter-century after the first CISO emerged, every one of Israel’s biggest organizations, and we seriously mean every single organization, especially tech companies, has an information security compliance expert.   The ISO 27001 BibleEverything you need to know about compliance! Download the Whitepaper Chief information security officer responsibilities Let's take a closer look at the specific roles and responsibilities of a CISO in an organization before we dive into the experts themselves: Security operations Analyzing threats in real time and responding to problems when they occur. So it’s essentially counteracting these threats right then and there. Pretty reassuring. Right? ! ? In essence, it's like a night light that keeps the monsters under your bed at bay. Cyber risk and cyber intelligence Staying on top of emerging security... --- ### Open Source Compliance Tool: How Developers Are Gauging Their Security Compliance Readiness > Scytale has launched an open-source software that allows software engineers to check their organization's GitHub compliance for free. Read more. - Published: 2022-09-21 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/open-source-compliance-tool/ Scytale has launched an open-source software that allows software engineers to check their organization's GitHub compliance for free. Scytale’s mission is to help SaaS companies have a faster, simpler, and smarter compliance process. In addition, Scytale has launched an open-source software that allows software engineers to check their organization's GitHub compliance for free. By utilizing GitHub, a code hosting platform for version control and collaboration, which lets teams work together on projects from anywhere, we provide an open-source suite to help see if your organization is compliant while using GitHub.   Most start-ups use GitHub as their software development tool in order to develop their product and manage their changes through the software development life cycle (SDLC). It’s important for startups to learn how to configure the GitHub environment to comply with SOC 2 and strengthen the controls and security in the SDLC process. To build applications more quickly, developers rely on open-source software as a key pillar of modern software development. At the same time, developers are increasingly being tasked to take more responsibility for securing their procedures and staying compliant. Before going on a quest like security compliance, it’s important to have a map. Compliance can often be a complicated task that disrupts employees' core responsibilities. Therefore, Scytale’s open source can act as a map for developers.   GET COMPLIANT 90% FASTER WITH AUTOMATIONBook a Demo What is an open-source tool?   An open-source tool is a software tool that is freely available without a license. Many different kinds of open-source tools allow developers and others to do certain work in programming, maintaining technologies, or other... --- ### Leading SOC 2 Compliance at Your Organization? This Course is for You! > The SOC 2 Academy is a free SOC 2 masterclass that provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals surrounding the cloud security framework SOC 2. - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-06-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/free-soc-2-compliance-course/ We’re excited to announce the launch of the SOC 2 Academy, a free masterclass that provides an overview of SOC 2 compliance. “When I grow up I want to be a singer. No, wait, I mean, a professional basketball player. Or, uh, actually a pilot! ” This doesn’t sound too off - most kids will say they want to grow up to be sports stars, famous actors/actresses, firemen, or even astronauts.   But maybe, just maybe, you land up working for a SaaS company that has selected you to lead the SOC 2 compliance process! Problem is, you have no prior experience or knowledge in what it takes to get ready for the audit to be SOC 2 compliant. This is where you’ll need to become a SOC 2 Master Lead Implementer! SOC 2 is a superhero of the security framework and auditing world. With SaaS companies dealing with sensitive customer data, most of their customers and potential customers today require them to be SOC 2 compliant. What does that mean? Let’s break it down for you: SOC 2 (Service Organization Controls 2) is a set of compliance requirements geared toward technology-based companies that use cloud-based storage of customer data. SOC 2 is both an audit procedure and criteria, as well as a voluntary compliance standard that specifies how an organization should manage internal controls. The AICPA (The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) developed a set of criteria to be used when evaluating an organization’s design and operating effectiveness of controls relevant to the Trust Service Principles (Security, Availability, Confidentiality, Processing Integrity, and/or Privacy).   GET SOC 2 COMPLIANT 90% FASTER... --- ### How to Know if You Need HIPAA Compliance > In this article, we discuss HIPAA compliance and which organizations, businesses, and individuals could be subject to the HIPAA privacy rule. - Published: 2022-09-09 - Modified: 2024-01-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/how-to-know-if-you-need-hipaa-compliance/ In this article, we’re going to explore HIPAA compliance and the world of Protected Health Information (PHI). Keeping up with all the niche compliance regulations is daunting and overwhelming, especially if even one small error could potentially lead to a critical financial or reputational loss. Unfortunately, when it comes to HIPAA compliance, it’s challenging to receive a clear “Yes” or “No” answer when trying to get past the very first step - whether or not you fall under mandatory HIPAA compliance in the first place.   At Scytale, we bring transparency to the murky world of compliance, because no one can afford the risk of being left in the dark. In this article, we’re going to explore HIPAA compliance and the world of Protected Health Information (PHI).   Understanding the core principles Before being able to properly distinguish whether or not HIPAA compliance applies to you or your organization, it’s vital to understand what the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is and what it’s been set out to protect. However, none of it will click into place, unless you appreciate and acknowledge the core:  The Protected Health Information (PHI). This is the crux of the topic and if you have even an ounce of PHI that is filtering through your business, you’re going to want to read closely, because we’re talking to you.   Protected Health Information (PHI) Personal Health Protection (PHI) is any information in a medical record that can be used to identify an individual, and that was created, used, or disclosed in the course of providing a health care service, such as... --- ### It’s Official, You Can Now Automate HIPAA Compliance With Scytale! > We have already helped tons of SaaS companies streamline their SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliance, now ready to do the same with HIPAA compliance. - Published: 2022-09-05 - Modified: 2023-07-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/its-official-you-can-now-automate-hipaa-compliance-with-scytale/ We have helped SaaS companies streamline SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliance, and now we are ready to do the same with HIPAA compliance! Need to be HIPAA compliant but tired of the lengthy and tiresome processes? We got big news for you! We are so thrilled to announce that customers can now get HIPAA compliant through our compliance automation tool, enabling organizations to automate and centrally manage their workflows, complete their self-assessment and demonstrate HIPAA compliance to their customers! Adding the HIPAA framework to our product means that we can now assist a wider scope of organizations to automate their relevant security compliance needs. We have already helped tons of SaaS companies streamline their SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliance, and now we are ready to do the same with HIPAA compliance!   Store or process PHI? You need to be HIPAA compliant! HIPAA (The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) compliance is a federal law that regulates and safeguards protected health information (PHI) through a set of standards. Simply put, HIPAA is the health information police that is set out to protect any personal and identifiable information about a person’s health and how this information is stored, protected and shared.   HIPAA compliance means that as an entity, you are aware of the HIPAA regulations and the rules that you’re subject to and have passed a HIPAA self-audit. However, if you violate HIPAA or if there's even a suspicion of a breach, you will be subject to an official audit, accompanied by super costly fines! HIPAA can take forever... but it doesn’t have to! We know all about the complex HIPAA requirements,... --- ### Setting Up GitHub for SOC 2 Compliance > Will explore how to configure the GitHub environment to comply with SOC 2, and more importantly, strengthen the controls and security in the SDLC process. - Published: 2022-09-05 - Modified: 2023-10-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/setting-up-github-for-soc-2-compliance/ Learn how to configure the GitHub environment to comply with SOC 2 and strengthen the controls and security in the SDLC process. Overview of GitHub and SOC 2 audits GitHub is a popular vendor that provides internet hosting for software development to its clients. Most start-ups use GitHub as their software development tool in order to develop their product and manage their changes through the software development life cycle (SDLC). It is important that the CTO and the VP of R&D understand the importance of a security-embedded SDLC process, especially when GitHub is supporting the SDLC process. This article will explore how to configure the GitHub environment to comply with SOC 2, and more importantly, strengthen the controls and security in the SDLC process.   HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO SECURITY COMPLIANCE? CHECK YOUR STATUS NOW Creating a Software Development Life Cycle process to support GitHub Every organization, no matter what size, should have a proper SDLC process in place. Changes to the product should be controlled throughout the product's lifecycle and its components.   The below points are some key controls to consider putting in place as part of the SDLC process in order to support the GitHub control environment: A SDLC policy and procedure document should be in place that describes the whole SDLC process and how it's managed in GitHub and the company’s ticketing system. A ticketing system should be considered by the company. Tickets are used to document and prioritize change requests within the SDLC process. Pull requests and change tickets are linked to each other so the code change can be logged and tracked. SDLC procedures have... --- ### Integrate Your Favorite Tools, Easily Manage Compliance Tasks and Customize Your Security Controls! > More exciting integrations, as well as improvements to task management, enabling our customers to enjoy smooth, automated and fast compliance! - Published: 2022-09-02 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/integrate-your-favorite-tools-easily-manage-compliance-tasks-and-customize-your-security-controls/ Let’s take a look at what the last few weeks had in store for our SOC 2 and ISO 27001 automation platform! In July, we had a bunch of product updates including more exciting integrations, new features that change the world of evidence collection, as well as improvements to task management, enabling our customers to enjoy smooth, automated and fast compliance! Let’s take a look at what the last few weeks had in store for our SOC 2 and ISO 27001 automation platform! Integrate more tools and automate more compliance! Intercom Microsoft Intune AWS RDS AWS CloudTrail AWS S3 AWS WAF AWS GuardDuty HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO SECURITY COMPLIANCE? CHECK YOUR STATUS NOW Simplify compliance with super easy task management In our efforts to help our customers manage their tasks more independently, we have added more functionality for our users to easily add and edit tasks themselves, including task instructions, owners and priority, and therefore, creating less dependence, faster results and easier navigation of our tool. Furthermore, customers can choose to use our task templates designed for each control, providing a simple breakdown of each task. Dreading evidence collection? You've come to the right place! Add and remove evidence relative to your organization We wanted to add the ability to change the default evidence required for each control and create a more customized approach for different customers requirements. Customers can now easily change the requested evidence for each control suited to their organization, as well as remove requested evidence that does not apply to them, creating a more organized and personalized compliance environment. Customize your controls Following the updated product feature... --- ### Get Your Compliance Done Directly From Slack! > We have built our a game-changing feature that integrates our compliance management platform with Slack, creating completely seamless compliance. Learn more - Published: 2022-08-23 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/get-your-compliance-done-directly-from-slack/ Our new feature that integrates our Compliance Management Platform with Slack, creating completely seamless compliance! Introducing the first ever compliance engine for Slack!   Yes, you heard right! While on our mission to transform security compliance from pain-in-the-neck admin tasks to a super effortless environment, we kept thinking of how we could allow our customers to get audit-ready with less of the tedious and back-and-forth work involved. And that’s exactly why we have built our new game-changing feature that integrates our compliance management platform with Slack, creating completely seamless compliance! Fully immersive security compliance What if we said you don’t even need to access our compliance platform to complete tasks and that you can do it all from Slack? Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, we have now launched the ability to not only get notified through Slack when a new task needs your attention, but to also complete the task directly from the Slack channel.   We understand the hassle of running after team members to get specific evidence, signed policies, endless documentation and the list goes on. So we found a way for everyone to complete their compliance responsibilities conveniently and trouble-free, without having to even interact with our platform. But rather simply from a tool that everyone in the organization is already using non-stop everyday. You may still be wondering how this all works, and it’s the simplicity of the feature that is the real value. All team members need to do is upload the specific file via Slack and it will be automatically deployed to all the relevant audits... --- ### The ISO 27001 Bible > You've heard about the importance of ISO 27001 certification and its globally-recognized standards for managing information security. - Published: 2022-08-16 - Modified: 2023-08-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-iso-27001-bible/ In this whitepaper, you will learn everything you need to know about ISO 27001 certification. Everything you need to know about compliance You've heard about the importance of ISO 27001 certification and its globally-recognized standards for managing information security. But what exactly does the process entail? And what does being ISO 27001 compliant really mean? Many SaaS startups know they need to undergo an ISO 27001 audit but lack the knowledge and expertise to start the process. In this whitepaper you will: Gain a full understanding of ISO 27001 certification and why it's so important Find out if your organization needs to be ISO 27001 compliant Get a step-by-step outline of the ISO 27001-readiness and audit process Learn about information security trends and statistics that you should know --- ### SOC 2 in Under 2 > What is SOC 2 anyways? Service Organization Controls 2. Set of compliance requirements for technology-based companies that store data in the cloud. - Published: 2022-08-11 - Modified: 2023-08-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-in-under-2/ Learn all the basics you need to know about SOC 2 compliance in our insightful one-pager. SOC 2 in Under 2 What is SOC 2 anyways? Service Organization Controls 2 Set of compliance requirements for technology-based companies that store data in the cloud. Voluntary compliance standard that specifies how an organization should manage internal controls. The AICPA developed a set of criteria when evaluating an organization’s controls relevant to the Trust Service Principles: Why do you need SOC 2 compliance? Prospects often request your SOC 2 report prior to entering into a business deal Competitive edge against other players in the market Provides assurance to customers and prospects about your security posture Reduces security risks, such as a data breach, human error, or fraud and its consequences Past SOC 2 Challenges Disrupts employees’ key responsibilities and delays company growth, especially startups Manual, administrative and time-consuming process Costs involved, such as: auditor costs, consultant costs and additional software costs If the auditor notes deviations, it could result in a failed report How does automation solve the problem? Automated evidence collection means no more manual, administrative tasks Frees teams to be more productive and continue work as usual Easy to manage with all SOC 2 workflows in one place Remain compliant with 24/7 monitoring More cost-effective Eliminates human error 90% faster Book a Demo Download PDF --- ### 5 Pro-Tips for ISO 27001 Certification > Getting ISO 27001 certified is a great opportunity for SaaS companies and tech businesses to develop data security credentials and accelerate growth. Learn more. - Published: 2022-08-05 - Modified: 2025-02-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/5-pro-tips-for-iso-27001-certification/ To help guide you through the process, we have created five pro tips for getting your ISO 27001 certification right the first time. Getting ISO 27001 certified is a great opportunity for SaaS companies and tech businesses to develop impeccable data security credentials and accelerate growth. This blog is tailored for who is aiming to enhance their data security measures through ISO 27001 certification. Of course, ISO 27001 certification is also a complex process that requires a coordinated effort across your organization. We’ve helped many businesses get more value out of their compliance, with less time, effort, and expense. Based on our experience developing real-world ISO 27001 strategies, here are five of our insider tips to help you get the most out of your compliance when getting certified.   Is ISO 27001 the right choice for your business? In today’s tech world, more businesses than ever need robust data security strategies. The cost of a data breach is too high to ignore. And users and clients increasingly demand proof that suppliers take information security seriously.   But how do you choose between the two leading standards, SOC 2 and ISO 27001? They both provide an excellent framework for managing risk. And they are both effective ways of demonstrating your high levels of security to clients. Ultimately, you won’t go wrong either way. However, ISO 27001 tends to be more recognized in Europe. It can offer an important competitive advantage, as many companies will only do business with suppliers that have an effective information security protocol in place. In Europe, in particular, ISO 27001 certification is the gold standard in data security. So, if... --- ### ISO 27001 vs SOC 2: What's the Difference? > Which is right for your business? It’s a common question, for a good reason. When we assess ISO 27001 vs SOC 2, we’re not asking which is better. - Published: 2022-08-01 - Modified: 2022-12-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/iso-27001-vs-soc-2-whats-the-difference-2/ ISO 27001 or SOC 2. Which is right for your business? It’s a common question, for a good reason. ISO 27001 or SOC 2. Which is right for your business? It’s a common question, for a good reason. The two information security frameworks are very similar in many ways. When we assess ISO 27001 vs SOC 2, we’re not asking which is better. They’re both benchmarks for information security best practices. We’re assessing which is optimal for your business, at the current time.   --- ### A Beginner’s Guide to the Five SOC 2 Trust Service Principles > To understand the scope and process of SOC 2, you need to be familiar with the Trust Service Principles (TSP). Find here more about it. - Published: 2022-08-01 - Modified: 2022-12-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/a-beginners-guide-to-the-five-soc-2-trust-service-principles-2/ To understand the scope and process of SOC 2, you need to be familiar with the Trust Service Principles (TSP). To understand the scope and process of SOC 2, you need to be familiar with the Trust Service Principles (TSP). SOC 2 is guided by the AICPA’s Trust Service Principles and are a set of principles for assessing the risk and opportunities associated with the information security of an organization. --- ### Exciting Integration Updates, Automated Evidence Features and Security Compliance Management! > New additions to our compliance automation tool, new integrations, improved evidence and task management and automated risk assessments. - Published: 2022-07-28 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/exciting-integration-updates-automated-evidence-features-and-security-compliance-management/ Let’s take a look at the exciting updates to our SOC 2 and ISO 27001 automation tool that happened in July. In our June product updates, we launched tons of new additions and improvements to our compliance automation tool, relating to new integrations, improved evidence and task management and automated risk assessments. Let’s take a look at the exciting updates to our SOC 2 and ISO 27001 automation tool that happened in July. Every update and new feature we build aims to transform manual compliance into an automated and streamlined workflow and allowing our customers to easily manage all their compliance tasks in a centralized and collaborative environment. Integration updates boosting more compliance automation Last month, we announced a bunch of new integrations including Comeet, ClickUp, Zendesk, Microsoft 365 and Azure Active Directory, just to name a few. This month, there are exciting updates to key integrations, as well as a popular new integration! Google Cloud Platform (GCP) integration is completed 3 new GCP integrations are now live, and Scytale is now fully integrated with all of GCP services: GCP SQL GCP Storage GCP Compute Engine AWS update: connect to each AWS service  Customers will now be able to connect only to the AWS services that they use, and each service connection will be managed separately, allowing a more customized integration for each customer. These AWS services include: AWS IAM AWS EC2 AWS Config Bitbucket is live! New evidence-related features, simplifying your information security compliance Evidence statuses In our May Product Updates, we spoke about evidence being broken down into categories, making evidence collection organized and easy to track. This month... --- ### Are You Prioritizing SOC 2 in 2022? > Understanding what SOC 2 is actually for, and how implementing SOC 2 can create real value for your company, is key to making more strategically decisions. - Published: 2022-07-26 - Modified: 2022-12-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/are-you-prioritizing-soc-2-in-2022/ Understand what SOC 2 is actually for, and how implementing SOC 2 can create real value for your company. Understanding what SOC 2 is actually for, and how implementing SOC 2 can create real value for your company, is key to making more strategically-informed decisions.   There’s no substitute for excellent strategic advice and effective digital tools. However, there is a way to maximize the value of both advisory and technology, which is by integrating them into a holistic SOC 2 solution. --- ### CSA CloudBytes: The Future of Security Compliance for SaaS > SaaS companies today are scrambling to comply with certain security frameworks like AICPA SOC 2, ISO 27001, CSA STAR etc., - Published: 2022-07-13 - Modified: 2023-10-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/csa-cloudbytes-the-future-of-security-compliance-for-saas/ Meiran Galis, Scytale; Mikael Yayon, EY and Raz Kotler, PayPal team up in the CSA CloudBytes webinar to discuss SaaS compliance. SaaS companies today are scrambling to comply with certain security frameworks like AICPA SOC 2, ISO 27001, CSA STAR etc. , because demonstrating information security reduces sales barriers, boosts customer trust and increases the protection of sensitive data. But getting compliant is super complicated and eats up loads of time for employees. Moreover, many organizations lack the knowledge and experience required for these frameworks, and have no idea where to begin their compliance journey and how to maintain compliance throughout the year. Presented by:Meiran Galis, Scytale Mikael Yayon, EYRaz Kotler, PayPal In this panel we'll discuss:• The traditional audit process versus the modern audit process • Why outsourcing compliance to third parties will allow internal resources to be utilized more strategically • The importance of automating repetitive audit-related tests • An innovative approach to security compliance that streamlines the entire security audit process• How to scale your security audit, whether you're a startup or a corporation • Auditor perspective and future developments --- ### SaaScast Podcast: automating compliance with Scytale CEO, Meiran Galis > SaaScast Podcast: automating compliance with Scytale CEO. In this podcast, we’re committed to helping SaaS leaders future-proof their product. - Published: 2022-07-12 - Modified: 2022-12-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/saascast-podcast-automating-compliance-with-scytale-ceo-meiran-galis/ Scytale CEO and co-founder joins Future of SaaS, to guide us on leveraging automation, reducing compliance costs and mitigating risks. In this podcast, we’re committed to helping SaaS leaders future-proof their product. Whether that's through building the ultimate marketing team, or taking your products global, our expert guests will help you grow, scale up, and work smarter.   Meiran Galis, CEO and Co-founder of Scytale, and a tactical leader in the realm of security compliance has helped hundreds of high-profile and rapidly growing SaaS companies build compliance programs. Here, he guides us through how to implement security controls that leverage automation, reduce the cost of compliance and mitigate business risks. Key talking points include:- The ins and outs of security compliance- Why security compliance is so critical for orgs today- Expert advice on hiring the right talent- The key steps to building trust through compliance --- ### [INTERVIEW] PayEm's CTO on Getting SOC 2 Compliant with Scytale’s Automation Tool > PayEm allows finance teams around the globe to manage, automate and connect finance processes all within their holistic spend and procurement platform. - Published: 2022-07-07 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/interview-payems-cto-on-getting-soc-2-compliant-with-scytales-automation-tool/ We sat down with PayEm CTO, Omer Rimoch, to ask him a few questions about his experience getting SOC 2 Type II compliant with Scytale. PayEm allows finance teams around the globe to manage, automate and connect finance processes all within their holistic spend and procurement platform. With that being said, information security has to be a top priority for PayEm, ensuring the personal and financial information of their customers is protected. But for a fast-growing startup undergoing SOC 2 for the very first time, they needed the right compliance solution to ease the time-consuming and complicated processes. That is why PayEm chose Scytale to help them develop strong information security systems and practices while fully preparing them for their SOC 2 audit, using compliance automation and guided advisory. We sat down with PayEm CTO, Omer Rimoch, to ask him a few questions about his experience getting SOC 2 Type II compliant with Scytale. SOC 2 for StartupsIf you're up against SOC 2 then this is for you! Download the eBook 1. What were the SOC 2 compliance challenges faced by PayEm? We knew we needed to start the SOC 2 compliance process, as our US-based customers and prospects were requesting it from us. However, we knew we couldn’t do it by ourselves as we did not have any prior SOC 2 knowledge, including understanding what the process and audit entails.   Most compliance solutions provide a product without any support, guiding you through processes and helping us understand what auditors really need. So finding a suitable SOC 2 partner was challenging. Additionally, as we are a startup in growth mode, time is vital and... --- ### Integrate All Your Tools and Manage all Your SOC 2 and ISO 27001 Controls with Smart Compliance Automation! > Last month we released the latest product updates and this month we are doing the same with more exciting additions, making all the difference - Published: 2022-07-07 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/integrate-all-your-tools-and-easily-manage-all-your-soc-2-and-iso-27001-controls-with-smart-compliance-automation/ Let’s take a look at what June had to offer with more exciting additions, making all the difference to your compliance project. Last month we released the latest product updates and this month we are doing the same with more exciting additions, making all the difference to your compliance project. Everything we do is with the purpose of making your SOC 2 or ISO 27001 compliance as effortless, efficient and time-effective as possible. So let’s take a look at what June had to offer! More integrations under our belt! In May, we announced the addition of 3 more plugins - MongoDB, GitLab and GCP IAM, and this month we are adding more integrations to further streamline the compliance process. June was definitely the month of integrations! The more tools our customers can integrate with, the more automated evidence collection and 24/7 compliance monitoring they can enjoy, and the more we are living up to our mission of complete compliance automation!   So let’s break down all the new tools you can integrate with Scytale: HR integrations: Task management integrations: Customer support integrations: Productivity cloud: Identity management: It’s all about evidence! Deactivate evidence  Our ultimate goal is to create the best user experience when getting ready for your SOC 2 or ISO 27001 audit, through easy-to-follow task management and streamlined evidence collection. That is why our new evidence deactivation function was built, allowing our customers to disable the evidence in a specific control that isn’t relevant to their business operations. The real benefit here is that the tasks that are connected to that particular evidence will be removed and our customers get to... --- ### SOC 2 & ISO 27001 for SaaS: Build trust & boost sales through smart security compliance > SOC 2 & ISO 27001 for SaaS: Build trust & boost sales through smart security compliance, a strategic and tactical leader in the realm of security compliance. - Published: 2022-06-20 - Modified: 2023-10-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-iso-27001-for-saas-build-trust-boost-sales-through-smart-security-compliance/ Scytale CEO, Meiran Galis explains compliance programs for growing organizations, leveraging automation and reducing compliance costs. Scytale CEO, Meiran Galis is a strategic and tactical leader in the realm of security compliance. Having worked with hundreds of SaaS companies including small startups and Fortune 500, Meiran built compliance programs for rapidly growing organizations and is passionate about implementing security controls that leverage automation, reduce the cost of compliance, and mitigate business risks. Discover how to streamline security compliance, manage it effectively, and reduce time and costs. Learn how to increase sales by enabling continuous auditing, building accountability and increasing transparency. --- ### More Integrations, a New Policy Generator, and More! > Helping startups get SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliant simply and efficiently through compliance automation is our mission and what we love to do! - Published: 2022-06-13 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/product-updates-alert-more-integrations-a-new-policy-generator-and-more/ Some of our awesome product updates and enhancements to date. Compliance automation has transformed the way SaaS companies manage their information security compliance. Helping startups get SOC 2 and ISO 27001 compliant simply and efficiently through compliance automation is our mission and what we love to do! However, we are never putting our feet up when it comes to the continuous improvement of our tool and its functionalities, as well as the development of more innovative features. Sometimes it is the finer details that make all the difference! Below are some of our awesome product updates and enhancements to date. Keep an eye out for our regular product updates going forward! More integrations mean more compliance automation! Integrating with our customers' entire technology stack is a huge priority for us, as the more they can integrate, the more automated processes they will enjoy. You can check out all our integrations to date, as well as those you can expect to see soon (and there are plenty! ) so keep your eye out for new ones!   A few of the latest integrations that have been added to the pool are: MongoDB: our customers use MongoDB as an external database management program. GitLab: our customers use GitLab as their version control tool that combines the ability to develop, secure, and operate software in a single application. GCP IAM: Google's identity management enables Google administrators to authorize who can access specific Google Cloud resources. Update on Slack integration: additions have been made to our existing Slack integration. When customers add comments in... --- ### 2022 ISO 27001 Updates: Everything You Need To Know > The 2022 updates apply to the security controls of ISO 27002 and therefore, Annex A of ISO 27001 will be updated accordingly. Find more here. - Published: 2022-05-20 - Modified: 2024-01-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/2022-iso-27001-updates-everything-you-need-to-know/ ISO 27001 was last updated almost a decade ago and therefore, pay close attention to these changes. ISO 27001 is a globally-recognized compliance certification and while you may know what ISO 27001 is all about, things are changing with the rapidly growing cyber world. So read on to make sure you’re on top of all the latest updates. What is ISO 27001 certification? ISO 27001 certification is an international standard on how to manage information security. This standard helps organizations protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. ISO 27001 is the only auditable international standard that defines the requirements of an information security management system (ISMS).   ISO 27001 compliance includes specific security controls that organizations need to follow and are listed in Annex A. To understand the details of these controls and how they could be implemented, you need to consult ISO 27002, which serves as a guidance document of the ISO 27001 security controls. It may also be helpful to read our blog detailing ISO 27001 vs SOC 2 and peruse our glossary, specifically the ISO 27001 glossary section. Understanding ISO 27001 compliance in 2022 The 2022 updates apply to the security controls of ISO 27002 and therefore, Annex A of ISO 27001 will be updated accordingly. Interestingly enough, ISO 27001 was last updated almost a decade ago and therefore, close attention needs to be paid to these changes and what they mean for organizations. You may ask why ISO 27001 has now been updated. Simply put, it is time. Information security in 2022 is rather different from information security a decade ago. The... --- ### High Tech on the Low: Comply or Die, There is No Try > Jordan Kastrinsky's High Tech on the Low podcast features Meiran Galis, CEO and Founder of Scytale. - Published: 2022-05-10 - Modified: 2022-07-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/high-tech-on-the-low-comply-or-die-there-is-no-try/ Jordan Kastrinsky's High Tech on the Low podcast features Meiran Galis, CEO and Founder of Scytale. High Tech on the Low hosted by Jordan Kastrinsky, is on a mission to make high tech accessible to the world. As regulations and the need for operational transparency increase, organizations are beginning to adopt a consolidated set of compliance controls. Yet, the process is often complex, and, for SaaS companies, it can be hard to navigate and lead to significant challenges. In this podcast, Meiran Galis, CEO and Founder of Scytale, explains how Scytale helps companies automate compliance. --- ### A Year in the Life of a SaaS Startup, with Scytale CEO, Meiran Galis > In this episode of the SaaS Revolution Show, Meiran Galis joins SaaStock’s Alex Theuma. - Published: 2022-04-25 - Modified: 2022-07-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/a-year-in-the-life-of-a-saas-startup-with-scytale-ceo-meiran-galis/ In this episode of the SaaS Revolution Show, Meiran Galis joins SaaStock’s Alex Theuma. In this episode of the SaaS Revolution Show, Meiran Galis (CEO and Co-founder of Scytale) joins SaaStock’s Alex Theuma to discuss a year in the life of a SaaS startup. Meiran shares:The founding story of Scytale, why SaaS startups need to look at compliance, the biggest challenge of being a SaaS startup CEO, how to improve yourself as a CEO and more. --- ### SOC 2: How SaaS Startups Can Scale Compliance > A panel of experts shine light on SOC 2 and share their insights and experience. - Published: 2022-04-19 - Modified: 2023-10-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-how-saas-startups-can-scale-compliance/ A panel of experts shine light on SOC 2 and share their insights and experience. Do you need your SOC 2 but don’t know where to start? So many SaaS startups out there today are realizing that SOC 2 is a must-have, but getting SOC 2 compliant can be a nightmare - it's super time consuming, complicated, and it's hard to know where to begin. This event includes a panel of experts who shine light on SOC 2 and share their insights and experience on how SaaS startups can scale the compliance process. Meiran Galis, CEO, Scytale. Moshe Ferber, Chairman, Cloud Security Alliance, Israel Chapter. Demi Ben-Ari, CTO, Panorays. Gal Nakash, Co-Founder, Stealth Mode Startup. --- ### Everything you need to know about SOC 2 and getting compliant [Hebrew] > Meiran Galis walks us through the SOC 2 process and Polar Security share their story. - Published: 2022-03-31 - Modified: 2022-07-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/everything-you-need-to-know-about-soc-2-and-getting-compliant-hebrew/ Meiran Galis walks us through the SOC 2 process and Polar Security share their story. Are your customers demanding SOC 2 before closing a deal? Are you trying to figure out how to get your organization SOC 2 compliant but don't know where to start? In this webinar, Meiran Galis, CEO at Scytale, walks us through the SOC 2 process from start to finish and Liav Caspi, CTO at Polar Security shares his story about SOC 2 and his compliance journey. --- ### Little States, Big Innovation: Israel X Rhode Island > Each month the Rhode Island - Israel Collaborative (RIIC) program introduces some of Israel’s most exciting startup entrepreneurs. This time, featuring our very own CEO, Meiran Galis. - Published: 2022-03-28 - Modified: 2022-07-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/little-states-big-innovation-israel-x-rhode-island/ Each month the Rhode Island - Israel Collaborative (RIIC) program introduces some of Israel’s most exciting startup entrepreneurs. This time, featuring our very own CEO, Meiran Galis. Each month the Rhode Island - Israel Collaborative (RIIC) program introduces some of Israel’s most exciting startup entrepreneurs. This time, featuring our very own CEO, Meiran Galis. --- ### We Don't Sell Parachutes, But We Do Automate SOC 2 > When it comes to InfoSec compliance, Scytale's automation platform is not only timesaving, but lifesaving too. So many startup CTOs have had enough of SOC 2 - are you one of them? - Published: 2022-03-28 - Modified: 2022-06-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/we-dont-sell-parachutes-but-we-do-automate-soc-2/ When it comes to InfoSec compliance, Scytale's automation platform is not only timesaving, but lifesaving too. So many startup CTOs have had enough of SOC 2 - are you one of them? When it comes to InfoSec compliance, Scytale's automation platform is not only timesaving, but lifesaving too. So many startup CTOs have had enough of SOC 2 - are you one of them? --- ### Walking The Walk: SOC 2 For Us Too > SOC 2 compliance is our expertise and our passion. It is a compliance framework we believe in whole-heartedly to ensure outstanding security practices. - Published: 2022-03-21 - Modified: 2023-07-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/walking-the-walk-soc-2-for-us-too/ It is of absolute importance that we are able to deliver our own SOC 2 Type II report. Why is our SOC 2 report so important? SOC 2 compliance is our expertise and our passion. It is a compliance framework we believe in whole-heartedly to ensure outstanding security practices for SaaS companies and that sensitive information of customers is being protected. It is of absolute importance that we are able to deliver our SOC 2 Type II report to customers and prospects, demonstrating the high levels of design and operating effectiveness of our information security controls. Scytale is a SOC 2 readiness platform, enabling our customers to manage their SOC 2 workflows and remain compliant continuously with our compliance automation and non-stop monitoring. Therefore, our SOC 2 audit ensured our very own systems are secure and meet the high standards of the AICPA framework.   Due to our industry, product offering, as well as to ensure we gain the most value out of our compliance journey, our SOC 2 audit reports on the following Trust Service Principles: Security, Availability, Confidentiality and Processing Integrity. Priority #1: the protection of our customers’ data We want to put the minds of our customers and prospects at ease when it comes to the security of their information. Our SOC 2 report proves that they can rest easy knowing their data is protected and that our platform is built with the utmost care and robust systems and controls in place. We believe in earning the trust of our customers, ensuring them that they are partnering with a company that is committed to sound... --- ### SOC 2 For Startups: Save time and boost sales with faster, simpler & smarter compliance [Hebrew] > This event is aimed at startup companies with B2B cloud-based products that are aiming to sell to the American market, specifically decision makers such as CEOs, CTOs, COOs, CISOs and anyone in the organization who may have anything to do with SOC 2. - Published: 2022-03-15 - Modified: 2022-07-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/soc-2-for-startups-save-time-and-boost-sales-with-faster-simpler-smarter-compliance/ This webinar includes a panel of startup senior executives, talking about compliance. This event is aimed at startups with B2B cloud-based products that are aiming to sell to the American market, specifically decision makers such as CEOs, CTOs, COOs and CISOs. This webinar includes a panel of startup senior executives who talk about their experience within the world of compliance, the importance of SOC 2, what is important to consider from the beginning, and lastly, what may go wrong. --- ### Smart Compliance for SaaS > Are you up against SOC 2? Scytale helps SaaS companies accelerate their SOC 2 compliance. - Published: 2022-03-01 - Modified: 2022-05-29 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/smart-compliance-for-saas/ Are you up against SOC 2? Scytale helps SaaS companies accelerate their SOC 2 compliance. Are you up against SOC 2? Scytale helps rapidly growing SaaS companies get ready for their SOC 2 audit by automating, simplifying and accelerating compliance. --- ### Compliance At Scale: How to build a great InfoSec compliance program > Watch our CEO Meiran Galis in action. Learn the technical SOC 2 dos and don’ts. - Published: 2022-03-01 - Modified: 2022-05-29 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/compliance-at-scale-how-to-build-a-great-infosec-compliance-program/ Watch our CEO Meiran Galis in action. Learn the technical SOC 2 dos and don’ts. Watch our CEO Meiran Galis in action. Learn the technical dos and don’ts in implementing an InfoSec program, understand SOC 2 compliance for SaaS and how SOC 2 automation works. --- ### Everything To Know About Our ISO 27001 Certification > Becoming ISO 27001 certified is an effective way to assure our clients that our own systems meet the highest standard of security. - Published: 2022-02-25 - Modified: 2023-06-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/everything-to-know-about-our-iso-27001-certification/ ISO 27001 assures our clients that we meet the highest standard of security. As providers of information security technology and expertise, it’s important that Scytale walks the walk. After all, we’re a SaaS company that’s uncompromising about information security, just like many of our clients.   Becoming ISO 27001 certified is an effective way to assure our clients that our own systems meet the highest standard of security. Let’s be real - would you really choose to rely on data security software from a company that neglected its own data security?   But it’s more than that. Becoming ISO 27001 compliant was an excellent way for us to rigorously examine our own processes, test our best practice, and become more flexible and resilient. In that sense, the compliance process quite literally is a journey of discovery.   That’s because implementing an exacting standard like ISO 27001 is about testing and learning. Identifying potential weak points and taking action. It’s about being proactive and anticipating problems before they occur. As our clients who choose to implement ISO 27001 or SOC 2 Type II understand, these aren’t static one-off events. The process of discovery also equips you to maintain a consistent, high standard of service and security.   To appreciate why, let’s take a closer look at how ISO 27001 functions. What is ISO 27001 compliance and why does it matter? ISO 27001 is an independent standard for managing information security that is respected around the world. As ISO 27001 certification is conducted by an independent auditor, it’s an effective way for any SaaS business... --- ### The SOC 2 Bible > Gain extensive knowledge about SOC 2 compliance, automation and SaaS trends. - Published: 2022-02-07 - Modified: 2023-08-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/whitepaper-the-soc-2-bible-everything-you-need-to-know-about-compliance/ Gain extensive knowledge about SOC 2 compliance, automation and SaaS trends. Everything you need to know about compliance SaaS companies are scrambling to get SOC 2 compliant, and fast. But why? Because demonstrating information security reduces sales barriers, boosts customer trust and ensures the protection of sensitive data. But getting SOC 2 compliant is super complicated and eats up loads of time for employees. Moreover, many organizations lack the knowledge and experience required for SOC 2, and have no idea where to begin. In this whitepaper you will: Get in-depth knowledge about SOC 2 and the whole compliance process Gain a full understanding of SOC 2 audits and what they really entail Understand how automation has completely transformed the compliance game Be informed of the latest SaaS and compliance trends, and much more --- ### Gaining a Competitive Edge Through SOC 2 Compliance > SOC 2 compliance can help your business stand out in a crowded field, but how you implement SOC 2 is as important as why. - Published: 2022-01-10 - Modified: 2024-01-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/gaining-a-competitive-edge-through-soc-2-compliance/ SOC 2 compliance can help your business stand out in a crowded field. Disrupting the SaaS space isn’t for the weak of heart. It’s an extremely competitive field, driven by some of the brightest minds in tech. SOC 2 compliance can help your business stand out in a crowded field, but how you implement SOC 2 is as important as why.   One market entry strategy that’s non-negotiable  To succeed in the SaaS space, you don’t just need to create beautiful technology, you need to get your business strategy just right. How long do you spend fine tuning and tweaking every little detail? And when is an MVP good enough when there is a race to being the market leader?   Of course, there’s one element you can never compromise on and can set you apart from other market players immediately: data security. ‘Good enough’, in InfoSec terms, certainly means very good, indeed. To be the best, well, that is a whole different ball game. Your clients demand stringent protocols that ensure their sensitive data is properly managed, without compromise.   The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Appear better by being better SOC 2 compliance is a powerful way to set yourself apart in a competitive field. By meeting SOC 2 standards, you demonstrate to potential customers that your company meets the most rigorous standards of security and service.   Crucially, SOC 2 isn’t simply about some abstract standard. SOC 2 is stringent but it’s also flexible. Rather than a one-size-fits-all examination, becoming SOC 2 compliant enables... --- ### The Real Reason RegTech Is a SOC 2 Compliance Game Changer > Why is RegTech so important for managing compliance? Good regulatory technology makes compliance faster, simpler and more cost effective. - Published: 2021-12-10 - Modified: 2024-07-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/the-real-reason-regtech-is-a-soc-2-compliance-game-changer/ Good regulatory technology makes compliance faster, simpler and more cost-effective. Why is RegTech so important for managing compliance? That may sound like a silly question. After all, good regulatory technology makes compliance faster, simpler and more cost-effective. Sure. But there’s a more fundamental reason. When we look at the research, it becomes clear that the real driver of RegTech uptake is the cost of compliance. And those cost-effective compliance technologies are so desirable precisely because the cost of manual compliance is so high. It additionally decreases the possibility of human error, making compliance more accurate and efficient.   Solving the SOC 2 dilemma Now when it comes to SOC 2, we need to think about the cost of compliance in a slightly more nuanced way. Because SOC 2 isn’t just another regulation that you need to accept as the price of doing business. Rather, becoming SOC 2 compliant is an effective way for SaaS companies to secure their clients’ trust and successfully compete in new markets.   And that raises a critical business decision. In many cases, SOC 2 compliance is a prerequisite to enter the US market or to do business with certain customers that demand SOC 2. But it also potentially poses a significant cost. As a business manager, you need to ask whether the higher (potentially much higher) operational costs are worth the competitive advantage.   Or at least, you would have to if you continue to rely on expensive, dreaded, manual compliance processes. However, effective SOC 2 compliance technology changes the whole calculation. When we understand that... --- ### Reimagining SOC 2: A Better Way to Manage Your Compliance > Is your organization struggling with SOC 2 compliance? Why not automate the process then? Seriously. - Published: 2021-09-18 - Modified: 2024-01-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/reimagining-soc-2-a-better-way-to-manage-your-soc-2-compliance/ Is your organization struggling with SOC 2 compliance? Why not automate the process then? Seriously. Don't just take our word for it that achieving SOC 2 compliance can be easier though - let's take a step back and look at why SOC 2 is so important in the first place. When we reconsider the why, the how follows logically. Why are you implementing SOC 2, anyway? There are, broadly speaking, two main reasons why SaaS businesses implement SOC 2. One, to reassure customers that the business meets the highest standards of data security. And two, to create a robust protocol that enables you to meet those high standards. Of course, those are two sides of the same coin. You want an independent standard that enables you to meet rigorous data protection standards, as well as you want to be able to demonstrate that you meet those standards. Let’s consider the implications of those reasons: We appreciate that SOC 2 is more than a box-ticking exercise, and we really do want to achieve excellence in information security. We don’t want to just make it look like we do. After all, all the credentials and certificates in the world will count for nothing if you suffer a reputation-destroying hack or data breach.   However, if you truly want a secure system, you’ll appreciate that SOC 2 is not a one-time thing. It demands ongoing evaluation and constant monitoring. This may sound like a challenge. However, the whole point is to maintain an... --- ### Guaranteeing Customer Trust With SOC 2 Type II > If you truly want to prove to clients and potential customers that their data is secure, you want to be SOC 2 Type 2 certified. - Published: 2021-08-18 - Modified: 2024-03-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/resources/guaranteeing-customer-trust-with-soc-2-type-ii/ SOC 2 demonstrates an organization is serious about protecting its users' data. SOC 2 is an independent reporting standard, developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), that demonstrates an organization is serious about protecting its users' data. Companies that comply with SOC 2 requirements, and successfully pass SOC 2 audits, are known to be reliable, dependable and secure. However, not all SOC 2 certifications are equal. Organizations that are committed to implementing world class processes should consider SOC 2 Type 2, especially as new compliance technology makes meeting the exacting requirements of SOC 2 Type 2 surprisingly easy to achieve. A gold medal in information security SOC 2 Type 2 is the data security gold standard for SaaS companies. If you truly want to prove to clients and potential customers that their data is secure, you want to be SOC 2 Type 2 certified. Why? Because in order to meet the exacting standards of SOC 2 Type 2, you need to show that your organization is secure over a sustained period of time. That’s crucial, because data security isn’t a one-off thing. Information security is an ongoing process that responds effectively to evolving threats. Of course, meeting the rigorous standards of SOC 2 Type 2 is a challenge for any organization. It’s not merely a snapshot of the organization's information security, it’s a certificate of a sustained track record of data excellence. Monitoring change over time: a job for automation  So here’s the real challenge of SOC 2 Type 2. As with many compliance requirements, SOC 2 involves preparing... --- --- ## Q&A ### What are the key differences between GDPR and SOC 2 compliance? > Learn the key differences between GDPR and SOC 2 compliance, and how aligning both frameworks can strengthen your data protection strategy. - Published: 2025-04-11 - Modified: 2025-04-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-key-differences-between-gdpr-and-soc-2-compliance/ Learn the key differences between GDPR and SOC 2 compliance, and how they work together to ensure better data protection. In a data-driven world where data breaches and privacy concerns make headlines daily, security compliance frameworks like GDPR and SOC 2 are more important than ever. While both aim to safeguard sensitive data, they differ in scope, requirements, and enforcement. For companies of all sizes that handle personal or customer data, achieving compliance with these frameworks is essential for protecting information, avoiding hefty fines, and maintaining trust with customers and partners. What is GDPR? The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is the European Union’s primary regulation for data privacy and protection. If your organization collects, stores, or processes the personal data of individuals in the EU, GDPR applies - regardless of where your company is based. It's all about safeguarding individuals’ privacy and giving them greater control over their personal data . To be GDPR-compliant, organizations must implement strict controls around data processing, obtain clear and informed consent from users, and conduct regular audits to ensure adherence. From encryption and access controls to breach notifications and data subject rights, GDPR requirements cover nearly every aspect of data protection. And if you fall short? The fines are severe - we’re talking millions - and no one wants to explain that to their CFO. What is SOC 2? SOC 2 is like a gold star for security practices and compliance frameworks, especially for SaaS companies. Developed by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), SOC 2 focuses on how organizations handle customer data through its five Trust Service Principles: Security (mandatory), Availability, Processing... --- ### How do the five trust principles of SOC 2 impact compliance? > Understanding the SOC 2 Trust Service Principles simplifies compliance by guiding businesses in securing customer data and building trust. - Published: 2025-02-27 - Modified: 2025-02-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-do-the-five-trust-principles-of-soc-2-impact-compliance/ Understanding the SOC 2 Trust Service Principles simplifies compliance by guiding businesses in securing customer data. Compliance can feel like climbing a mountain, and SOC 2 is one of the steepest climbs of them all. However, understanding the five trust service principles of SOC 2 (Service Organization Controls 2) is a great way to simplify the journey. These principles form the foundation and common criteria for this key security compliance framework, guiding SaaS businesses of all sizes in managing and securing customer data. What are the SOC 2 Trust Service Principles? The SOC 2 Trust Service Principles (TSP) - also known as the SOC 2 Trust Services Criteria (TSC) - serve as the guiding rules for managing systems and data responsibly. They are designed to ensure customer information remains secure, accessible, and private. The five trust principles are: Security: Protecting your systems from unauthorized access and breaches. This involves setting up strong access controls, firewalls, and encryption to safeguard data. It's important to note security is always mandatory. Availability: For many service organizations, particularly those in cloud computing, data hosting, and online services, availability is a critical factor in ensuring that systems and services remain accessible and operable according to agreed terms. It’s about being ready when it matters, with a robust disaster recovery plan in place to resolve issues quickly and prevent customers from being left stranded. Processing Integrity: Ensuring data is processed correctly and without errors. This principle requires you to ensure accuracy and completeness in all data processing activities. Confidentiality: Keeping sensitive information secure and out of the wrong hands. Encrypting sensitive data... --- ### How can a SOC 2 self-assessment streamline your audit preparation? > SOC 2 self-assessments streamline audit preparation by helping you identify gaps and ensuring you're fully prepared for a smooth SOC 2 audit. - Published: 2025-01-17 - Modified: 2025-01-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-can-a-soc-2-self-assessment-streamline-your-audit-preparation/ SOC 2 self-assessments streamline audit preparation by helping you identify gaps and ensuring you're fully prepared for your SOC 2 audit. Preparing for a SOC 2 audit can be overwhelming, with so many details to manage and expectations to meet. It’s a big deal, and the stakes are high. But what if there was a way to simplify the process, save time, and reduce stress? Enter the SOC 2 self-assessment - your secret weapon for audit readiness. By evaluating your controls, policies, and procedures against SOC 2 requirements, a SOC 2 self-assessment helps you identify gaps and prepare effectively. It's a game-changer when it comes to becoming audit-ready and ultimately, maintaining SOC 2 compliance. What is a SOC 2 self-assessment, and why is it important? A SOC 2 self-assessment is like a practice for your SOC 2 official audit. It’s a chance to see where you stand with your current internal and security controls as well as your security policies and practices before the actual audit happens. By catching gaps early, you can fix and avoid any last-minute panic.   Without a readiness assessment, heading into the compliance audit can feel extremely stressful but this is an easily preventable situation. This process helps you understand your readiness, spot weak spots, and feel confident going into the formal audit. Plus, it gives your team a clear roadmap to tighten things up and work smarter, not harder. How does a SOC 2 readiness assessment differ from the official audit? Think of the SOC 2 readiness assessment as a warm-up. It’s not the actual audit, which is done by an external auditor - it’s... --- ### How does internal auditing software help with compliance management? > Internal audit software is key to making compliance management simpler, more efficient, and less stressful for everyone involved. - Published: 2024-11-29 - Modified: 2024-11-29 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-does-internal-auditing-software-help-with-compliance-management/ Internal audit software is key to making compliance management simpler, more efficient, and less stressful for everyone involved. No matter how one chooses to look at it, compliance remains one of the most critical aspects of many businesses. Whether you're running a SaaS startup or a well-established enterprise, staying compliant is non-negotiable. That’s where internal audit software comes in - a powerful tool that makes compliance management simpler, more efficient, and less stressful for everyone involved. What is internal audit software? In simple terms, internal audit software is a digital tool that helps you manage, streamline, and automate your internal auditing process. It helps ensure that you don’t miss anything important when it comes to meeting the requirements of key security and privacy compliance frameworks like ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, or even HIPAA. It’s not just for the big players, either. There’s internal audit software for small businesses, tailored to the unique needs (and budgets) of startups and growing companies, as well as internal audit software for highly regulated industries like healthcare and the financial sector, designed to handle those extra layers of complexity. How can internal audit software benefit my business?   1. Centralizes Everything Audit software for internal audits makes it easy to store, access, and manage everything in one centralized platform, helping you stay organized and avoid the hassle of sifting through endless spreadsheets and documentation. 2. Streamlined Automation Manual auditing is both time-consuming and resource-intensive. The repetitive tasks, data entry, and tracking down evidence make this process tedious. Fortunately, compliance automation lies at the core of internal audit software and helps automate these... --- ### Do all companies need GRC?  > Discover if GRC is essential for your business and how it supports compliance, risk management, and operational efficiency. - Published: 2024-11-22 - Modified: 2024-11-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/do-all-companies-need-grc/ Discover if GRC is essential for your business and how it supports compliance, risk management, and operational efficiency. When it comes to GRC (Governance, Risk, and Compliance), businesses often wonder: "Is this something every company really needs, or is it just for large enterprises? " While the answer isn’t a simple yes or no, the need for a GRC program largely depends on your company’s size, industry, and specific risks. Let’s dive in to help you gain a better understanding of what we mean. What exactly is GRC? GRC stands for Governance, Risk, and Compliance. It’s essentially how a company manages its overall policies, procedures, and risks while staying compliant with relevant regulations like GDPR, PCI DSS, or HIPAA. Think of it as the backbone of responsible business operations - it ensures that everyone is playing by the rules to ensure the organization meets legal, regulatory, and industry standards while also protecting the organization from potential risks.   A comprehensive GRC management system is necessary and includes processes to streamline tasks like: Establishing clear governance (who does what and how decisions are made). Managing risks across departments (financial, operational, IT, etc). Staying compliant with industry regulations and standards like ISO 27001 or SOC 2. Does Every Company Really Need GRC? The short answer: not always in the same way. The need for GRC depends on factors like company size and industry. Here’s how it can be broken down: By Company Size: Small Startups: For smaller startups, a full-scale GRC program might feel excessive, especially if there are no strict regulations or sensitive data involved. However, even small businesses... --- ### What are the types of security vulnerabilities? > Discover the common types of security vulnerabilities, how to identify them, and key strategies to mitigate these vulnerabilities. - Published: 2024-11-15 - Modified: 2024-11-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-types-of-security-vulnerabilities/ Discover the common types of security vulnerabilities, how to identify them, and key strategies to mitigate these vulnerabilities. Knowing where vulnerabilities exist within your systems is vital for safeguarding your organization and managing risks effectively. A great way to achieve this is by understanding the different types of vulnerabilities, learning how to identify them, and exploring ways to mitigate their impact. What are security vulnerabilities? Security vulnerabilities refer to weaknesses or flaws in a system, software, or network that can be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized access, disrupt operations, or steal sensitive data. They often emerge from coding errors, misconfigurations, outdated software, or even the complexity of modern IT systems. Simply put, if there’s a gap in your security defenses, a hacker could exploit it to gain access. These vulnerabilities are significant because they can negatively impact the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of data and resources. What are the most common security vulnerabilities? There are various types of security vulnerabilities that organizations should be aware of. Some of the most common types include: SQL Injection:SQL injections can seriously harm your company’s database. This occurs when an attacker inserts malicious code into SQL queries via user input, allowing unauthorized access to a database. If you have ever filled out an online form and wondered about potential data risks, SQL injection is one example of how hackers can manipulate these input fields. Source Code Vulnerabilities:Weaknesses in the source code can be caused by poor coding practices, lack of input field validation, the use of open-source scripts, or the absence of penetration testing. Using open source code for application... --- ### What is the key difference between NIST and FISMA? > Discover the key differences between NIST and FISMA, how they work together, and the benefits of complying with these security frameworks. - Published: 2024-11-08 - Modified: 2024-11-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-is-the-key-difference-between-nist-and-fisma/ Discover the key differences between NIST and FISMA, how they work together, and the benefits of complying. If you’ve ever been curious about improving your organization’s security posture, it’s likely that you’ve come across the terms NIST and FISMA. Both are important frameworks for ensuring security compliance, however, they serve different purposes.   Let’s clear up the confusion regarding exactly what these two mean and how they relate to each other. What is NIST? NIST, or the National Institute of Standards and Technology, is a federal agency within the U. S. Department of Commerce. NIST develops security standards, guidelines, and best practices to help organizations manage and reduce cybersecurity risks. Essentially, NIST is the creator of blueprints for security best practices that you and other businesses can follow. One of the most well-known standards created by NIST is the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), which offers a flexible, risk-based approach for improving cyber risk management practices. Another widely used information security standard is NIST 800-53, which outlines privacy and security controls that organizations can implement to strengthen their overall security posture. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=L9iQnxjUCk4 What is FISMA? FISMA, or the Federal Information Security Modernization Act, is a U. S. law designed to protect government information, assets, and operations. It requires federal agencies and their contractors to implement strict information security programs.   In simple terms, any organization dealing with federal data needs to comply with FISMA to ensure that sensitive government information is kept safe.   This includes: U. S. federal agencies and departments State agencies managing federal programs (e. g. , Medicare, student loans, unemployment insurance,... --- ### Who needs to follow HIPAA rules? > Discover which businesses must comply with HIPAA rules, the key regulations they need to follow, and how to achieve HIPAA compliance. - Published: 2024-10-25 - Modified: 2024-10-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/who-needs-to-follow-hipaa-rules/ Discover which businesses must comply with HIPAA rules, the key regulations they need to follow, and how to achieve HIPAA compliance. Many businesses understand the weight that HIPAA carries within the healthcare industry, but not everyone is sure if the rules apply to them. We get where the confusion comes from, which is why we’re excited to dig into why HIPAA matters, the specific HIPAA rules that healthcare-related businesses should keep in mind, and who exactly must comply. Understanding HIPAA  The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a set of regulations designed to help healthcare providers and related businesses protect patients’ sensitive health information. Since patient data is so valuable (and vulnerable), HIPAA’s guidelines have been developed to reduce the risk of data breaches, unauthorized sharing, and mishandling of Protected Health Information (PHI).   What are the HIPAA Rules and Regulations? HIPAA rules and regulations set guidelines for protecting and managing Protected Health Information (PHI), making sure it’s used appropriately and securely, and specifying how to respond if a PHI breach occurs.   HIPAA Rules and Regulations can be broken down into 3 main parts: HIPAA Privacy Rule The HIPAA Privacy Rule governs how healthcare entities can use and disclose PHI.   It covers both physical and electronic data (ePHI) and applies to any information related to an individual's health, healthcare services, or payment. PHI includes 18 specific types of data, like names, Social Security numbers, and diagnoses. Covered entities can use PHI for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations without written patient consent. For any other use, they must obtain and document patient consent and disclose only what is... --- ### What card data is covered by PCI DSS? > Dive into what the PCI DSS standard covers when it comes to cardholder data protection and find out why it’s vital for your business. - Published: 2024-10-22 - Modified: 2024-10-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-card-data-is-covered-by-pci-dss/ Dive into what the PCI DSS standard covers when it comes to cardholder data protection and find out why it’s vital for your business. If your business handles card payments, it’s likely that you’ve come across the PCI DSS standard. But what exactly does it cover when it comes to card data? Let’s dive in so you can understand exactly what information needs to be protected, why it’s important, and how it is relevant to your business. What is PCI DSS? Before going any further, let’s cover the basics. The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of security standards designed to safeguard cardholder data. With cybersecurity threats on the rise, PCI DSS requirements are meant to help businesses protect their payment systems from financial fraud, data breaches, and theft of cardholder data (CHD). Created by the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC), the PCI DSS certification applies to any organization that processes, stores, and/or transmits credit or debit card information.   Whether you run an e-commerce site, a physical store, or provide a service that accepts card payments, PCI DSS compliance is vital when it comes to protecting sensitive transaction data and making sure cardholder data is kept safe. What Card Data Does PCI DSS Protect? Not all card data is treated the same. PCI DSS outlines specific pieces of cardholder information that need to be secured to prevent unauthorized access or fraud.   This type of data falls into two categories:  Cardholder Data PCI DSS cardholder data refers to the details on a payment card that can be used to identify the cardholder and facilitate a transaction. Under... --- ### Is it mandatory to follow and implement all SOC 2 policies? > Wondering if you need to follow and implement all SOC 2 policies? Find out what’s necessary and what’s not to get SOC 2 certified. - Published: 2024-10-18 - Modified: 2024-10-27 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/is-it-mandatory-to-follow-and-implement-all-soc-2-policies/ Wondering if you need to follow and implement all SOC 2 policies? Find out what’s necessary and what’s not to get SOC 2 certified. If you're wondering, "do I have to follow and implement all SOC 2 policies? " then you're definitely not alone. For many businesses looking to start their SOC 2 attestation journey, the process can feel a bit overwhelming. It is, however, important to know what’s exactly required and what isn’t, so let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand. Understanding SOC 2 Developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), SOC 2 (Service Organization Control 2) revolves around safeguarding customer data, which is a big deal if your business handles any type of sensitive information. But, does that mean you need to adopt every single SOC 2 policy to get that SOC 2 report? Not exactly. Do You Need to Implement Every SOC 2 Policy? The short answer? No, you don’t need to implement every single policy that SOC 2 offers. But, there’s a bit more to it than that. SOC 2 is flexible in a lot of ways. Unlike some other compliance standards, it doesn’t require a strict checklist of policies you need to follow to a T. Instead, SOC 2 policies and procedures are meant to align with how your business operates, and they should be tailored to your organization’s specific needs and risks. What Does This Mean for Your Business?   Each policy plays a key role in safeguarding your organization’s security and process for managing consumer data. The specific policies that need to be drafted and implemented will depend on factors... --- ### Why Is HIPAA Important to Patients? > Explore why HIPAA is vital for patients, highlighting its role in protecting health information and empowering patient rights in healthcare. - Published: 2024-09-20 - Modified: 2024-09-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/why-is-hipaa-important-to-patients/ Explore why HIPAA is vital for patients, highlighting its role in protecting health information and empowering patient rights in healthcare. Clients in the healthcare space often ask me about the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA for short. I’m excited to explain how this important piece of legislation protects patients and their sensitive health information. Understanding the importance of HIPAA is crucial for everyone involved—especially patients—because it creates a solid framework that keeps their info safe and builds trust in the healthcare system. Let’s dive into why HIPAA matters, how it benefits patients, and what it means for startups in the healthcare world. The Importance of HIPAA So, why does HIPAA even matter? Here’s the scoop: HIPAA was established to tackle growing concerns about patient privacy and the security of health information. It covers healthcare providers, insurers, and any business associates handling protected health information (PHI). Here are a few reasons why it’s such a big deal: Protecting Patient Privacy: HIPAA lays down the law on how PHI can be used and shared. Patients have the right to know how their info is handled, giving them peace of mind when they go to the doctor. Who wants to worry about their health data being mishandled, right? Enhancing Data Security: The act mandates that healthcare organizations step up their game by implementing security measures to protect electronic PHI (ePHI). Think encryption, access controls, and regular audits—basically, the works to keep prying eyes out! Establishing Patient Rights: HIPAA puts patients in the driver’s seat by giving them rights over their health information. They can access their medical records, request corrections,... --- ### Is SOC 2 a certification or attestation? > Explore the difference between SOC 2 attestation and certification, and how SOC 2 attestation demonstrates your commitment to data security. - Published: 2024-09-20 - Modified: 2024-09-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/is-soc-2-a-certification-or-attestation/ Explore the difference between SOC 2 attestation and certification, and how SOC 2 attestation demonstrates your commitment to data security. So, you're wondering if SOC 2 is a certification or an attestation, right? It’s a common question, and I get why it can be confusing—especially since the terms are often used interchangeably. But there's an important distinction to be made here, and if you’re working toward SOC 2 compliance, you definitely want to understand the difference. So let me break it down in a way that’s easy to follow. Understanding SOC 2 Attestation vs. Certification To cut to the chase: SOC 2 is an attestation, not a certification. When we talk about SOC 2, what we’re really talking about is a third-party evaluation of your company’s controls. This evaluation is based on the SOC 2 compliance requirements established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). The point of this evaluation is to ensure your organization is handling data securely and responsibly. With a SOC 2 attestation, an independent auditor will take a deep dive into your controls and processes, evaluating them against five key principles known as the Trust Services Criteria (TSC): security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Think of it like a comprehensive checkup for your data security, where a third party comes in, looks under the hood, and makes sure everything is running smoothly. SOC 2 Attestation: What It Really Means The SOC 2 attestation process involves an auditor reviewing how well your company is implementing and managing security controls. There are two main types of SOC 2 reports: SOC 2 Type 1: This is... --- ### Why is SOC 2 the most accepted security framework? > Learn why the SOC 2 framework is the top security compliance choice for businesses handling sensitive data. - Published: 2024-09-20 - Modified: 2024-09-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/why-is-soc-2-the-most-accepted-security-framework/ Learn why the SOC 2 framework is the top security compliance choice for businesses handling sensitive data. When it comes to keeping your business secure, navigating the wide variety of compliance frameworks can feel a bit overwhelming. But there's one framework that stands out from the crowd: the SOC 2 framework. You’ve probably heard it mentioned in conversations about security, especially if you're running a B2B startup or SaaS company. So, why is the SOC 2 compliance framework the go-to choice for so many businesses? Let me break it down for you in a straightforward way. The Gold Standard for Security Assurance The SOC 2 standard is often regarded as the gold standard for businesses handling sensitive customer data. It covers a wide range of security measures, offering assurance to your clients that you’re taking the necessary steps to protect their data. Now, we all know trust is the foundation of any solid relationship, and this is especially true in business. By following the SOC 2 compliance framework, you're giving your customers peace of mind that their data is in safe hands. But it’s not just about keeping customer data safe—it’s also about proving that your security controls are working effectively. The SOC 2 audit process takes a deep dive into your company's systems and processes to ensure everything aligns with the security controls set out in the framework. It’s this thorough examination that makes SOC 2 compliance so highly regarded. Flexibility: Tailored to Your Needs One of the great things about the SOC 2 compliance framework is that it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The framework is... --- ### How long does it take to get ISO certified? > Find out how long ISO 27001 certification takes, key factors, costs, and requirements for improving your organization's information security. - Published: 2024-09-13 - Modified: 2024-09-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-iso-certified/ Find out how long ISO 27001 certification takes, key factors, costs, and requirements for improving your organization's information security. Achieving ISO 27001 certification is a big deal for any organization looking to tighten up its information security management systems (ISMS). It’s natural to wonder, "How long does ISO 27001 certification take? " The timeline really depends on your organization's size, how complex your processes are, and how close you already are to meeting the standards. But don’t worry—let’s break down everything you need to know about the process, timeline, and factors that come into play. A Quick Overview of the ISO 27001 Certification Process Before we dive into how long it takes to get ISO certification, it's helpful to understand the steps involved. The ISO 27001 certification process typically involves three main phases: planning and preparation, the audit, and then maintaining certification after you’ve earned it. Planning and preparation: This is where you get your house in order. You’ll assign roles within your organization, define the scope of your ISMS, and conduct a thorough risk assessment to see where you currently stand. It’s essential to get all the necessary documentation and controls in place to meet the ISO 27001 requirements. The audit: The audit happens in two stages. First, the auditor will review your documentation to make sure your ISMS is set up according to the standard. Then, in the second stage, they’ll take a deeper dive, interviewing employees and verifying that the system works in practice. Maintaining certification: Congratulations—you’re certified! But that’s not the end. ISO certification requires ongoing work, including yearly surveillance audits to make sure everything... --- ### How to automate vendor risk management? > Learn how to automate vendor risk management with tools for streamlined workflows, real-time monitoring, and reduced risk. - Published: 2024-09-13 - Modified: 2024-09-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-to-automate-vendor-risk-management/ Learn how to automate vendor risk management with tools for streamlined workflows, real-time monitoring, and reduced risk. Automating vendor risk management (VRM) isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a game-changer for businesses like yours navigating the complexities of third-party relationships. If you’re still relying on manual processes for managing vendor risks, let me share how automating vendor risk management can really transform your workflow. At Scytale, we’ve seen firsthand how automated vendor risk assessment and third-party risk management automation can make a world of difference. Why Automate Vendor Risk Management? Managing vendor risks used to involve a lot of manual effort—think spreadsheets, endless emails, and paperwork galore. Not only is this approach time-consuming and prone to errors, but as your vendor network grows, it quickly becomes unmanageable. This is where automating vendor risk management comes into play. Imagine you’re dealing with nearly 300 SaaS applications (the average for many organizations today). Manually tracking and managing risks across such a vast network is nearly impossible. Automation steps in to streamline these processes, continuously monitoring and addressing risks before they become serious issues. It’s like having a super-efficient team member who never sleeps! https://youtu. be/fJnQV1y6J2o Benefits of Automated Vendor Risk Assessment Let’s dive into the perks of automated vendor risk assessment: 1. Scalability Automation is a game-changer when it comes to handling a large volume of vendors. Whether you’re managing a handful or thousands, third-party risk management automation makes it all manageable. With automation, you can efficiently onboard and assess vendors without putting a strain on your team. It’s like having a high-powered tool that scales with your business needs.... --- ### What is the scope of an IT compliance audit? > Explore the scope of IT compliance audits, covering regulatory and third-party assessments to ensure your IT systems meet standards. - Published: 2024-09-13 - Modified: 2024-09-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-is-the-scope-of-an-it-compliance-audit/ Explore the scope of IT compliance audits, covering regulatory and third-party assessments to ensure your IT systems meet standards. When we dive into the scope of an IT compliance audit, we’re talking about a detailed assessment of how well your IT systems, processes, and controls are lining up with laws, regulations, and industry standards. This is more than your routine check. It’s about ensuring you're compliant and spotting where you might need to step up your game. So, what’s typically involved in this process? Let me walk you through it! What is an IT Compliance Audit? An IT compliance audit is all about scrutinizing our tech setup to confirm that you’re meeting all the necessary legal and industry requirements. It’s crucial to understand the IT compliance audit scope to prepare properly and ensure a thorough evaluation. Essentially, it helps make sure you’re playing by the rules and identifies areas where you might need to improve. Regulatory Compliance Audits: What We Look At When we talk about regulatory compliance audits, we’re focusing on whether our IT systems and practices comply with specific laws and regulations. This is especially important if you’re in industries like finance, healthcare, or telecom. Here’s what we might be looking at: Data Protection Laws: For instance, regulations like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), HIPAA. (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), and CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act) are crucial. They govern how we handle and store sensitive data, ensuring that we’re keeping personal information secure. Industry-Specific Regulations: Depending on our sector, we might need to comply with standards like PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard)... --- ### Why do you need HIPAA compliance software? > Learn why HIPAA compliance software is crucial for managing Private Health Information (PHI), enhancing security, trust, and efficiency. - Published: 2024-09-06 - Modified: 2024-09-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/why-do-you-need-hipaa-compliance-software/ Well, hi, there! If you're working in healthcare or developing healthcare software, you probably know that protecting sensitive patient data is non-negotiable. Here at Scytale, we often get asked why HIPAA compliance software is such a big deal. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets some pretty strict standards for safeguarding personal health information (PHI). Not meeting these standards can lead to some serious penalties. For healthcare software developers (especially startups) HIPAA compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines; it’s crucial for building trust with your users and partners. Let me walk you through why investing in HIPAA compliance software is essential and how it can really benefit your organization. Understanding HIPAA and Its Importance HIPAA, enacted in 1996, is designed to safeguard personal health information (PHI). It applies to healthcare providers, health plans, and clearinghouses, as well as their business associates. With data breaches in the healthcare industry rising by 42% since 2020 and costing an average of $10. 9 million per breach, securing PHI is crucial. HIPAA violations can lead to civil penalties ranging from $137 to $68,928 per violation, and in severe cases, even criminal penalties. That’s why having the right HIPAA compliance software is essential. The Perks of HIPAA Compliance Software Boosted Security and Privacy HIPAA compliance software sets up robust security controls to protect PHI. This includes access controls, user authentication, and encryption. Encryption keeps PHI safe whether it's at rest or during transmission, while audit controls help monitor who’s accessing the data, ensuring... --- ### How Much Does It Cost to Get PCI Certified? > Discover what impacts PCI compliance costs, from organization size to transaction volume, and get tips for managing and reducing expenses. - Published: 2024-08-23 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-much-does-it-cost-to-get-pci-certified/ Discover what impacts PCI compliance costs, from organization size to transaction volume, and get tips for managing and reducing expenses. So, you’re diving into PCI DSS certification and wondering about the cost? Let’s break it down. PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) is your VIP pass for secure credit card transactions. While the cost of PCI compliance varies, we’ll explore what factors influence it and how to get a rough estimate for your needs. Ready? Let’s do it! Factors Influencing PCI DSS Certification Costs Organization Size and Complexity Size matters—at least when it comes to PCI certification! The PCI certification cost can differ based on how big your organization is and how complex your payment systems are. Small businesses: If you're a small player processing fewer than 1 million card transactions a year, expect to spend between $5,000 and $20,000 annually. This includes implementing security controls, conducting security assessments, and maintaining compliance. Large enterprises: For those dealing with millions of transactions annually, brace yourself for costs ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 or more. The price tag is higher because you’ll need advanced security tech, possibly more security staff, and frequent audits to keep up with the big leagues. Transaction Volume The number of card transactions you process also plays a major role. PCI DSS breaks this down into four levels: Level 1: Over 6 million transactions per year, requiring an on-site audit by a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA). Expect audit costs around $40,000 to $70,000. Level 2: Between 1 million and 6 million transactions, needing a Report on Compliance (RoC) which might let you do a self-assessment. This... --- ### How does PCI automation benefit organizations? > Discover how PCI automation can streamline compliance, enhance security, save time, and keep you effortlessly ahead of regulations. - Published: 2024-08-23 - Modified: 2024-08-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-does-pci-automation-benefit-organizations/ Discover how PCI automation can streamline compliance, enhance security, save time, and keep you effortlessly ahead of regulations. When I talk to businesses about handling credit card transactions, one thing is clear: securing payment card data is absolutely crucial. The PCI DSS standards set the bar for keeping cardholder data safe, but sticking to these guidelines can be pretty overwhelming. That’s where PCI automation comes in—making PCI compliance automation way easier and more efficient. Efficiency and Time Savings Managing PCI compliance manually can be a huge time drain. It involves a lot of software configurations, security measures, and constant monitoring. For many teams, this can pull focus away from what really matters—your core business activities. This is where PCI audit software makes a big difference. By automating the assessment of your systems, these tools help you identify which PCI requirements you’re meeting and which ones need more attention. With PCI automation, your team can spend less time on compliance tasks and more time on product innovation. Automating the process of preparing for a PCI audit cuts down significantly on the administrative workload, allowing your team to focus on what they do best. Cost Reduction The saying “time is money” rings especially true with PCI compliance automation. Automating compliance tasks means you don’t have to spend as much on manual checks or extra staff. Additionally, PCI audit software helps ensure that audits are completed successfully on the first attempt, avoiding the costs associated with re-audits. By automating these processes, you also reduce the need for expensive external auditors. This approach to regulatory compliance automation ensures that you manage every... --- ### How do you ensure regulatory compliance? > Learn how to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements through practical steps, ensuring your company stays protected. - Published: 2024-08-23 - Modified: 2024-08-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-do-you-ensure-regulatory-compliance/ Learn how to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements through practical steps, ensuring your company stays protected. Ensuring regulatory compliance might sound like a daunting task, but trust me, it’s totally doable with the right game plan. Basically, it’s all about embedding a culture of compliance into your organization. So, here’s how I go about it: 1. Determine Relevant Regulations First things first: you need to figure out which regulations apply to your organization. This means looking at your industry, where your company operates, and the products or services you offer. For example, a tech company working in both Europe and the U. S. would need to comply with GDPR for data protection in the EU and various U. S. regulations. It’s crucial to cover both broad and industry-specific laws. 2. Identify Specific Requirements Once you’ve identified the relevant regulations, dive into the details. This involves breaking down each law into actionable steps—what exactly do you need to do to ensure compliance with regulations? It’s also essential to document everything effectively, making sure you can prove your compliance if needed. 3. Conduct an Initial Internal Audit Before implementing new policies, it’s important to assess where you stand. Conducting an internal audit helps you see if your current processes align with legal requirements, whether your employees understand the rules, and if your documentation is up to date. This step is crucial for identifying any gaps that need to be filled to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements. 4. Establish and Document Compliance Policies and Procedures Now that you know what’s required, it’s time to put it into action. Developing... --- ### Can SOC 2 automation tools integrate with other compliance frameworks?  > This Q&A dives into how SOC 2 automation tools integrate with other compliance frameworks to streamline your compliance process. - Published: 2024-08-02 - Modified: 2024-08-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/can-soc-2-automation-tools-integrate-with-other-compliance-frameworks/ This Q&A dives into how SOC 2 automation tools integrate with other compliance frameworks to streamline your compliance process. Ever felt like compliance is a never-ending chore? You're not alone. The good news is that SOC 2 automation tools are designed to streamline the compliance process for companies handling customer data, ensuring they meet the criteria established by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). As businesses rely on these tools more and more for SOC 2 compliance automation, a question I often get asked is: can these automation tools integrate with other compliance frameworks? Well let’s discuss how versatile SOC 2 compliance automation platforms really are, especially in the broader context of regulatory compliance. Understanding SOC 2 Automation Tools Let's dive into the world of SOC 2 automation tools. These nifty tools help you breeze through the compliance journey by automating those repetitive, mind-numbing tasks like evidence collection, risk assessments, and continuous monitoring. Imagine all that time and effort you save, letting you focus on what truly matters—growing your business. The importance of SOC 2 compliance automation can't be overstated; it not only makes the compliance process smoother but also boosts the accuracy and efficiency of audits, which in turn ramps up your overall security posture. Key Features of SOC 2 Compliance Automation A solid SOC 2 compliance automation platform usually packs a punch with features like: Automated evidence collection: Say goodbye to tedious manual tasks. This feature lets you gather and track evidence effortlessly, making audits a walk in the park. Continuous monitoring: With real-time alerts for compliance issues, you can nip vulnerabilities in the bud. Integrations: The... --- ### How to measure generative AI governance effectiveness? > This Q&A dives into the ins and outs of measuring generative AI governance effectiveness for responsible AI use. - Published: 2024-08-02 - Modified: 2024-08-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-to-measure-generative-ai-governance-effectiveness/ This Q&A dives into the ins and outs of measuring generative AI governance effectiveness for responsible AI use. As more organizations dive into the world of generative AI, having a solid generative AI governance framework is like having a trusty guide on a wild adventure. It ensures that everything from deployment to development is done responsibly, ethically, and in line with regulations. But how do we know if our governance is actually hitting the mark? Let’s dive into the key metrics and strategies that help us evaluate the effectiveness of governance for generative AI. Ready? Let’s do it! Building Your Generative AI Governance Framework First off, setting up a generative AI governance framework is like laying down the rules for a game you want everyone to play fairly. This framework should cover ethical guidelines, compliance protocols, and risk management strategies. If you're wondering how to get started with AI governance, think of it as mapping out your objectives—like deciding whether you want to enhance transparency, boost accountability, or spark innovation. It’s your game plan for making sure everything runs smoothly. Compliance and Risk Mitigation One of the big wins with generative AI governance is making sure you’re staying on the right side of the law. Here’s how to measure if your compliance efforts are hitting the bullseye: Number of compliance audits: Think of audits like check-ups for your AI systems. Regular audits help spot compliance gaps and areas needing improvement. Keeping track of how many audits you’ve done and their outcomes is a great way to see if your governance framework is working as it should. Incident response... --- ### How often should vulnerability scans be performed? > This Q&A dives into the ideal frequency for vulnerability scanning and best practices for optimal cybersecurity. - Published: 2024-08-02 - Modified: 2024-08-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-often-should-vulnerability-scans-be-performed/ This Q&A dives into the ideal frequency for vulnerability scanning and best practices for optimal cybersecurity. Alright, let’s dive into the world of vulnerability scanning, shall we? It is a critical component of an organization's cybersecurity strategy, designed to identify and mitigate potential weaknesses in systems and networks. How often you perform these scans can significantly impact your organization’s security posture. Let’s explore how frequently you should be running these scans, the types of scans available, and best practices for effective vulnerability management. Why is Vulnerability Scanning Important? I always like to say that you should think of vulnerability scanning as your regular health check-up, but for your IT systems. It's designed to spot any weaknesses before the bad guys do. Regular scans keep you compliant with standards like PCI DSS, HIPAA, and ISO 27001, which often mandate specific scanning frequencies. For instance, PCI DSS requires quarterly external scans, while HIPAA recommends regular assessments of all IT assets. With the time between a vulnerability being discovered and hackers exploiting it narrowing—sometimes down to just 12 days—it’s crucial not to leave long gaps between scans. That’s why continuous vulnerability scanning is gaining popularity. Relying solely on periodic scans might leave you exposed to new vulnerabilities that emerge between assessments. How Often Should You Do Vulnerability Scanning? Determining how often to perform vulnerability scanning depends on several factors, including your organization’s risk profile, compliance requirements, and the nature of your operations. Here are some guidelines: Quarterly Scans For many businesses, scanning at least once per quarter is considered best practice. This frequency allows you to maintain a baseline... --- ### How do you define the SOC 2 audit scope?   > In this Q&A, you will learn how to define your SOC 2 audit scope to build trust, manage risks, and strengthen partnerships. - Published: 2024-07-26 - Modified: 2024-07-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-do-you-define-the-soc-2-audit-scope/ In this Q&A, you will learn how to define your SOC 2 audit scope to build trust, manage risks, and strengthen partnerships. Defining the SOC 2 audit scope is a bit like setting up the game board before starting a board game. It’s all about laying out exactly what’s in play so everyone knows the rules and what’s at stake. In simpler terms, the SOC 2 audit scope outlines the boundaries of what will be assessed during the audit—basically, which internal controls and systems will be scrutinized to ensure they’re up to scratch in protecting customer data. Right, let’s get into it! https://youtu. be/VC8acNSuJFY Defining the SOC 2 Audit Scope Defining the SOC 2 audit scope involves several steps that help pinpoint exactly what will be covered. Here’s a breakdown: Choose the relevant Trust Service Criteria (TSC): The SOC 2 audit is based on the Trust Service Criteria (TSC), which are the standards used to evaluate your internal controls. There are five main TSC: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Security is a given—it’s the basic criterion everyone has to include. After that, it’s about picking which other criteria fit your specific services. For instance, if your company is all about cloud computing, then security and availability are likely going to be central to your audit scope. Specify the services in scope: Next up, you need to identify which services are part of the audit. This means any service you provide that involves collecting, storing, processing, or transmitting sensitive data should be included. Think of it as drawing a map of all the places where your data lives. This might involve... --- ### How often are SOC 2 reports required? > Discover how often SOC 2 reports are required, who needs them, and the audit process duration, ensuring your organization stays compliant. - Published: 2024-07-26 - Modified: 2024-07-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-often-are-soc-2-reports-required/ Discover how often SOC 2 reports are required, who needs them, and the audit process duration, ensuring your organization stays compliant. If you're diving into the world of SOC 2 compliance, you're probably wondering about the nitty-gritty details, like how often SOC 2 reports are required. Well, buckle up, because we're here to break it down for you! First things first: SOC 2 reports are generally obtained annually. While there's no strict legal mandate on the SOC 2 audit frequency, the industry standard is to go through this process once a year. This annual routine helps ensure that your controls are up to standard and consistently reliable over time. For your clients and stakeholders, this regular check-in is a reassurance that their precious data is in safe hands. SOC 2 Report Validity Now, you might be wondering about SOC 2 report validity. Technically, these reports don't expire. But in the fast-paced world of data security, reports older than a year can feel a bit, well, stale. Clients typically expect fresh updates annually to keep the trust alive. The relevance and timeliness of the information in your SOC 2 report are what keep it valuable. So, a yearly update is the way to go to reflect your current controls and processes accurately. SOC 2 Audit Frequency Considerations While the yearly audit is the gold standard, some situations might call for a different approach. Here are a few scenarios that could affect the SOC 2 audit frequency: Client requirements: Sometimes, clients have their own compliance needs or risk management strategies. They might ask for more frequent reports, like every six months or even... --- ### Who can perform a SOC 2 audit? > Learn who performs SOC 2 audits, the role of auditors, and tips for choosing the right firm, plus key do's and don'ts for success. - Published: 2024-07-26 - Modified: 2024-07-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/who-can-perform-a-soc-2-audit/ Learn who performs SOC 2 audits, the role of auditors, and tips for choosing the right firm, plus key do's and don'ts for success. So, you’re curious about who can dive into the nitty-gritty of a SOC 2 audit? You’ve come to the right place. Let’s break it down and make this as straightforward as possible. The Role of a SOC 2 Auditor Who are these SOC 2 auditors, anyway? Well, they’re kind of key players of the compliance world. Their job is to evaluate how a service organization manages data, focusing on key areas like security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. These auditors need to be licensed CPAs in good standing and have a hefty amount of experience under their belts. Think of them as seasoned pilots who know their way around the skies of SOC audits. They also need to have a deep understanding of the AICPA’s Trust Services Criteria, which is the foundation of the SOC 2 audit. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=iJRo_SZGxog SOC 2 Auditor Certification Here’s where it gets a bit technical, but bear with me. There’s no specific SOC 2 auditor certification. Instead, these auditors must meet some educational and professional standards. They usually have a degree in accounting or a related field, and they’re always on the ball with continuing education to keep up with the latest auditing standards. Plus, they participate in peer reviews to make sure they’re on track and complying with AICPA standards. Selecting a SOC 2 Audit Firm Choosing the right SOC 2 audit firm is crucial for a successful audit. Here are a few things to keep in mind: Experience: Look for... --- ### How can penetration testing help organizations? > This Q&A dives into how penetration testing strengthens security, uncovers vulnerabilities, and aids in ISO 27001 compliance. - Published: 2024-07-19 - Modified: 2024-07-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-can-penetration-testing-help-organizations/ This Q&A dives into how penetration testing strengthens security, uncovers vulnerabilities, and aids in ISO 27001 compliance. Penetration testing, commonly known as pen testing or ethical hacking, is a must-have for organizations that want to protect their digital assets from cyber threats. And no, it's not about testing fancy new pens – you won't see us scribbling away with a highlighter. Think of it more as a friendly hacker who simulates real-world attacks on your systems, networks, and applications to spot vulnerabilities before the bad guys do. And contrary to what you see in the movies, hacking isn't all about flashy visuals and dramatic music – it’s a lot more about meticulous planning and problem-solving. The importance of penetration testing can't be overstated – it’s like having a security guard for your digital world, helping to strengthen your security, ensure compliance with industry standards, and safeguard sensitive information from potential breaches. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=RA1K4wgJO-0 Understanding Penetration Testing Penetration testing is all about taking a proactive approach to security by checking an organization’s IT infrastructure for weaknesses. This can involve testing everything from IP address ranges to individual applications and even the organization’s name. By mimicking the tactics of attackers, organizations can get a clear picture of how vulnerabilities might be exploited to gain unauthorized access or disrupt services. There are five main types of penetration testing: Targeted testing: Zooms in on a specific target, like a particular application or system. Internal testing: Simulates an attack from within the organization’s network. External testing: Mimics an attack from outside the organization, typically by an external hacker. Blind testing:... --- ### What is a SOC 1 report? > SOC 1 Reports and their types, requirements, and benefits for ensuring financial control effectiveness in service organizations. - Published: 2024-07-19 - Modified: 2024-07-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-is-a-soc-1-report/ SOC 1 Reports and their types, requirements, and benefits for ensuring financial control effectiveness in service organizations. So, what’s a SOC 1 report, you ask? Picture it as a financial report card for companies that handle sensitive information. Officially known as a System and Organization Controls 1 report, this audit is like a badge of honor for service organizations, helping them show they’ve got their internal controls in tip-top shape. It’s all about making sure these organizations are preventing any slip-ups or sneaky fraud that could mess with their clients’ financial reporting. SOC 1 Reporting SOC 1 reporting is like getting an exclusive look into how a service organization manages its financial control systems behind the scenes. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) firm will be called in to audit the organization's IT and business process controls. The SOC 1 report checks out whether these controls are doing their job effectively. Unlike SOC 2 reports that focus on IT security and information, SOC 1 reports are all about financial control objectives specific to each organization. https://youtu. be/7cQpOKFLcK8 Types of SOC 1 Reports When it comes to SOC 1 reports, there are two categories: Type 1 and Type 2. SOC 1 Type 1 report: Think of this as a snapshot of the control design. It’s like examining a blueprint to ensure everything is designed correctly at a specific point in time. The auditor checks if the controls are designed well enough to meet their objectives. This is perfect if you’re curious about how the controls are supposed to work but don’t need a deep dive into their performance over... --- ### How do you measure the effectiveness of risk management protocols? > This Q&A dives into the effectiveness of risk management protocols. Learn the key metrics to keep your organization thriving. - Published: 2024-07-19 - Modified: 2024-07-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-do-you-measure-the-effectiveness-of-risk-management-protocols/ This Q&A dives into the effectiveness of risk management protocols. Learn the key metrics to keep your organization thriving. Hear me out. I know that measuring the effectiveness of risk management protocols might sound like a bit of a snooze fest, but it’s actually pretty crucial for keeping your organization safe, sound, and thriving. Whether you're looking at how well you handle network security threats or making sure your whole risk management strategy is in tip-top shape, this guide has got you covered. Let's dive into how you can measure the impact of your enterprise risk management protocols and ensure you're not just following the rules but really knocking it out of the park. https://youtu. be/Jt84c1RLoTo? list=PL495JGqlB4DL5WyjLTNYxm6ln20-msMZO What Are Risk Management Protocols Anyway? So, risk management protocols are like your organization’s secret ingredient when it comes to dodging disasters. They help you identify, assess, and tackle risks that could throw a wrench in your plans. This includes everything from network security risk management protocols to risk assessment and management protocols, and even those handy risk management contingency protocols for when things really go sideways. Think of them as your ultimate playbook for staying on top of any threats that come your way. Measuring What Matters Measuring the effectiveness of these protocols can be broken down into three main areas: 1. Conformance Auditing First up, we’ve got conformance auditing. This is where you check if everyone’s following the rules. But here’s the kicker: just because you’re 100% compliant doesn’t mean you’re 100% effective. It’s like acing the driving test but still being a nervous wreck behind the wheel. You need... --- ### How can HIPAA violation consequences impact an organization’s operations? > This Q&A dives into the real impact of HIPAA violations beyond the fines, like reputational damage and operational chaos. - Published: 2024-07-12 - Modified: 2024-07-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-can-hipaa-violation-consequences-impact-an-organizations-operations/ This Q&A dives into the real impact of HIPAA violations beyond the fines, like reputational damage and operational chaos. HIPAA may seem like a box ticking headache, but have you heard about the consequences of HIPAA violations? Let me just say, they’re a little more than a slap on the wrist! These slip-ups can cause real havoc and potentially put your entire organization at serious risk. A Little Refresh on HIPAA HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This US federal law, born in 1996, aims to streamline how healthcare works by setting rules for electronic transactions and making sure your health info stays private and secure. It's got a few key parts: making sure electronic transactions follow the same standards, giving every healthcare provider a unique ID, and putting in rules (like the Privacy and Security Rules) to keep your health info safe from prying eyes. If you're a healthcare provider, insurer, or handle health info, you've got to follow these rules to the T—it's all about protecting patient privacy and keeping data secure. So, what’s the damage of a HIPAA violation? Financial Fallout: First up, let's talk about the financial impact of a HIPAA breach. HIPAA violation penalties don’t come cheap. You're looking at fines that range from a hundred bucks to a whopping fifty grand per slip-up. And if you thought that was it, think again—there's an annual cap of $1. 5 million per identical violation.   Take 2020, for example. A health insurance giant got slammed with a $6. 85 million HIPAA violation fine for exposing the private health info of over... --- ### What are the key components of a post SOC 2 gap analysis? > This Q&A dives into the post-SOC 2 gap analysis. Learn about the key components, steps and strategies to maintain SOC 2 standards. - Published: 2024-07-12 - Modified: 2024-07-12 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-key-components-of-a-post-soc-2-gap-analysis/ This Q&A dives into the post-SOC 2 gap analysis. Learn about the key components, steps and strategies to maintain SOC 2 standards. So, you've nailed the SOC 2 audit—nice one! But like I always say, compliance is a journey, not a destination. So, the journey continues. Say hello to the post-SOC 2 gap analysis. This is your strategic tool to ensure that once you’re compliant, you stay compliant, and that your company stays on track with the rigorous standards of SOC 2. Understanding SOC 2 Gap Analysis Before diving into the specifics, let's clarify what a SOC 2 gap analysis actually is. This assessment is designed to identify gaps between your current security controls and the requirements laid out in the SOC 2 Trust Services Criteria. It's not just about compliance; it's about making sure your security measures are in tip-top shape and that a culture of security resilience runs strong throughout your company. Key Components of a Post-SOC 2 Gap Analysis 1. Are There Gaps in Your Security Controls? The first step is to review your recent SOC 2 audit findings like Inspector Clouseau. Look for areas where your organization fell short of compliance—these are your gaps. Whether it's a hiccup in your data encryption protocols or a slip-up in access controls, every gap identified is an opportunity to strengthen your security posture. Kind of like Pilates or yoga, but for your cybersecurity.   Next, take a good look at your current security controls across all areas- think technical, administrative, and physical. Tools like a SOC 2 gap analysis template will be your best friend here, helping to ensure that you... --- ### Why is a compliance risk assessment matrix important? > The Q&A dives into the compliance risk assessment matrix and why it is important for prioritizing risk management strategies. - Published: 2024-07-12 - Modified: 2024-07-12 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/why-is-a-compliance-risk-assessment-matrix-important/ The Q&A dives into the compliance risk assessment matrix and why it is important for prioritizing risk management strategies. There is only so much we can control, and if you aren’t prepared for potential hiccups in your business, your business’s longevity and success is at risk. Being in the cybersecurity space, I know all too well about the consequences and damage that things like cyberattacks and data breaches can cause. While you’ll never be able to avoid risk entirely, (because let’s be honest, that’s life) I always advise businesses to have a solid compliance risk assessment plan in place. This is especially important for companies that store their data in the cloud, like SaaS companies. And that is where the compliance risk assessment matrix comes in. By having a compliance risk assessment framework which helps in defining, assessing and analyzing risk, you will have better foresight into vulnerabilities, potential cracks in the system, and areas where you may need to tighten the security bolts. Taking this proactive step in risk management can save your company money, time, resources, and protect you against reputational damage and loss of customers and partners. So, What Exactly is a Compliance Risk Assessment Matrix? A compliance risk assessment is a comprehensive analysis of compliance requirements and regulations, evaluating them against your organization’s policies, procedures, and operations to identify potential risks. The compliance risk assessment matrix is a great tool that helps companies visualize how they should organizing and prioritizing these risks based on their severity and likelihood. This matrix typically categorizes risks into high, medium, and low categories using predefined criteria such as impact... --- ### What are the 5 things a compliance risk assessment should include? > This Q&A dives into the five essential steps and components every compliance risk assessment should include. - Published: 2024-07-01 - Modified: 2024-07-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-5-things-a-compliance-risk-assessment-should-include/ This Q&A dives into the five essential steps and components every compliance risk assessment should include. As the pressure to manage compliance risks continues to grow, the first step of any effective compliance risk management strategy is a comprehensive compliance risk assessment. This crucial process helps organizations understand their inherent risks and develop appropriate mitigation strategies. Let me walk you through the five essential components of a robust compliance risk assessment. 1. Identifying Risks First things first, we need to identify which regulatory compliance standards apply to your business. This involves: Documenting key workflows and systems: Think of this as mapping out your company’s processes, information systems, and transactions. It’s about understanding where you currently stand by conducting thorough reviews and assessments. Engaging with stakeholders: Don’t forget to gather insights from the people who know your operations best. Interviews and surveys with key personnel and employees can reveal the current state of compliance and potential areas of concern. 2. Mapping Potential Risks and Contact Points Once we’ve identified the risks, it's time to map them out. This step is all about connecting the dots: Gathering relevant information: Collect data on regulations, standards, and policies that apply to your industry or region (e. g. , NIST800-53, GDPR, or HIPAA). Mapping compliance risk contact points: Identify specific operations that could potentially violate applicable regulations. Evaluate how your key processes, systems, and transactions align with these regulations. Documenting potential outcomes: Map the identified risks to their potential outcomes and affected parties. This documentation is vital for audit purposes and sets the stage for effective risk mitigation. 3. Assessing Current... --- ### What are the different types of SOC Reports? > This Q&A dives into the different types of SOC (Security Operations Center) reports, their classifications, and their significance. - Published: 2024-07-01 - Modified: 2024-07-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-different-types-of-soc-reports/ This Q&A dives into the different types of SOC (Security Operations Center) reports, their classifications, and their significance. At Scytale, we often receive questions about SOC reports, their types, and their significance. If you know us, you know SOC is our first language, so we understand that SOC audits and reports play a crucial role in building trust and demonstrating an organization’s commitment to data security and integrity. So, below I will clearly and concisely break down the different types of SOC reports and explain their importance. What Are SOC Reports? SOC (System and Organization Controls) reports are third-party audit reports that provide detailed information about an organization's controls related to data security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. These reports are not just for show; they offer assurance to customers and partners that an organization handles data ethically and legally, reinforcing its credibility and trustworthiness. Why Are SOC Reports Important? Security and confidentiality: SOC reports help organizations ensure that they collect, store, and manage data securely and confidentially. Trust and credibility: They prove to stakeholders that the organization adheres to high standards of data management. Risk management: These reports assess potential risks and show that the organization follows best practices as outlined by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Types of SOC Reports SOC 1 Reports Definition:SOC 1 reports focus on the internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR). These reports are essential for organizations that provide services which can impact their clients' financial statements. Key Features: Based on SSAE 18 (issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) for companies operating outside the USA,... --- ### What are the 6 steps of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework? > This Q&A dives into the 6 steps of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework (CSF). - Published: 2024-06-27 - Modified: 2024-06-27 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-6-steps-of-the-nist-cybersecurity-framework/ This Q&A dives into the 6 steps of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework (CSF). In February 2024, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) revamped the Cyber Security Framework (CSF), marking its first significant update since 2014. The revamped NIST Cybersecurity Framework addresses evolving cybersecurity challenges and introduces a methodical approach to assessing and strengthening an organization’s cybersecurity health. One of the most notable changes in this update is the revision of the framework's core functions. The Six Steps to Enhancing Cybersecurity If you're already familiar with the original framework's five functions, you’ll find the new framework builds on that foundation. Now known as The NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2. 0, six essential steps have been introduced that guide organizations through the process of enhancing their cybersecurity measures. Govern: This focuses on enabling organizations to prioritize, communicate, and monitor their cybersecurity risk management strategy, policies, and processes. By doing so, it strengthens strategic planning and secures data in alignment with business objectives. This step ensures that cybersecurity considerations are integrated into the organization’s overall governance structure. It involves setting clear responsibilities, establishing risk management strategies, and ensuring continuous oversight of cybersecurity practices. Identify: The Identification step refers to an organization’s comprehension of its current cybersecurity risks. It involves understanding the risks posed by systems, data, services, people, and suppliers. This step is critical for identifying ways to improve policies, plans, processes, procedures, and practices. Effective identification requires a thorough assessment of potential vulnerabilities and threats that could impact the organization. Protect: This refers to the safeguarding of an organization from cyberattacks and managing cybersecurity... --- ### What are the key challenges in achieving SOC 2 compliance? > This Q&A dives into some of the key challenges companies face when aiming to achieve and maintain SOC 2 compliance. - Published: 2024-06-13 - Modified: 2024-06-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-key-challenges-in-achieving-soc-2-compliance/ This Q&A dives into some of the key challenges companies face when aiming to achieve and maintain SOC 2 compliance. Achieving SOC 2 compliance is a significant milestone for any organization, reflecting its commitment to data security and trustworthiness. However, this journey is fraught with several challenges that can be particularly daunting for small businesses. Understanding these challenges is crucial for organizations aiming to achieve and maintain SOC 2 compliance. Complexity of SOC 2 Compliance SOC 2 compliance is not a one-size-fits-all framework; it is highly customizable, which adds to its complexity. The process involves meeting specific criteria across five trust service principles: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Each organization must determine which principles are relevant to its operations and then implement controls to meet these criteria. This customization can be challenging because it requires a deep understanding of the organization’s processes, data flows, and potential risks. Conducting a SOC 2 Audit for Small Businesses For small businesses, the SOC 2 audit process itself can be daunting. Unlike larger organizations, small businesses might not have dedicated compliance or IT teams, making it challenging to prepare for and undergo a SOC 2 audit. The audit process involves a thorough examination of the organization's controls and processes to ensure they meet SOC 2 standards. For small businesses, gathering the necessary documentation, implementing required controls, and preparing for the audit can be resource-intensive and time-consuming. Additionally, small businesses may face challenges in interpreting SOC 2 requirements and understanding how to apply them to their specific operations. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Understanding and Implementing... --- ### What documentation is required for ISO 42001? > This Q&A dives into the documentation required for ISO 42001, an essential standard designed to ensure data protection within AI systems. - Published: 2024-06-13 - Modified: 2024-06-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-documentation-is-required-for-iso-42001/ This Q&A dives into the documentation required for ISO 42001, an essential standard designed to ensure data protection within AI systems. The data security framework ISO 42001 is an essential standard designed to ensure the protection of data within AI systems. It provides a structured approach to managing sensitive data, focusing on maintaining confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Achieving compliance with the ISO 42001 standard requires meticulous documentation that serves as evidence of an organization's adherence to the guidelines set forth. Here, we outline the key documentation required for ISO 42001 compliance and certification. 1. Information Security Policy An Information Security Policy is the cornerstone document that outlines the organization's commitment to data security. It should include the objectives, scope, and principles of the organization's security framework. This document sets the tone for the entire ISO 42001 framework, indicating how the organization plans to protect data and what measures will be taken to achieve these goals. 2. Risk Assessment Reports Risk assessments are crucial to understanding potential threats to the organization's data. Documentation should include detailed reports of risk assessments conducted, highlighting identified risks, their potential impact, and the likelihood of occurrence. This includes methodologies used for risk assessment, tools applied, and the criteria for risk evaluation. 3. Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) For organizations handling large volumes of sensitive data, conducting DPIAs is mandatory. These assessments help in identifying and mitigating risks associated with data processing activities. The DPIA documentation should include descriptions of the data processing activities, assessment of the necessity and proportionality of these activities, identification of risks to individuals, and measures taken to address these risks. 4. Information... --- ### Does SOC 2 require penetration testing? > This Q&A dives into SOC 2 requirements and the role of penetration testing within the broader scope of a SOC 2 audit. - Published: 2024-06-13 - Modified: 2024-06-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/does-soc-2-require-penetration-testing/ This Q&A dives into SOC 2 requirements and the role of penetration testing within the broader scope of a SOC 2 audit. SOC 2, or System and Organization Controls 2, is a crucial framework for ensuring that service organizations manage customer data based on five "trust service criteria"—security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Among the various components of SOC 2 compliance, penetration testing often surfaces as a topic of discussion. Understanding the relationship between SOC 2 and penetration testing requires a deeper dive into the specifics of SOC 2 requirements and the role of penetration testing within the broader scope of a SOC 2 audit. https://youtu. be/6eDOZr7htHg SOC 2 and Penetration Testing Penetration testing is a method used to evaluate the security of an information system by simulating an attack from malicious outsiders (and insiders). This testing aims to identify and fix vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. Given its importance, many organizations wonder if SOC 2 requires penetration testing as part of its compliance framework. SOC 2 Testing and Penetration Testing SOC 2 testing is a comprehensive process that examines an organization’s controls to ensure they meet the specified trust service criteria. The testing encompasses a variety of methods, including but not limited to, internal audits, continuous monitoring, and vulnerability assessments. While SOC 2 does not explicitly mandate penetration testing, it strongly implies it under the security (or common criteria) category. The security principle, often the most critical aspect of SOC 2, requires that the system is protected against unauthorized access, both physical and logical. This requirement is where penetration testing becomes relevant. Although not explicitly stated as a requirement,... --- ### How to choose a compliance management tool? > This Q&A outlines key considerations to help organizations evaluate and select the best compliance management tool. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-06-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/how-to-choose-a-compliance-management-tool/ This Q&A outlines key considerations to help organizations evaluate and select the best compliance management tool. Selecting the right compliance management tool is critical for organizations aiming to ensure adherence to laws, regulations, and internal policies. A robust compliance management tool can streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and mitigate risks. However, with numerous options available, choosing the most suitable tool can be challenging. The below outlines key considerations to help organizations select the best compliance management tool. We also have a guide available here on how to evaluate security compliance software before purchasing.   Understanding Compliance Management Tools A compliance management tool is software designed to help organizations manage their regulatory compliance processes. These tools typically include features for tracking regulatory changes, managing compliance tasks, monitoring compliance status, and generating reports. They form a core component of a broader risk and compliance management solution, ensuring that all aspects of an organization's compliance obligations are met effectively. Key Considerations for Choosing a Compliance Management Tool Identify Your Compliance Needs The first step in selecting a compliance management tool is to understand your organization’s specific compliance requirements. Different industries face different regulatory challenges. Assess the regulatory landscape relevant to your business and identify the specific compliance tasks and processes you need to manage. Comprehensive Features Ensure the tool offers a comprehensive set of features that address your compliance needs. Key features to look for include: Regulatory Tracking: Real-time updates on regulatory changes. Task Management: Tools for assigning and tracking compliance-related tasks. Document Management: Secure storage and retrieval of compliance documents. Audit Management: Tools to facilitate internal and external audits.... --- ### What are the testing procedures for SOC 2 controls? > This Q&A breaks down the testing procedures for SOC 2 controls and why they're essential for organizations aiming for SOC 2 compliance. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-06-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-testing-procedures-for-soc-2-controls/ This Q&A breaks down the testing procedures for SOC 2 controls and why they're essential for organizations aiming for SOC 2 compliance. SOC 2 compliance is crucial for organizations that handle sensitive customer data, ensuring robust security and operational controls. The SOC 2 audit process evaluates an organization’s adherence to the SOC 2 trust principles: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Central to this evaluation are the SOC 2 controls, which are tested rigorously to ensure they meet the required standards. Understanding the testing procedures for SOC 2 controls is essential for organizations aiming for SOC 2 compliance. SOC 2 Controls SOC 2 controls are the policies, procedures, and technologies that an organization implements to safeguard data and ensure the integrity of its systems. These controls are categorized under the five SOC 2 trust principles: Security: Measures to protect against unauthorized access. Availability: Controls to ensure the system is operational and accessible. Processing Integrity: Measures to ensure data processing is accurate and authorized. Confidentiality: Controls to protect confidential information. Privacy: Measures to handle personal data according to the privacy notice. Each control must be tested to verify its effectiveness and reliability. SOC 2 Audit Process The SOC 2 audit process is comprehensive, involving several key steps to evaluate the effectiveness of the SOC 2 controls: Scoping: Determining the systems, processes, and controls to be included in the audit. Readiness Assessment: A preliminary review to identify gaps and prepare for the audit. Formal Audit: Conducted by a SOC 2 auditor, this phase involves detailed testing of controls. Reporting: Documenting the findings and providing recommendations for improvement. The testing of SOC 2 controls... --- ### What are the benefits of SOC 2 compliance? > This Q&A describes the benefits of SOC 2 compliance, highlighting its importance and impact on businesses that handle sensitive customer data. - Published: 2024-04-04 - Modified: 2024-06-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/question/what-are-the-benefits-of-soc-2-compliance/ This Q&A describes the benefits of SOC 2 compliance, highlighting its importance and impact on businesses that handle sensitive customer data. SOC 2 compliance is becoming increasingly vital for organizations, especially those in the technology and service sectors that handle sensitive customer data. This compliance not only assures customers and partners of an organization’s commitment to security and privacy but also enhances operational efficiency and market competitiveness. SOC 2, which stands for Service Organization Control 2, is a framework established by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) to evaluate an organization’s adherence to specific trust principles. Below, I describe the benefits of SOC 2 compliance, highlighting its importance and impact on businesses. Understanding SOC 2 Trust Principles Before delving into the benefits, it's crucial to understand the SOC 2 trust principles, which are the foundation of this compliance framework. These principles include: Security: The system is protected against unauthorized access. Availability: The system is available for operation and use as committed or agreed. Processing Integrity: System processing is complete, valid, accurate, timely, and authorized. Confidentiality: Information designated as confidential is protected as committed or agreed. Privacy: Personal information is collected, used, retained, disclosed, and disposed of in conformity with the commitments in the entity’s privacy notice. Compliance with these principles ensures that an organization has robust controls and procedures in place, ultimately leading to numerous benefits. Benefits of SOC 2 Compliance Enhanced Security and Data Protection SOC 2 compliance requires rigorous controls and continuous monitoring to protect against data breaches and unauthorized access. Adherence to the security principle ensures that an organization has implemented strong safeguards, such as encryption, firewalls, and... --- --- ## Glossary Items ### Vulnerability Mitigation > Vulnerability mitigation is the process of reducing or eliminating the risk associated with security vulnerabilities. Learn more here. - Published: 2025-08-08 - Modified: 2025-08-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vulnerability-mitigation/ Vulnerability mitigation is the process of reducing or eliminating the risk associated with a security vulnerability. A vulnerability is a weakness or gap in a security system that can be exploited by an attacker to gain unauthorized access, steal data, or cause damage to a system. Vulnerability mitigation strategies are essential for protecting digital assets and maintaining the security of any system, whether it's a small business network or a large enterprise infrastructure.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=8i5fi5SrMWU Vulnerability Remediation vs. Vulnerability Mitigation Before we dive into the specifics of vulnerability mitigation and why it's essential for strengthening your security posture, it's important to understand the difference between remediation and mitigation. What is vulnerability remediation? Remediation is the process of fixing a vulnerability after it has been discovered. This can involve patching software, changing configurations, or updating policies to address the issue. Remediation is reactive in nature and typically involves a more significant investment of time and resources than mitigation. What is vulnerability mitigation? Mitigation, on the other hand, is proactive. It involves identifying potential vulnerabilities before they can be exploited and taking steps to reduce or eliminate the associated risk. Mitigation strategies can include things like implementing access controls, using encryption, and conducting regular vulnerability scans. Mitigation is generally less expensive and less disruptive than remediation, as it allows security teams to address potential issues before they become actual problems. To clarify these differences further, the table below outlines key aspects of vulnerability remediation versus vulnerability mitigation: AspectVulnerability RemediationVulnerability... --- ### Due Diligence Questionnaire (DDQ) > A Due Diligence Questionnaire (DDQ) is a vital tool for assessing risks and making informed decisions before business transactions. - Published: 2025-08-07 - Modified: 2025-08-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/due-diligence-questionnaire-ddq/ If your company has ever been through a security review or if you're preparing to work with enterprise customers, you’ve likely come across a Due Diligence Questionnaire (DDQ). What is a due diligence questionnaire? A due diligence questionnaire, or DDQ, is a comprehensive document that organizations send to vendors (like your SaaS business) to assess the risks involved in doing business together. These questionnaires help evaluate key aspects such as: Information security Data privacy Security protocols Compliance posture Business continuity With the numbers of threats only increasing and becoming more advanced, partners want to ensure they’re not introducing unnecessary risk into their business operations. The meaning of a due diligence questionnaire (DDQ) extends beyond a simple checklist; it’s a comprehensive snapshot of your company’s trustworthiness and ability to safeguard sensitive data. For SaaS companies especially, the DDQ is often a key part of vendor risk assessments during sales or procurement compliance processes. Filling it out thoroughly and efficiently can be the difference between securing a significant business transaction, landing a customer or stalling in the pipeline. What are the key aspects of a due diligence questionnaire? A well-designed DDQ touches on multiple areas of risk and operational maturity. While formats and frameworks can vary depending on the industry or customer requirements, most DDQs will include questions in the following categories: CategoryWhat It CoversInformation SecurityPolicies, encryption methods, access controls, and threat detection mechanismsSecurity ComplianceAdherence to key security compliance and data privacy frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, or GDPRData PrivacyHow... --- ### VAPT in Cyber Security > VAPT is a cybersecurity approach that combines vulnerability assessment and penetration testing techniques to mitigate vulnerabilities. - Published: 2025-08-04 - Modified: 2025-08-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vapt-in-cyber-security/ Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) in cyber security helps organizations proactively identify weaknesses and potential entry points for cyber attacks, allowing them to strengthen their security defenses and reduce the risk of breaches and data loss. What is VAPT? VAPT is a comprehensive cybersecurity approach that combines vulnerability assessment and penetration testing techniques to identify, assess, and mitigate security vulnerabilities in an organization's systems, networks, and applications. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=u8kpSjgMrco VAPT Testing VAPT testing involves a structured and systematic assessment of an organization's IT infrastructure, including networks, servers, applications, and devices, to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. This testing typically consists of two main components: Vulnerability Assessment: Vulnerability assessment involves scanning and analyzing systems and networks for known vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and weaknesses. Automated tools and scanners are often used to identify common vulnerabilities such as outdated software, missing patches, default passwords, and insecure configurations. Penetration Testing: Penetration testing, also known as ethical hacking, involves simulating real-world cyber attacks to exploit identified vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access to systems or data. Penetration testers use a combination of manual techniques and automated tools to simulate attack scenarios and assess the effectiveness of security controls in place. Pen testing is required for most security compliance and data privacy frameworks. How Does Vulnerability Assessment Differ From Penetration Testing? FeaturesVulnerability AssessmentPenetration TestingGoalIdentify potential vulnerabilities and attack pathsExploit vulnerabilities to assess impactMethodologyAutomated scans with vulnerability scannersManual simulations of attacksDepth & ScopeSurface-level scans for known vulnerabilitiesIn-depth analysis, including zero-days and... --- ### Access Control > Access control is the process or technology of ensuring that only authorized people or items have access to important areas. - Published: 2025-08-04 - Modified: 2025-08-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/access-control/ Access control is an important security measure used to keep your data, systems, and networks safe. It works by granting specific user permissions to access certain resources while denying access to others. This helps protect your business from malicious actors who may try to gain access to sensitive information. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=C0lxgtCil6U What is Access Control? Access control is the process or technology of ensuring that only authorized people or items have access to important areas and resources, such as networks, computers, servers, and other physical locations. It can help to protect systems from unauthorized access or use. Access control typically involves the use of a variety of technologies and policies, such as security hardware, software, biometrics and preventive maintenance services, to restrict access to protected data and information.   There are several different types of access control models, including discretionary access control (DAC), mandatory access control (MAC), role-based access control (RBAC) and attribute-based access control (ABAC). Ultimately, access control helps to ensure that an organization's critical assets are not misused or damaged while also allowing authorized personnel to safely interact with those assets. It also helps support compliance with key security frameworks and regulations by making sure that only the right people are accessing sensitive data. In this way, businesses can maintain security while still ensuring user productivity. Why is Access Control Important? Security and Access Control policies help safeguard confidential data, including customer information, financial data, and intellectual property. By restricting access to these resources, you can... --- ### Subservice Organization > During the SOC 1 or SOC 2 process, organizations must identify vendors whose services impact their operations and compliance requirements. - Published: 2025-07-24 - Modified: 2025-07-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/subservice-organization/ As part of the SOC 1 or SOC 2 process, an organization needs to go through an exercise to identify vendors that are performing a service to the organization. Once those vendors are identified, the organization needs to understand which of those services performed have an impact on the control environment and forms part of the SOC 1 or SOC 2 scope. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=5C52dG_o-nE What is a Subservice? Essentially, a subservice organization is a certain type of vendor that an organization uses to perform certain services relevant to user entities’ internal controls over financial reporting (SOC 1) or to the Trust Services Criteria (SOC 2). So, what is subservice exactly? A subservice refers to a distinct service or task provided by a subservice organization. These subservices are integral to the organization’s ability to meet its compliance requirements. For instance, the management of security logs, data storage, or backup services may be outsourced to a subservice organization. The subservice organization performs these tasks on behalf of the service organization, which in turn relies on their controls and processes to maintain compliance. Examples of subservice organizations most commonly seen in SOC 1 and SOC 2 reports are: Cloud service providers (AWS, GCP, Azure) Software as a service or platform as a service provider Datacenter providers Understanding what a subservice is and how these organizations operate is crucial for businesses assessing third-party risks and ensuring the effectiveness of their overall GRC programs. Example of a Service Organization and Subservice Organization Relationship... --- ### SOC 2 Change Management > SOC 2 change management is a process businesses use to control and track changes within their organization while ensuring compliance. - Published: 2025-07-24 - Modified: 2025-07-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-change-management/ SOC 2 change management is the structured process your business uses to control and track any changes within your organization. For SaaS companies, it’s essential for proving to your customers that you can manage change without increasing risk. From implementing new code to updating access guidelines, your processes must be consistent, secure, and audit-ready. Let's explore how you can align change management with SOC 2 requirements and strengthen your overall security and compliance posture. What is SOC 2 Change Management? If you're running a SaaS company, you already know that managing change in your environment isn't just about releasing updates or fixing bugs. It's about maintaining control, consistency, and compliance. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=tq0aOzzsamU SOC 2 change management refers to the structured approach your organization takes to manage changes in your systems, applications, and infrastructure in a way that aligns with the Trust Services Criteria (TSC) like security, availability, and privacy. In simple terms, SOC 2 change management refers to your company's documented and repeatable process for handling changes, with a focus on minimizing risk and protecting customer data. It typically includes approval workflows, continuous monitoring and testing, and detailed audit trails. Why Change Management is Crucial for SOC 2 Compliance Failing to manage change effectively can lead to numerous consequences including service downtime, vulnerabilities, and non-compliance with SOC 2 compliance requirements. A strong change management process is a must if you're aiming for a successful SOC 2 audit. Here's why it matters: Minimizes Risk: By evaluating risks before implementing... --- ### HIPAA Journal > The HIPAA Journal is a go-to resource for businesses looking to stay informed, prepared, and HIPAA compliant. - Published: 2025-06-20 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-journal/ Looking for reliable updates on HIPAA? The HIPAA Journal is a go-to resource for staying informed, prepared, and compliant. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=GRm3Iruttsk What is HIPAA? HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. It’s a U. S. law that sets the standard for how healthcare organizations, and any business handling protected health information (PHI), must safeguard that data. For SaaS companies that serve the healthcare industry (or are looking to), HIPAA is a critical compliance framework. Whether you offer cloud storage, patient communication tools, health analytics, or any app that touches PHI, HIPAA applies to you. It outlines administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to protect data privacy and security. In addition to being a legal requirement, it provides a significant competitive edge as demonstrating HIPAA compliance signals that your business takes security seriously and is prepared to meet the stringent standards of healthcare customers. Why HIPAA Compliance Matters for Your Business If you’re building or scaling a SaaS product in or adjacent to the healthcare space, HIPAA compliance isn’t optional, it’s essential. Here's why: Customer Trust: Healthcare organizations need assurance that their vendors meet security and privacy requirements. Market Access: HIPAA compliance is often a prerequisite for landing contracts in healthcare. Risk Reduction: Avoid costly fines and reputational damage by addressing vulnerabilities before they become incidents. Operational Readiness: Building in compliance early simplifies audit prep and due diligence later down the road. To put it in perspective, HIPAA violations can result in fines ranging from... --- ### Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) > The CSA is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting best practices, standards, and research related to cloud computing security. - Published: 2025-06-20 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cloud-security-alliance-csa/ The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) is a key organization focused on promoting security best practices in cloud computing. It provides valuable resources, frameworks, and certifications to help businesses and cloud service providers manage the greatest challenges of cloud security. What is the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA)? The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting best practices, standards, and research related to cloud computing security. The CSA plays a key role in addressing the complexities of cloud security and helps organizations mitigate risks associated with cloud adoption while ensuring compliance with necessary standards. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=K1nUIyvUVCo What are the Cloud Security Alliance's Key Objectives? CSA’s core mission is to foster a trusted cloud ecosystem by providing essential resources and guidance for both cloud service providers (CSPs) and customers. Its objectives include: Promote Cloud Security: Raising awareness about the importance of cloud security and helping organizations adopt best practices to mitigate cloud-related risks. Develop and Share Resources: Creating valuable tools, research reports, whitepapers, and frameworks that support organizations in understanding and addressing cloud security challenges. Advocate for Cloud Security Standards: Actively working to develop cloud security standards and collaborating with other industry bodies to ensure that security remains a top priority. Offer Cloud Security Certification: Providing certification programs that validate individuals' and organizations' proficiency in cloud security best practices and principles. Through its tools, frameworks, and certifications, CSA supports organizations in building a secure foundation for their cloud computing environments, addressing both infrastructure security and data privacy... --- ### Compliance Risk Management > Compliance risk management is a systematic approach used by organizations to proactively identify, assess, and mitigate any risk. - Published: 2025-05-23 - Modified: 2025-05-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-risk-management/ Compliance risk management is a proactive, systematic approach organizations use to identify, evaluate, and mitigate any risks associated with laws, regulations, and industry standards. Understanding exactly what compliance risk is and how you can implement a solid compliance risk management program is critical for safeguarding your company’s legal standing, reputation, and financial health. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=wlZOC2iK4wE What is Compliance Risk? A common question is: what exactly is compliance risk? Simply put, it’s the chance that an organization may face legal or regulatory penalties, financial losses, or damage to its reputation due to failure to comply with applicable laws, regulations, internal policies, or ethical standards. These risks can stem from various sources, such as changes in laws, weak internal controls, employee misconduct, or third-party failures. Effectively managing these risks requires a dedicated compliance and risk management framework that not only addresses current requirements but also anticipates future compliance challenges. What is a Compliance Risk Management Program? A compliance risk management program is a structured set of policies, procedures, and controls designed to help an organization meet security, regulatory, and ethical requirements. It enables the identification, assessment, monitoring, and mitigation of risks before they turn into costly violations or disruptions. Each company customizes its program based on industry-specific regulations and its unique environment. A comprehensive program typically includes: Risk assessment processes Policy development and enforcement Employee training and awareness Continuous monitoring and auditing Incident response and remediation Many companies use compliance risk management systems to monitor, report, and address potential issues... --- ### Application Security Testing > Discover how application security testing helps businesses identify vulnerabilities, strengthen their security posture, and stay compliant. - Published: 2025-04-25 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/application-security-testing/ Application Security Testing, or AST for short, is all about making sure your software is safe from security threats. Whether you're building a product from scratch or managing a growing SaaS platform, it’s essential to test your applications for security vulnerabilities.   What is Application Security Testing?   In the simplest terms, application security testing is the process of checking your software for weaknesses that malicious actors could exploit. These checks occur from the very beginning and continue throughout the software development life cycle (SDLC), not just at the end. By applying a shift-left security approach and integrating security measures and compliance checks earlier in the software development lifecycle, businesses can find and fix issues before they turn into full-blown security incidents. Why Does Application Security Testing Matter? Conducting application security testing early in the development process significantly reduces the time and effort required for remediation later. Additionally, AST plays a vital role in protecting your users, sensitive data, and organizational reputation. For businesses aiming to achieve or maintain compliance with security and data privacy frameworks such as ISO 27001, SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, or PCI DSS, having solid application security testing practices in place is essential. These frameworks often require clear evidence that you’re actively performing regular data security testing and IT security testing as part of your broader risk management strategy. Beyond compliance, strong security practices reflect your organization’s commitment to security, building long-lasting trust with customers and stakeholders, and helping to prevent the financial and operational consequences... --- ### Vendor Security Alliance Questionnaire (VSAQ) > The Vendor Security Alliance Questionnaire (VSAQ) is a standardized tool that helps businesses assess vendor security and mitigate risk. - Published: 2025-04-17 - Modified: 2025-04-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-security-alliance-questionnaire/ When working with third-party vendors, security is crucial. That’s where the Vendor Security Alliance Questionnaire (VSAQ) steps in. Designed to help businesses assess the security posture of their vendors, this questionnaire ensures that companies partner only with those who meet rigorous security and compliance standards. Whether you’re a SaaS startup evaluating a new cloud provider or a scale-up ensuring compliance across your partners, the VSAQ can help simplify the entire assessment process. What is the Vendor Security Alliance? The Vendor Security Alliance (VSA) is a coalition of companies committed to improving security standards in vendor relationships. Developed with the purpose of simplifying the process of evaluating third-party security, the VSA provides a standardized security questionnaire. Instead of each company creating its own security assessment from scratch, the VSA questionnaire offers a widely accepted framework that vendors can complete to demonstrate their security readiness. Additionally, the VSA provides resources to help organizations understand and implement security and vendor risk management best practices. It ensures that businesses have access to a community of security-conscious companies that prioritize effective vendor risk management. By using the VSAQ, companies can collaborate more effectively while maintaining strong security postures. What is the Vendor Security Alliance Questionnaire (VSAQ)? The Vendor Security Alliance Questionnaire (VSAQ) is a standardized set of security questions used to assess vendors' security measures. It covers key areas such as: Data protection and encryption Access control and authentication Security and data privacy compliance frameworks (e. g. , SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR) Incident response... --- ### Monitoring Period > Learn about the monitoring period in compliance and its role in maintaining security, ensuring continuous compliance, and building trust. - Published: 2025-04-10 - Modified: 2025-04-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/monitoring-period/ When it comes to security and compliance, consistency is key. That’s where the monitoring period comes in. This term refers to the timeframe in which an organization's security controls are actively observed and assessed to ensure continuous compliance.   Whether you’re undergoing a SOC 2 audit or working to maintain compliance with other key security and data privacy frameworks, the monitoring period plays a vital role in determining the reliability and effectiveness of an organization’s security measures and standards. What is the Monitoring Period in Compliance? The monitoring period is the length of time during which an organization’s security controls and compliance processes are reviewed, and typically takes place before an official compliance report is issued. This is particularly important for frameworks like SOC 2, where auditors need to examine how well a company adheres to security principles over time. The monitoring period provides a clear snapshot of an organization’s security posture and operational effectiveness, helping businesses demonstrate their commitment to compliance. How Long is a Monitoring Period? A common question organizations ask is: How long is a monitoring period? The answer varies depending on the compliance framework and business needs. In a SOC 2 audit, the monitoring period typically ranges from three to twelve months, depending on the type of report and the compliance requirements being assessed. Shorter monitoring periods might apply to companies that need faster validation, while longer periods provide a more comprehensive view of security control effectiveness and overall security compliance efforts. Organizations must carefully choose... --- ### DREAD Model > Learn about the DREAD model, a Microsoft risk assessment framework for assessing and prioritizing security threats. - Published: 2025-04-09 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/dread-model/ The DREAD model is a key framework used in security to evaluate and prioritize potential threats. Developed by Microsoft DREAD, this model offers a structured approach to threat modeling, helping security professionals systematically analyze and address threats based on their potential impact. Let’s explore what the DREAD model entails, its components, and how it applies to DREAD security and DREAD threat modeling. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=m40IaP4pRIo The DREAD Model: Origins and Purpose The DREAD model was introduced by Microsoft DREAD as part of their broader efforts in threat modeling. The primary goal of this model is to provide a simple yet effective way to quantify the risk associated with various threats. By using the DREAD model, security teams can better understand the potential consequences of different threats and allocate resources more efficiently to address them. Components of the DREAD Model The DREAD model consists of five key components, each represented by a letter in the acronym: Damage Potential: This component assesses the potential damage that a successful attack could cause. It includes the severity of the impact, such as financial loss, data breaches, and reputational damage. The higher the DREAD risk in this category, the more critical the threat. Reproducibility: This factor evaluates how easily an attack can be reproduced. If an attack is straightforward to replicate, it poses a higher risk because more attackers can execute it. Exploitability: This component looks at how easy it is to exploit a vulnerability. Factors such as the availability of exploit tools and... --- ### Compliance Documentation > Compliance documentation plays a vital role in ensuring compliance and providing evidence of compliance to relevant authorities. - Published: 2025-04-07 - Modified: 2025-04-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-documentation/ What is compliance documentation? Compliance documentation refers to the detailed records, policies, procedures, and evidence a business maintains to verify the implementation and effectiveness of a compliance program. Organizations use this vital documentation to prove that they adhere to the required regulatory and industry standards and frameworks. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=wSEa9qQmYdc Whether we're talking about achieving PCI DSS compliance documentation for handling payment card data, SOC 2 compliance documentation to secure customer information, or HIPAA compliance documentation for safeguarding healthcare data - keeping these records up-to-date and accurate is essential. It helps demonstrate to auditors, customers, and other key stakeholders that your business is playing by the rules and is ready to protect sensitive data at every turn. Why is compliance documentation important for your business? Having your compliance documentation in order demonstrates your commitment to maintaining high standards of security, privacy, and operational excellence. It’s essentially a roadmap that outlines what needs to be done, when, and by whom. By having the right documents, you’ll know what areas need attention, can quickly respond to auditor requests, and can even enhance customer trust.   If you’re in industries like finance, healthcare, or SaaS, maintaining clear compliance documentation is essential for meeting the required standards of key security and privacy frameworks. How compliance documentation supports the compliance process Your ability to achieve and maintain compliance largely depends on your compliance documentation. Without the right documents, it’s nearly impossible to prove that your business is adhering to rules or implementing best practices.... --- ### ISO 31000  > Discover how compliance with the globally recognized ISO 31000 standard can help your business manage risks more effectively. - Published: 2025-04-04 - Modified: 2025-04-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-31000/ Whether you're in healthcare, finance, technology, or any other industry, managing risks is essential to ensuring smooth operations and long-term business growth. ISO 31000 is a globally recognized standard for risk management, providing organizations with a framework to identify, assess, and manage risks effectively. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about ISO 31000. What is ISO 31000? At its core, ISO 31000 is an international standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to guide organizations in implementing effective risk management strategies. It doesn’t outline specific risks to address but provides valuable principles and guidelines that can be tailored to any organization - regardless of its size, sector, or geographical location. This standard helps organizations make informed decisions, protect their resources, and embrace new opportunities with confidence. Unlike a checklist or set of rules to follow, ISO 31000 focuses on creating a risk-aware culture and making sure that risk management forms part of day-to-day business activities. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=mh1A5Fd6_iE Why ISO 31000 Matters Risk is part of every business, and it comes in various forms - financial uncertainty, security threats, operational inefficiencies, compliance challenges, and more. ISO 31000 risk management helps organizations take a proactive approach to risk management, instead of simply reacting when issues come up.   By adopting this standard, businesses can: Protect themselves from potential losses. Gain stakeholder confidence by showing a commitment to managing risks. Create a company culture where risks are seen as opportunities for growth. What is the ISO 31000... --- ### Compliance Evidence Management > Compliance evidence management is essential for collecting and organizing the necessary proof to demonstrate your compliance. - Published: 2025-04-04 - Modified: 2025-04-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-evidence-management/ If you’ve begun your compliance journey, you’ve likely encountered the term “compliance evidence management. ” For those new to this critical aspect of compliance, it involves organizing and tracking the necessary proof to demonstrate adherence to industry regulations and standards.   This glossary simplifies the most important concepts you need to know so you can keep your business audit-ready and confident in meeting compliance requirements. What is Compliance Evidence Management? Compliance evidence management refers to how your business gathers, organizes, and keeps track of all the proof needed to show you're meeting industry standards or regulations. Whether you’re proving data privacy compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS, or showing you’ve met the security compliance requirements of SOC 2 or ISO 27001, compliance evidence management is all about being prepared for when auditors come knocking. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=DlQtABm40uo Why is Compliance Evidence Management Important? Undergoing an audit is like presenting your work for review, but with significantly higher stakes and potential implications for your organization. Without a solid evidence management system, you risk losing track of vital documents, wasting valuable time, and potentially failing an audit. An effective compliance evidence management approach is vital as it ensures everything you need is easily accessible, reliable, and verifiable. Key Terms to Know Evidence Management System: An evidence management system organizes and keeps track of every piece of compliance evidence you gather. Its primary goal is to make it easy for you to store, update, and retrieve documents at any time. Instead... --- ### Risk Control Matrix > Discover the importance of a Risk Control Matrix (RCM) in managing risks and ensuring compliance with key security and privacy frameworks. - Published: 2025-04-04 - Modified: 2025-04-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-control-matrix/ Security and compliance professionals require many tools to do their jobs well, and perhaps none is as important - or useful - as a risk control matrix. Let’s explore why a risk control matrix is essential in bringing structure to your internal audit or risk management program. What is a Risk Control Matrix? A Risk Control Matrix (RCM) is a key tool used in risk management to identify, assess, and mitigate risks within an organization. The matrix helps ensure that proper controls are in place to address potential risks, making it a fundamental part of internal audits and compliance processes. By clearly defining risks and linking them to appropriate control measures, a risk control matrix allows businesses to maintain operational efficiency and meet security compliance and regulatory requirements. Additionally, the RCM is widely used in financial reporting, operational processes, and IT systems, ensuring that risks are managed consistently across all areas. Why is a Risk Control Matrix Important? RCMs ensure that organizations have the right methods in place to detect and prevent risks that could impact their financial status, operational integrity, and compliance, bringing discipline and structure to their entire risk management program. The RCM also provides a clear framework for auditors to understand the company's risk landscape, streamlining the audit process and leading to more accurate and reliable results. The Role of the Risk Control Matrix in Internal Audits When it comes to conducting internal audits, the risk control matrix plays a critical role in assessing the effectiveness of... --- ### Shift-Left Security > Shift-Left Security integrates security early in the development process, reducing vulnerabilities, lowering costs, and ensuring compliance. - Published: 2025-03-14 - Modified: 2025-03-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/shift-left-security/ Shift-Left Security is a fundamental concept in modern software development and cybersecurity. This approach to security and compliance reverses the traditional model, embedding security into the development process from day one. If you’ve ever felt the frustration of last-minute security issues derailing your project, Shift-Left Security is the way forward. What is Shift-Left Security?   At its core, Shift-Left Security is about integrating security measures and compliance checks earlier in the software development lifecycle (SDLC). In traditional models, security testing is often conducted near the end of the development process, right before deployment. The problem is that, by that point, security issues can be more challenging (and costly) to fix. Shift-Left Security moves security testing and best practices leftward - toward the very beginning of the SDLC. This proactive approach fundamentally changes how teams approach security, making it an integral part of the development process from the very start. By detecting and addressing security vulnerabilities early, it saves developers time and money while ensuring that security is seamlessly integrated into the design process. Why is it called "Shift-Left"? The SDLC is a timeline running from left to right, where the left represents the early stages like design and coding, and the right represents later stages like testing and deployment. Shifting security “left” means continuous integration of security measures earlier in the timeline, ensuring that vulnerabilities are identified and addressed during the design and coding phases rather than during testing or after deployment. Why Should Businesses Shift Left? Embracing Shift-Left Security... --- ### Encryption Key Management > Learn how encryption key management protects your sensitive data and ensures compliance with key security and privacy compliance frameworks. - Published: 2025-03-07 - Modified: 2025-03-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/encryption-key-management/ Encryption key management acts as the safeguard for your data - without it, even the strongest encryption won’t keep your information safe. Let’s dive into what this critical process entails and why it’s essential for your business. What is Encryption Key Management? At its core, encryption key management (EKM) is the process of handling the digital keys used to lock (encrypt) and unlock (decrypt) sensitive information. Think of these keys as the secret codes that protect your data. If these keys fall into the wrong hands or get lost, your encrypted data is at risk of being exposed. An encryption key management system ensures that these keys are created, stored, shared, and retired securely. It’s like having a sophisticated filing system for your keys that makes sure they’re always safe and accessible when needed. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=7xvNV6pwjtU Why is Encryption Key Management Important? Think of placing all your valuables in a high-security vault, only to leave the key in an unsecured, easily accessible location. Even the strongest encryption cannot safeguard your data if the encryption keys are not managed properly. With security threats on the rise and more businesses relying on the cloud, robust encryption key management solutions are essential. They help protect sensitive customer data, financial information, and intellectual property from unauthorized access, helping your business maintain trust and comply with key data security regulations. How Does Encryption Key Management Work? Encryption key management revolves around five main functions: Key Generation: Creating strong, unique encryption keys. Key Storage:... --- ### Key Risk Indicator (KRI) > Key Risk Indicators (KRIs) are vital for effective risk management as they flag potential risks before they turn into bigger problems. - Published: 2025-03-07 - Modified: 2025-03-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/key-risk-indicator/ With security risks on the rise, your business needs to stay ahead of the curve. One powerful approach that you can use to strengthen your risk management strategy is to use key risk indicators (KRIs). So, what exactly are KRIs, and how can they be leveraged to enhance your approach to information security? What is a Key Risk Indicator (KRI)? A Key Risk Indicator (KRI) is like an early warning system for your business. It’s designed to flag potential risks before they become bigger problems. You can think of KRIs as metrics that help you detect issues in advance - whether they’re financial, operational, or cybersecurity concerns. These indicators give you an edge by enabling you to identify emerging risks early, so you can take action before they seriously affect your business. Usually, KRIs are part of a broader risk management strategy and are displayed on a key risk indicator dashboard to provide a quick overview of all major risks affecting your business.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=DGCLfWlsJeQ KRIs vs. KPIs: What’s the Difference? You may have heard of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), which measure progress toward goals. However, while KRIs are often mentioned alongside KPIs, they’re not the same thing. KRIs don’t measure success - they’re all about identifying potential problems. Both KRIs and KPIs are crucial to tracking, but they serve different functions in your business. Below is a short summary of the difference between a key risk indicator vs key performance indicator:  KRIs are about potential risks... --- ### Management Override of Internal Controls > Management override of internal controls occurs when senior management bypasses established security controls, compromising compliance. - Published: 2025-02-24 - Modified: 2025-02-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/management-override-of-internal-controls/ Management override of internal controls might sound complicated, but at its core, it’s about senior management stepping over established rules. While it might seem like a harmless shortcut, it can lead to serious consequences in the long run. Let’s break down what this means, why it’s risky, and how businesses can proactively mitigate it. What is Management Override of Internal Controls? Your organization’s internal controls are built to prevent fraud, identify errors, and address issues before they escalate into bigger problems. However, when someone from senior management decides to bypass these controls, things can go wrong quickly. Management override of internal controls refers to situations where senior management deliberately bypasses or circumvents established security and compliance controls, often to achieve a specific business objective, speed up a process, or hide fraudulent activity. This can pose significant risks to an organization’s internal control environment, compliance efforts, and overall security posture. Why is the Management Override of Controls a Risk? "Management override of controls significant risk" is a term that comes up often, and for good reason - it underscores a critical concern. Senior management holds unique access to resources, systems, and authority that others lack, making their actions easier to miss by detective controls. When management overrides internal controls, it introduces several risks. First, there’s the risk of fraud - manipulating financial records or transactions for personal gain or to make the company look better, which isn’t only unethical but can seriously jeopardize the organization’s financial standing and internal control systems.... --- ### Risk Management Strategy > A risk management strategy helps SaaS organizations identify, assess, and mitigate risks effectively, while staying compliant. - Published: 2025-02-21 - Modified: 2025-05-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-management-strategy/ A risk management strategy is a comprehensive plan that outlines how an organization identifies, assesses, and mitigates risks that could negatively impact its operations, objectives, or reputation.   What is a Risk Management Strategy? A risk management strategy is essential for maintaining business continuity, ensuring compliance with key privacy and security frameworks, and fostering long-term business growth. It provides a structured approach to managing uncertainties, financial risks, and minimizing potential losses. The components of a risk management strategy are integral to its success, covering everything from risk identification to monitoring. An effective risk management strategy also promotes resilience and adaptability in the face of potential threats. By anticipating and preparing for risks, businesses can avoid disruptions, protect stakeholder interests, and gain a significant competitive advantage in a fierce SaaS business environment. Why is a Risk Management Strategy Important? A thorough risk management strategy helps organizations prepare for potential threats, respond effectively to security incidents, and build confidence with customers and key stakeholders. It ensures that resources are allocated efficiently to develop a high-risk tolerance, which helps protect the business' assets and operations. For established scale-ups or enterprises, an enterprise risk management strategy is key for aligning risk management practices with overarching business goals, enhancing decision-making, and complying with security and regulatory requirements. Having a well-structured risk management strategy plan reduces operational risks, minimizes losses, and provides a framework for sustainable growth. It plays a key role in achieving compliance with industry standards and regulatory obligations, safeguarding the organization's reputation, and... --- ### ISO 22301 Business Continuity > ISO 22301 is the international standard for Business Continuity Management, helping businesses stay resilient and recover from disruptions. - Published: 2025-02-14 - Modified: 2025-02-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-22301-business-continuity/ Disruptive incidents show up when you least expect them and can create a lot of chaos. From cyberattacks to natural disasters to unexpected system crashes, SaaS businesses face a wide variety of challenges throughout their business lifecycle. Fortunately, ISO 22301 Business Continuity is the key to avoiding this, helping you prepare for, respond to, and recover from these incidents, so your business can continue operating uninterrupted. What is ISO 22301? ISO 22301:2019 is the international standard for Business Continuity Management Systems (BCMS). It offers a structured and effective approach to managing risks and maintaining critical business functions during and after disruptive events. Published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), this standard ensures businesses are equipped to handle disruptions and recover efficiently and quickly. Why Does Business Continuity Matter? Disruptive incidents are costly. They impact your profitability, damage your reputation, and shake customer trust. By implementing a Business Continuity Policy based on ISO 22301, you are not only safeguarding operations but also demonstrating reliability and commitment to implementing and maintaining a BCMS to your customers, partners, and stakeholders. This proactive approach reduces downtime, protects critical assets, and fosters long-term trust. Key Components of ISO 22301 Business Continuity Management Risk Assessment: The process begins with identifying potential risks and evaluating what could go wrong, assessing the likelihood of each risk, and determining the necessary risk management controls to mitigate them. Business Impact Analysis (BIA): This is where you investigate how those risks could impact your operations. What’s critical, and what can... --- ### Risk Control Self Assessment > A Risk Control Self-Assessment (RCSA) is a key process businesses use to identify and assess potential risks while maintaining compliance. - Published: 2025-02-07 - Modified: 2025-02-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-control-self-assessment/ Risk and Control Self-Assessment (RCSA) is a key process that businesses use to identify and evaluate potential risks, ensuring that security controls are functioning as intended and that operations run smoothly. It’s essentially a regular check-up to keep operations efficient, secure, and aligned with industry standards while also helping teams identify weaknesses and improve security controls as needed. Why should you care about RCSA? RCSA isn’t just a formality - it’s a way to truly understand the risks in your business and make sure your internal controls are up to the task. Plus, involving everyone fosters a collaborative effort, ensuring the whole team is actively aware of risks and their role in managing them.   Here’s why it’s worth your time: Identify Issues Early: RCSA helps identify inherent and operational risks early, allowing your team to take corrective actions before they escalate into bigger issues. You’re giving your team the power to act fast and prevent unnecessary problems in the future. Stay in Control: RCSA helps ensure that your safeguards aren’t just for show - they’ll work when you need them most. Follow the Rules: Falling behind on security and regulatory compliance can lead to serious consequences. With RCSA, you can stay on top of compliance requirements by making sure your processes and controls meet the necessary standards. This not only helps you avoid fines but also strengthens trust with customers and stakeholders who value your commitment to doing things the right way. Continuous Improvement: Even the best information security... --- ### Cybersecurity Incident Reporting > Cybersecurity incident reporting is crucial for enabling your business to respond quickly to security threats and maintain compliance. - Published: 2025-02-06 - Modified: 2025-02-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-incident-reporting/ Cybersecurity incident reporting is all about documenting and sharing the details of any security issue that affects an organization’s systems or data. This could be anything from a phishing scam, a data breach, or malware sneaking into your system. Unfortunately, it's not as simple as just writing things down - proper reporting helps businesses react quickly to threats, minimize damage, and meet tough compliance requirements. What is Cybersecurity Incident Reporting? In simple terms, cybersecurity incident reporting means recording and communicating details about security events within an organization. These events could involve hackers trying to steal data, unauthorized access, or anything else that puts the system’s integrity at risk. It’s not just a smart move; it’s often a legal obligation, especially for businesses regulated by bodies like the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission). Having a plan for reporting incidents shows your organization is proactive about security and has a plan to handle threats. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=m8B5_tgf-ow Why Does Cybersecurity Incident Reporting Matter? Reporting cybersecurity incidents is important for a few key reasons: Compliance with Laws: Various regulatory authorities, such as the SEC, require businesses to report specific incidents. Ignoring these rules can lead to big fines and harm the company’s image. Quick Response: A well-organized incident reporting system helps businesses react swiftly to threats, reducing potential damage and keeping the issue from turning into something bigger. Learning from Mistakes: When you document incidents properly, you collect valuable info that can help improve your security posture. By analyzing past incidents, businesses... --- ### Privacy by Design > Discover how adopting a Privacy by Design approach is essential for safeguarding customer data and staying compliant with key frameworks. - Published: 2025-01-23 - Modified: 2025-01-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/privacy-by-design/ Privacy by Design is all about making data privacy part of the game plan right from the get go, ensuring that it doesn’t become a problem for later. It’s about integrating privacy into products and services, ensuring personal data is protected automatically.   Think of it as building privacy directly into the foundational principles of your operations. This approach shows customers, stakeholders, and partners that you’re serious about safeguarding their personal information, and it makes your business more resilient to data mishaps or compliance violations. What is Privacy by Design? Privacy by Design is a proactive approach to privacy. Instead of waiting for problems to pop up, it’s about addressing them before they even have an opportunity to become an issue. By embedding privacy into the way your business operates and how technology is built, you can rest assured knowing that your users’ data is taken care of without requiring any effort on their part. Privacy by Design Principles: Proactive, Not Reactive: When it comes to data privacy, waiting for problems to occur is not recommended. A proactive approach means identifying potential privacy risks early and addressing them before they can escalate into more serious issues like data breaches. Privacy as the Default setting: Data privacy measures should be in place at all times, without requiring any additional steps or complicated settings. Users shouldn’t have to worry about reading the fine print - rather their information should remain protected from the get-go. Built-in Privacy: Avoid dealing with privacy concerns at... --- ### ISO 27007 > ISO 27007 is a global standard that provides clear guidance on the ISMS audit preparation process for both organizations and auditors. - Published: 2024-11-07 - Modified: 2025-02-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27007/ What is ISO 27007? ISO/IEC 27007 is a global standard that offers guidance for auditing Information Security Management Systems (ISMS). It belongs to the ISO 27000 series of standards, which focuses on best practices and advice for organizations on how they can manage their information security. The main goal of ISO 27007 is to help businesses conduct effective audits of their ISMS and ensure that it complies with tough ISO 27001 standards. This standard covers how to plan, perform, and report on an ISMS audit. It includes choosing the right audit criteria, collecting and reviewing evidence, analyzing findings, and giving suggestions for improvements.   It's useful not only for organizations managing or implementing an ISMS but also for third-party auditors assessing these systems. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=sJzwFrgoXPc Why is ISO 27007 important?   To keep up with increasing customer demands, your business must be able to effectively manage large volumes of data. With high-profile data breaches on the rise, ensuring sensitive data is kept safe remains a major concern not only for businesses but for customers as well. The impact of these attacks is not to be understated, spanning from celebrities facing public embarrassment due to unauthorized photos being leaked to the theft of sensitive personal data, often leading to multimillion-dollar ransom demands that even big corporations struggle to handle.   When data includes personally identifiable, financial, or medical information, organizations - both large and small - have a moral and legal responsibility to protect it from cybercriminals. Safeguarding sensitive... --- ### Cybersecurity Policy > A cybersecurity policy provides valuable guidance on protecting your business's data and systems from breaches and cyber threats. - Published: 2024-10-25 - Modified: 2024-10-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-policy/ You’ve probably come across the term “cybersecurity policy. ” In simple terms, it's a blueprint for how an organization handles cybersecurity across all departments and operations. Understanding its key elements is essential for businesses of all sizes wanting to stay on top of security and compliance obligations, so let’s get started.   What is a Cybersecurity Policy? A cybersecurity policy is a set of rules and procedures that guide an organization in protecting its data, networks, and IT systems from security threats. It outlines the company’s approach to managing cybersecurity risks, assigning roles and responsibilities, and setting protocols for responding to security incidents.   Cybersecurity management and policy combine both technical and administrative practices to safeguard an organization's digital assets. Effective management includes creating, enforcing, and updating policies while continuously monitoring strategies to address evolving threats. Why Do You Need a Cybersecurity Policy? A cybersecurity policy is vital for protecting sensitive information and ensuring that an organization can defend itself against cyber attacks. It provides a clear framework for managing cybersecurity risks, helps in staying compliant with regulatory requirements, and ensures all employees understand what their responsibilities are in maintaining the security practices of the organization. Key Components of a Cybersecurity Policy Purpose: Defines the organization's goals in protecting sensitive information, preventing unauthorized access, and managing cyber attacks. Scope: Specifies who and what is covered, including employees, contractors, IT systems, hardware, software, and data. Roles and Responsibilities: Assigns specific cybersecurity duties to employees, IT personnel, and executives, ensuring that everyone... --- ### ISO 27004 > Learn about ISO 27004, key metrics, clauses, and a checklist to help measure and improve your information security management. - Published: 2024-10-17 - Modified: 2024-10-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27004/ What is the ISO 27004 Standard? ISO/IEC 27004:2016 is an international data security standard that offers a framework for measuring and improving information security within organizations. Part of the ISO 27000 series, it focuses specifically on how to assess the performance and effectiveness of an organization’s Information Security Management System (ISMS).   This standard provides clear guidance on which security metrics and indicators to use, allowing organizations to track how well their ISO 27001-compliant security measures are working. It offers guidelines on establishing key metrics, assessing controls using these metrics, and accurately recording and communicating these metrics.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=unc0Lg8tX4Y History of the ISO 27004 Standard ISO 27004:2009 forms part of the ISO 27000 family of standards, first introduced in 2009. Over the years, the standard has been updated and has become known as ISO 27004:2016.   While ISO 27001 is a certification standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), ISO 27004 differs in that it provides guidelines for measuring the performance of an ISMS.   Measuring ISMS performance can be complex which is why organizations often use various methods to assess it. As ISO 27004 was designed to evaluate ISMS performance using a clearly defined set of criteria, the introduction of this standard has helped to ensure accurate and standardized assessments, making many older methods obsolete. Why Do You Need to Be ISO 27004 Compliant? ISO 27004 compliance helps organizations ensure their Information Security Management System (ISMS) is performing effectively. It allows businesses to identify vulnerabilities, manage... --- ### Cyber-Risk Quantification > Discover how to quantify cyber risks in dollar terms to boost decision-making and streamline your cybersecurity strategy. - Published: 2024-08-29 - Modified: 2025-02-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cyber-risk-quantification/ In today's digital playground, organizations are constantly battling a buffet of cyber threats that can wreak havoc on finances, reputation, and operations. To tackle these risks effectively, cyber risk quantification has become a game-changer. This process translates the murky world of cyber threats into clear monetary terms, making it easier for businesses to strategize and invest in their cybersecurity. What is Cyber Risk Quantification? At its core, cyber risk quantification (CRQ) is about putting a price tag on potential cyber threats. It takes the likelihood and impact of cyber events and translates them into dollar amounts. This simple metric helps decision-makers understand the real-world implications of cyber risks, allowing them to allocate resources more effectively. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=JF8aH8CQFa4 Benefits of Cyber Risk Quantification Informed Decision-Making When you quantify cyber risks, you get to prioritize your cybersecurity efforts based on clear, data-driven insights. This helps in striking a balance—avoiding both the trap of overreacting to every potential threat and the mistake of underestimating serious risks. It ensures that your risk management aligns with your business goals. Objectivity and Accuracy Putting cyber risks into monetary terms makes risk assessments more objective. It cuts through the noise and debate about which risks are more critical and why certain controls are necessary. This clarity is crucial for effective communication and decision-making within the organization. Demystifying Cybersecurity for Leadership Cybersecurity discussions often get lost in technical jargon, leaving non-technical stakeholders scratching their heads. Cyber risk quantification simplifies these discussions, giving boards and executives a... --- ### Operational Risk Management > Master operational risk management to identify, assess, and control everyday threats for a resilient business. - Published: 2024-08-29 - Modified: 2024-09-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/operational-risk-management/ When it comes to running a business, you're no stranger to risk. It's that thing lurking around every corner, waiting to throw a wrench in your perfectly laid plans. But while some risks are easy to spot, operational risks can be sneakier. They quietly threaten to disrupt your day-to-day operations, which is why having a solid operational risk management plan is crucial. So, What Exactly Is Operational Risk Management? Operational risk management is essentially your strategy for identifying, assessing, and controlling risks that arise from the normal course of business. These aren’t the big, headline-grabbing risks like economic downturns or natural disasters. Instead, they’re the day-to-day risks that can slowly erode your operations if not properly managed. These risks might involve anything from human error, system failures, and fraud, to external events like natural disasters or supply chain disruptions. Why Operational Risk Management Matters Now, you might be thinking, "But my business is running smoothly—why do I need to worry about operational risk management? " The answer is simple: no matter how well things are going, there are always risks that could derail your success. From IT failures and human error to supply chain issues and regulatory changes, the potential for disruption is everywhere. By implementing operational risk management practices, you can proactively address these risks before they become full-blown crises. This not only helps you avoid costly downtime but also ensures that your business remains resilient in the face of unexpected challenges. Building Your Operational Risk Management Strategy Creating... --- ### Cybersecurity Asset Management > Learn how cybersecurity asset management protects your digital assets with inventory, risk assessments, and real-time monitoring. - Published: 2024-08-22 - Modified: 2024-08-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-asset-management/ We’re living in a digital-first world, so understanding and managing your cyber security assets isn't just important, it's essential. Imagine trying to protect your house without knowing all the entry points. It’s the same with cybersecurity. Without a clear understanding of what assets you have, how can you possibly secure them? That’s where cybersecurity asset management comes into play. What Exactly Is Cybersecurity Asset Management? Cybersecurity asset management (CSAM) is all about keeping track of your cyber security assets—from your hardware and software to the data they protect. Think of it as the ultimate inventory system, ensuring that you know what’s in your digital landscape and, more importantly, how to protect it. This approach is crucial for defending your assets against cyber threats, allowing you to swiftly tackle risks and respond to incidents with confidence. Why Is Cybersecurity Asset Management So Important? Let’s start with the facts: Around 73% of companies admit they don’t have a clear picture of their cyber security assets. Shocking, right? If you don’t know what you’ve got, how can you possibly protect it? This lack of visibility creates a playground for cybercriminals, who thrive on exploiting unknown or unmanaged assets to breach networks. And the consequences? Well, on average, it takes a staggering 277 days to detect and contain a data breach. That’s almost an entire year for cybercriminals to wreak havoc on your systems! Imagine the financial and reputational damage during that time. But with a robust cybersecurity asset management strategy, you can cut... --- ### Risk Management Framework > Discover the key elements and benefits of a risk management framework (RMF) for effective risk identification, assessment, and mitigation. - Published: 2024-08-22 - Modified: 2024-08-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-management-framework/ A Risk Management Framework (RMF) is like a safety net for organizations, helping them navigate the treacherous waters of uncertainty and risk. Think of it as a structured approach that ensures you're not just reacting to risks but actively managing and mitigating them. This framework is pivotal for aligning risk management with your organization's objectives and ensuring that you’re prepared for whatever challenges come your way. Components of a Risk Management Framework Let’s break down the core elements of an effective RMF: Risk identificationThe first step in the risk management framework process is spotting potential risks. This isn't just about identifying obvious threats; it involves a comprehensive approach to recognize all types of risks—strategic, operational, financial, and compliance-related. Techniques like brainstorming sessions, analyzing historical data, and consulting experts are all part of the risk identification process. It’s about gathering a detailed list of potential hazards that could impact your organization. Risk assessmentOnce you've identified your risks, it's time to assess them. This step is crucial for determining the potential impact and likelihood of each risk. You’ll evaluate how severe each risk is and prioritize them based on their potential effect on your organization. Tools such as risk matrices can be incredibly helpful here, allowing you to visualize and categorize risks so you can focus on the most critical ones. It’s like deciding which fires need extinguishing first. Risk mitigationWith risks assessed, you move to risk mitigation. This is where you develop strategies to handle the risks you've identified. Whether it's... --- ### Risk Management Policy > Explore the risk management essentials to strengthen resilience and tackle security, cyber, and information risks. - Published: 2024-08-22 - Modified: 2024-08-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-management-policy/ Think of a risk management policy as the ultimate blueprint for safeguarding your organization’s future. In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, having a solid security risk management policy in place is crucial for not only identifying and managing potential threats but also for seizing opportunities and making informed decisions. Let's dive into why having a well-structured cyber risk management policy is essential and how it can make a difference for your organization. The Significance of a Risk Management Policy At its core, a risk management policy aims to create a systematic approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks that could derail your organization’s objectives. Think of it as your safety net for navigating uncertainties. This policy ensures that potential risks are proactively addressed, helping to build a culture of risk awareness within the organization. By addressing a range of risks—operational, strategic, and compliance-related—the policy offers a comprehensive view of the risk landscape. This enables organizations to prepare better, act faster, and recover more effectively from potential setbacks. Key Components of an Effective Risk Management Policy Risk Assessment A solid information risk management policy starts with a thorough risk assessment. This foundational step involves identifying critical assets, evaluating vulnerabilities, and understanding potential threats. Risks are typically categorized by severity, likelihood, and potential impact. By using both quantitative and qualitative methods, organizations can effectively assess and prioritize risks. Risk Management Framework Choosing the right risk management framework is pivotal. Frameworks such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO 27001 provide structured guidelines for... --- ### Third-Party Risk Management Policy > Explore the essentials of a third-party risk management policy to ensure compliance, manage risks, and safeguard your organization. - Published: 2024-08-15 - Modified: 2024-08-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/third-party-risk-management-policy/ A third-party risk management policy is a formal document that outlines how an organization identifies, assesses, mitigates, and monitors the risks associated with third-party vendors, suppliers, and service providers. This policy provides a structured framework for managing the potential risks that arise from relying on external entities to perform critical functions or handle sensitive data. Here’s an overview of what a well-developed third-party risk management policy typically includes: Risk identification: Processes for identifying and categorizing risks associated with third parties. This includes evaluating factors such as the nature of the relationship, the data handled, and the potential impact on the organization. Risk assessment: Methodologies for assessing the likelihood and potential impact of identified risks. This involves reviewing the third party’s security controls, compliance status, and financial stability. Risk mitigation: Strategies and controls for managing and reducing identified risks. This may involve contractual agreements, security requirements, and continuous monitoring to ensure ongoing third-party risk management compliance. Roles and responsibilities: Clear definitions of the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders involved in the third-party risk management procedure, including procurement, legal, IT, and risk management teams. Monitoring and review: Procedures for continuously monitoring third-party relationships and regularly updating the third-party risk management policy to address new risks and regulatory changes. Why is a Third-Party Risk Management Policy Important? Implementing a comprehensive third-party risk management policy is critical for several reasons: Data security and privacy: Third parties often have access to sensitive data. Inadequate security measures on their part can lead to significant data... --- ### HIPAA Omnibus Rule > Learn about the HIPAA Omnibus Rule's updates to patient rights, business associate liability, and PHI definitions. - Published: 2024-08-15 - Modified: 2024-08-18 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-omnibus-rule/ The HIPAA Omnibus Rule, finalized on March 26, 2013, represents a major update to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations. This rule was designed to enhance the protection of patient health information in response to advancements in health technology and new privacy concerns. It incorporates elements from the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), with a primary goal of improving the privacy and security of health data shared among healthcare providers, their business associates, and other entities involved in the healthcare ecosystem. What’s the Deal with the HIPAA Omnibus Rule? So, what is the Omnibus Rule? It’s essentially a collection of updates and consolidations aimed at tightening the HIPAA regulations. The Omnibus Rule brings several significant changes to how Protected Health Information (PHI) is managed and protected. If you're in the healthcare sector, this rule is a big deal because it imposes stricter guidelines and introduces new responsibilities. Key Changes Introduced by the Omnibus Rules Business associates are now directly liable: One of the most notable changes under the HIPAA Omnibus Rule is the direct liability it places on business associates. Previously, if a business associate mishandled PHI, the covered entity (like a healthcare provider or health plan) was held accountable. Now, business associates themselves must comply with HIPAA standards. This means they can face penalties for non-compliance, which adds a layer of accountability directly on the entities that handle sensitive information. Enhanced patient rights: The... --- ### HIPAA Training Requirements > HIPAA requires covered entities and their business associates to train their workforce on HIPAA privacy and security policies and procedures. - Published: 2024-08-08 - Modified: 2024-08-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-training-requirements/ The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) establishes specific HIPAA training requirements for covered entities and their business associates. These requirements ensure that all workforce members are knowledgeable about HIPAA privacy and HIPAA security policies and procedures. Meeting these HIPAA privacy training requirements is crucial for protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of protected health information (PHI) and ensuring that employees understand their responsibilities in this critical area. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=xxvsMxBBIXg Who Needs HIPAA Training? HIPAA employee training requirements apply to all members of a covered entity’s workforce. This includes employees, volunteers, students, contractors—essentially anyone who may come into contact with PHI, whether in visual, verbal, written, or electronic form. Business associates are also responsible for ensuring that their employees who handle PHI receive appropriate training in compliance with HIPAA employee training requirements. It’s important to recognize that HIPAA training requirements do not specify a set number of hours or a fixed curriculum. Instead, the training should be customized based on the individual’s role within the organization. For instance, an employee directly involved in patient care and who has access to medical records will need more in-depth training than someone whose role is limited to handling billing information. When is HIPAA Training Required? New employees must receive HIPAA privacy training within a reasonable time after joining the organization. Ideally, this training should be completed before they are placed in a position where they might inadvertently disclose PHI. While there is no strict legal requirement for annual HIPAA training... --- ### Cardholder Data Environment > The Cardholder Data Environment (CDE) is a crucial concept in payment security, especially for businesses handling payment card transactions. - Published: 2024-08-01 - Modified: 2024-08-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cardholder-data-environment/ The Cardholder Data Environment (CDE) is a crucial concept in payment security, especially for businesses handling payment card transactions. To stay compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) and protect sensitive cardholder information, understanding the CDE is key. Let’s break down what the CDE is, its components, associated risks, and how to assess it, all while highlighting why it’s so important in maintaining secure payment systems. What is a Cardholder Data Environment? In simple terms, a cardholder data environment (CDE) is the collection of systems, processes, and technologies involved in storing, processing, or transmitting cardholder data (CHD) and sensitive authentication data (SAD). According to PCI DSS, the CDE doesn’t just include the hardware and software interacting with cardholder data—it also covers the people and procedures involved in managing this data. For businesses dealing with card payments, the CDE is crucial because it directly impacts their ability to shield sensitive information from unauthorized access and breaches. Components of the CDE A PCI cardholder data environment consists of several key elements: Systems: This encompasses all hardware and software handling cardholder data, like point-of-sale (POS) systems, servers, and databases. Processes: These are the operational procedures for managing CHD and SAD, such as transaction processing and data storage protocols. People: Individuals who access or manage cardholder data, including employees and third-party vendors. Technology: Security technologies and controls to protect CHD and SAD, such as encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. Securing these components helps businesses manage risks associated with sensitive... --- ### US Data Privacy (USDP) > US Data Privacy (USDP) is a mix of federal and state-level laws, each targeting specific sectors or types of data. - Published: 2024-08-01 - Modified: 2024-08-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/us-data-privacy-usdp/ The world of US data privacy is a bit like a patchwork quilt—vivid, intricate, and sometimes a little confusing. Unlike the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which offers a more streamlined approach to data protection, the data privacy legislation in the US is a bit more eclectic. It’s a mix of federal and state-level laws, each targeting specific sectors or types of data. At the federal level, we have a few key players: Privacy Act of 1974: This classic regulates how federal agencies handle personal data. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): Think of HIPAA as the guardian of your health information, setting standards for how healthcare providers manage patient data. Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act: This act is all about keeping sensitive customer information safe in the financial sector. Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA): COPPA keeps a watchful eye on data collection about kids under 13, ensuring their digital footprints are protected. State-Level Data Privacy Legislation In recent years, the data privacy of the United States has seen a surge of state-level laws, as individual states look to fill the gaps left by federal legislation. As of July 2024, twenty states have rolled out their own comprehensive data privacy laws. Here’s a rundown of some of the standout states and their laws: California: The Golden State is known for its California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA), setting a high bar for data privacy. Virginia: The Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act is the... --- ### HIPAA Business Associate > The HIPAA Business Associate framework is a vital part of HIPAA, aimed at protecting the privacy and security of protected health information. - Published: 2024-08-01 - Modified: 2024-08-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-business-associate/ The HIPAA Business Associate framework is a vital part of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), aimed at protecting the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI). Understanding what a business associate is, what they need to do, and the agreements they must have in place is key for staying compliant in the healthcare world. What is a HIPAA Business Associate? A HIPAA Business Associate is anyone or any company that creates, receives, maintains, or transmits PHI for a covered entity. Covered entities include healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses. Business associates come in many forms, like third-party billing companies, consultants, data storage services, and software vendors handling PHI. The main job of a business associate is to help covered entities with healthcare functions while making sure PHI is handled in line with HIPAA rules. This means business associates must know and follow the HIPAA business associate requirements, including putting safeguards in place to protect PHI and reporting any breaches. Why Are HIPAA Business Associates Important? Business associates play a crucial role in the healthcare ecosystem. They provide essential services that covered entities rely on to function efficiently. For example, a hospital might use a billing company to manage its accounts, a software vendor to handle electronic health records, and a cloud storage service to store patient information securely. Each of these service providers is a business associate and must adhere to HIPAA regulations to ensure that PHI remains protected. Without strict compliance from business associates,... --- ### GxP Compliance > GxP compliance is a set of strict regulations that ensure the safety, quality, and efficacy of products in the life sciences industry - Published: 2024-07-25 - Modified: 2024-07-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/gxp-compliance/ GxP compliance is a set of strict regulations that ensure the safety, quality, and efficacy of products in the life sciences industry, particularly those related to pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and food. The "G" stands for "Good," and "xP" represents various practices, such as "Manufacturing Practice" (GMP), "Laboratory Practice" (GLP), and "Clinical Practice" (GCP). These guidelines are enforced by regulatory agencies like the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and others. Implementing GxP Compliance Organizations must establish and maintain comprehensive quality management systems (QMS) to adhere to GxP guidelines. This typically involves: Training: Regular training for employees to stay updated on current regulations and best practices. Documentation: Meticulous record-keeping to ensure traceability and accountability of all the processes. Audits and Inspections: Regular internal and external audits to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Corrective Actions: Implementing corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to address any deviations or non-conformities. By adhering to GxP guidelines, organizations in the life sciences industry can ensure the reliability and trustworthiness of their products, thus, protecting patient health, ensuring safety, and maintaining regulatory compliance. GxP Compliance Software GxP compliance software is designed to help organizations in the life sciences industry adhere to Good Practice (GxP) guidelines. This software automates and streamlines various compliance processes, ensuring that organizations maintain high standards of safety, quality, and efficacy for their products. By leveraging GxP compliance software, organizations can ensure that they meet stringent regulatory requirements while optimizing their compliance processes. This not only helps in maintaining... --- ### HIPAA Sanctions > HIPAA sanctions are the penalties and corrective measures taken against business associates who don’t follow HIPAA. - Published: 2024-07-25 - Modified: 2024-07-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-sanctions/ HIPAA sanctions are the penalties and corrective measures taken against business associates who don’t follow the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). These sanctions play a key role in making sure HIPAA rules are followed and that people’s health information is kept safe. The penalties can vary from fines to required corrective actions, and in serious cases, criminal charges. The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is in charge of enforcing HIPAA rules and issuing sanctions. For healthcare organizations, understanding and applying the right sanctions and mitigation strategies is essential to stay compliant with HIPAA and safeguard patient information. By defining what counts as a violation, setting up a system for sanctions, and having procedures in place to handle and reduce the impact of violations, organizations can foster a culture of accountability and ongoing improvement. Guidance from the HFMA and other regulatory groups can help in crafting and enforcing effective sanctions policies that meet industry standards and regulatory expectations. HIPAA Sanctions for Violation HIPAA Sanctions for Violation are the specific penalties imposed when an organization is found to have violated HIPAA regulations. Violations are categorized into four tiers based on the level of culpability: Tier 1: Unknowing violations where the entity was unaware and could not have reasonably known of the breach. Tier 2: Violations due to reasonable cause but not willful neglect. Tier 3: Violations due to willful neglect that are corrected within a specific time frame. Tier 4: Violations... --- ### HIPAA Safeguards > HIPAA safeguards are measures required to protect the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI). - Published: 2024-07-25 - Modified: 2024-07-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-safeguards/ HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) safeguards are measures required to protect the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI). These safeguards are divided into three categories: administrative, physical, and technical. Each type of safeguard states the specific actions and policies that healthcare organizations must implement to comply with HIPAA regulations. Implementing these safeguards helps manage risks, ensure workforce security, and a proper response to security incidents. Implementation Strategies: Risk Analysis and Risk Management: Conducting an in-depth assessment of potential risks and vulnerabilities to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of ePHI. Employee Training: Regularly updating and training employees on security policies and procedures to ensure they are aware of their responsibilities in protecting ePHI. Incident Response: Establishing clear procedures and protocols for responding to security incidents, including documentation and reporting mechanisms. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=kNBVAE2DEck HIPAA Safeguards List The HIPAA safeguards list refers to the comprehensive set of measures and controls created by the HIPAA Security Rule to protect PHI. These safeguards are designed to prevent unauthorized access, use, disclosure, alteration, and destruction of electronic protected health information (ePHI). The list includes detailed requirements for administrative, physical, and technical safeguards. Key Components: Administrative HIPAA Safeguards: Administrative HIPAA safeguards are a subset of the HIPAA Security Rule focused on policies and procedures that manage the conduct of the workforce and the security measures protecting ePHI. These safeguards ensure that the organization has a framework for preventing, detecting, containing, and correcting security violations. Physical HIPAA Safeguards: These relate to the... --- ### Procurement Compliance > Procurement Compliance refers to the adherence to laws, regulations, standards, and internal policies governing the procurement process. - Published: 2024-07-18 - Modified: 2024-07-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/procurement-compliance/ Procurement Compliance refers to the adherence to laws, regulations, standards, and internal policies governing the procurement process. It ensures that all procurement activities are conducted ethically, transparently, and in alignment with organizational goals and legal requirements. Effective procurement compliance helps organizations mitigate risks, avoid legal penalties, and promote fair competition.   Procurement compliance encompasses several key elements that organizations must address to maintain integrity and efficiency in their procurement processes: Regulatory Adherence: Ensuring compliance with local, national, and international laws and regulations related to procurement, such as anti-bribery laws, trade regulations, and industry-specific standards. Internal Policies: Developing and enforcing internal procurement policies and procedures that align with organizational objectives and regulatory requirements. Ethical Standards: Promoting ethical behavior among procurement staff and suppliers, including conflict-of-interest policies and anti-corruption measures. Documentation and Transparency: Maintaining thorough documentation of all procurement activities to ensure transparency and accountability. Procurement Compliance Best Practices Adopting best practices in procurement compliance helps organizations streamline their procurement processes and minimize risks. Key best practices include: Policy Development: Establishing comprehensive procurement policies that clearly define procedures, responsibilities, and ethical standards. Training and Education: Providing regular training for procurement staff and stakeholders on compliance requirements and ethical standards. Supplier Management: Conducting thorough due diligence on suppliers to ensure they meet compliance standards, including financial stability, legal compliance, and ethical conduct. Contract Management: Implementing robust contract management processes to ensure that contracts are clear, enforceable, and compliant with legal and regulatory requirements. Regular Audits: Conducting regular procurement compliance audits to identify and... --- ### IT Governance (ITG) > IT Governance (ITG) refers to the frameworks that ensure the effective use of IT in enabling an organization to achieve its goals. - Published: 2024-07-18 - Modified: 2024-07-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/it-governance-itg/ IT Governance (ITG) refers to the frameworks, policies, and processes that ensure the effective and efficient use of Information Technology (IT) in enabling an organization to achieve its goals. ITG focuses on aligning IT strategy with business strategy, ensuring that IT investments support the overall business objectives, and managing IT-related risks and resources responsibly. By implementing robust IT Governance practices, organizations can ensure that their IT systems are reliable, secure, and compliant with relevant regulations and standards. IT Governance Framework An IT Governance Framework provides a structured approach to managing IT resources and aligning them with business objectives. It encompasses the principles, policies, and procedures that guide IT management and decision-making within an organization. Key components of an IT Governance Framework include: Strategic Alignment: Ensuring that IT initiatives are in line with business goals and deliver value. Value Delivery: Focusing on optimizing IT investments to maximize business benefits. Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating IT-related risks to protect organizational assets. Resource Management: Efficiently managing IT resources, including people, processes, and technology. Performance Measurement: Implementing metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the effectiveness of IT initiatives and ensure continuous improvement. Popular IT Governance Frameworks include COBIT (Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies), ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library), and ISO/IEC 38500. IT Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) IT Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) is an integrated approach that aligns IT Governance with risk management and regulatory compliance. This holistic approach ensures that IT operations are not only efficient and aligned... --- ### Cloud Controls Matrix > The Cloud Controls Matrix (CCM) is a cybersecurity framework developed by the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA). - Published: 2024-07-11 - Modified: 2024-07-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cloud-controls-matrix/ The Cloud Controls Matrix (CCM) is a cybersecurity framework developed by the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA). It provides a detailed and comprehensive set of security controls designed to help cloud service providers and customers assess the risk associated with cloud computing environments. The CCM is a critical tool for ensuring cloud security, offering a structured approach to identify and manage security risks in cloud services. What is the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA)? The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to defining and raising awareness of best practices to help ensure a secure cloud computing environment. The CSA is responsible for developing the Cloud Controls Matrix, among other significant contributions to cloud security. Understanding the Cloud Control Matrix The Cloud Control Matrix (CCM) is specifically designed to provide security control guidelines for cloud computing environments. It includes a set of controls organized into distinct domains, each addressing different aspects of cloud security. The CCM is structured to map out security controls across various regulatory frameworks and standards, providing a unified approach to cloud security compliance. Key Components of the Cloud Control Matrix The CCM is organized into several components, each crucial for ensuring comprehensive cloud security: Control Domains: The CCM is divided into numerous domains, each focusing on a specific area of cloud security. These domains cover various aspects such as data security, identity and access management, infrastructure security, and more. Control Specifications: Each domain contains specific security controls that need to be implemented to mitigate risks. These... --- ### Special Category Personal Data > Special Category Personal Data refers to personal information that is considered particularly sensitive, requiring additional protection. - Published: 2024-07-11 - Modified: 2024-07-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/special-category-personal-data/ Special Category Personal Data, also known as sensitive personal data, refers to specific types of personal information that are considered particularly sensitive and thus, require additional protection under data protection regulations. This category typically includes information that, if disclosed or mishandled, could result in significant harm or discrimination to the individual. Organizations handling such data must implement stringent security measures and comply with legal requirements to guarantee privacy of the individuals. Understanding and appropriately managing special category personal data is crucial for organizations to mitigate risks and maintain compliance with data protection laws. Characteristics of Special Category Personal Data Special categories of personal data: This simply refers to the types of data, including: Racial or Ethnic Origin: Political Opinions Religious or Philosophical Beliefs Trade Union Membership Genetic Data Biometric Data Health Data Sexual Orientation or Sex Life Protection Requirements: Special category personal data requires stricter protection measures due to its sensitive nature. Organizations handling such data must have a lawful basis for processing it and must adhere to specific conditions according to different regulations Legal Basis for Processing: In most cases, processing special category personal data is prohibited unless one of the specific legal bases under the GDPR or other relevant laws applies. These laws often include explicit consent from the individual, processing necessary for employment or social security obligations, protection of vital interests, or processing carried out by a not-for-profit organization. Risk and Impact: The disclosure or misuse of special category personal data can have significant consequences for individuals,... --- ### Business Continuity Policy > A Business Continuity Policy provides guidelines to ensure a company can continue operating during and after a disruptive event. - Published: 2024-07-04 - Modified: 2024-07-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/business-continuity-policy/ A Business Continuity Policy is a documented set of guidelines and procedures that a company implements to ensure it can continue operating during and after a disruptive event. This policy is designed to help an organization prepare for, respond to, and recover from unexpected incidents that could impact its normal set of operations, such as natural disasters, cyberattacks, or other emergencies. Importance of a Business Continuity Policy: Minimizes Downtime: Helps ensure that critical business functions can continue with minimal disruption. Protects Revenue: Reduces the financial impact of operational interruptions. Enhances Resilience: Builds the organization’s capacity to respond to and recover from unexpected events. Ensures Compliance: Meets regulatory and industry requirements for business continuity planning. Protects Reputation: Maintains customer trust and confidence by demonstrating the ability to respond to chaos. Business Continuity Policy Template 1. Introduction: Included the purposes of the business continuity policy and the scope of the policy, specifying the business units, departments, and processes it covers. 2. Policy Statement: A concise statement of the organization’s commitment to business continuity and resilience. 3. Objectives: Outline the key objectives of the Business Continuity Policy, such as minimizing downtime, protecting assets, and ensuring the safety of employees. 4. Roles and Responsibilities: This includes the responsibilities of the Business Continuity Manager/Coordinator, the team that he/she supervises, and the general Department Heads and the corresponding roles 5. Business Impact Analysis (BIA): Describe the process for conducting a Business Impact Analysis, including identifying critical business functions, assessing the impact of disruptions, and prioritizing recovery... --- ### Processing Integrity > Processing integrity relates to the reliability of information and the assurance that system operations are accurate, timely, and authorized. - Published: 2024-07-04 - Modified: 2024-07-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/processing-integrity/ Processing integrity relates specifically to the reliability of information processing and the assurance that system operations are accurate, timely, and authorized. In essence, processing integrity ensures that data processing is complete, valid, and maintained in a trustworthy manner throughout its lifecycle within an organization's systems. SOC 2 Processing Integrity SOC 2 (Service Organization Control 2) includes several criteria that service organizations must meet to demonstrate effective controls over their systems and data. Processing integrity is one of the five key trust service criteria included in a SOC 2 report. Specifically, SOC 2 processing integrity focuses on ensuring that a service organization's systems process data accurately, completely, and in a timely manner. SOC 2 processing integrity criteria are essential for service organizations, especially those handling sensitive customer data or providing critical services. By meeting these criteria, organizations demonstrate their commitment to maintaining the accuracy, completeness, and reliability of their data processing operations, thereby enhancing trust and confidence among their customers and stakeholders. Key aspects of SOC 2 processing integrity: Accuracy: Systems must process data accurately, without errors or discrepancies that could impact the integrity of the information processed. Completeness: All data processing activities must be complete, ensuring that no transactions or data inputs are omitted or improperly processed. Timeliness: Data processing must occur within agreed-upon timeframes to meet operational and business requirements. Authorization: Processes and transactions must be performed by authorized individuals or systems, ensuring that only approved activities are executed. Monitoring: Continuous monitoring and oversight of data processing activities to... --- ### Policy Administration Point > The Policy Administration Point is a component responsible for managing policies that ensure an organization adheres to specific standards. - Published: 2024-06-27 - Modified: 2024-06-27 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/policy-administration-point/ Policy Administration Policy administration is the process of creating, managing, and enforcing policies within an organization or system. It involves defining rules, guidelines, and procedures that establish various aspects of operations, security, compliance, and behavior in an organization. Policy administration ensures that these policies are effectively communicated, implemented, and updated to align with the organization goals and the legal and industry standards. Key aspects of policy administration include: Policy Creation: Developing policies according to the rules, and standards of the organization Policy Management: ensuring that these policies are maintained, including updates, revisions, and retirement if applicable. Policy Communication: Ensuring policies are clearly communicated to all stakeholders within the organization, including employees, and partners. Policy Enforcement: Implementing mechanisms to enforce adherence to policies, such as access controls, monitoring systems, and appropriate disciplinary measures if there is non-compliance. Policy Review and Audit: Regularly reviewing policies to evaluate their effectiveness, relevance, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Policy Administration Point The Policy Administration Point (PAP) is a critical component that is responsible for managing and administering the policies that ensure an organization adheres to regulatory, legal, and internal standards. The PAP helps enforce compliance requirements by defining, creating, and managing access control policies that align with these standards. This policy is essential for managing compliance within an organization. By centralizing the standards , the management processes , and enforcement of compliance policies, the PAP ensures that an organization can effectively meet the necessary regulatory requirements, mitigate risks, and maintain high standards of... --- ### Vulnerability-Based Risk Assessment > Vulnerability-Based Risk Assessment is a methodology used to evaluate risks within a system by focusing on identifying vulnerabilities. - Published: 2024-06-27 - Modified: 2024-06-27 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vulnerability-based-risk-assessment/ Vulnerability-Based Risk Assessment (VBRA) is a structured methodology used to evaluate and prioritize risks within an organization or system by focusing on identifying vulnerabilities that could potentially be exploited. This approach helps with providing a comprehensive and broad understanding of security weaknesses and their potential impact on operations, allowing organizations to effectively allocate their resources for risk mitigation. Vulnerability-Based Risk Assessment (VBRA) is a vital component of comprehensive risk management strategies in organizations. By focusing on identifying and prioritizing vulnerabilities that could be exploited, VBRA helps organizations strengthen their security posture, enhance resilience, and maintain trust relationships. Implementing VBRA involves a systematic and hands-on-work approach to identifying vulnerabilities, assessing their impact and likelihood, and prioritizing mitigation efforts based on risk considerations and evaluations.   As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, VBRA remains a critical tool for organizations seeking to proactively manage risks and protect their assets, operations, and stakeholders from potential harm and threats. Key Concepts of Vulnerability-Based Risk Assessment Risk and Vulnerability Assessment A Risk and Vulnerability Assessment is a systematic process used to identify, evaluate, and prioritize potential threats and vulnerabilities within an organization's assets, systems, or processes. It forms the foundation of Vulnerability-Based Risk Assessment by providing insights into the likelihood and consequences of a potential risk. Vulnerability-Based Trust Vulnerability-Based Trust refers to the concept of assessing trustworthiness or security risks associated with systems, applications, or entities based on identified vulnerabilities. Organizations use vulnerability assessments to evaluate the reliability and integrity of their assets and systems, therefore... --- ### SOC 2 Section 5 > Section 5 of a SOC 2 report typically pertains to the "Additional Information Provided by the Service Organization." - Published: 2024-06-27 - Modified: 2024-06-27 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-section-5/ SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2) is a framework for managing customer data based on five Trust Service Criteria (TSC): security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. SOC 2 reports are crucial for service organizations to demonstrate that they have the necessary controls in place to protect client data. SOC 2 Section 5 Section 5 of a SOC 2 report typically pertains to the "Additional Information Provided by the Service Organization. " This section is not part of the core audit but includes supplementary information that the service organization wishes to provide. This additional information can include: 1. Management's Assertion: Management's assertion is a statement provided by the organization's management that asserts the system meets the relevant trust service criteria listed above.   2. Subservice Organizations: Details about subservice organizations, which are third parties that provide services to the company and impact the control environment. This section describes how these subservice organizations are managed and the direct relationship with the enterprise . 3. Control Frameworks: A detailed description of the control frameworks used, this could include additional frameworks besides the standard SOC 2 criteria. Examples might be NIST, ISO, or COBIT frameworks that the organization aligns with. 4. Additional Explanations or Clarifications: This is specific depending on the company and their controls. This might include detailed descriptions of complex processes or unique control environments. 5. Future Plans: Information about future plans for control enhancements or upcoming audits. This demostrates the organization's commitment to continuous improvement and compliance. 6. Illustrative... --- ### Compliance Procedure > A compliance procedure is a set of systematic actions and policies designed to ensure that an organization adheres to compliance standards. - Published: 2024-06-20 - Modified: 2024-06-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-procedure/ A compliance procedure is a set of systematic actions and policies designed to ensure that an organization adheres to legal, regulatory, and internal standards. These procedures are essential for maintaining the integrity and ethical conduct of an organization, mitigating risks, and avoiding legal penalties or reputational damage. Compliance procedures cover a wide range of areas, including financial reporting, data protection, environmental regulations, and industry-specific standards. Key Components of a Compliance Procedure A comprehensive compliance procedure typically includes the following components: Policies and Standards: Clearly defined policies and standards that outline the organization’s commitment to compliance and the specific requirements that must be met. Training and Awareness: Regular training programs and awareness campaigns to educate employees about compliance requirements and their roles in maintaining compliance. Monitoring and Reporting: Systems for monitoring compliance with policies and standards, and mechanisms for reporting violations or concerns. Audits and Assessments: Regular audits and assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of compliance procedures and identify areas for improvement. Enforcement and Disciplinary Actions: Clear procedures for enforcing compliance policies and taking disciplinary action against those who violate them. Compliance Procedure Document A compliance procedure document is a formal written guide that outlines the specific steps and actions required to achieve and maintain compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and standards. This document serves as a reference for employees and management, ensuring that everyone understands the compliance requirements and how to meet them. A well-crafted compliance procedure document typically includes: Introduction and Scope: An overview of the compliance procedure, including... --- ### Intrusion Detection System (IDS) > An IDS is a security technology designed to detect of potential malicious activities or policy violations within a network. - Published: 2024-06-20 - Modified: 2024-06-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/intrusion-detection-system-ids/ An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is a security technology designed to detect and alert administrators of potential malicious activities or policy violations within a network or computer system. IDS monitors network traffic and system activities for signs of suspicious behavior, unauthorized access, and other threats. By identifying and responding to these threats in real-time, IDS helps to protect sensitive data and maintain the integrity and availability of IT resources. Types of Intrusion Detection Systems Intrusion Detection Systems can be categorized into several types based on their deployment and detection methodologies: Network Intrusion Detection Systems (NIDS): NIDS monitors network traffic for suspicious activities. It analyzes the data packets that travel across the network to identify patterns that may indicate an attack. NIDS is typically deployed at strategic points within the network, such as at the boundary or within critical segments. Host-based Intrusion Detection Systems (HIDS): HIDS monitors activities on individual hosts or devices. It examines system logs, file integrity, and application activities to detect unauthorized actions or policy violations. HIDS is particularly useful for detecting internal threats and protecting critical servers and endpoints. Hybrid Intrusion Detection Systems: These systems combine both NIDS and HIDS functionalities to provide comprehensive monitoring and detection capabilities across the network and individual hosts. Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS) While IDS focuses on detecting and alerting about potential threats, Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS) take it a step further by actively responding to detected threats. IDPS not only detects malicious activities but also takes predefined... --- ### SOC 2 Attestation > SOC 2 Attestation is a framework for auditing the security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy of information. - Published: 2024-06-20 - Modified: 2024-06-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-attestation/ SOC 2 (System and Organization Controls 2) Attestation is a framework for managing and auditing the security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy of information processed by a service organization. Established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), SOC 2 Attestation ensures that service organizations can securely handle the data they process for their clients. It is particularly relevant for SaaS companies and other technology-driven service providers. Types of SOC 2 Attestation SOC 2 Attestation is divided into two main types: SOC 2 Type 1 Attestation: This evaluates the design of security processes and controls at a specific point in time. It ensures that the system is suitably designed to meet the relevant trust service criteria. SOC 2 Type 2 Attestation: This not only evaluates the design but also the operational effectiveness of these controls over a specified period, typically between six months to a year. SOC 2 Type 2 Attestation provides a more comprehensive and reliable assurance to stakeholders about the ongoing effectiveness of the organization’s controls. https://youtu. be/VC8acNSuJFY Importance of SOC 2 Attestation SOC 2 Attestation is crucial for organizations that handle sensitive client data. It provides assurance to clients that their data is being managed securely and that the service provider is compliant with industry standards. The attestation process involves rigorous evaluation by an independent third-party auditor, which adds an extra layer of credibility. SOC 2 Attestation Process The process of obtaining SOC 2 Attestation involves several key steps: Preparation: Organizations must understand the SOC... --- ### Zero Trust Security > Zero Trust Security is a cybersecurity approach that assumes no implicit trust for any entity, whether inside or outside the organization. - Published: 2024-06-13 - Modified: 2024-06-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/zero-trust-security/ Zero Trust Security is an advanced security model that fundamentally changes the approach to cybersecurity by eliminating the concept of trust from an organization’s network architecture. This detailed guide explores the Zero Trust Security model, its architecture, principles, frameworks, solutions, and implementation strategies. Introduction to Zero Trust Security Zero Trust Security is a cybersecurity paradigm that assumes no implicit trust for any entity, whether inside or outside the organization's network perimeter. Instead, every access request must be verified, and least-privilege access is enforced. The approach is built on the principle "never trust, always verify," aiming to protect resources from both external and internal threats. Zero Trust Security Model The Zero Trust Security model is designed to address the limitations of traditional perimeter-based security, which assumes that everything within the network can be trusted. This model operates under the assumption that threats could exist both inside and outside the network, requiring continuous verification and validation of users and devices. Key components of the Zero Trust Security model include: Least-Privilege Access: Users and devices are granted the minimum level of access necessary to perform their functions, reducing the potential attack surface. Micro-Segmentation: The network is divided into smaller, isolated segments to limit lateral movement by attackers. Each segment has its own security policies and controls. Continuous Monitoring and Verification: Access to resources is continuously monitored, and verification is performed at each access request. Identity and Access Management (IAM): Strong authentication methods, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), are used to verify the identity... --- ### Prudential Regulation Authority > The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) is a vital institution responsible for overseeing the safety and soundness of financial firms. - Published: 2024-06-13 - Modified: 2024-06-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/prudential-regulation-authority/ The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) is a vital institution within the United Kingdom's financial regulatory framework, responsible for overseeing the safety and soundness of financial firms. This comprehensive guide explores the role, objectives, regulatory framework, and specific focus areas of the PRA, particularly in the insurance sector. Introduction to the Prudential Regulation Authority The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) was established in April 2013 as part of the Bank of England, following the financial crisis of 2007-2008. The PRA operates alongside the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to ensure the stability and integrity of the UK's financial system. While the FCA focuses on protecting consumers and ensuring market integrity, the PRA's primary mandate is to promote the safety and soundness of financial firms and to ensure that policyholders are protected. Role of Prudential Regulation Authority The role of the Prudential Regulation Authority encompasses a wide range of responsibilities aimed at maintaining the stability of the financial system. Key aspects of the PRA's role include: Supervisory Oversight: The PRA supervises banks, building societies, credit unions, insurers, and major investment firms. It assesses the risks these firms pose to the financial system and ensures they have adequate capital and liquidity. Regulatory Requirements: The PRA sets regulatory requirements for financial firms, including capital adequacy, liquidity, risk management, and governance standards. These requirements are designed to ensure that firms can withstand economic shocks and continue to operate effectively. Stress Testing: The PRA conducts stress tests on major financial firms to assess their resilience to adverse economic... --- ### NIS 2 Directive > The NIS 2 Directive is an updated framework aimed at enhancing the cybersecurity of critical infrastructures within the European Union (EU). - Published: 2024-06-13 - Modified: 2024-06-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/nis-2-directive/ The Network and Information Systems Directive (NIS 2 Directive) is an updated framework aimed at enhancing the cybersecurity and resilience of critical infrastructures within the European Union (EU). This comprehensive guide will delve into the various aspects of the NIS 2 Directive, providing a summary, outlining its scope, requirements, and the implications for the UK post-Brexit. NIS 2 Directive Summary The NIS 2 Directive is a significant update to the original NIS Directive, which was adopted in 2016. The original directive was the first piece of EU-wide legislation on cybersecurity, setting baseline requirements for network and information system security across member states. However, as cyber threats have evolved, the need for a more robust and comprehensive framework became apparent, leading to the proposal and eventual adoption of NIS Directive 2. 0. The primary objectives of the NIS 2 Directive are to improve the resilience and incident response capacities of both public and private sectors and to foster greater cooperation and information sharing among EU member states. The directive aims to enhance the security of critical entities, ensuring they can withstand, respond to, and recover from cyber incidents effectively. https://youtu. be/vsWWwPgF0H4 NIS Directive 2. 0: Evolution and Proposal The proposal for NIS Directive 2. 0 emerged from a recognition that the original NIS Directive's scope and effectiveness were limited. The European Commission proposed the NIS 2 Directive in December 2020 as part of the EU's Cybersecurity Strategy. This new directive expands the scope of the original directive, introduces stricter supervisory measures,... --- ### FERPA > The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law in the US that protects the privacy of student education records. - Published: 2024-06-06 - Modified: 2024-06-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/ferpa/ The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law in the United States that protects the privacy of student education records. Enacted in 1974, FERPA grants specific rights to students and their parents regarding the access, amendment, and control over the disclosure of their educational information. FERPA's primary objective is to ensure that students' educational records remain confidential and are only shared with authorized individuals or entities. Understanding FERPA Law FERPA law is designed to safeguard the privacy of students by setting strict guidelines on how educational institutions handle student records. These regulations apply to all schools that receive funds under any program administered by the U. S. Department of Education. Key Provisions of FERPA Law: Access to Records: FERPA grants students and parents the right to access their education records maintained by the school. This includes grades, transcripts, class schedules, disciplinary records, and other personal information. Amendment Rights: Under FERPA, students and parents have the right to request amendments to inaccurate or misleading information in their education records. If the school denies the request, the student or parent has the right to a formal hearing. Control over Disclosure: FERPA limits the disclosure of education records to third parties without the student's or parent's explicit consent. There are, however, several exceptions to this rule, such as disclosures to school officials with legitimate educational interests or in response to a lawfully issued subpoena. Annual Notification: Schools are required to notify students and parents annually about their rights under... --- ### Digital Rights Management (DRM) > Digital Rights Management (DRM) is a set of access control technologies used to restrict the usage of digital content and devices. - Published: 2024-06-06 - Modified: 2024-06-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/digital-rights-management-drm/ Digital Rights Management (DRM) is a set of access control technologies used to restrict the usage of digital content and devices. DRM systems are designed to protect the intellectual property rights of content creators and distributors by preventing unauthorized copying, sharing, and modification of digital media. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, DRM has become an essential tool for protecting various forms of digital content, including software, music, movies, e-books, and more. Understanding Digital Rights Management DRM encompasses a wide range of technologies and strategies aimed at controlling how digital content is used and distributed. These measures help content creators maintain control over their intellectual property, ensuring they receive proper compensation for their work. Core Objectives of DRM: Prevent Unauthorized Access: DRM systems are designed to restrict access to digital content to authorized users only. This ensures that only those who have purchased or been granted permission can view or use the content. Control Distribution: DRM technology limits the ways in which digital content can be distributed. It prevents unauthorized copying and sharing, ensuring that content creators and distributors maintain control over how their work is disseminated. Protect Content Integrity: DRM systems ensure that digital content remains unchanged and unaltered. This is particularly important for preserving the integrity of software, e-books, and other digital media. Enforce Usage Rights: DRM enables content creators to specify how their content can be used. This includes limiting the number of devices on which content can be accessed, controlling playback options, and restricting printing... --- ### CMMC Accreditation Body (CMMC AB) > The CMMC Accreditation Body is the sole authorized entity responsible for overseeing the implementation and certification process of the CMMC. - Published: 2024-06-06 - Modified: 2024-06-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cmmc-accreditation-body-cmmc-ab/ The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a crucial framework developed by the U. S. Department of Defense (DoD) to ensure that defense contractors have appropriate cybersecurity measures in place. The CMMC Accreditation Body (CMMC AB) is the sole authorized entity responsible for overseeing the implementation and certification process of the CMMC. This body plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity and credibility of the CMMC framework, ensuring that organizations meet the necessary cybersecurity standards. https://youtu. be/4ElZfnWmh70 The Role and Importance of the CMMC Accreditation Body The CMMC Accreditation Body (CMMC AB) is a non-profit organization that operates independently but under the guidance and oversight of the DoD. Its primary role is to accredit CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organizations (C3PAOs) and certify assessors who evaluate defense contractors' cybersecurity practices. The CMMC AB ensures that the certification process is rigorous, consistent, and transparent. The importance of the CMMC AB cannot be overstated. It serves as the gatekeeper of the CMMC framework, ensuring that all assessments and certifications are conducted impartially and meet the stringent requirements set by the DoD. Without the CMMC AB, the credibility and reliability of the CMMC certification process would be compromised, potentially putting national security at risk. CMMC AB Training Programs To uphold the standards of the CMMC framework, the CMMC AB offers comprehensive training programs for various stakeholders involved in the certification process. These training programs are designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct thorough and accurate assessments. Types of CMMC... --- ### DORA > The DORA is a regulatory framework designed to strengthen the operational resilience of financial entities within the European Union. - Published: 2024-05-30 - Modified: 2024-05-30 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/dora/ The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) is a comprehensive regulatory framework designed to strengthen the operational resilience of financial entities within the European Union. DORA aims to ensure that financial institutions can withstand and recover from all types of disruptions, particularly those related to information and communication technology (ICT). This act plays a critical role in safeguarding the stability of the financial system by addressing the growing threats posed by cyber incidents and technological failures. Key Objectives of DORA DORA seeks to achieve several key objectives: Enhance Resilience: Improve the ability of financial entities to prepare for, respond to, and recover from operational disruptions. Ensure Continuity: Ensure the continuous provision of critical financial services, even in the face of severe operational challenges. Promote Confidence: Foster trust and confidence in the financial system among consumers, businesses, and investors. DORA Compliance DORA compliance involves adhering to the regulatory requirements set forth in the act. Financial entities must implement measures to ensure they meet DORA standards and are capable of demonstrating compliance to regulatory authorities. Compliance efforts typically include: Risk Management: Establishing robust risk management frameworks that address ICT-related risks. Incident Reporting: Implementing procedures for timely reporting of significant ICT-related incidents to regulatory authorities. Third-Party Management: Ensuring that third-party service providers adhere to DORA requirements and do not pose undue risk to the financial entity. DORA Requirements The DORA requirements are extensive and cover various aspects of operational resilience. Key requirements include: Governance and Control: Financial entities must have effective governance and control... --- ### Vendor Due Diligence > Vendor due diligence is a process undertaken by companies to assess the reliability, integrity, and risk associated with potential vendors. - Published: 2024-05-30 - Modified: 2024-05-30 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-due-diligence/ Vendor due diligence is a critical process undertaken by companies to evaluate and assess the reliability, integrity, and overall risk associated with potential vendors or third-party service providers. This evaluation process helps organizations make informed decisions when selecting vendors, ensuring that they choose partners who meet their standards for quality, security, and compliance. The Vendor Due Diligence Process The vendor due diligence process involves a thorough examination of various aspects of a vendor’s operations, financial stability, legal compliance, and security practices. This process typically includes: Initial Screening: Identifying potential vendors and conducting preliminary checks to ensure they meet basic requirements. Detailed Assessment: Conducting an in-depth analysis of the vendor’s financial health, operational capabilities, and compliance with relevant regulations. Risk Evaluation: Assessing potential risks associated with the vendor, including financial, operational, reputational, and security risks. Decision Making: Based on the findings, making an informed decision about whether to engage with the vendor. Vendor Management Due Diligence Vendor management due diligence is an ongoing process that extends beyond the initial selection of a vendor. It involves continuous monitoring and assessment of the vendor’s performance, ensuring they adhere to agreed-upon standards and contracts. Key activities in vendor management due diligence include: Regular Audits: Conducting periodic audits to verify compliance with contractual terms and performance standards. Performance Reviews: Regularly reviewing the vendor’s performance metrics and service levels. Risk Monitoring: Continuously monitoring for any changes in the vendor’s risk profile, such as financial instability or security vulnerabilities. Financial Vendor Due Diligence Financial vendor due diligence... --- ### Trust Center > A Trust Center is a section on a company's website that provides information about its security, privacy, and compliance practices. - Published: 2024-05-30 - Modified: 2024-05-30 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/trust-center/ A Trust Center is a dedicated platform or section on a company's website that provides comprehensive information about its security, privacy, and compliance practices. It serves as a central repository for all the critical details that help build and maintain customer trust. This concept has become increasingly important as businesses strive to assure their clients and partners that their data and interactions are secure and handled with the utmost integrity. Purpose of a Trust Center The primary purpose of a Trust Center is to establish transparency and confidence among users. By openly sharing information about security protocols, data protection measures, and compliance with relevant regulations, companies can foster a sense of trust and reliability. This transparency is crucial in today's digital age, where data breaches and privacy concerns are prevalent. Building Trust with a Trust Page A trust page is a specific component of the Trust Center that focuses on highlighting the company's commitment to safeguarding customer data and ensuring privacy. It typically includes detailed information about the following: Security Measures: Outlining the technical and organizational measures in place to protect user data from unauthorized access, breaches, and other threats. Privacy Policies: Explaining how the company collects, uses, stores, and shares personal information, ensuring compliance with laws such as GDPR, CCPA, and others. Compliance Certifications: Showcasing the various certifications and standards the company adheres to, such as ISO/IEC 27001, SOC 2, and others. Enhancing Confidence through a Will & Trust Center A will & trust center is a specialized section... --- ### GDPR Cookie Consent > GDPR Cookie Consent refers to the requirements that organizations must follow to obtain consent from users for the use of cookies. - Published: 2024-05-23 - Modified: 2024-05-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/gdpr-cookie-consent/ GDPR Cookie Consent refers to the requirements and practices that organizations must follow to obtain and manage consent from users for the use of cookies and similar tracking technologies on their websites. This consent is mandated by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) to ensure transparency and control over personal data. Understanding GDPR Cookie Consent Under the GDPR, any organization that uses cookies to collect personal data from users within the European Union must obtain explicit consent from those users before processing their data. This requirement aims to protect user privacy and provide individuals with control over their personal information. Components of GDPR Cookie Consent Cookie Acceptance Definition: Cookie Acceptance is the process by which a user agrees to allow a website to place cookies on their device. Purpose: It ensures that users are informed about the types of cookies used and their purposes before they accept them. Process: Websites must present a clear and easily accessible cookie banner or consent form, detailing the use of cookies and providing options for users to accept or reject them. GDPR Cookie Compliance Definition: GDPR Cookie Compliance refers to the adherence to GDPR regulations concerning the use of cookies and the processing of personal data. Purpose: To avoid legal penalties and maintain user trust by ensuring that cookie usage practices comply with GDPR requirements. Process: This involves obtaining explicit consent before using cookies, providing clear information about cookie usage, and offering easy options for users to manage their cookie preferences. GDPR Compliance &... --- ### Data Privacy Framework > Data Privacy Framework refers to a structured set of guidelines and best practices that organizations use to protect personal data. - Published: 2024-05-23 - Modified: 2024-05-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-privacy-framework/ Data Privacy Framework refers to a structured set of guidelines and best practices that organizations use to manage and protect personal data. This framework ensures that data privacy is maintained throughout the data lifecycle, from collection to disposal, and helps organizations comply with various privacy laws and regulations. Understanding the Data Privacy Framework A Data Privacy Framework provides a systematic approach to managing personal data and ensuring compliance with relevant privacy regulations. It encompasses policies, procedures, and technologies designed to protect personal information and uphold individuals' privacy rights. Components of a Data Privacy Framework Privacy Program Framework Definition: A Privacy Program Framework outlines the policies and procedures that an organization implements to manage data privacy. Purpose: It aims to establish a comprehensive approach to data privacy, ensuring that all aspects of data handling are compliant with relevant laws and regulations. Process: This includes defining privacy policies, training employees, implementing privacy controls, and conducting regular audits. A robust privacy program framework aligns with standards such as ISO/IEC 27701 and NIST Privacy Framework. Privacy Compliance Framework Definition: A Privacy Compliance Framework ensures that an organization adheres to legal and regulatory requirements concerning data privacy. Purpose: The goal is to avoid legal penalties and maintain trust with customers by ensuring all data processing activities comply with applicable laws. Process: This involves mapping regulatory requirements to organizational policies, conducting compliance assessments, and maintaining records of compliance efforts. Key regulations include the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), and the... --- ### GRC Risk Management > GRC Risk Management refers to the approach that organizations adopt to manage governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) in an integrated manner. - Published: 2024-05-23 - Modified: 2025-05-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/grc-risk-management/ GRC Risk Management refers to the comprehensive approach that organizations adopt to manage governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) in an integrated manner. This methodology ensures that risks are effectively identified, assessed, and mitigated while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and aligning with organizational objectives. Understanding GRC Risk Management GRC Risk Management is a multifaceted process that combines several elements of risk management, including risk analysis, risk assessment, and risk mitigation, within the framework of governance and compliance. It enables organizations to create a cohesive strategy to handle potential threats and ensure regulatory adherence. Components of GRC Risk Management GRC Risk Analysis Definition: GRC Risk Analysis involves the systematic identification and evaluation of risks that could potentially affect an organization's ability to achieve its objectives. Purpose: The primary aim of risk analysis is to understand the nature, sources, and impact of risks. This step is crucial for developing effective risk mitigation strategies. Process: It includes identifying potential risks, analyzing their likelihood and impact, and categorizing them based on their severity. Tools such as SWOT analysis, PEST analysis, and scenario planning are often used in this phase. GRC Risk Assessment Definition: GRC Risk Assessment is the process of determining the potential impact of identified risks and the likelihood of their occurrence. Purpose: The goal of risk assessment is to prioritize risks based on their potential impact on the organization, enabling more focused and effective risk management efforts. Process: This involves qualitative and quantitative assessments, using methodologies like risk matrices, heat maps, and... --- ### GDPR Certification > The GDPR is a data protection law enacted by the European Union (EU) to safeguard the privacy and personal data of individuals within the EU. - Published: 2024-05-16 - Modified: 2024-05-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/gdpr-certification/ The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive data protection law enacted by the European Union (EU) to safeguard the privacy and personal data of individuals within the EU. Achieving GDPR certification demonstrates that an organization complies with GDPR requirements, thereby ensuring data privacy and security. This certification not only enhances trust with customers and partners but also helps avoid potential legal penalties. Understanding GDPR Certification GDPR certification, also known as GDPR compliance certification, is a formal recognition that an organization adheres to the data protection standards set forth by the GDPR. This certification is awarded by accredited bodies that assess an organization's data protection practices, policies, and procedures against the GDPR requirements. Importance of GDPR Certification for Companies Achieving GDPR certification for companies is crucial for several reasons: Legal Compliance: It ensures that the organization is in compliance with GDPR, thereby avoiding hefty fines and legal penalties. Customer Trust: It enhances customer confidence in the organization’s ability to protect their personal data. Competitive Advantage: It differentiates the organization from competitors who may not have the certification. Global Reach: It enables the organization to do business with EU-based customers and partners without legal complications. How to Become GDPR Compliant Becoming GDPR compliant involves several steps. Organizations must implement robust data protection measures, document their compliance efforts, and undergo an assessment by an accredited certification body. Download our Go-To Guide to GDPR for a breakdown on the regulation and the fastest way to get there, otherwise here's a quick overview... --- ### Gray Box Penetration Testing > Gray box penetration testing involves pen testers who have limited knowledge of the internal structure of the target system. - Published: 2024-05-16 - Modified: 2024-05-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/gray-box-penetration-testing/ Gray box penetration testing, often referred to as a hybrid approach, involves testers who have limited knowledge of the internal structure of the target system. Unlike black box scanning, where testers operate with no prior information, or white box pentesting, where testers have full access to internal details, gray box pentesting strikes a middle ground. Testers might have access to some internal documentation, user credentials, or network information, enabling them to conduct more targeted and efficient tests. The Role of the Pentest Box In gray box penetration testing, the pentest box is a crucial tool. This is a dedicated device or virtual environment configured with various penetration testing tools necessary for the assessment. The pentest box allows testers to simulate attacks from both external and internal perspectives. By using this controlled environment, testers can systematically identify vulnerabilities and assess the effectiveness of existing security measures. Combining Techniques: Black Box Scanning and White Box Pentesting Gray box penetration testing benefits from incorporating techniques from both black box scanning and white box pentesting. Black Box Scanning: This technique involves testing the system from an external perspective without any prior knowledge. It focuses on identifying vulnerabilities that could be exploited by an outsider. In gray box testing, elements of black box scanning are used to simulate how an external attacker might attempt to breach the system using publicly available information and common attack vectors. White Box Pentesting: This technique provides testers with full access to the system's internal structures, source code, and architecture.... --- ### Model Audit Rule (MAR) > The Model Audit Rule is a regulatory standard that imposes rigorous financial reporting and auditing requirements on insurance companies. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/model-audit-rule-mar/ The Model Audit Rule (MAR), officially known as the Model Audit Rule 205, is a regulatory standard that imposes rigorous financial reporting and auditing requirements on insurance companies. The MAR was developed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) to enhance the reliability of financial statements and to ensure the integrity of reporting practices within the insurance industry. It is analogous to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) for publicly traded companies, albeit tailored specifically for privately held and publicly traded insurance entities. Model Audit Rule Requirements The Model Audit Rule mandates a comprehensive set of requirements designed to ensure the accuracy and dependability of financial reporting by insurance companies. Key requirements include: Implementation of an internal control framework. Annual financial reporting to be certified by management. Mandatory external audits by an independent auditor. Communications of internal control weaknesses directly to the board. These requirements aim to foster transparency, prevent fraud, and improve financial management within the insurance sector. Model Audit Rule Compliance Compliance with the Model Audit Rule involves adhering to the specific financial reporting and auditing standards set by the NAIC. Insurance companies must establish a system of internal controls that can be audited both internally and externally. Compliance is monitored through periodic reviews and audits to ensure ongoing adherence to MAR standards. Insurance companies must also submit detailed annual reports that include management’s certification of the effectiveness of their internal controls over financial reporting. Model Audit Rule vs SOX While the Model Audit Rule and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act... --- ### Disaster Recovery Audit > A disaster recovery audit is a critical evaluation process aimed at assessing the effectiveness of an organization's disaster recovery plan. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/disaster-recovery-audit/ A disaster recovery audit is a critical evaluation process aimed at assessing the effectiveness and readiness of an organization's disaster recovery plan (DRP). This type of audit ensures that in the event of a disaster—whether natural, such as an earthquake or flood, or man-made, like a cyber attack—the organization has robust measures in place to recover data, maintain functionality, and continue operations with minimal disruption. A comprehensive disaster recovery audit helps organizations identify vulnerabilities in their DRP and implement corrective actions to mitigate risks. Disaster Recovery Audit Program A disaster recovery audit program involves systematic review procedures that assess and verify the effectiveness of an organization's disaster recovery strategies and mechanisms. This program typically aligns with industry standards and best practices, such as those recommended by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). A well-structured disaster recovery audit program includes setting audit objectives, defining audit criteria, conducting fieldwork, and reporting findings. It is crucial for ensuring that the disaster recovery plan is not only theoretically sound but also practically executable. Disaster Recovery Audit Checklist The disaster recovery audit checklist serves as a critical tool in the auditing process. It provides a comprehensive list of items and areas to be reviewed, including but not limited to: Documentation of the disaster recovery plan Roles and responsibilities of involved personnel Communication strategies and backup systems Recovery time objectives (RTO) and recovery point objectives (RPO) Physical and cybersecurity measures Backup data integrity tests Training and awareness programs This checklist helps auditors systematically evaluate... --- ### Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange (TISAX) > The Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange (TISAX) is a protocol for conducting security assessments within the automotive industry. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2024-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/trusted-information-security-assessment-exchange-tisax/ The Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange (TISAX) is a standardized protocol for conducting security assessments within the automotive industry. It is a mechanism established to ensure a uniform level of information security, data protection, and compliance among all participants, including manufacturers and service providers within the automotive supply chain. TISAX enables companies to undergo an independent assessment, which other participating organizations can accept without the need for redundant audits. TISAX Certification Gaining TISAX certification demonstrates that a company meets specific high standards of information security tailored to the sensitive nature of the automotive industry. The certification process involves a detailed examination of a company's information security management systems (ISMS) to ensure they align with the stringent requirements specified under TISAX. Once certified, a company’s compliance status is recognized by all other participating automotive industry entities, facilitating smoother collaboration and partnerships. TISAX Compliance Compliance with TISAX is mandatory for any company seeking to engage with certain automotive manufacturers, particularly in Germany where the standard originated. TISAX compliance implies that the company adheres to the high standards of security protocols and data handling practices as laid out by the ENX Association—the governing body responsible for TISAX. Compliance helps companies safeguard against information theft, data breaches, and other cyber threats, thereby fostering a secure business environment. TISAX Audit A TISAX audit is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by accredited and independent auditors. These audits are designed to verify that the information security measures a company has in place are effective and meet the TISAX... --- ### HIPAA Breach Notification Rule > The HIPAA Breach Notification Rule is a regulation under HIPAA that requires entities to provide notification following a breach of PHI. - Published: 2024-05-02 - Modified: 2024-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-breach-notification-rule/ The HIPAA Breach Notification Rule is a federal regulation under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) that requires covered entities and their business associates to provide notification following a breach of unsecured protected health information (PHI). Enforced by the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the rule outlines how breaches should be reported, who must be notified, and the timeframe for notification. HIPAA Breach Notification Process The HIPAA Breach Notification Rule mandates that covered entities must provide notice to affected individuals, the HHS, and, in certain cases, the media, following the discovery of a breach of unsecured PHI. Key components of the notification process include: Notification to Individuals: Must occur without unreasonable delay and no later than 60 days from the discovery of the breach, detailing what occurred, the type of PHI involved, steps individuals should take to protect themselves, and what the covered entity is doing to investigate and mitigate harm. Notification to the HHS: For breaches affecting fewer than 500 individuals, covered entities must maintain a log and annually submit it to the HHS. For breaches affecting 500 or more individuals, immediate notification to the HHS is required. Notification to the Media: For breaches involving 500 or more individuals in a state or jurisdiction, covered entities must notify prominent media outlets within the same timeframe as individual notifications. HIPAA Breach Penalties Violations of the HIPAA Breach Notification Rule can result in significant penalties, which are tiered based on the perceived level of negligence.... --- ### Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH) > The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH) aims to promote the adoption of health information technology. - Published: 2024-05-02 - Modified: 2024-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/health-information-technology-for-economic-and-clinical-health-act-hitech/ The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH) is a significant piece of U. S. legislation enacted as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. It aims to promote the adoption and meaningful use of health information technology, particularly electronic health records (EHRs). HITECH was developed to accelerate the spread of technology that could improve healthcare quality, safety, and efficiency in the United States. HITECH Act of 2009 The HITECH Act of 2009 laid the groundwork for the widespread adoption of electronic health records and supported technology in the U. S. healthcare system. With an initial investment of over $25 billion, the act incentivizes healthcare providers to adopt EHRs through financial incentives from Medicare and Medicaid. These incentives are given to healthcare providers that demonstrate "meaningful use" of digital health records, which includes specific criteria like improving care coordination, reducing healthcare disparities, and maintaining the privacy and security of patient information. HITECH Law The HITECH law significantly expands the scope of privacy and security protections available under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), increasing the legal liability for non-compliance and providing more stringent enforcement measures. A key component of HITECH is the requirement for health entities to report data breaches affecting more than 500 individuals directly to the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the affected individuals, and, in certain cases, to the media. This provision aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of patient data.... --- ### Security Operations Center (SOC) > A Security Operations Center (SOC) is a centralized unit that deals with security issues on an organizational and technical level. - Published: 2024-05-02 - Modified: 2024-05-02 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-operations-center-soc/ A Security Operations Center (SOC) is a centralized unit that deals with security issues on an organizational and technical level. An effective SOC functions as the heart of an organization’s cybersecurity framework, employing a combination of sophisticated technologies, processes, and a skilled workforce to monitor, assess, and defend against cybersecurity threats. Security Operations Center Framework The SOC framework consists of the key structures, processes, and tools required to operate an efficient SOC. It integrates various elements such as threat detection, incident response, and continuous monitoring strategies. The framework is designed to streamline the operations within the SOC, ensuring that it can swiftly adapt and respond to the dynamic landscape of cyber threats. Essential components of the framework include: Threat Intelligence: Gathering and analyzing information about emerging or existing threat actors and threats. Incident Response: Procedures and policies that dictate how to handle and mitigate detected security incidents. Continuous Monitoring: Ongoing scrutiny of network activity to detect and respond to threats in real time. Technology Stack: A comprehensive set of security tools, including security information and event management (SIEM) systems, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and more. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Managed Security Operations Center A Managed Security Operations Center (MSOC) is a service model where an organization outsources its SOC functions to a third-party provider. This approach is beneficial for organizations lacking the resources to fully staff or equip an in-house SOC. MSOC providers offer various services, such as 24/7 monitoring, threat detection,... --- ### ISO 27001 Stage 2 Audit > The ISO 27001 Stage 2 Audit is a critical component of the certification process, focusing on the effectiveness of an organization’s ISMS. - Published: 2024-04-25 - Modified: 2024-04-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-stage-2-audit/ The ISO 27001 Stage 2 Audit is a critical component of the ISO 27001 certification process, focusing on the effectiveness of an organization’s Information Security Management System (ISMS). This audit is designed to confirm that the ISMS not only complies with the ISO 27001 standards but is also fully implemented and operational within the organization. Overview of ISO 27001/2 ISO 27001 is an international standard that outlines the requirements for an Information Security Management System. The standard is designed to help organizations manage the security of assets such as financial information, intellectual property, employee details, or information entrusted by third parties. ISO 27001/2 refers to the ISO 27001 standards and its accompanying guidelines, which provide a framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an ISMS. ISO 27001 Certification Process The ISO 27001 certification process is a systematic approach to assessing and verifying the robustness and effectiveness of an organization's ISMS. This process is typically divided into two main stages: Stage 1 Audit: This preliminary stage involves reviewing the organization’s ISMS documentation to ensure it meets ISO 27001 standards. The auditor checks if the scope of the certification is adequately defined, the ISMS is documented, and the management system is in line with the requirements of the ISO 27001 standard. Stage 2 Audit: This is the main audit where the actual compliance of the ISMS to the ISO 27001 standards is assessed. Auditors visit the organization, conduct interviews, and review system operations to ensure that the ISMS is not only... --- ### PCI Scope > PCI Scope refers to the determination of which processes and data are subject to the requirements specified in the PCI DSS. - Published: 2024-04-25 - Modified: 2024-04-25 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-scope/ The concept of PCI Scope refers to the determination of which system components, processes, and data are subject to the requirements specified in the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). Understanding and defining the PCI Scope is crucial for organizations handling cardholder data, as it helps to focus security efforts on areas that could impact the security of payment card information. Understanding PCI DSS Scope The PCI DSS Scope involves identifying all system components that are connected to or could impact the security of the cardholder data environment (CDE). This includes any network devices, servers, computing devices, and applications that store, process, or transmit cardholder data or sensitive authentication data. Establishing an accurate PCI Scope is essential for effective implementation of the PCI DSS requirements, as it directly affects the extent of an organization’s PCI compliance efforts. PCI Compliance Scope The PCI Compliance Scope specifically refers to the extent of the organization’s IT environment that must adhere to PCI DSS requirements to ensure the security of cardholder data. Properly defining this scope ensures that all relevant assets are protected according to PCI standards, thereby reducing the risk of data breaches. Organizations must regularly review and update their PCI Scope to account for changes in their network architecture, data flows, and operational processes that might affect the security of cardholder data. PCI Scoping Guidance PCI Scoping Guidance provides a structured approach to determining what is included in the PCI Scope. This guidance helps organizations identify which parts of their... --- ### Cybersecurity Risk Management > Cybersecurity risk management refers to the process of identifying, analyzing, and mitigating risks related to IT systems and networks. - Published: 2024-04-18 - Modified: 2024-04-18 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-risk-management/ Cybersecurity risk management refers to the process of identifying, analyzing, assessing, and mitigating risks related to IT systems and networks. It involves the development and implementation of strategies, plans, and programs to protect valuable data and assets from cyber threats. Cybersecurity Risk Management Plan A cybersecurity risk management plan outlines an organization's approach to managing and mitigating cyber threats. It typically includes objectives, roles and responsibilities, risk assessment methodologies, risk treatment strategies, and monitoring and review processes. The plan serves as a roadmap for implementing cybersecurity measures to reduce the impact of potential risks. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Cybersecurity Risk Management Process The cybersecurity risk management process consists of several key steps: Identification: This involves identifying assets, vulnerabilities, threats, and potential impacts to the organization's IT systems and networks. It requires thorough assessment and documentation of the organization's digital infrastructure. Analysis: Once risks are identified, they are analyzed to understand their likelihood and potential impact on the organization. This step helps prioritize risks based on their severity and likelihood of occurrence. Assessment: Risks are assessed using various methodologies and criteria to determine their level of risk exposure. This step involves quantifying risks based on factors such as likelihood, impact, and mitigating controls. Mitigation: After assessing risks, mitigation strategies are developed to reduce or eliminate identified vulnerabilities and threats. This may involve implementing technical controls, adopting best practices, and enhancing security measures. Monitoring and Review: Cybersecurity risks are dynamic and constantly evolving. Therefore,... --- ### PCI Non-Compliance Fee > A PCI non-compliance fee is a financial penalty imposed on merchants by payment card networks for failing to comply with the PCI DSS. - Published: 2024-04-18 - Modified: 2024-07-18 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-non-compliance-fee/ A PCI non-compliance fee, also known as a PCI non-validation fee, is a financial penalty imposed on merchants by payment card networks for failing to comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This fee is levied when merchants do not meet the requirements set forth by the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) to safeguard cardholder data. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=3CGeTWkSg3A Understanding PCI Compliance Fees Payment card networks such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and others require merchants to adhere to PCI DSS standards to ensure the secure handling of cardholder data. PCI DSS is a set of security standards designed to protect payment card data during storage, processing, and transmission. PCI Non-Compliance Fee vs. PCI Non-Validation Fee While the terms "PCI non-compliance fee" and "PCI non-validation fee" are often used interchangeably, they essentially refer to the same concept: the penalty imposed on merchants for failing to comply with PCI DSS requirements. However, some payment card networks may use different terminology to describe this fee. PCI Compliance Fees PCI compliance fees are charges levied by payment card networks to cover the costs associated with maintaining and enforcing PCI DSS standards. These fees contribute to activities such as compliance validation assessments, audits, and security measures aimed at protecting cardholder data. Non-Compliance Charge A non-compliance charge is a penalty assessed against merchants for failing to meet PCI DSS requirements. This charge is typically applied when merchants experience a data breach or are found to be non-compliant during compliance... --- ### Data Security Posture Management > Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) is an approach to ensure protection of sensitive information across various platforms. - Published: 2024-04-18 - Modified: 2024-07-18 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-security-posture-management/ Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) emerges as a critical approach to ensure comprehensive protection of sensitive information across various environments and platforms. This glossary term delves into the concept of DSPM, its significance, key components, and the role of DSPM vendors and tools in safeguarding data integrity. Understanding Data Security Posture Management Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) refers to the continuous process of assessing, managing, and enhancing an organization's security posture concerning its data assets. It encompasses a range of practices and technologies aimed at identifying vulnerabilities, enforcing security policies, and mitigating risks to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. https://youtu. be/XCt7QbA9peo Components of Data Security Posture Management Risk Assessment: DSPM begins with a comprehensive evaluation of an organization's data environment to identify potential vulnerabilities and threats. This involves analyzing data flows, access controls, encryption mechanisms, and other security measures to pinpoint areas of weakness. Policy Enforcement: Once risks are identified, DSPM involves the enforcement of security policies and controls to mitigate those risks effectively. This includes implementing access controls, encryption protocols, data loss prevention measures, and other security mechanisms to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards. Continuous Monitoring: DSPM relies on continuous monitoring of data environments to detect and respond to security incidents in real-time. This involves the use of monitoring tools and technologies to track data access, detect anomalies, and generate alerts for suspicious activities. Incident Response: In the event of a security breach or incident, DSPM facilitates an organized and efficient incident response... --- ### HIPAA Privacy Rule > The HIPAA Privacy Rule represents a fundamental component in the safeguarding of personal health information. - Published: 2024-04-11 - Modified: 2024-07-19 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-privacy-rule/ The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy Rule represents a fundamental component in the safeguarding of personal health information (PHI). Established by the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Privacy Rule sets national standards for the protection of individually identifiable health information held by covered entities and their business associates. The rule applies to a wide range of entities within the healthcare sector, including health plans, healthcare clearinghouses, and healthcare providers who electronically transmit any health information in connection with transactions for which HHS has adopted standards. https://youtu. be/qavYsiWl-v4 HIPAA Compliance and Data Security HIPAA compliance and data security are intertwined concepts, with the Privacy Rule mandating rigorous standards to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of electronic protected health information (ePHI). Covered entities are required to implement comprehensive risk management policies, physical and technical safeguards, and to conduct regular audits to assess compliance with HIPAA regulations. Data security under HIPAA involves a proactive approach to protecting sensitive patient information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. HIPAA and IT Security The intersection of HIPAA and IT security is critical in the digital age, where healthcare information is increasingly stored, processed, and transmitted electronically. The Privacy Rule mandates that covered entities and their business associates adopt appropriate administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to ensure the security of ePHI. This includes measures such as encryption, secure access controls, audit controls, and IT security policies that align with HIPAA's stringent standards. IT security under HIPAA is... --- ### Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) > Multi-Factor Authentication requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource, such as an application. - Published: 2024-04-11 - Modified: 2024-07-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/multi-factor-authentication-mfa/ Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security mechanism that requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource, such as an application, online account, or a VPN. Unlike traditional single-factor authentication methods, which typically rely on something the user knows (like a password), MFA adds additional layers of security by requiring multiple forms of verification from independent categories of credentials. These categories are generally classified as something you know (knowledge), something you have (possession), and something you are (inherence). MFA technology is designed to protect against unauthorized access by ensuring that the probability of a successful attack is significantly reduced, as compromising more than one authentication factor is considerably more challenging for attackers. https://youtu. be/adKBjrlu9iM MFA Technology: The Foundation of Enhanced Security Multi-Factor Authentication technology incorporates various methods and tools to authenticate the identity of a user or device. This technology plays a crucial role in safeguarding sensitive data and systems by adding multiple layers of security, making it much more difficult for unauthorized individuals to breach an account or network. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, the adoption of MFA technology has become a standard security practice for organizations and individuals alike, aiming to protect against data breaches, identity theft, and other cyber-attacks. This technology goes beyond traditional passwords, incorporating additional authentication factors such as biometric verification, security tokens, mobile device confirmation, and one-time passwords (OTPs). By requiring multiple forms of verification, MFA technology significantly enhances the security of user logins and transactions, providing... --- ### Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) > Cyber Threat Intelligence focuses on the collection, analysis, and dissemination of information regarding cyber threats and vulnerabilities. - Published: 2024-04-11 - Modified: 2024-04-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cyber-threat-intelligence-cti/ Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) represents a pivotal component within the cybersecurity domain, focusing on the collection, analysis, and dissemination of information regarding potential or current cyber threats and vulnerabilities. CTI aims to empower organizations to make informed decisions about their security posture and to implement proactive defenses against cyber threats. By analyzing trends, tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) of cyber adversaries, CTI provides actionable intelligence that helps in predicting and mitigating cyber attacks. The Essence of CTI in Cybersecurity CTI plays a critical role in staying ahead of potential threats by offering insights that help in identifying, assessing, and prioritizing the cyber threats that pose the most significant risk to an organization's digital assets. It encompasses a wide range of information, from indicators of compromise (IoCs) and malware signatures to strategies employed by threat actors. This intelligence is pivotal for developing a robust cybersecurity strategy that can adapt to and counter sophisticated cyber threats. Technical Threat Intelligence: The Technical Foundation of CTI Technical threat intelligence forms the backbone of CTI, focusing on the technical aspects of cyber threats, such as malware analysis, IoCs, and the vulnerabilities exploited by attackers. This type of intelligence is crucial for operational teams, such as incident response and security operations centers (SOCs), providing them with the detailed information needed to detect, respond to, and mitigate threats in real-time. Technical threat intelligence enables organizations to enhance their security measures by integrating specific threat data into their cybersecurity tools and platforms. Cyber Threat Intelligence Framework: Structuring CTI... --- ### Compliance Risk Assessment > A Compliance Risk Assessment is a process of identifying and evaluating potential risks associated with non-compliance within an organization. - Published: 2024-04-04 - Modified: 2024-12-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-risk-assessment/ A Compliance Risk Assessment is a systematic process of identifying, analyzing, and evaluating potential risks associated with non-compliance with laws, regulations, standards, or internal policies within an organization. This assessment helps organizations understand their compliance obligations, assess the effectiveness of existing controls, and prioritize resources for mitigating compliance-related risks. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=djy1pnrWNLQ PCI Compliance Risk Assessment PCI Compliance Risk Assessment specifically focuses on assessing risks related to compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). PCI DSS sets forth requirements for protecting payment card data and ensuring secure payment transactions. A PCI compliance risk assessment helps organizations identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in their cardholder data environment (CDE) and prioritize actions to address compliance gaps. HIPAA Compliance Risk Assessment HIPAA Compliance Risk Assessment pertains to assessing risks related to compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations. HIPAA sets standards for protecting the privacy and security of individuals' health information. A HIPAA compliance risk assessment helps covered entities and business associates identify potential risks to protected health information (PHI) and implement safeguards to ensure compliance with HIPAA requirements. Compliance Risk Assessment Template A Compliance Risk Assessment Template is a standardized document or tool used to conduct compliance risk assessments within organizations. The template typically includes the following components: Scope and Objectives: Defining the scope of the assessment and its objectives, including the laws, regulations, standards, or policies being assessed for compliance. Risk Identification: Identifying potential compliance risks and vulnerabilities, including legal and regulatory requirements,... --- ### NIST Certification > NIST Certification refers to the process of obtaining certification for compliance with the National Institute of Standards and Technology. - Published: 2024-04-04 - Modified: 2025-04-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/nist-certification/ NIST Certification refers to the process of obtaining certification for compliance with standards and guidelines developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), particularly in the field of cybersecurity. NIST certifications demonstrate an organization's adherence to best practices and standards established by NIST to enhance cybersecurity posture and protect sensitive information. NIST Cybersecurity Framework Certification The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) provides a set of guidelines, standards, and best practices for managing and improving cybersecurity risk management processes. NIST CSF certification involves aligning an organization's cybersecurity practices with the framework's core functions: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover. While there is no official NIST CSF certification program, organizations can undergo independent assessments or audits to demonstrate compliance with the framework's principles. https://youtu. be/L9iQnxjUCk4 NIST 800-53 Certification NIST Special Publication 800-53 provides security controls and guidelines for federal information systems and organizations. NIST 800-53 certification involves implementing the security controls outlined in the publication to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information. Certification under NIST 800-53 may be required for organizations that handle federal government data or contracts. NIST Certification Requirements The specific requirements for NIST certification may vary depending on the framework or publication being referenced. However, common requirements for NIST certification typically include: Adherence to NIST Standards: Organizations seeking NIST certification must demonstrate compliance with the standards, guidelines, and best practices established by NIST, such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework or NIST Special Publication 800-53. Implementation of Security Controls: Certification may require the implementation of specific... --- ### PCI Attestation of Compliance (AoC) > PCI Attestation of Compliance (AoC) is a document issued to organizations that have successfully demonstrated compliance with the PCI DSS. - Published: 2024-03-21 - Modified: 2024-07-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-attestation-of-compliance-aoc/ PCI Attestation of Compliance (AoC) is a document issued to organizations that have successfully demonstrated compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). The AoC serves as evidence that the organization has implemented security measures and controls to protect cardholder data and comply with PCI DSS requirements. https://youtu. be/nhqkltQSghk Attestation of Compliance An Attestation of Compliance is a formal declaration or statement provided by an organization or its authorized representative confirming that they have met the requirements of a specific standard or regulation. In the context of PCI DSS, the Attestation of Compliance serves as confirmation that the organization has implemented the necessary security measures to protect payment card data and comply with PCI DSS requirements. PCI DSS AoC PCI DSS AoC specifically refers to the Attestation of Compliance document issued in accordance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This document is typically issued by a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) or Internal Security Assessor (ISA) following a comprehensive assessment of the organization's cardholder data environment (CDE) and compliance with PCI DSS requirements. Attestation of Compliance Document The Attestation of Compliance document is a formal report or certificate provided to organizations upon successful completion of a PCI DSS assessment. The document typically includes the following components: Scope of Assessment: Description of the organization's cardholder data environment (CDE) and the systems, networks, and processes included in the PCI DSS assessment scope. Compliance Status: Confirmation that the organization has successfully met the requirements of PCI DSS... --- ### Cookie Consent Policy > A Cookie Consent Policy is a document provided by a website that informs users about the use of cookies and similar tracking technologies. - Published: 2024-03-21 - Modified: 2024-03-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cookie-consent-policy/ A Cookie Consent Policy is a statement or document provided by a website or online service that informs users about the use of cookies and similar tracking technologies and seeks their consent to store and access such technologies on their devices. This policy outlines how cookies are used, what types of cookies are utilized, and how users can manage their cookie preferences. Cookie Compliance Cookie compliance refers to the adherence to relevant laws, regulations, and guidelines regarding the use of cookies and tracking technologies. In many jurisdictions, including the European Union (EU) and certain states in the United States, websites and online services are required to obtain users' informed consent before placing cookies on their devices. Cookie compliance involves implementing mechanisms to inform users about cookie usage, obtain their consent, and provide options for managing cookie preferences. Cookie Management Cookie management encompasses the processes and practices involved in the creation, deployment, and maintenance of cookies on a website or online platform. This includes identifying the types of cookies used, their purposes, and their lifespan. Effective cookie management also involves implementing mechanisms for obtaining user consent, providing transparency about cookie usage, and enabling users to control their cookie preferences through settings or opt-out options. Website Cookie Policy A Website Cookie Policy is a component of a website's privacy policy or legal terms that specifically addresses the use of cookies and similar tracking technologies. This policy typically includes the following elements: Purpose of Cookies: Explanation of the purpose and function of cookies,... --- ### Integrated Risk Management > Integrated Risk Management (IRM) is a strategic approach to managing and mitigating risks across an organization in a cohesive manner. - Published: 2024-03-21 - Modified: 2024-03-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/integrated-risk-management/ Integrated Risk Management (IRM) is a strategic approach to managing and mitigating risks across an organization in a cohesive and coordinated manner. It involves the integration of risk management processes, tools, and frameworks to identify, assess, prioritize, and mitigate risks effectively. Integrated Risk Management Approach An Integrated Risk Management approach involves aligning risk management activities with organizational objectives, culture, and governance structures. Rather than treating risk management as a siloed function, IRM integrates risk considerations into decision-making processes at all levels of the organization. This holistic approach ensures that risks are proactively identified and managed in a manner that supports the organization's overall goals and objectives. Integrated Risk Management Framework An Integrated Risk Management Framework provides a structured approach to managing risks across the organization. It typically includes processes, methodologies, and tools for identifying, assessing, monitoring, and responding to risks. The framework may encompass various dimensions of risk, including financial, operational, compliance, strategic, and reputational risks. By adopting a standardized framework, organizations can streamline their risk management efforts and ensure consistency in how risks are addressed across different business units and departments. Integrated Risk Management Process The Integrated Risk Management process typically involves several key steps: Risk Identification: Identifying and cataloging potential risks that could impact the organization's objectives, projects, or operations. This may involve conducting risk assessments, brainstorming sessions, or leveraging historical data and industry benchmarks. Risk Assessment: Evaluating the likelihood and potential impact of identified risks on the organization. Risk assessments may involve quantitative analysis, qualitative assessments, or... --- ### Personally Identifiable Information (PII) > Personally Identifiable Information (PII) refers to any data that can be used to identify, locate, or contact an individual. - Published: 2024-03-14 - Modified: 2024-03-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/personally-identifiable-information-pii/ Personally Identifiable Information (PII) refers to any data that can be used to identify, locate, or contact an individual. This includes information such as names, addresses, social security numbers, email addresses, phone numbers, biometric data, and financial account numbers. PII is a critical aspect of privacy and data protection regulations, as its exposure can lead to identity theft, fraud, and other privacy violations. PII Cyber Security In the realm of cybersecurity, protecting Personally Identifiable Information (PII) is of paramount importance. Cybercriminals frequently target PII for illicit purposes, such as identity theft, financial fraud, and phishing scams. Therefore, organizations must implement robust security measures to safeguard PII from unauthorized access, disclosure, and misuse. PII Data PII data encompasses a wide range of information that can directly or indirectly identify an individual. This includes both sensitive and non-sensitive PII. Sensitive PII includes data such as social security numbers, driver's license numbers, passport numbers, and financial account information. Non-sensitive PII, on the other hand, may include demographic information like age, gender, and ZIP code, which, while not inherently sensitive, can still be used in combination with other data to identify individuals. PII GDPR The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), implemented by the European Union (EU), imposes strict requirements on the collection, processing, and protection of Personally Identifiable Information (PII). Under GDPR, organizations must obtain explicit consent from individuals before collecting their PII, and they are required to implement robust security measures to protect this data from breaches and unauthorized access. Additionally, GDPR grants... --- ### Sensitive Data Exposure > Sensitive Data Exposure refers to the unauthorized access, disclosure, or transmission of sensitive information. - Published: 2024-03-14 - Modified: 2024-03-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/sensitive-data-exposure/ Sensitive Data Exposure refers to the unauthorized access, disclosure, or transmission of sensitive information, such as personal identifiable information (PII), financial data, health records, or intellectual property. This exposure can occur through various means, including insecure storage, weak encryption, and improper handling of data. OWASP Sensitive Data Exposure The Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) identifies Sensitive Data Exposure as a critical security risk in web applications. According to OWASP, attackers exploit vulnerabilities within web applications to gain access to sensitive data. These vulnerabilities may include inadequate encryption, insufficient authentication mechanisms, and flawed access controls. The OWASP Top 10 list consistently highlights Sensitive Data Exposure as a prevalent threat, emphasizing the importance of addressing this risk in application development and security practices. API Sensitive Data Exposure Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) play a crucial role in modern software development, facilitating communication and data exchange between different systems. However, APIs can also pose significant security risks, particularly concerning sensitive data exposure. When APIs are not adequately secured, attackers may intercept, manipulate, or extract sensitive information transmitted between applications. APIs often handle sensitive data, such as user credentials, payment details, and personal information. Therefore, ensuring the security of APIs is essential to prevent data breaches and protect user privacy. Secure coding practices, robust authentication mechanisms, and encryption protocols are vital for mitigating the risk of API-sensitive data exposure. Impact of Sensitive Data Exposure The consequences of sensitive data exposure can be severe and far-reaching. When sensitive information falls into the wrong hands, it... --- ### Data Loss Prevention (DLP) > DLP refers to a set of tools designed to ensure that sensitive information does not exit the corporate network without authorization. - Published: 2024-03-14 - Modified: 2024-03-14 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-loss-prevention-dlp/ Data Loss Prevention (DLP) refers to a set of tools, strategies, and processes designed to ensure that sensitive or critical information does not exit the boundaries of the corporate network without authorization. This term encompasses a broad range of cybersecurity measures aimed at protecting against both accidental and malicious data breaches. By monitoring, detecting, and blocking sensitive data while in-use (endpoint actions), in-motion (network traffic), and at-rest (data storage), DLP solutions play a crucial role in safeguarding intellectual property, personal data, and compliance-related information. Data Loss Prevention Policy A Data Loss Prevention Policy is the backbone of any effective DLP strategy. It is a comprehensive document that outlines the organization's approach to preventing data breaches and data loss. This policy typically includes the classification of data based on sensitivity, the identification of data protection measures, user roles and responsibilities, and the procedures for responding to potential data breaches. Effective DLP policies are tailored to the specific needs and risks of the organization and are regularly updated to address new threats and compliance requirements. Cloud Data Loss Prevention With the widespread adoption of cloud computing, Cloud Data Loss Prevention has become a focal point for organizations aiming to secure their cloud-stored data. Cloud DLP solutions are designed to work within cloud environments to monitor and protect data across various cloud services and platforms. These solutions extend traditional DLP capabilities to the cloud, ensuring that sensitive data is encrypted, access is controlled, and unauthorized data sharing is prevented. Cloud DLP is particularly... --- ### Data Subject Access Request (DSAR) > A Data Subject Access Request is a legal right that allows individuals to request access to their personal data held by organizations. - Published: 2024-03-07 - Modified: 2024-03-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-subject-access-request-dsar/ A Data Subject Access Request (DSAR) is a legal right granted to individuals under data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other similar laws, allowing them to request access to their personal data held by organizations. DSARs enable individuals to inquire about the existence, use, and disclosure of their personal information and obtain a copy of the data being processed by an organization. Key Components of a Data Subject Access Request (DSAR) Requester's Identity: DSARs require individuals to provide proof of their identity to prevent unauthorized access to personal data. This often involves submitting a copy of a government-issued identification document, such as a passport or driver's license. Request Method: Organizations must specify the acceptable methods for submitting DSARs. Common channels include email, web forms, postal mail, or dedicated DSAR platforms. Request Form: Many organizations provide DSAR request forms or templates to streamline the process for requesters. These forms typically capture essential information, including the requester's name, contact details, and a description of the requested data. Scope of the Request: Requesters should clearly define the scope of their DSAR, specifying the personal data or information they are seeking. This may include specific categories of data, time periods, or the purpose of processing. Verification Process: To prevent fraudulent DSARs, organizations often implement verification procedures to confirm the requester's identity. This may involve additional documentation or verification checks. Response Timeframe: Data protection regulations typically require organizations to respond to DSARs within a specified timeframe, such as 30... --- ### Data Processing Agreement (DPA) > A Data Processing Agreement outlines the terms and conditions under which a data controller engages a data processor to process personal data. - Published: 2024-03-07 - Modified: 2024-03-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-processing-agreement-dpa/ A Data Processing Agreement (DPA) is a legally binding contract or agreement that outlines the terms and conditions under which a data controller (the entity that collects and controls personal data) engages a data processor (a third party that processes personal data on behalf of the data controller) to process personal data. DPAs are essential for ensuring compliance with data protection laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), by clearly defining the responsibilities, obligations, and rights of both parties regarding data processing. Key Components of a Data Processing Agreement Identification of the Parties: The DPA must clearly identify the data controller and data processor, including their contact details and legal representatives, if applicable. Scope of Processing: The agreement should define the scope and purpose of data processing. It should specify the types of personal data to be processed, the categories of data subjects involved, and the specific processing activities to be performed. Data Protection Principles: DPAs typically include clauses that require the data processor to comply with fundamental data protection principles, such as lawful and fair processing, purpose limitation, data minimization, accuracy, storage limitation, and integrity and confidentiality. Security Measures: The DPA should outline the data processor's obligations regarding the implementation of appropriate technical and organizational security measures to protect personal data. These measures should address confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the data. Data Subject Rights: The agreement may specify how the data processor should assist the data controller in responding to data subject rights requests, such as... --- ### Cross-Border Data Transfer > Cross-border data transfer refers to the movement of personal data or information from one country or jurisdiction to another. - Published: 2024-03-07 - Modified: 2024-03-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cross-border-data-transfer/ Cross-border data transfer, also known as international data transfer, refers to the movement of personal data or information from one country or jurisdiction to another. This process involves the transmission or sharing of data across national borders, whether for business purposes, data storage, or any other reason. Cross-border data transfer can involve various forms of data, such as personal information, business data, or other types of digital information. GDPR and Cross-Border Data Transfer Key considerations for cross-border data transfers under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) include: Data Protection Adequacy: GDPR requires that personal data transfers to countries outside the EEA must take place in jurisdictions deemed to provide an "adequate" level of data protection. Adequacy decisions are made by the European Commission, which assesses the data protection standards of the destination country. Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs): Organizations may use Standard Contractual Clauses, also known as model clauses, to facilitate cross-border data transfers. These are pre-approved contractual clauses that establish data protection safeguards between the data exporter (in the EEA) and the data importer (outside the EEA). Binding Corporate Rules (BCRs): Multinational organizations can adopt Binding Corporate Rules, which are internal data protection policies and procedures that are legally binding. BCRs enable cross-border transfers within the organization's entities, provided they meet GDPR requirements. Consent: In some cases, individuals' explicit consent may be used as a legal basis for cross-border data transfers. However, consent must be freely given, specific, informed, and revocable at any time. Derogations: GDPR allows for specific derogations... --- ### CCPA "Opt-Out Right" > The CCPA "Opt-Out Right" allows consumers to opt-out of the sale of their personal information by businesses. - Published: 2024-02-29 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/ccpa-opt-out-right/ The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) "Opt-Out Right" refers to a fundamental privacy protection provided to California residents under the CCPA. This right allows consumers to opt out of the sale of their personal information by businesses subject to the CCPA. Opting out means that consumers can instruct businesses not to sell their personal data to third parties for monetary or other valuable considerations. https://youtu. be/jXOrQT4M14A Opt Out vs. Opt In To understand the significance of the "Opt-Out Right," it's essential to contrast it with the concept of "Opt In," which is a different approach to data sharing consent: Opt Out: Under the "Opt-Out Right," consumers are presumed to allow businesses to share or sell their personal information unless they explicitly indicate their preference not to do so. In other words, the default assumption is that data sharing is permitted unless the consumer actively opts out. Opt In: In contrast, an "Opt-In" approach requires businesses to obtain explicit consent from consumers before sharing or selling their personal information. This means that data sharing is not allowed by default, and businesses must seek affirmative consent from consumers before proceeding. The "Opt-Out Right" adopted by the CCPA aligns with a "default to opt-out" model, where consumers' data sharing preferences are respected unless they choose to opt out. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Opt-Out Compliance Businesses subject to the CCPA are obligated to comply with the "Opt-Out Right" by implementing processes and mechanisms that enable consumers... --- ### Privacy Impact Assessment > A Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) evaluates the potential privacy risks associated with the management of personal information. - Published: 2024-02-29 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/privacy-impact-assessment/ A Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) is a systematic evaluation process used to assess and manage the potential privacy risks and implications associated with the collection, use, disclosure, and management of personal information within an organization. PIAs are conducted to ensure that an organization complies with privacy laws and regulations while also safeguarding individuals' rights and privacy interests. https://youtu. be/kwB1o_odBxw Purpose of a PIA The primary purpose of a PIA is to systematically identify, assess, and mitigate privacy risks associated with the handling of personal information. PIAs serve several key purposes: Compliance: Ensure compliance with privacy laws and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union or the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in California, which mandate the assessment of data processing activities for privacy risks. Risk Management: Identify potential privacy risks and vulnerabilities in data processing activities and implement measures to mitigate these risks effectively. Transparency: Promote transparency by informing individuals about how their personal information is collected, used, and protected, thereby building trust and enhancing organizational reputation. Accountability: Demonstrate accountability by documenting and demonstrating compliance efforts, which can be crucial in case of regulatory inquiries or legal disputes. Data Minimization: Encourage organizations to limit the collection and processing of personal information to what is necessary for the intended purposes, promoting data minimization and privacy by design principles. PIA Process The process of conducting a PIA typically involves the following steps: Identify the Project or Data Processing Activity: Determine the specific project or data processing... --- ### Federal Contract Information (FCI) > Federal Contract Information (FCI) originates from contractual agreements between federal agencies and contractors or subcontractors. - Published: 2024-02-29 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/federal-contract-information-fci/ Federal Contract Information (FCI) is a specific category of controlled unclassified information (CUI) that is created by or for the U. S. federal government under a contract, task order, or other contractual agreement. FCI encompasses information that is not intended for public release but is required to be provided to the government in order to fulfill contractual obligations. It is subject to certain security and safeguarding requirements to protect its confidentiality, integrity, and availability. https://youtu. be/uWD_3GOjnpw Key Aspects of Federal Contract Information (FCI) Origin: FCI originates from contractual agreements between federal agencies and contractors or subcontractors. It is generated during the performance of these contracts and may include deliverables, reports, data, and any other information that the government requires from contractors. Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI): FCI is a subset of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), a broader category of sensitive but unclassified information that the government needs to protect. While CUI encompasses various types of information, FCI specifically pertains to data related to government contracts. Security Requirements: FCI is subject to specific security and safeguarding requirements outlined in federal regulations and guidelines. These requirements are designed to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of FCI throughout its lifecycle. Data Protection: Contractors and subcontractors are responsible for implementing appropriate security measures to protect FCI. This includes encryption, access controls, monitoring, and incident response procedures to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure. Contractual Obligations: Federal agencies specify the security requirements for protecting FCI in contractual agreements. Contractors must adhere to these requirements and ensure... --- ### PCI Automation > PCI automation refers to the use of software tools to streamline the process of maintaining PCI DSS compliance. - Published: 2024-02-22 - Modified: 2024-04-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-automation/ PCI automation, short for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) automation, refers to the use of technology and software tools to streamline and simplify the process of achieving and maintaining PCI DSS compliance. PCI DSS is a set of security standards developed to protect payment card data and transactions, and automation software plays a crucial role in helping organizations efficiently meet these requirements. Automated PCI compliance encompasses various tasks, including vulnerability scanning, log analysis, policy enforcement, and reporting, all aimed at ensuring the secure handling of payment card information. https://youtu. be/_PJ1ND8qYzQ Key Aspects of PCI Automation PCI automation encompasses several key aspects, each contributing to the simplification and efficiency of PCI compliance efforts: Automated PCI Scanning: Automated vulnerability scanning tools are used to assess the security of an organization's systems, networks, and applications. These scans identify potential vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. Automated scanning helps organizations identify and remediate issues promptly, ensuring ongoing compliance. Continuous Monitoring: PCI automation extends to continuous monitoring of systems and networks. Automated monitoring tools can detect and alert organizations to security incidents, unauthorized access, and potential threats in real-time. This proactive approach allows for rapid incident response and helps maintain compliance. Policy Enforcement: Automated policy enforcement ensures that security policies and controls are consistently applied across an organization's IT infrastructure. Automated solutions can enforce access controls, encryption policies, and other security measures, reducing the risk of human error and non-compliance. Log Analysis: Log files generated by various systems and... --- ### ISO 27002 Controls > ISO 27002 controls refer to a set of internationally recognized guidelines and best practices for information security management. - Published: 2024-02-22 - Modified: 2024-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27002-controls/ ISO 27002 controls, also known as ISO/IEC 27002 or ISO 27002:2013, refer to a set of internationally recognized guidelines and best practices for information security management. These controls are part of the broader ISO/IEC 27000 series, which provides a comprehensive framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS). ISO 27002 focuses specifically on security controls and serves as a valuable resource for organizations looking to safeguard their information assets against various cybersecurity threats. https://youtu. be/Jn3p4ZyOgQQ Key Aspects of ISO 27002 Controls ISO 27002 controls cover various aspects of information security management, providing a comprehensive framework for addressing cybersecurity risks. Some key aspects of ISO 27002 controls include: Control Categories: ISO 27002 organizes its controls into 4 broad categories, each addressing specific aspects of information security. These categories encompass everything from risk assessment and access control to cryptography, incident management, and compliance. Risk Management: ISO 27002 emphasizes the importance of a risk-based approach to information security. It guides organizations in identifying, assessing, and managing security risks, helping them prioritize their efforts to protect critical assets. Security Policies and Procedures: The controls provide guidance on developing and implementing security policies, procedures, and processes. This includes establishing roles and responsibilities, defining security objectives, and documenting security measures. Access Control: Controls related to access management help organizations ensure that only authorized individuals have access to information and systems. This includes user authentication, authorization, and monitoring. Cryptography: ISO 27002 controls offer recommendations for the secure use of cryptographic techniques... --- ### PCI DSS 4.0 > PCI DSS 4.0 is the latest iteration of the global security standard designed to protect payment card data and transactions. - Published: 2024-02-22 - Modified: 2024-02-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-dss-4-0/ PCI DSS 4. 0, short for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard version 4. 0, is the latest iteration of the global security standard designed to protect payment card data and transactions. Developed by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC), PCI DSS 4. 0 sets forth the requirements and best practices that organizations must follow to ensure the secure handling, storage, and transmission of payment card information. It introduces updates and enhancements to address evolving cybersecurity threats and challenges. PCI DSS 4. 0 Changes PCI DSS 4. 0 brings several notable changes and updates, which are designed to enhance security practices and address emerging threats. Some of the key changes in PCI DSS 4. 0 include: Emphasis on Risk-Based Approach: PCI DSS 4. 0 places a stronger emphasis on adopting a risk-based approach to security. It encourages organizations to assess and prioritize security measures based on their specific risks and circumstances. Password Policies: The new version provides more detailed guidance on password policies, including recommendations for stronger authentication methods and the removal of certain password requirements that may not enhance security. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): PCI DSS 4. 0 acknowledges the importance of MFA as an effective security control. It provides guidance on implementing MFA and improving authentication mechanisms. Sensitive Data Protection: The standard includes updates to requirements related to the protection of sensitive authentication data (SAD) and sensitive cardholder data (SCHD), emphasizing the need for encryption and other security measures. Security Testing: PCI DSS 4. 0 introduces... --- ### Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) > The FISMA is a U.S. federal law that outlines guidelines for securing federal information systems and data. - Published: 2024-02-15 - Modified: 2024-02-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/federal-information-security-management-act-fisma/ The Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) is a United States federal law enacted in 2002 as part of the E-Government Act. FISMA outlines comprehensive requirements and guidelines for securing federal information systems and data. Its primary objective is to strengthen information security within federal agencies and promote consistent cybersecurity practices across the federal government. FISMA Compliance FISMA compliance is the process of adhering to the requirements and standards outlined in the Federal Information Security Management Act. It involves a systematic approach to managing information security risks and ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of federal information systems and data. Achieving FISMA compliance is mandatory for federal agencies and organizations that provide services to the federal government. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper FISMA Requirements FISMA imposes several key requirements on federal agencies and organizations to enhance their information security posture: Information Security Policies: Federal agencies must establish and maintain information security policies and procedures that are in line with FISMA's guidelines. These policies should address risk management, security controls, incident response, and more. Risk Management: Agencies are required to identify and assess information security risks, implement security controls to mitigate these risks, and regularly monitor and update their risk management strategies. Security Controls: FISMA mandates the implementation of security controls based on guidelines provided by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). These controls cover various aspects of information security, including access control, data protection, and network security. Security Assessments and Authorization:... --- ### ENISA National Cybersecurity Strategies Guidelines > The ENISA Guidelines are a set of practices aimed at assisting EU member states in maintaining effective national cybersecurity strategies. - Published: 2024-02-15 - Modified: 2024-02-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/enisa-national-cybersecurity-strategies-guidelines/ The ENISA National Cybersecurity Strategies Guidelines, developed by the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA), are a set of comprehensive recommendations and best practices aimed at assisting European Union (EU) member states in developing, implementing, and maintaining effective national cybersecurity strategies. These guidelines serve as a valuable resource to enhance the cybersecurity posture of individual EU member states in addressing cyber threats and challenges. Key Components of the ENISA National Cybersecurity Strategies Guidelines The ENISA National Cybersecurity Strategies Guidelines encompass various key components and recommendations: Threat Landscape Analysis: A critical initial step in the development of a national cybersecurity strategy is the comprehensive assessment of the threat landscape. ENISA recommends analyzing the evolving cyber threats and vulnerabilities specific to the country or region. Stakeholder Involvement: Inclusion of key stakeholders, such as government agencies, private sector organizations, law enforcement, and academia, is fundamental. Collaboration and coordination among stakeholders are emphasized to create a holistic approach to cybersecurity. Policy and Legal Frameworks: ENISA emphasizes the importance of establishing a robust legal and policy framework to support the national cybersecurity strategy. This includes defining roles and responsibilities, enacting relevant legislation, and ensuring compliance with international cybersecurity norms. Governance and Leadership: Clear governance structures and leadership are crucial for the effective execution of a cybersecurity strategy. ENISA suggests creating a dedicated national cybersecurity authority or agency responsible for strategy implementation and coordination. Risk Assessment and Management: ENISA advocates for a risk-based approach to cybersecurity. Member states are encouraged to identify critical assets, assess vulnerabilities,... --- ### FedRAMP (Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program) > FedRAMP is a U.S. government-wide program that ensures that cloud services used by federal agencies meet stringent cybersecurity standards. - Published: 2024-02-15 - Modified: 2024-02-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/fedramp-federal-risk-and-authorization-management-program/ FedRAMP, short for Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program, is a U. S. government-wide program that standardizes the security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring processes for cloud products and services used by federal agencies. FedRAMP aims to ensure that cloud solutions meet stringent cybersecurity standards, reduce duplicative efforts, and streamline the procurement of cloud services across government agencies. It provides a unified framework for assessing and authorizing cloud service providers, enhancing security, and enabling the adoption of cloud technology within the federal government. Key Components of FedRAMP FedRAMP comprises several key components and processes that contribute to its successful implementation and management: Security Assessment Framework: FedRAMP outlines a comprehensive security assessment framework that cloud service providers (CSPs) must follow to demonstrate their compliance with federal cybersecurity requirements. This framework includes security controls, continuous monitoring, and incident response. FedRAMP Marketplace: The FedRAMP Marketplace is an online portal that provides a centralized repository of authorized cloud services. Federal agencies can search and select from a list of FedRAMP-compliant CSPs, simplifying the procurement process. FedRAMP Agency Liaisons: Each federal agency designates a FedRAMP Agency Liaison responsible for coordinating and facilitating FedRAMP activities within their organization. These liaisons act as the primary points of contact between agencies and the FedRAMP program office. Third-Party Assessment Organizations (3PAOs): Independent Third-Party Assessment Organizations (3PAOs) are responsible for conducting security assessments of CSPs seeking FedRAMP certification. They assess the CSP's security controls and provide reports to the FedRAMP program office. FedRAMP Certification Process The FedRAMP certification process involves... --- ### Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies (COBIT) > Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies (COBIT) is a recognized framework for the governance of enterprise IT. - Published: 2024-02-08 - Modified: 2024-02-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/control-objectives-for-information-and-related-technologies-cobit/ Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies (COBIT) is a globally recognized framework for the governance and management of enterprise IT. Developed by ISACA (formerly known as the Information Systems Audit and Control Association), COBIT provides a comprehensive set of principles, practices, and guidelines to help organizations ensure the effective and efficient use of IT resources, achieve business objectives, and manage IT-related risks. Key Components of COBIT: COBIT consists of several key components that work together to support IT governance and management: Framework: The COBIT framework is the core of the methodology. It outlines the principles, practices, and organizational structures necessary for effective IT governance and management. The framework defines various processes and control objectives that organizations can tailor to their specific needs. Processes: COBIT identifies a set of IT-related processes that cover the entire IT lifecycle, from planning and acquisition to deployment, operation, and monitoring. These processes help organizations manage IT activities and resources efficiently. Control Objectives: Control objectives are specific statements that describe the desired outcomes or goals of IT processes. They provide a clear framework for evaluating and assessing the effectiveness of IT controls. Maturity Models: COBIT includes maturity models that allow organizations to assess the maturity level of their IT processes and control environment. The models provide a roadmap for organizations to improve their IT governance and management capabilities over time. Standards and Guidelines: COBIT offers a range of standards and guidelines that organizations can use to implement best practices and achieve compliance with regulatory requirements.... --- ### Critical Information Infrastructure Protection (CIIP) > Critical Information Infrastructure Protection (CIIP) refers to strategies to safeguard critical information infrastructure (CII). - Published: 2024-02-08 - Modified: 2024-02-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/critical-information-infrastructure-protection-ciip/ Critical Information Infrastructure Protection (CIIP) refers to a set of strategies, measures, and practices aimed at safeguarding the security, resilience, and integrity of critical information infrastructure (CII). CIIP is crucial for ensuring the continued functionality of essential services and protecting against cyber threats, physical attacks, and other vulnerabilities that could disrupt the operations of critical infrastructure. In today's interconnected world, critical information infrastructure plays a pivotal role in supporting various sectors, including energy, telecommunications, finance, healthcare, and transportation. CIIP is a comprehensive approach to securing and protecting this vital infrastructure from a wide range of threats, including cyberattacks, natural disasters, and physical attacks. Key Components of CIIP: CIIP encompasses several key components and principles to enhance the security and resilience of critical information infrastructure: Identification and Classification: The first step in CIIP is identifying and classifying the elements of critical information infrastructure. This includes identifying the key systems, networks, and assets that are vital to the functioning of essential services. Risk Assessment: Once identified, a thorough risk assessment is conducted to identify potential vulnerabilities and threats that could impact critical infrastructure. This assessment helps prioritize security measures and investments. Protection Measures: CIIP includes the implementation of protective measures, such as robust cybersecurity protocols, access controls, encryption, and physical security measures, to safeguard critical information infrastructure from unauthorized access and cyber threats. Resilience and Redundancy: CIIP focuses on building resilience into critical infrastructure, ensuring that it can withstand and recover from disruptions. Redundancy in systems and data backup strategies are key... --- ### Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model > The Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model is a certification developed by the Department of Defense to enhance cybersecurity practices. - Published: 2024-02-08 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-capability-maturity-model-cmmc/ The Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model (CMMC) is a framework and certification process developed by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) to assess and enhance the cybersecurity practices and maturity of organizations in the defense industrial base (DIB). CMMC provides a structured approach to evaluating and improving cybersecurity capabilities, ensuring that contractors and suppliers meet specific security requirements when handling sensitive government information. In an increasingly digital and interconnected world, cybersecurity is of paramount importance to protect sensitive data and critical infrastructure. The Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model was introduced to address the growing cybersecurity threats faced by organizations, particularly those involved in government contracts and projects. CMMC helps organizations establish and maintain robust cybersecurity practices to safeguard sensitive information and support national security efforts. Key Components of the CMMC: The Cybersecurity Capability Maturity Model consists of several key components and principles that organizations must follow to achieve compliance and certification: Three Maturity Levels: CMMC defines three maturity levels that organizations can attain, ranging from Level 1 (Foundational) to Level 3 (Expert). Each level represents a higher degree of cybersecurity capability and sophistication. 17 Domains: CMMC is organized into 17 domains that encompass various aspects of cybersecurity. These domains include access control, incident response, system and communications protection, and security training and awareness, among others. Practices and Processes: Within each domain, CMMC specifies specific practices and processes that organizations must implement to achieve compliance. These practices and processes are designed to address cybersecurity risks effectively. Assessment and Certification: To attain certification,... --- ### HIPAA Employee Training > HIPAA Employee Training refers to the process of educating individuals employed by healthcare organizations about HIPAA. - Published: 2024-02-01 - Modified: 2024-02-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-employee-training/ HIPAA Employee Training refers to the process of educating and instructing individuals employed by healthcare organizations about the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This training is essential to ensure that employees understand their responsibilities regarding patient privacy and data security, as mandated by HIPAA regulations. HIPAA Employee Training Requirements HIPAA sets the below specific requirements for employee training to ensure that healthcare organizations effectively safeguard protected health information (PHI): Privacy Rule Awareness: Employees must be educated about the HIPAA Privacy Rule, which governs the use and disclosure of PHI. Training should cover how PHI can be used and shared and the importance of obtaining patient consent when required. Security Rule Compliance: HIPAA's Security Rule focuses on the security of electronic PHI (ePHI). Employees must receive training on how to protect ePHI, including securing computer systems, using strong passwords, and understanding encryption measures. Breach Notification: Employees should be aware of the requirements related to breach notification. If a breach of PHI occurs, HIPAA mandates that affected individuals, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and, in certain cases, the media be notified. Training should detail the steps to take in case of a breach. Patient Rights: HIPAA gives patients various rights concerning their health information. Employees need to be trained on how to facilitate patient access to their records, including the process for responding to requests for copies of PHI. Minimum Necessary Rule: The Minimum Necessary Rule requires that employees access and disclose only the minimum amount of... --- ### Australian Privacy Act > The Australian Privacy Act is a significant piece of legislation that governs the handling of personal information by organizations. - Published: 2024-02-01 - Modified: 2024-02-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/australian-privacy-act/ The Australian Privacy Act is a significant piece of legislation in Australia that governs the handling of personal information by organizations, including businesses, government agencies, and not-for-profit entities. The act was first introduced in 1988 and has undergone several amendments to adapt to evolving privacy challenges in the digital age. The primary objective of the Australian Privacy Act is to protect the privacy of individuals by regulating the collection, use, disclosure, and storage of their personal information. Australian Privacy Act Principles The Australian Privacy Act is built upon the following key privacy principles that organizations must adhere to when handling personal information: Open and Transparent Management of Personal Information: Organizations must have clear and easily accessible privacy policies and practices that explain how they manage personal information.   Anonymity and Pseudonymity: Whenever it is lawful and practical, organizations must provide individuals with the option to interact with them without revealing their identity or by using a pseudonym. Collection of Solicited Personal Information: Organizations should only collect personal information that is reasonably necessary for their functions or activities. They should collect such information by lawful means and directly from the individual whenever possible. Dealing with Unsolicited Personal Information: If an organization receives unsolicited personal information, it must determine whether it could have collected the information under the Privacy Act's collection principles. If not, the organization must destroy or de-identify the information, provided it is lawful and reasonable to do so. Notification of the Collection of Personal Information: Individuals should be informed... --- ### Cardholder Data > Cardholder Data refers to the sensitive and confidential information associated with a payment card, such as a credit card or debit card. - Published: 2024-01-25 - Modified: 2024-03-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cardholder-data/ Cardholder Data refers to the sensitive and confidential information associated with a payment card, such as a credit card or debit card. This data typically includes the cardholder's name, card number, expiration date, and sometimes additional security codes, which are used for transaction authorization and processing. Protecting cardholder data is essential to prevent fraudulent activities and maintain trust in payment card systems. https://youtu. be/VDg1ZFaPkXo Cardholder Data typically consists of the following key components: Cardholder's Name: This is the name of the person to whom the payment card is issued. It is printed on the front of the card and is an essential piece of information used for verification during transactions. Card Number: Also known as the primary account number (PAN), the card number is a unique numerical identifier assigned to each payment card. It is used to link the transaction to the cardholder's account. Expiration Date: The expiration date indicates when the payment card becomes invalid. After this date, the card cannot be used for transactions, making it an essential data point for authorization. Security Codes: Payment cards often include security codes or verification values to enhance security. For Visa, Mastercard, and Discover cards, this is typically a three-digit code known as the Card Verification Value (CVV or CVV2). For American Express cards, it is a four-digit code on the front of the card. Importance of Cardholder Data Security: Preventing Fraud: Criminals seek to obtain cardholder data to commit fraudulent transactions. Protecting this data is essential to prevent financial losses... --- ### HIPAA Identifier > HIPAA Identifiers are crucial components of healthcare privacy regulations, as they help safeguard the confidentiality of patients' data. - Published: 2024-01-25 - Modified: 2024-03-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-identifier/ A HIPAA Identifier, also known as a HIPAA PHI Identifier, is a term used in the context of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to refer to specific pieces of information that can be used to identify individuals' protected health information (PHI). HIPAA Identifiers are crucial components of healthcare privacy regulations, as they help safeguard the confidentiality and security of patients' sensitive data. HIPAA, enacted in 1996, introduced significant regulations to protect individuals' health information and ensure the privacy and security of their medical records. Under HIPAA, certain information, known as protected health information (PHI), is subject to strict privacy controls. HIPAA Identifiers play a pivotal role in determining what information is considered PHI and how it should be handled to comply with the law. https://youtu. be/K-eoKU1V0Z0 Understanding HIPAA Identifiable Information HIPAA Identifiable Information is any data that contains one or more HIPAA Identifiers, making it possible to link the information to a specific individual. Covered entities and business associates, as defined by HIPAA, are required to protect HIPAA Identifiable Information as PHI and adhere to HIPAA's privacy and security rules. HIPAA outlines a set of specific identifiers that, when present in health information, classify it as PHI. The list of HIPAA Identifiers includes the following: Names: Any part of an individual's name, including their full name, last name, first name, or initials, is considered a HIPAA Identifier. Geographical Identifiers: Geographic identifiers smaller than a state, such as a city or town name or a ZIP code, are... --- ### HITRUST Certification > HITRUST is a framework for assessing and managing the information security and privacy controls of healthcare organizations. - Published: 2024-01-05 - Modified: 2024-01-30 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hitrust-certification/ HITRUST certification is a widely acknowledged framework for assessing and managing the information security and privacy controls of healthcare organizations. The Health Information Trust Alliance (HITRUST) awards this certification, designed to ensure organizations handling sensitive healthcare information adhere to specific security and privacy standards. What are the differences between HIPAA and HITRUST? Check our blog here. https://youtu. be/hkL4rSRBGN4 What are the HITRUST Certification Requirements? The HITRUST certification requirements stipulate the criteria and standards for organizations to meet to attain HITRUST certification. These requirements encompass a range of security and privacy controls tailored to the healthcare industry, ensuring the protection of sensitive health information.   Want to see how automation can help with data compliance in healthcare? Read all about it here. HITRUST Certification Levels HITRUST certification provides various levels, indicating varying levels of maturity and compliance. The HITRUST certification Levels include:  Level 1: Basic implementation of controls to address key regulatory requirements. Suitable for organizations with limited risk exposure. Level 2: Intermediate implementation of controls, covering a broad set of regulatory requirements. Appropriate for organizations with moderate risk exposure. Level 3: Advanced implementation of controls, meeting comprehensive regulatory requirements. Suitable for organizations with significant risk exposure. HITRUST Certification Process The HITRUST certification process involves several key steps: Assessment: Organizations undergo a comprehensive assessment to evaluate their information security and privacy controls against the HITRUST framework. Remediation: Based on the assessment findings, organizations should address any identified gaps or deficiencies in their controls. Validation: An independent third-party assessor validates that the... --- ### GDPR Data Mapping > GDPR data mapping involves the identification, categorization, and documentation of the movement of personal data within an organization. - Published: 2024-01-05 - Modified: 2024-01-30 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/gdpr-data-mapping/ What is GDPR Data Mapping? GDPR data mapping is a methodical approach that involves the identification, categorization, and documentation of the movement of personal data within an organization. This process is essential for ensuring compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by providing a clear understanding of how personal data is collected, processed, stored, and transferred. https://youtu. be/-biBm-Veo7U Data Mapping Privacy Data mapping privacy is a process that primarily aims to ensure the privacy of personal data when it is being mapped and managed. It is essential to align data mapping practices with the GDPR requirements, which means understanding the various types of personal data, the reasons for processing such data, and implementing measures to safeguard individuals' privacy rights. Data Mapping Framework A data mapping framework outlines the methodology and procedures for conducting effective data mapping in the context of GDPR compliance. This framework typically includes: Scope Definition It's important to clearly define the scope of the data mapping initiative by identifying the systems, processes, and areas where personal data is processed. Data Categories Categorizing personal data by sensitivity and purpose of processing. Data Flows Mapping and tracking the flow of personal data within and outside the organization. Data Owners and Processors It is important to identify and document the data owners and data processors for specific sets of personal data. Risk Assessment Performing a risk assessment to identify privacy risks linked with handling personal data, then taking steps to mitigate those risks. What are the GDPR Data Location... --- ### Data Protection Officer > A DPO is an individual within an organization responsible for overseeing and ensuring compliance with data protection laws and regulations. - Published: 2023-12-20 - Modified: 2024-01-30 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-protection-officer/ A Data Protection Officer (DPO) is a designated individual within an organization responsible for overseeing and ensuring compliance with data protection laws and regulations. The role of the DPO is critical in safeguarding the privacy and rights of individuals whose personal data the organization processes. https://youtu. be/OHL0iubr0WY Key Components of a Data Protection Officer Data Protection Officer Requirements The Data Protection Officer requirements outline the qualifications and responsibilities that a DPO must possess. These may include expertise in data protection laws, knowledge of the organization's data processing activities, and the ability to act independently and impartially. GDPR and Data Protection Officer The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Data Protection Officer connection is significant, as GDPR mandates the appointment of a DPO for certain types of data processing activities. The DPO plays a central role in ensuring GDPR compliance, including advising on data protection impact assessments and acting as a point of contact for data protection authorities. Data Privacy Officer vs. Data Protection Officer While the terms are often used interchangeably, a Data Privacy Officer vs. a Data Protection Officer may have nuanced differences depending on regional regulations. Generally, both roles involve protecting individuals' privacy, but the emphasis on compliance with specific data protection laws may vary. Outsourcing and Certification of a Data Protection Officer In some cases, organizations may choose to outsource the Data Protection Officer role to external service providers or consultants. This allows smaller organizations or those with less complex data processing activities to benefit from DPO... --- ### Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) > CTEM involves ongoing and real-time monitoring, assessment, and mitigation of an organization's exposure to potential threats. - Published: 2023-12-20 - Modified: 2024-01-30 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/continuous-threat-exposure-management-ctem/ Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) is a proactive cybersecurity approach that involves ongoing and real-time monitoring, assessment, and mitigation of an organization's exposure to potential threats.   This methodology is designed to provide a continuous and comprehensive view of an organization's threat landscape, enabling swift responses to emerging risks. https://youtu. be/0QLlR5Ec4AM Key Components of Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) Exposure Management Cybersecurity Exposure management in cybersecurity refers to the systematic process of identifying and addressing vulnerabilities and weaknesses in an organization's IT infrastructure. This involves continuous monitoring, assessment, and mitigation to minimize the potential for exploitation by cyber threats. Threat Exposure Management Threat exposure management focuses on evaluating and managing an organization's exposure to various cybersecurity threats. This includes assessing vulnerabilities, understanding potential attack vectors, and implementing measures to reduce the likelihood of successful cyber attacks. Integration with Risk Management Exposure and risk management is a holistic approach that combines the continuous assessment of exposure to threats with broader risk management strategies. It involves identifying, analyzing, and prioritizing risks based on their potential impact and likelihood, guiding organizations in making informed decisions about risk mitigation. Operational Aspects of Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) Exposure Management Software Exposure management software is specialized technology designed to automate and streamline the exposure management process. This software often includes features such as vulnerability scanning, risk assessment, and reporting to enhance the efficiency of managing and mitigating cybersecurity exposures. Threat Exposure Management Platform A threat exposure management platform is a comprehensive solution that integrates various... --- ### Data Privacy Impact Assessment (DPIA) > A DPIA is a systematic process aimed at identifying and evaluating the potential impact of data processing activities on individual privacy. - Published: 2023-12-20 - Modified: 2024-03-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-privacy-impact-assessment-dpia/ A Data Privacy Impact Assessment (DPIA) is a systematic process aimed at identifying and evaluating the potential impact of data processing activities on individual privacy. This assessment is particularly crucial in ensuring compliance with data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). https://youtu. be/aiUXejui6s4 Key Components of A Data Privacy Impact Assessment (DPIA) A Data Privacy Impact Assessment specifically aligns with the requirements and principles laid out in the General Data Protection Regulation. It ensures that organizations conducting DPIAs comply with GDPR guidelines, protecting the privacy rights of individuals. Data Privacy Impact Assessment Tool A Data Privacy Impact Assessment Tool is a software solution designed to facilitate the DPIA process. These tools often provide templates, checklists, and automation features to streamline the assessment, making it more efficient and consistent. Data Privacy Impact Assessment Form A Data Privacy Impact Assessment Form is a structured document used to gather information during the DPIA process. It typically includes sections detailing the nature of the processing activity, the types of data involved, potential risks, and proposed mitigation strategies. Guidelines and Procedures of DPIA Data Privacy Impact Assessment guidelines offer a set of recommendations and best practices for conducting effective DPIAs. These guidelines may include step-by-step instructions, key considerations, and examples to assist organizations in navigating the DPIA process successfully. A Data Privacy Impact Assessment procedure outlines the step-by-step methodology for conducting a DPIA. This includes defining the scope, identifying the data processing activities, assessing risks, and proposing measures to mitigate potential... --- ### SaaS Penetration Testing > SaaS penetration testing is a methodical and controlled attempt to assess the security of a Software as a Service (SaaS) application. - Published: 2023-12-20 - Modified: 2024-03-04 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/saas-penetration-testing/ SaaS penetration testing is a methodical and controlled attempt to assess the security of a Software as a Service (SaaS) application. It involves simulating cyber-attacks to identify vulnerabilities, weaknesses, and potential exploits within the SaaS application's infrastructure and codebase. https://youtu. be/8HlM0vFzBmo What are the Key Components of SaaS Penetration Testing? Utilizing SaaS penetration testing tools is crucial for conducting thorough assessments. These tools assist in identifying vulnerabilities and evaluating the security of user authentication, data storage, and communication channels within the SaaS application. SaaS Vendor Security Assessment A SaaS vendor security assessment involves evaluating the security measures implemented by the SaaS provider. This assessment ensures that the SaaS vendor follows best practices in securing their infrastructure and addresses potential security concerns related to the hosted application. SaaS Vulnerability Scanner A SaaS vulnerability scanner is a specialized tool designed to automatically identify and assess vulnerabilities within a SaaS application. It plays a key role in the initial stages of SaaS penetration testing, providing a comprehensive view of potential weaknesses. How to Do Security Testing Understanding how to do security testing is fundamental for effective SaaS penetration testing. This involves defining a clear scope, identifying potential attack vectors, executing penetration tests, analyzing results, and providing actionable recommendations for enhancing the SaaS application's security posture. SaaS penetration testing is essential for organizations relying on SaaS applications to ensure the security of their data and operations. By identifying and addressing vulnerabilities, organizations can enhance the overall resilience of the SaaS application and mitigate potential... --- ### Cloud Penetration Testing > Cloud penetration testing is a proactive and systematic approach to assessing the security of cloud-based systems and infrastructure. - Published: 2023-12-07 - Modified: 2023-12-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cloud-penetration-testing/ Cloud penetration testing is a proactive and systematic approach to assessing the security of cloud-based systems and infrastructure. It involves simulating cyber-attacks on a cloud environment to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious actors. This process aids in strengthening the overall security posture of cloud-based assets. What are the Key Components of Cloud Penetration Testing? Cloud security penetration testing specifically focuses on evaluating the security measures implemented in cloud environments. This includes assessing the effectiveness of access controls, data encryption, and other security features unique to cloud platforms. Cloud Penetration Testing Certification Cloud penetration testing certification is a formal recognition of an individual's proficiency in conducting penetration tests within cloud infrastructures. These certifications validate expertise and are often sought by professionals to enhance their credibility in the field. Cloud Penetration Testing Methodology Cloud penetration testing methodology outlines the systematic steps and procedures followed during a penetration test in a cloud environment. This includes reconnaissance, vulnerability assessment, exploitation, post-exploitation, and reporting. The methodology ensures a structured and comprehensive evaluation of cloud security. Tools of the Trade Cloud penetration testing tools are specialized software applications designed to assess the security of cloud-based systems. These tools aid in tasks such as vulnerability scanning, penetration testing automation, and identifying potential weaknesses in the cloud infrastructure. Cloud penetration testing is a crucial aspect of maintaining a secure cloud environment. It provides organizations with valuable insights into potential vulnerabilities, allowing them to proactively address security concerns before they can be exploited by... --- ### Secure Remote Access > Secure remote access refers to a connection to a computer network or system from a remote location in a way that prioritizes security. - Published: 2023-12-07 - Modified: 2023-12-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/secure-remote-access/ Secure remote access refers to the establishment of a connection to a computer network or system from a remote location in a manner that prioritizes security and safeguards against unauthorized access. It is a crucial aspect of modern work environments, enabling individuals to connect to organizational networks securely from outside physical office locations. What are the Key Components of Secure Remote Access? Remote Access Solutions Remote access solutions encompass a range of technologies and protocols designed to ensure that remote connections are established and maintained securely. These solutions often involve encryption, multi-factor authentication, and secure tunneling to protect data during transmission. Security Remote Access IoT Security remote access IoT specifically addresses the secure connection to Internet of Things (IoT) devices from remote locations. It involves implementing security measures to protect against potential vulnerabilities and unauthorized access to IoT devices connected to the network. Secure Remote Access Best Practices Understanding how to secure remote access involves implementing best practices such as using strong authentication methods, employing encryption for data in transit, regularly updating security protocols, and providing secure access only through trusted networks or virtual private networks (VPNs). Technical Implementation of Secure Remote Access Secure remote desktop access refers to the secure connection to a computer's desktop interface from a remote location. This often involves protocols like Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) and requires security measures such as strong authentication and encryption to protect the integrity of the remote desktop session. Challenges of Secure Remote Desktop Access Remote access security issues encompass... --- ### Security Risk Assessment > A security risk assessment is process that identifies, analyzes, and evaluates potential risks to information systems, assets, and data. - Published: 2023-12-07 - Modified: 2023-12-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-risk-assessment/ A security risk assessment is a systematic process that identifies, analyzes, and evaluates potential risks to an organization's information systems, assets, and data. It plays a critical role in cybersecurity by providing insights into vulnerabilities and threats, enabling organizations to implement effective risk mitigation strategies. A cybersecurity risk assessment is a specialized form of security risk assessment focused on identifying and addressing risks specifically related to cyber threats. It encompasses the evaluation of vulnerabilities in networks, systems, and applications to safeguard against potential cyber-attacks. What are the Specific Focus Areas of a Security Risk Assessment? Information Security Risk Assessment An information security risk assessment is a broader evaluation covering risks to all forms of information within an organization. This includes data stored electronically or in physical formats, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of risks associated with information assets. Security Risk Assessment Tool A security risk assessment tool is a software solution designed to facilitate and automate the risk assessment process. These tools typically assist in identifying vulnerabilities, quantifying risks, and generating reports to guide organizations in making informed decisions about their security posture. Cloud Security Risk Assessment A cloud security risk assessment extends the evaluation to risks associated with cloud computing environments. This includes assessing the security measures of cloud service providers, identifying potential data exposure points, and ensuring the secure configuration of cloud resources. What is the Operational Importance of Security Risk Assessments? A security risk assessment is not a one-time activity but an ongoing process that adapts to the... --- ### Data Retention Policy > A data retention policy outlines an organization's guidelines and practices regarding the storage, archiving, and disposal of data. - Published: 2023-11-30 - Modified: 2024-01-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-retention-policy/ What is a Data Retention Policy? A data retention policy is a structured framework that outlines an organization's guidelines and practices regarding the storage, archiving, and disposal of data. This policy is crucial for managing data throughout its lifecycle, addressing compliance requirements, and ensuring responsible data handling practices. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=WPlzBtRP-e4 What are the Key Components of a Data Retention Policy?   Data Retention Policy Best Practices Implementing data retention policy best practices involves adopting industry-recommended guidelines for effective data management. This includes defining clear retention periods, specifying responsible personnel for data oversight, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. Cloud Data Retention Policy A cloud data retention policy extends the principles of data retention to cloud-based storage solutions. It encompasses considerations specific to cloud environments, such as data encryption, access controls, and collaboration features, ensuring a seamless integration of data retention practices in cloud computing. CCPA Data Retention Policy Complying with the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) involves incorporating specific elements into the data retention policy. This includes providing transparency to consumers about data collection practices, offering opt-out mechanisms, and establishing clear retention timelines to align with CCPA requirements. Customer Data Retention Policy A customer data retention policy tailors the data retention framework to the specifics of customer data. It addresses issues such as consent management, data access requests, and ensuring that customer data is handled ethically and securely throughout its lifecycle. Sample Data Retention Policy A sample data retention policy serves as a template or blueprint for organizations... --- ### SOAR > SOAR, an acronym for Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response, is a comprehensive approach in the realm of cybersecurity. - Published: 2023-11-23 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/soar/ SOAR, an acronym for Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response, is a comprehensive approach in the realm of cybersecurity. It refers to a set of technologies and practices that streamline and enhance an organization's ability to respond to security incidents efficiently and effectively. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=EtD1bgJPpwk What is SOAR Security? SOAR security revolves around the integration of tools and processes to fortify an organization's security posture. It emphasizes proactive measures to promptly identify, assess, and mitigate security threats. By adopting a SOAR approach, organizations can optimize their security operations for better resilience against cyber threats. In the context of cybersecurity, SOAR cyber security signifies the application of SOAR principles to strengthen cyber defenses. This involves leveraging automated workflows, orchestrating security tools, and implementing response mechanisms to address and neutralize cyber threats in real time. SOAR Platform A SOAR platform serves as the technological backbone of a SOAR strategy. It is a centralized system that integrates with various security tools and technologies. The platform facilitates orchestration, automation, and response actions, allowing security teams to manage incidents from a unified interface. SOAR Systems SOAR systems encompass the collective technologies and tools that constitute a SOAR framework. These systems include incident response platforms, threat intelligence feeds, automation scripts, and communication tools. Together, they create a cohesive ecosystem to fortify an organization's cybersecurity infrastructure. Operational Aspects of SOAR SOAR Incident Response A proactive approach to managing and mitigating security incidents. It involves automating and orchestrating response actions, allowing organizations to detect, analyze, and respond... --- ### Compliance Reporting > Compliance reporting is the process when organizations document their regulatory standards, industry guidelines, and internal policies. - Published: 2023-11-23 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-reporting/ Compliance reporting is the systematic process by which organizations document and communicate their adherence to regulatory standards, industry guidelines, and internal policies. It involves the meticulous tracking of activities and processes to ensure alignment with established requirements, forming the foundation for generating comprehensive compliance reports.   These reports, such as regulatory compliance reports, serve as crucial documents that outline an organization's conformity with specific laws and regulations, demonstrating transparency and accountability to regulatory authorities and stakeholders. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=7L-L8Am7Zk4 Tools for Effective Reporting To streamline and enhance the compliance reporting process, organizations utilize specialized tools such as compliance reporting software. This software automates data collection, and report generation, and offers customizable templates, improving accuracy and reducing manual effort. Comprehensive compliance reporting solutions go beyond software, integrating various elements like process management and risk assessment to provide a holistic approach to compliance reporting. These solutions offer a unified framework for managing compliance across multiple facets of organizational operations. Addressing Compliance Issues A key aspect of compliance reporting is the identification and reporting of issues or deviations from established compliance standards. Organizations emphasize well-defined reporting mechanisms, encouraging employees to promptly communicate any concerns or instances of non-compliance. Timely reporting facilitates swift corrective actions, minimizing potential risks to the organization. In conclusion, compliance reporting is an essential function for organizations striving to uphold regulatory standards and ethical business practices. Whether facilitated through specialized software or comprehensive solutions, effective compliance reporting is crucial for maintaining transparency, building trust, and mitigating risks associated with... --- ### Audit Management System > An audit management system is a comprehensive solution designed to streamline and optimize the entire audit process within an organization. - Published: 2023-11-23 - Modified: 2024-01-07 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/audit-management-system/ An audit management system is a comprehensive solution designed to streamline and optimize the entire audit process within an organization. This system integrates technology to facilitate the planning, execution, and reporting of audits, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the audit management process. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=iIUtDx3S9Vs What are the Key Components of an Audit Management System? Audit Management Software Audit management software is the digital platform or application that organizations use to conduct and manage audits. This software has tools and features that automate various aspects of the audit lifecycle, including scheduling, document management, workflow automation, and reporting. The goal is to enhance the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the audit process. Audit Management Tool An audit management tool is a specific feature or set of features within the compliance software that assists auditors in executing their tasks. This could include functionalities for risk assessment, evidence collection, findings tracking, and communication. The tool ensures that auditors have the necessary resources to perform their duties accurately and in compliance with established standards. Benefits of Implementing an Audit Management System Efficiency and Automation An audit management system brings automation to traditionally manual audit processes. This includes automated scheduling, document management, and workflow automation. By reducing manual intervention, the system improves efficiency, minimizes errors, and allows auditors to focus on critical tasks. Centralized Data Management These systems provide a centralized repository for audit-related information, documents, and findings. This centralized approach ensures that all stakeholders have access to up-to-date and consistent information, fostering... --- ### Common Vulnerability Scoring System > CVSS is a standardized framework to assess and communicate the severity of vulnerabilities in software systems. - Published: 2023-11-16 - Modified: 2023-11-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/common-vulnerability-scoring-system/ What is a Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS)? The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) is a standardized framework used in the field of cybersecurity to assess and communicate the severity of vulnerabilities in software systems. Developed to provide a common language for expressing the characteristics and impact of security vulnerabilities, CVSS plays a crucial role in helping organizations prioritize and address potential threats. Key Components of CVSS CVSS Score The CVSS score is a numeric representation of the severity of a vulnerability. It is calculated based on a formula that takes into account various factors, including the vulnerability's impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The score is crucial for organizations to prioritize their response to vulnerabilities, focusing resources on addressing the most critical threats first. CVSS Base Score The CVSS base score is a fundamental component of the overall CVSS score. It represents the intrinsic characteristics of a vulnerability, such as the ease of exploitation, the level of access required, and the impact on the affected system. The base score forms the foundation for the temporal and environmental scores, providing a standardized metric for comparing vulnerabilities. CVSS Rating The CVSS rating categorizes vulnerabilities into severity levels based on their scores. These levels include low, medium, high, and critical. This rating system enables organizations to quickly assess the potential impact of a vulnerability and prioritize their response efforts accordingly. It serves as a valuable tool for security teams to communicate risk to stakeholders in a clear and standardized manner. CVSS in... --- ### System Description of a SOC 2 Report > A system description within the context of a SOC 2 report outlines the key components and operational aspects of a service provider's system. - Published: 2023-11-16 - Modified: 2023-11-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/system-description-of-a-soc-2-report/ What is a System Description of a SOC 2 Report? A system description within the context of a SOC 2 (Service Organization Control 2) report is a detailed narrative that outlines the key components and operational aspects of a service provider's system. This description is a critical element of SOC 2 compliance, providing users and auditors with a comprehensive understanding of the system under review. Key Components of a SOC 2 Report SOC 2 System Description At the heart of the SOC 2 report, the system description provides a thorough overview of the service organization's system. This includes the services provided, the infrastructure used, and the technologies involved. It is crucial for the description to be detailed and accurate, leaving no room for ambiguity about the nature and scope of the system. SOC 2 Description Criteria The description is guided by specific criteria set forth in the SOC 2 framework. Adherence to these criteria ensures that the system description covers all necessary elements, addressing the criteria outlined in the Trust Service Criteria (TSC). These criteria include security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. The system description should explicitly detail how the service organization meets these criteria. What is the Purpose of SOC Reports? SOC 2 reports serve the purpose of providing assurance regarding the controls implemented by a service organization to safeguard client data and meet specified criteria. These reports are invaluable for users and stakeholders seeking to assess the security, availability, and processing integrity of the services provided by... --- ### COSO Framework > The COSO Framework is a framework designed to help organizations effectively manage and enhance their internal control systems. - Published: 2023-11-16 - Modified: 2023-11-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/coso-framework/ What is the COSO Framework? The COSO Framework, short for the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, is a comprehensive and globally recognized framework designed to help organizations effectively manage and enhance their internal control systems. This framework provides a structured approach to assess, develop, and maintain internal controls, ensuring that an organization's operations are efficient, its financial reporting is reliable, and its compliance with laws and regulations is robust. At its core, the COSO Framework is instrumental in aligning an organization's internal control processes with its overall objectives, addressing key areas such as financial reporting, operations, and compliance. This holistic approach aids in the prevention and detection of fraud, errors, and inefficiencies, thereby fostering a reliable and transparent business environment. Key Components of the COSO Framework COSO Framework Principles The COSO Framework is built upon a set of guiding principles that organizations can integrate into their operations to establish and maintain effective internal control. These principles include elements such as demonstrating a commitment to integrity and ethical values, forming an effective governance structure, and assessing and managing risks to achieve objectives. By adhering to these principles, organizations can enhance the reliability of their internal control systems. COSO Framework for Internal Controls The framework emphasizes the importance of developing and maintaining robust internal controls. Internal controls are processes designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the achievement of objectives in areas such as financial reporting, operations, and compliance. Organizations utilize the COSO Framework to design and implement internal controls... --- ### PCI Compliance Levels > Know the difference between PCI levels 1 to 4, see which one is right for your business, and find out how to achieve and maintain compliance. - Published: 2023-11-03 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-compliance-levels/ Ever wondered what PCI compliance levels actually mean? As an online business owner, you’ve probably heard of PCI DSS and know it’s important for security, but all that official lingo around compliance levels can be confusing. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here, we’ll break down the four PCI compliance levels in simple terms so you know exactly what you need to aim for. Whether you’re just launching your business or already processing thousands of transactions, PCI compliance is crucial for avoiding data breaches and keeping your customers’ payment info secure. Read on to learn the difference between PCI levels 1 through 4, see which one is right for your business, and find out how to achieve and maintain compliance. By the end, you’ll be well on your way to boosting security and giving your customers peace of mind. PCI Compliance Level 1: The Highest Level of PCI Security If you handle credit card payments, PCI compliance is critical. The highest level, Level 1, means your business processes over 6 million Visa transactions. At this volume, you’ll face the strictest security requirements. As a Level 1 merchant, you’ll need to undergo an annual on-site audit to validate your compliance. Auditors will check that you’ve implemented all PCI DSS requirements, like using a firewall, encrypting cardholder data, and restricting access. They’ll also ensure your security policies and procedures are up to snuff. You must protect stored cardholder data with strong cryptography like AES encryption. All systems that store, process or transmit... --- ### PCI Compliant Hosting > PCI compliant hosting refers to web hosting services that meet security standards set by the Payment Card Industry for processing payments online. - Published: 2023-11-03 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-compliant-hosting/ So, you've decided to start an online business and open up an ecommerce website to sell your products. Congratulations! Now it's time to think about how you're going to keep your customers' payment data safe and secure. If you want to accept credit cards on your site, you'll need to make sure you have PCI compliant hosting. What exactly does that mean? Basically, it means your web host and server meet security standards set by the Payment Card Industry to protect sensitive cardholder data. If you don't have PCI compliant hosting and there's a data breach, you could face major fines and damage your reputation. What Is PCI Compliant Hosting? PCI compliant hosting refers to web hosting services that meet security standards set by the Payment Card Industry (PCI) for processing credit card payments online. If you plan to accept payments on your website, PCI compliance is a must. PCI establishes data security standards to protect cardholder data. As a merchant, you need to use PCI compliant hosting and validate compliance to avoid penalties and ensure customer security. This means your web host and any third-party vendors must adhere to PCI Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) requirements. Some key things PCI compliant hosting provides include: Secure networks. Using firewalls and restricting access to cardholder data. Encryption. Encrypting any transmitted cardholder data across public networks like the internet. Access control. Restricting access to cardholder data and systems based on need-to-know and using unique IDs and strong passwords. Regular monitoring. Tracking and... --- ### ISO 27001 Annex A.8 – Asset Management > Annex A.8 of the ISO 27001 standard focuses on properly managing your organization's assets (like hardware, software, data, and employees). - Published: 2023-11-03 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-annex-a-8-asset-management/ Have you ever wondered what exactly 'asset management' means in the context of information security management systems? You're not alone. ISO 27001 Annex A. 8 covers asset management, but for many, the specific definitions and requirements in this annex can be confusing.   What Is ISO 27001 Annex A. 8 - Asset Management? Annex A. 8 of the ISO 27001 standard focuses on properly managing your organization's assets. An "asset" refers to anything that has value to your company like hardware, software, data, and employees. By identifying and categorizing all your assets, you can determine the best ways to protect them. To get started with asset management, you'll need to identify all the important assets in your organization. This could include things like: Computer systems, laptops, mobile devices, and other hardware. Software, applications, and digital services. Sensitive data like customer information, employee records, intellectual property, etc. Key personnel and their access levels. Once you have a full list of assets, categorize them by importance and sensitivity. This helps you prioritize security controls and protection methods. You'll want to focus the most effort on your critical assets. An effective asset management program also involves keeping detailed records of all assets, including their owners, values, locations, configurations, and any vulnerabilities. Regularly review and update these records to keep them current. Knowing what needs protection and continuously monitoring assets allows you to implement controls tailored to your organization's needs. While it requires effort to establish, a comprehensive asset management program will give you... --- ### Risk Acceptance > Risk acceptance is the strategy where you acknowledge potential threats exist but decide to accept the consequences. - Published: 2023-10-30 - Modified: 2023-12-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-acceptance/ So you’re a cybersecurity professional trying to determine how much risk your organization can handle. Risk acceptance is the strategy where you acknowledge potential threats exist but decide to accept the consequences should they occur rather than mitigate them. Some risks are unavoidable in today’s digital world, so risk acceptance allows you to focus your resources on the most critical vulnerabilities. Accepting a risk doesn’t mean ignoring it altogether, though. You still need to understand the likelihood and impact to make an informed choice and have a plan in place if your worst fears come to fruition. For many companies, risk acceptance is a practical approach that balances cybersecurity with business objectives. The key is finding the right risk appetite for your unique situation. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=6uqWEA-wPuw Defining Risk Acceptance in Cybersecurity Risk acceptance means deciding not to take action to mitigate a risk, instead accepting the consequences if that risk occurs. In cybersecurity, risk acceptance involves acknowledging certain cyber threats or data breach risks and choosing not to implement controls to prevent them. For example, an organization may accept the risk of a denial-of-service attack that briefly disrupts their website. The cost to fully prevent such attacks may outweigh the potential damage. Risk acceptance is often the most cost-effective option when the risk is minor or the cost to mitigate it is too high. However, risk acceptance does come with responsibilities. Organizations must understand they are liable for any outcomes if the risk occurs. They also need a... --- ### Risk Communication > Risk communication focuses on raising awareness about potential dangers and threats before an incident occurs. - Published: 2023-10-30 - Modified: 2023-12-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-communication/ So you've heard of risk communication in cybersecurity and want to know more. You're not alone. As technology becomes more integrated into our lives, the threats that come with it seem to multiply. Risk communication refers to the exchange of information about potential hazards between organizations, governments, and individuals. For cybersecurity professionals, effective risk communication means keeping users aware of online dangers and equipping them with the knowledge to avoid or mitigate those risks. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=kNFZxAD2Ufs Understanding Risk Communication vs. Crisis Communication Risk communication in cybersecurity is not the same as crisis communication. Risk communication focuses on raising awareness about potential dangers and threats before an incident occurs. The goal is to educate users so they can make informed decisions to mitigate risk. Effective risk communication should be clear, consistent and from a trusted source. It should explain risks in an easy to understand way without causing undue alarm. The communication should also provide practical steps people can take to reduce risks while continuing to use technology and the internet. With frequent risk communication and education, individuals and organizations can get better at identifying and avoiding cyber threats before they become full-blown crises. While risk communication won’t prevent all incidents, it builds resilience and helps minimize impacts when the inevitable attack occurs. Overall, risk communication is a crucial part of any cyber risk management program. The Benefits and Importance of Effective Risk Communication Effective risk communication is key to cybersecurity. It helps raise awareness of threats, empowers people... --- ### Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) > CMMC is the Department of Defense's way to ensure cybersecurity controls and processes protect Controlled Unclassified Information. - Published: 2023-10-30 - Modified: 2023-12-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-maturity-model-certification-cmmc/ Have you heard about the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification or CMMC? If you work with the Department of Defense, it's something you need to know about. The CMMC is the DoD's way to make sure companies that handle sensitive government information have strong enough security controls and processes in place. As cyber threats become more advanced, the DoD wants to ensure your systems are adequately protected. The CMMC establishes cybersecurity standards and an auditing process for DoD contractors and subcontractors. To continue working with the DoD, you'll need to obtain the appropriate CMMC level certification for your organization.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=QuAXO9ayeYk What Is the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)? The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is the Department of Defense's (DoD) verification system to ensure cybersecurity controls and processes adequately protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) on Defense Industrial Base (DIB) systems. The CMMC provides a certification process for contractors to assess their cybersecurity maturity. The model consists of three maturity levels. Each level has a set of standards and best practices contractors must meet to achieve certification. The CMMC aims to reduce cyber threats targeting the supply chain for DoD programs. Requiring CMMC certification for contractors helps ensure sensitive government information and intellectual property are protected. What is the Difference Between CMMC and CMMC 2. 0? The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) was begun in January 2020 and subsequently updated to CMMC 2. 0 in November 2021. It's essential for contractors to work towards compliance promptly and understand... --- ### Risk Management Plan > The purpose of a risk management plan is to identify, evaluate, and prepare for risks that could negatively impact your business. Find more here. - Published: 2023-10-19 - Modified: 2023-12-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-management-plan/ You are looking at implementing an effective risk management plan. Where do you even start? The idea of accounting for all potential risks facing your organization can seem daunting. But having a documented risk management plan in place is very important. It requires input from stakeholders to determine risks, as well as strategies to avoid or mitigate them. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=Jt84c1RLoTo Purpose of a Risk Management Plan The purpose of a risk management plan is to identify, evaluate, and prepare for risks that could negatively impact your business. A good plan helps reduce surprises, improves decision making, and leads to a more risk-aware culture. To create an effective plan, you'll need to analyze risks across your entire organization. Define risk categories, like operational, financial, cyber or environmental risks. Identify specific risks within each category, estimating the probability of each risk occurring and its potential severity. Then determine risk responses, such as avoiding the risk altogether, reducing the likelihood or impact, transferring the risk to another party, or accepting the risk. You'll want to assign risk owners, those responsible for monitoring and managing each risk. They should regularly revisit risks to see if likelihood or severity has changed, requiring an updated response. Your risk management plan is a living document, evolving as new risks emerge or business priorities shift. With a comprehensive plan in place, you'll have confidence in your ability to navigate challenges and leverage opportunities. And if a risk event still occurs, you'll be in the best position... --- ### Risk Appetite > Risk appetite refers to how much uncertainty and risk an organization is willing to take on in pursuit of its objectives. Find more here. - Published: 2023-10-19 - Modified: 2023-12-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-appetite/ Ever wonder how much risk is too much risk? As an individual or organization, you need to determine your risk appetite, which is the amount of risk you're willing to accept in pursuit of your goals or objectives. Some people have a hearty appetite and thrive on high-risk, high-reward scenarios. Others prefer to play it safe. Neither approach is necessarily right or wrong, but identifying your risk appetite helps ensure you don't take on more risk than you can handle. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=nfQIo9Dxrjs Defining Risk Appetite: What It Means for Businesses As a founder, understanding your company's risk appetite is crucial. Risk appetite refers to the amount of risk you're willing to accept in pursuit of your objectives. It's about finding the right balance; not too risky but not too conservative either. For some businesses, a higher risk appetite means taking on more debt or investing in innovative projects that could significantly impact your bottom line, either positively or negatively. If you have a lower risk appetite, you likely avoid uncertainty and only take on risks that you know you can handle. Identify your key business objectives and priorities to determine an appropriate risk level. Do you aim for fast growth or a stable performance? Consider your industry and business model. A startup likely has a higher risk appetite than an established company. If your revenue depends on a few major clients, you probably aim for less risk. Think about your resources and ability to take on more risk.... --- ### Risk Register > A risk register is a document that helps organizations keep track of potential risks that could affect key business objectives. Find more here. - Published: 2023-10-19 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-register/ Ever feel like you're drowning in risks at work and have no way to keep track of them all? You're not alone. Risk registers are a useful tool for gathering and organizing information about the various risks facing your organization so you can gain visibility and take action. What is a Risk Register in Risk Management? A risk register is a document that helps organizations keep track of potential risks that could affect key business objectives. It's a central repository where you record and monitor all the risks your company faces. The risk register typically contains details on each risk like a description, category, owner, potential impact, likelihood of occurring, and risk rating. It also outlines controls and mitigation strategies to help reduce the possibility or effect of the risk. By compiling all this information in one place, management gets a holistic view of risks and can make better decisions around resource allocation and risk response. Maintaining an up-to-date risk register is key to effective risk management. As new risks emerge or the likelihood/impact of existing risks changes, the register needs to be updated. It should be reviewed regularly in risk assessment meetings where leaders evaluate if current risk ratings and mitigation plans are still valid or need adjustment. A well-crafted risk register gives organizations awareness and understanding of the uncertainty and vulnerabilities they face. With this insight, management can determine risk appetite, set priorities, and put controls in place so the company can pursue key objectives with confidence. What... --- ### Vendor Compliance Management   > Vendor Compliance Management is a the process by which businesses ensure that their vendors adhere to specific standards and regulations. - Published: 2023-10-16 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-compliance-management/ What is Vendor Compliance Management? Vendor Compliance Management refers to the process by which businesses ensure that their vendors adhere to specific standards and regulations. It involves a systematic approach to monitoring and evaluating vendors' performance to verify if they meet compliance requirements. Have you been tasked with managing vendor compliance at your organization? If so, you’ve got an important job on your hands. Vendor compliance management is critical to reducing risk and ensuring that third parties meet key standards. When done well, it gives you peace of mind that vendors are properly vetted and monitored. But where do you start? How do you develop an effective program to oversee vendors and address issues quickly?   Establishing a Comprehensive Vendor Compliance Management Program A robust vendor compliance management program is key to mitigating risk in today's complex interconnected environment. By closely monitoring your vendors, you'll sleep better at night knowing sensitive data and operations are in good hands. An effective program starts with identifying your vendors and the level of risk they pose. Conduct thorough due diligence on new vendors before contracting them. For existing vendors, regularly review the services they provide and how much access they have to your systems and data. Next, ensure proper contracts and service level agreements are in place that outline security, privacy and compliance responsibilities. Require vendor audits and assessments, especially for high-risk vendors. Insist on prompt remediation of any issues found. Ongoing monitoring is equally important. Review vendor performance and compliance reports regularly.... --- ### Continuous Security Monitoring > Continuous security monitoring—or CSM—is an exciting approach to cybersecurity that helps keep your systems safe 24/7. - Published: 2023-10-16 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/continuous-security-monitoring/ You know cyberthreats never sleep, so why should your security monitoring? Continuous security monitoring is one of the few ways to keep your organization's data and systems protected 24/7 from the non stop barrage of attacks. As a company holding private information, you need to be on constant alert for new vulnerabilities, update systems as soon as patches become available, monitor logs and network activity for signs of compromise, and respond quickly to any detected incidents. If you're still relying on periodic vulnerability scans and compliance audits alone to secure your environment, it's time to make the switch to continuous monitoring. Around-the-clock vigilance is the only way to gain true visibility and control in today's dynamic threat landscape. Staying one step ahead of cybercriminals requires continuous monitoring. How are some ways data can be breached? In brief, implementing continuous security monitoring can lead to a decrease in cybersecurity risk, minimize the impact of successful cyberattacks, and lower the expenses associated with data breaches. This is achieved by effectively addressing the three primary methods through which data may be compromised: External attacks, where attackers manage to bypass your data protection controls. Insider attacks, involving trusted employees or insiders intentionally revealing data or falling victim to social engineering attacks like phishing, spear phishing, or whaling. Supply chain or third-party ecosystem attacks, which occur when vendors expose your critical business data due to the absence of intrusion detection or incident response planning. What Is Continuous Security Monitoring? Continuous security monitoring—or CSM—is an exciting... --- ### Vulnerability Scanning > Vulnerability scanning is an automated process that identifies security weaknesses or vulnerabilities in your systems and applications. - Published: 2023-10-16 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vulnerability-scanning/ So you want to get serious about cybersecurity? Well, one of the best ways to harden your systems and data is through regular vulnerability scanning. Vulnerability scanning helps you find weaknesses in your network before the bad guys do. It searches for holes in your firewalls, missing software patches, weak passwords — Anything a hacker could exploit to break in. With vulnerability scanning, you'll get an automated report of all the issues uncovered so you can fix them fast. No more crossing your fingers and hoping for the best. You'll finally get the visibility and control you need to lock down your network tight. Regular scanning gives you true peace of mind that you've done everything possible to keep the hackers out and your data safe. What is vulnerability scanning? Vulnerability scanning is an automated process that proactively identifies security weaknesses or vulnerabilities in your systems and applications. It uses a database of known vulnerabilities to scan your infrastructure and detect any matches. Vulnerability scanners crawl through your networks and endpoints, analyzing operating systems, software and hardware to find any exploitable flaws. They're like an X-ray, providing visibility into your security posture so you can find and patch critical vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them. Regular vulnerability scanning is key to managing risk and protecting your data. By identifying and remediating vulnerabilities, you significantly reduce the opportunities for compromise. While vulnerability scanning can seem daunting, the rewards of stronger security and risk mitigation make it worth the effort. By taking a... --- ### PHI Disclosure > HIPAA establishes strict rules around disclosing a patient’s PHI. This sensitive data is kept private under HIPAA laws. - Published: 2023-10-05 - Modified: 2023-10-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/phi-disclosure/ You know all that information you provide to your doctors and health insurance companies? Things like your name, address, social security number, medical history, test results, insurance details—that’s your protected health information or PHI. As a patient, you have certain rights regarding how your PHI is used and shared. Ever wonder what your doctor can and can’t disclose to others about your health? What about to your family or friends? Or for research studies you may want to participate in? We’re here to give you the full rundown on PHI disclosure so you understand your rights and can make the best decisions about who has access to your personal health details. What Is PHI Disclosure? When it comes to your health records, privacy is essential. PHI disclosure refers to the sharing of your protected health information with outside parties. What exactly is protected health information (PHI)? Protected health information includes any personal details about your health, medical conditions, treatments, payments, and more. This sensitive data is kept private under HIPAA laws, but can be disclosed in certain situations with your consent. Knowing how your PHI may be used or shared with outside parties gives you more control and helps ensure your health records remain as private as possible. If at any time you have questions about the disclosure of your PHI, don't hesitate to speak with your healthcare providers. PHI Disclosure Rules and Regulations The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) establishes strict rules around disclosing a patient’s protected... --- ### HIPAA Disaster Recovery Plan > A HIPAA disaster recovery plan outlines how your organization will need to respond in the event of a HIPAA breach. - Published: 2023-10-05 - Modified: 2023-10-05 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-disaster-recovery-plan/ As you know, HIPAA requires you to have safeguards in place to protect patients' private health information. A solid disaster recovery plan helps ensure you stay compliant if anything goes wrong, like a data breach, natural disaster, or system failure. A disaster could strike at any time, and you need to be prepared. Where do you start? First, determine how quickly you need to recover data and systems to avoid disruption. Then figure out which systems and data are most critical. You'll want to prioritize getting those back up and running first. Once you know your recovery time objectives, you can determine the resources and procedures needed. It may seem like a daunting task, but developing a disaster recovery plan now will give you peace of mind that patient data will stay protected no matter what life throws your way. What Is a HIPAA Disaster Recovery Plan? A HIPAA disaster recovery plan outlines how your organization will respond in the event of an emergency like a natural disaster, cyberattack, or power outage that compromises patient data or disrupts critical systems. As a covered entity, having a solid plan in place is key to ensuring you can quickly restore operations while maintaining compliance. What should be included in your disaster recovery plan? For starters, identify key systems and data that need to be recovered and determine a reasonable recovery time objective (RTO) for each one. The RTO will dictate what kind of backup solution you need, whether it’s an on-site generator,... --- ### Vendor Security Assessment (VSA) > A Vendor Security Assessment (VSA) evaluates how well a company manages security risks related to third-party vendors. - Published: 2023-10-05 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-security-assessment-vsa/ So you're in charge of managing third-party vendors and want to make sure their security practices are up to snuff. Conducting a vendor security assessment, or VSA, is a great way to gain visibility into vendors' security controls and ensure they meet your company's requirements.   What Is Vendor Security Assessment (VSA)? A Vendor Security Assessment (VSA) evaluates how well a company manages security risks related to third-party vendors. It examines the policies, procedures and controls in place to ensure vendors properly handle sensitive data and systems. As companies increasingly outsource business functions to vendors, it's crucial to make sure any third parties with access to your data, networks or applications meet your security standards. A VSA helps identify weaknesses in the vendor risk management process so you can strengthen oversight and reduce vulnerabilities. During an assessment, auditors review details like: How vendors are evaluated and selected based on security criteria. Contract terms that address security requirements, access controls and data handling. Ongoing monitoring of vendor security compliance and performance. Plans to manage issues like unauthorized access, data breaches or service disruptions caused by vendors. A VSA gives you an expert view of vendor-related threats and how to mitigate them. It's a proactive way to avoid the damage caused by a vendor security incident, whether due to malice, negligence or simple human error. Peace of mind that vendors won't put your systems or data at risk is worth the investment in a comprehensive VSA. It's one of the best tools... --- ### Security Posture > Your security posture refers to your overall ability to prevent and defend against cyber threats. It is your entire security set up. - Published: 2023-09-29 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-posture/ Security posture refers to an organization’s overall security health and risk levels. It’s the approach and measures in place to prevent, detect, and mitigate threats like data breaches, hacking attempts, and system vulnerabilities. If you want to sleep well at night knowing your company’s sensitive data and networks are protected, understanding your security posture should be a top priority. A strong security posture requires ongoing assessments, monitoring, and improvement. It’s not about any single tool or checkpoint but rather a comprehensive set of policies, controls, and practices woven into the fabric of your digital infrastructure and company culture. Think of it like your organization’s security fitness. Slack off for too long and you’re bound to gain some unwanted vulnerabilities. But with consistent exercise, awareness, and adaptation, you can build resilience and strength. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=dnAizGuxbbM What Is Security Posture? Your security posture refers to your overall ability to prevent and defend against cyber threats. It is your entire security set up - It includes things like: Policies and procedures The rules you put in place to guide how you operate and respond to threats. These should cover basics like password requirements, data access, and incident response plans. Technical controls The tools and systems you use to monitor for threats and protect your assets. Firewalls, malware detection, VPNs, and multifactor authentication are some common examples. Risk management How well you identify, assess, and mitigate vulnerabilities and threats. This includes doing regular risk assessments to find weak spots, then taking action... --- ### PCI Encryption > PCI encryption is how companies protect your sensitive data and ensure bad guys can't steal your information. Learn more here. - Published: 2023-09-29 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-encryption/ Ever wonder what exactly PCI encryption is and why it matters to you? As an online shopper, you want to know your payment info is secure each time you enter your card number. PCI encryption is how companies protect your sensitive data and ensure bad guys can't steal your info. Basically, it scrambles your payment details into a secret code that only authorized parties can unlock. When you enter payment info at checkout, PCI encryption translates that data into an unreadable jumble of numbers and letters. Your info is then transmitted safely to the payment processor. Even if hackers intercept the transmission, they can't decipher the code. Only the payment processor has the key to unlock the code and access your real card number. PCI encryption is a must for any business that accepts credit cards. It keeps your data safe and gives you peace of mind that your info won't end up in the wrong hands. While technology evolves, PCI encryption standards are continually strengthened to outsmart even the craftiest cybercriminals. So shop online with confidence knowing your favorite stores have your back. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=rJyr-IWlVhQ What Is PCI Encryption? PCI encryption refers to the security standards created by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council to protect cardholder data. If your business accepts credit cards, you need to comply with PCI encryption to ensure data is secure. PCI encryption standards require data to be encrypted whenever it's transmitted over public networks like the internet. This means encrypting... --- ### Access Control Policy > Having a secure access control policy can help protect the organization from unauthorized access to sensitive data and resources. - Published: 2023-09-22 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/access-control-policy/ Access control policy is essential for any business. Having a secure access control policy can help protect the organization from unauthorized access to sensitive data and resources. An access control policy provides guidelines on who should have access to what data and resources, and acts as a set of rules that govern how users gain access to systems, networks and data. It is the main component of an organization's access control system and outlines user privileges regarding data, applications, and system resources.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=6vXGMNuohC8 The Benefits of Implementing Access Control Security Policies Access control policies aim to ensure only authorized personnel have access to company data, systems and information, while also preventing malicious or unauthorized third parties from accessing sensitive corporate data. The benefits of implementing a comprehensive access control policy include: Improved Security – By restricting access to only those staff members who have permission to use corporate assets, a company can greatly reduce the potential of unauthorized data breaches or misuse of sensitive information. Increased Visibility – Access control policies help organizations gain real-time visibility into who is using what assets and when, enabling IT teams to better manage and monitor user activity. Improved Compliance – By adhering to industry regulations and government standards, companies can ensure they are compliant with legal requirements regarding the protection of confidential data and information systems. Overall, an effective access control security policy provides organizations with detailed guidance on how to protect their data from unauthorized third parties and... --- ### Attestation of Compliance > An AOC is a statement or document attesting to the compliance of a company’s frameworks with specific standards. - Published: 2023-09-22 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/attestation-of-compliance/ Attestation Of Compliance (AOC) is an important concept in the world of business and compliance. An AOC is a statement or document attesting to the compliance of a company’s frameworks with specific standards. It is most commonly used in the payment's industry as part of compliance standards such as PCI-DSS. An AOC is required for all companies processing payments to give customers assurance that their payments are being handled securely. The AOC document can sometimes be complex and lengthy, but it’s essential for any business that wants to process customer payments securely and confidently. This includes the security measures in place, processes for handling customer data. What is Attestation of Compliance (AOC) An AOC document is a written report outlining the measures taken by a company to ensure their compliance with the PCC-DSS framework. AOCs can be used to demonstrate the appropriate safeguards, compliance and best practices regarding the protection of user data and payment processing systems. The Requirements for AOC In order for an AOC to be issued, you must provide the necessary documentation, such as your payment processor’s certificate of compliance and other reports that verify the presence of a secure system. Once all of your required documents are provided to auditors, they will review your data security protocols, processes, and systems along with any existing risk factors present.   After they have completed their audit, they will then issue an AOC report outlining their findings and any risks associated with your data security policy. AOC documents are... --- ### Continuous Compliance > Continuous compliance is a concept of secure and automated monitoring of systems and operations to ensure they remain compliant. - Published: 2023-09-15 - Modified: 2024-10-01 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/continuous-compliance/ Continuous compliance is a concept of secure and automated monitoring of systems and operations to ensure they remain in compliance with standards. In today's rapidly changing environment, continuous compliance can be essential in helping to ensure the accuracy, integrity, and security of data. The concept of continuous compliance relies on automated monitoring software that can scan systems for any violations, as well as identify weaknesses or vulnerabilities which could put the organization at risk for data breaches or other potential threats.   The concept allows organizations to ensure that their systems are always up-to-date with the latest patches and updates while staying compliant with standards and frameworks such as SOC 2, PCI DSS, ISO 27001, HIPAA, GDPR, CSA STAR and more. What Is Continuous Compliance? Continuous Compliance emphasizes the need for organizations to continuously monitor and validate regulatory and internal controls across their business. It is an automated compliance monitoring process that uses technology to identify potential compliance gaps in near real-time so that organizations can proactively address any risks and ensure compliance adherence.   Continuous Compliance provides an organization-wide audit trail of all changes made to policies and controls, enabling organizations to review the impact of a change before it is applied in production.   With continuous compliance automation, businesses are able to meaningfully integrate regulatory standards into everyday operations, reducing manual effort, improving accuracy and allowing them to take proactive corrective action. This ultimately leads to improved security, reduced risk exposure, enhanced customer confidence, stronger governance and better... --- ### NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) > It involves a risk-based approach that encourages organizations to identify, protect, detect, respond to and recover from cyber threats. - Published: 2023-09-15 - Modified: 2024-02-15 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/nist-cybersecurity-framework-csf/ As cyber threats and attacks become increasingly sophisticated, protecting your organization's critical infrastructure and sensitive data has never been more important. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) can help guide your cyber risk management efforts. The Framework consists of standards, guidelines and the best practices to help organizations manage and reduce cybersecurity risks both internally and externally. By adopting the CSF, you can improve your ability to prevent, detect and respond to cyber attacks that can negatively impact your business, customers, partners and employees. The CSF aligns well with other standards and regulations, but also provides flexibility to adapt to your organization's specific risks and needs. Using the CSF, you can take a strategic, risk-based view of your cybersecurity program to better protect what matters most. Overall, the CSF provides a pragmatic approach to reducing cyber risks in a cost-effective way based on business needs. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is widely considered the top-tier standard when putting together a cybersecurity program. The framework provides a structured approach for organizations to assess and enhance their cybersecurity capabilities, regardless of their organization's size, sector or level of cybersecurity maturity. It involves a risk-based approach that encourages organizations to identify, protect, detect, respond to and recover from cyber threats/ incidents. The NIST CSF is aligned with various other NIST security standards and models, such as the NIST Special Publication 800-53 and the Risk Management Framework (RMF). Organizations can use the framework to develop and implement tailored cybersecurity... --- ### Cyber Risk Remediation > It is the process of addressing cyber threats and vulnerabilities with security patching, system reconfigurations, and other remedies. - Published: 2023-09-15 - Modified: 2023-09-18 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cyber-risk-remediation/ Cyber Security Remediation Plan Cyber risk remediation is an essential part of any organization's cyber security program. It refers to the process of addressing cyber threats and vulnerabilities with measures such as security patching, system reconfigurations, and other remedies. A cyber security remediation plan should include the following components: Risk Identification: The first step in a successful remediation plan is to identify the potential risks associated with a system or network that could result in a security breach. This includes identifying network assets, systems, applications, and user accounts that pose a risk. Vulnerability Management: Once the risks have been identified, it's important to manage them by implementing appropriate solutions. This could include patching software vulnerabilities, applying access controls to user accounts, or configuring firewalls for increased protection. Security Remediation Plan Template: Establishing a standard security remediation plan template can help ensure that all steps in the process are followed correctly. The template should include specific instructions on how each identified risk should be addressed and managed. Monitoring & Reporting: Finally, it is important to monitor your network and systems for any changes or new risks in order to remain vigilant against future attacks. Additionally, an effective cyber threat remediation plan should also include regular reporting on progress and outcomes to ensure that agreed upon objectives are met. Understanding Cyber Threat Remediation With cyber risk remediation, your organization can proactively protect itself from the latest threats. Cyber risk remediation is the practice of identifying, assessing and addressing security vulnerabilities in your... --- ### Data Loss Prevention > Data loss prevention (DLP) is a strategy for preventing the unauthorized transfer of data from an organization. - Published: 2023-09-07 - Modified: 2023-09-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-loss-prevention/ Data loss prevention (DLP) is an essential part of any business’s security plan. It helps you to protect your company’s sensitive and confidential data from being accessed or used without authorization. With the right data loss prevention software, you can quickly and easily identify, monitor, and control access to sensitive information. You can also create policies that help to ensure all employees are following your security protocols. What Is Data Loss Prevention? Data loss prevention (DLP) is a strategy for preventing the unauthorized transfer of data from an organization. It includes technologies, services, and policies which ensure that sensitive and confidential data is not destroyed, stolen, or misused. DLP solutions provide organizations with the ability to control who has access to sensitive data, where it is stored, how it is shared, and who can access it. It is important to understand that DLP solutions are not just about security policy enforcement; they are about ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements such as GDPR and HIPAA.   DLP solutions can be used for monitoring and controlling outgoing email attachments, preventing data leakage on removable media such as USBs and CDs, detecting malicious software on computers in the network, and enforcing restrictions on downloading certain types of files. How Does Data Loss Prevention Work? It works by monitoring, identifying, and blocking the movement of confidential information. There are three main components to data loss prevention: policy creation and analysis, scanning for restricted information, and enforcing DLP policies. First, companies need to determine what... --- ### Qualitative Risk Assessments > Qualitative risk assessments are an important part of managing risk and ensuring the safety of people, processes, and products. - Published: 2023-09-07 - Modified: 2023-09-10 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/qualitative-risk-assessments/ Qualitative risk assessments are an important part of any risk management strategy. It helps to identify, assess, and manage potential risks in a structured and systematic manner, so that organizations can take proactive steps to minimize them. The process of a qualitative risk assessment involves analyzing the likelihood and potential impact of identified risks. This can be done through both quantitative and qualitative methods. Qualitative methods focus more on understanding the complexity of factors involved in a risk scenario, and are often used to supplement quantitative methods where numerical data is lacking. Qualitative risk assessments are an essential tool for businesses seeking to better manage their risks on an ongoing basis. It helps to prioritize areas of focus, inform decision-making and allocate resources effectively. Let’s explore the benefits, process, and key steps involved in conducting a qualitative risk assessment. What is a Qualitative Risk Assessment? Qualitative risk assessments are an important part of managing risk and ensuring the safety of people, processes, and products. It's a process of identifying, analyzing, and determining the appropriate responses to risks that may affect essential functions or activities. This type of risk assessment helps organizations prioritize actions based on the magnitude of potential impact. The main difference between qualitative and quantitative risk assessment is that qualitative assessments use a more subjective approach to evaluate the likelihood and impact of potential risks. Qualitative assessments help businesses prioritize risks based on their experience and knowledge in order to develop strategies on how to best mitigate them.... --- ### Vulnerability Assessment > Evaluating the security of a system, organizations understand their overall risk profile and develop strategies to address vulnerabilities. - Published: 2023-08-31 - Modified: 2023-10-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vulnerability-assessment/ Vulnerability assessments are an important part of any cybersecurity strategy. It entails evaluating the security of a system or network to identify potential vulnerabilities and mitigate them before they become exploited by malicious actors. A Vulnerability assessment can involve a wide range of activities, including vulnerability testing, vulnerability analysis, and vulnerability management. By evaluating the security of a system, organizations can better understand their overall risk profile and develop strategies to address identified vulnerabilities. Additionally, regular assessments provide an opportunity for organizations to audit their security posture and identify areas for improvement. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=cgIEqvPLNw0 What Is Vulnerability Assessment? Essentially, it aims to give you an understanding of any weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers in order to gain access to your system. The process begins with finding out what assets—such as websites or databases—reside on your network and identifying the security measures in place. Then, a detailed analysis of those assets can help identify existing or potential vulnerabilities. This is where vulnerability testing tools come in handy: they can scan for weaknesses that malicious actors might use to gain access to a system. Finally, once all the relevant vulnerabilities have been identified and documented, security professionals can focus on finding solutions that mitigate or eliminate the threat they pose. Doing so requires understanding the nature of each vulnerability and assessing the risk associated with them — a process known as vulnerability analysis. Role of Vulnerability Assessment in Cybersecurity and Compliance Vulnerability assessment is an important part of... --- ### User Activity Monitoring > User activity monitoring is an important security tool for businesses, as it provides visibility into user activities on critical systems. - Published: 2023-08-31 - Modified: 2023-10-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/user-activity-monitoring/ Keeping track of user activity on your business computers can be a challenge, but with the right software, it doesn’t have to be. User Activity Monitoring (UAM) is a type of software that allows businesses to monitor and track computer activity, such as keystrokes and mouse clicks. This information can then be used to identify any potential security risks or malicious behavior in the network. With the right UAM solution, businesses can rest assured that their data is protected and their employees are handling information correctly.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=n6oEt1j8v-U Introduction to User Activity Monitoring Have you ever wondered if your employees or colleagues are correctly handling data or are aware of cyberattacks? User activity monitoring (UAM) can help with both of these scenarios. UAM refers to a type of software that tracks certain user activity on a computer or network. It records such events as keystrokes and mouse clicks, allowing those with authorization to monitor user behavior for security, compliance, and productivity purposes. UAM tools also provide data about the user’s online behaviors, web applications and websites visited, file transfers, downloads, print jobs, and more. How User Activity Monitoring Software Works User activity monitoring software works in two main ways: passively monitoring user activity and actively monitoring user activity. When a system is passively monitored, it means that the software collects data about user activity without actually interacting with them. This type of monitoring is primarily a tracking tool, which logs the specific activities users undertake on their... --- ### Quantitative Risk Assessment > Quantitative risk assessment is a systematic process that helps organizations identify and analyze risks associated with various activities. - Published: 2023-08-24 - Modified: 2023-10-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/quantitative-risk-assessment/ What Is Quantitative Risk Assessment? A Quantitative risk assessment is a systematic, data-driven process that helps organizations identify, analyze and prioritize the risks associated with various activities. It allows decision makers to make informed decisions in a timely and cost-effective way. It provides quantitative analysis of the probability of a risk occurring and its likely impact. But what differentiates quantitative risk assessment from qualitative risk assessment? Qualitative risk assessment uses expert opinion and experience to estimate the probability and impact of risks. Quantitative risk analysis, on the other hand, involves developing metrics to measure the probability of occurrence and impacts of risks. This allows organizations to quantify their risk exposure, so they can take action before a loss occurs. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=nDQ0NMTu_js Qualitative vs Quantitative Risk Assessment Quantitative risk assessment is an important part of risk management—it helps you make decisions and prioritize resources. But it's important to understand the differences between qualitative and quantitative risk assessment. Qualitative approaches involve looking at risks in terms of likelihood and impact. It's subjective, relying on expert knowledge or opinion of a project team, and the evaluation can be colored by biases. It's best suited for early-stage risk identification, but lacks precision when it comes to measuring the probability of a risk occurring and its expected costs if it does happen. Benefits of Quantified Risk Assessment Quantified Risk Assessment (QRA) is a valuable tool for businesses looking to effectively identify, analyze and manage potential risks associated with their operations. Unlike qualitative risk... --- ### Fair Model Risk Management > FMRM is a risk management methodology that uses an approach to evaluate the potentially damaging impacts of mismanaged models. - Published: 2023-08-24 - Modified: 2023-10-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/fair-model-risk-management/ What Is Fair Model Risk Management? Fair Model Risk Management is an innovative risk management methodology that uses a structured approach to evaluate the potentially damaging impacts of mismanaged models. It brings together a range of disciplines, including data science and machine learning, to support the quantification and assessment of risk and provides an effective way to manage high-risk models. Fair Model Risk Management uses a series of criteria such as fairness, consistency, accuracy, completeness and relevance as measures for assessing risk. It also assesses the effectiveness of mitigation methods and provides detailed recommendations for reducing potential model-related risks. By effectively managing model risk through Fair Model Risk Management methodology organizations are able to ensure their models are compliant with regulatory requirements while also maximizing their value. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=fRdefgy31Tk Benefits of Implementing Fair Model Risk Management Using FMRM can offer many benefits to organizations, such as: Reduced costs: FMRM allows organizations to save both time and money by allowing them to accurately determine the level of risk and cost associated with each associated vendor. Improved accuracy: FMRM improves accuracy by calculating a risk score for each security asset, allowing for better decision making with respect to security investments. Better Understanding: With FMRM organizations can better understand the scope and cause of any potential risks that may arise in order to be prepared for any potential threats or incidents. Enhanced Risk Mitigation: Fair methodology risk assessment allows organizations to identify areas where further investment in security might be needed... --- ### Cybersecurity Risk Register > A Cybersecurity Risk Register is a tool used to document and manage information security risks within an organization. Learn more here. - Published: 2023-08-24 - Modified: 2023-08-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cybersecurity-risk-register/ What is a Cybersecurity Risk Register?   A Cybersecurity Risk Register is a tool used to document and manage information security risks within an organization. It is a centralized repository of risks that the organization faces in its IT environment, including risks to data, systems, and processes. The register enables organizations to identify and prioritize risks, monitor their status, and track progress in managing them. The Cybersecurity Risk Register should include detailed information on each identified risk, such as the risk owner, the risk description, the likelihood of the risk occurring, the potential impact of the risk, and the risk mitigation strategy. The register should also include information on the risk assessment process, such as the methodology used to identify and assess risks, the frequency of risk assessments, and the criteria used to prioritize risks. The risk register is a living document that should be regularly updated as new risks are identified and existing risks change. This may occur due to changes in the organization's IT environment, changes in the threat landscape, or changes in the risk management strategy. The register should be reviewed and updated at least annually or whenever there is a significant change in the organization's IT environment or risk profile. Provides Complete Visibility The Cybersecurity Risk Register is an essential tool for ensuring that an organization's information and IT systems are secure. It provides a comprehensive view of the organization's risk profile and enables the organization to prioritize its risk management efforts. By identifying and addressing... --- ### Controlled Unclassified Information > Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is a term used to describe certain unclassified data and documents. Learn more here. - Published: 2023-08-17 - Modified: 2023-08-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/controlled-unclassified-information/ What Is Controlled Unclassified Information? CUI is a fairly new term and is defined as “information that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls pursuant to and consistent with applicable law, regulations, and government wide policies. ” Categories of CUI and Compliance Requirements Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is information that does not qualify for protection under federal government security classification, but that still needs to be handled with particular care. The CUI registry is a list of categories of information, organizations and types of covered media which are considered CUI and subject to the ensuing CUI compliance requirements. There are over 100 categories of CUI, ranging from internal communications, audit records, and employee records to intellectual property, certain export and import information, and defense contract information. Each category is associated with specific labeling requirements, dissemination restrictions and other related conditions. Organizations must ensure their data and systems comply with CUI requirements by identifying regulated data sets and implementing proper security controls and procedures. In addition, they must have policies in place outlining how employees should handle controlled unclassified information to avoid any potential breaches or misuse. Different Types of Controlled Unclassified Information Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is a term used to describe certain unclassified data and documents. It typically includes information whose handling could be restricted under law or regulation. CUI can range from sensitive corporate data, such as financial records or trade secrets, to information related to national security, such as medical records or social security numbers. The Controlled Unclassified Information... --- ### PCI Audit > A PCI audit is a procedure that assesses compliance to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). Learn more here. - Published: 2023-08-17 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/pci-audit/ What Is a PCI Audit? A PCI audit is a procedure that assesses compliance to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This audit checks to make sure your organization follows the PCI standards and industry best practices when it comes to processing credit card payments securely. By conducting a PCI audit, organizations can guarantee that their customers' sensitive data is adequately protected. What are the PCI Audit Requirements? In order to be PCI compliant, companies must meet the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. This includes a full audit of their system, processes, and practices that involve credit card payments. To meet these requirements, the business must be able to demonstrate the following: Have policies and procedures in place that govern the security of payment card information and transactions Restrict access to payment card data to only those who need it in order to perform their job effectively Regularly track and monitor all access to network resources and payment card data Develop industry-standard security measures for protecting payment card holder data, including encryption, firewalls, anti-virus software, etc. Respond promptly when it detects a security incident or breach of information systems By conducting an annual PCI audit, organizations can ensure their payment systems are secure and prevent unauthorized use. This helps protect both businesses and customers from potential data breaches or cyberattacks, and ensure compliance. Benefits of Implementing a PCI Audit If you are accepting credit and debit card payments, then it is critical to understand the importance... --- ### Risk Mitigation > Risk mitigation is the act of minimizing or reducing the likelihood, magnitude, and/or impact of any type of risk. Learn more here. - Published: 2023-08-10 - Modified: 2024-12-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-mitigation/ What is Risk Mitigation? Risk mitigation is the act of minimizing or reducing the likelihood, magnitude, and/or impact of risks. It’s a process that can be used to reduce and eliminate both the likelihood and effect of unwelcome events impacting an organization. Risk mitigation involves both strategic and tactical measures. Strategically, it involves assessing risk with methods such as risk assessment, control selection, risk acceptance, and training and awareness programs. On a more tactical level, it includes monitoring control systems as well as operational or administrative activities that ensure that risks are identified and managed in accordance with their level of acceptability. When used effectively, risk mitigation helps organizations protect their investments and resources from some of the common risks they may face. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=2J81RY25QM4 Risk Mitigation Strategies Risks can come in many forms, but whatever their origin, it’s essential to have a comprehensive risk mitigation strategy in place. There are a few key strategies you can use when attempting to mitigate risk. These include: Avoidance Avoidance is one of the simplest techniques for mitigating risk - if you can remove it completely from your operations then there is no longer any risk of it occurring. This might involve avoiding certain activities or investments altogether, or limiting your involvement in potentially risky situations. Reduction If you can’t avoid a particular risk altogether, then the next best option is to reduce its impact as much as possible. This could be done by implementing policies or procedures to limit exposure... --- ### IT General Controls > IT General Controls are crucial for organizations' information technology infrastructure to ensure the security of their systems and data. - Published: 2023-08-10 - Modified: 2023-08-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/it-general-controls/ IT General Controls (ITGC) are crucial for any organization’s information technology infrastructure to ensure the security and accuracy of their systems and data. Without them, organizations face risks associated with cyber threats and other malicious activities. Read on as we explain what IT General Controls are, how they protect organizations, and why they are essential for corporate security.   IT General Controls are a set of processes and procedures that regulate the usage of information technology systems in an organization. These controls help ensure the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of IT systems and data.   Compliance with ITGCs is not only a good protective measure, but it is also increasingly required by laws and regulations worldwide. Effective IT General Controls are essential for companies to protect themselves from malicious cyber-attacks, maintain customer trust, and adhere to legal requirements. It’s important for organizations to review their current systems for vulnerabilities and make sure their controls are up-to-date. Essential Principles and Practices of IT General Controls  Some essential principles and practices of IT General Controls involve IT security, change management, data backup and recovery, and system access controls. With strong ITGCs in place, an organization can ensure that its technology infrastructure runs smoothly while safeguarding sensitive data assets. IT audits provide organizations with greater assurance that their IT processes and system operations support business objectives, help meet legal and regulatory compliance requirements, protect against circumstances that can lead to security errors, and reduce the risk of losses due to non-compliance or data... --- ### Risk Prioritization > Risk prioritization involves identifying, assessing, and prioritizing potential risks to determine which pose the greatest threat. - Published: 2023-08-10 - Modified: 2023-08-11 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/risk-prioritization/ Risk prioritization is an essential component of any successful business strategy that involves identifying, assessing, and prioritizing potential risks to determine which pose the greatest threat. This enables businesses to create effective strategies to manage and mitigate such risks. Risk prioritization can be done using various methods such as risk priority matrices or cyber risk prioritization techniques, which provide valuable insights into the risks a business should focus on first. What does Risk Prioritization Entail?   Risk prioritization comprises three main steps: identifying and assessing risks, determining the probability of each risk occurring, and prioritizing actions based on probability and impact. For instance, a risk priority matrix might use the categories “low,” “medium,” and “high” to assess how likely a security breach might occur or what the consequences would be if one did take place. Risk prioritization helps managers identify, evaluate, and prioritize the risks that require immediate attention or need to be tackled first by analyzing the three core elements of risk: impact, probability, and cost. Cyber risk prioritization is particularly crucial to IT security because it enables organizations to manage their cyber risk exposure and allocate resources for maximum security benefits. To prioritize risk effectively, businesses must understand the importance of risk prioritization in managing their budgets and resources for risk management. The process involves analyzing risks and assigning them a priority based on their urgency and likelihood of occurrence. This enables businesses to determine which risks are the most pressing and plan accordingly. As explained, the process... --- ### Consensus Assessments Initiative Questionnaire (CAIQ) > CAIQ is a vital tool designed to facilitate the evaluation of cloud service providers (CSPs) compliance capabilities. Learn more here. - Published: 2023-08-03 - Modified: 2024-12-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/consensus-assessments-initiative-questionnaire-caiq/ The Consensus Assessments Initiative Questionnaire (CAIQ) is a vital tool in the field of cloud security, designed to facilitate the evaluation of cloud service providers (CSPs) based on their security and compliance capabilities. Developed by the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA), the CAIQ v4 streamlines the assessment process by providing a standardized questionnaire that organizations can use to gather essential information from CSPs.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=YTsYcPGmzgA Purpose of the Consensus Assessments Initiative Questionnaire (CAIQ) As more organizations adopt cloud-based services, ensuring the security of their data and operations in the cloud becomes a top priority. However, assessing the security practices and compliance of various CSPs can be a challenging and time-consuming process. The CAIQ was created to address this challenge and streamline the evaluation of CSPs' security and compliance capabilities. The primary purpose of the CAIQ is to provide organizations with a standardized set of questions that can be sent to CSPs to gather information about their security controls, processes, and compliance measures. By using the CAIQ, organizations can obtain a comprehensive understanding of a CSP's security posture, identify potential risks, and make informed decisions about which CSP aligns best with their security requirements. Structure and Contents of the CAIQ The CAIQ is structured into a series of questions grouped into different control domains based on the Cloud Control Matrix (CCM). The CCM is another CSA assessment that provides a comprehensive catalog of cloud-specific security controls and best practices. Each question in the CAIQ is designed to gather specific... --- ### Security Awareness Training > Security awareness training is an educational program designed to enhance the cybersecurity knowledge of individuals within an organization. - Published: 2023-08-03 - Modified: 2023-08-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-awareness-training/ What is Security Awareness Training? Security awareness training is a vital educational program designed to enhance the cybersecurity knowledge and behaviors of individuals within an organization. The primary objective of security awareness training is to educate employees, contractors, and other personnel about the potential security risks and threats they may encounter in their day-to-day activities and equip them with the knowledge and skills to mitigate those risks effectively. The training covers a wide range of cybersecurity topics, including phishing attacks, social engineering tactics, malware prevention, password security, data protection, and the importance of reporting security incidents promptly. Through security awareness training, participants learn to recognize common cyber threats, understand the consequences of security breaches, and develop a security-conscious mindset. Training Methods The training methodologies can vary, with some organizations providing in-person workshops, while others offer web-based or computer-based training modules. Interactive training sessions, simulations, and real-life scenarios are often employed to engage participants and reinforce the learning experience. Additionally, training content is frequently updated to address emerging threats and reflect the dynamic cybersecurity landscape. Effective security awareness training helps foster a strong cybersecurity culture within an organization. When employees are well-informed about the significance of security, they become more vigilant and proactive in identifying and reporting potential security incidents. This, in turn, enhances the organization's ability to detect and respond to threats promptly, reducing the likelihood of successful cyberattacks. Furthermore, security awareness training is not limited to employees at a specific level or department; it should be extended to all... --- ### Standardized Information Gathering (SIG) > Standardized Information Gathering (SIG) is an initiative focused on promoting third-party risk management best practices. - Published: 2023-08-03 - Modified: 2024-12-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/standardized-information-gathering-sig/ As organizations increasingly rely on third-party vendors and service providers to support their operations, the need for comprehensive third-party risk assessments has become a critical aspect of modern cybersecurity and compliance strategies. Conducting these assessments efficiently and effectively is essential to ensure that vendors meet specific security and compliance requirements. Standardized Information Gathering (SIG) is a widely adopted framework that streamlines and enhances the third-party risk assessment process. What is Standardized Information Gathering (SIG)? Standardized Information Gathering (SIG) is an initiative developed by the Shared Assessments Program, a consortium of leading organizations and industry experts focused on promoting third-party risk management best practices. SIG provides a standardized questionnaire and framework for collecting and evaluating information related to the cybersecurity, privacy, and compliance practices of third-party vendors. The SIG questionnaire is designed to be a comprehensive and flexible tool that can be adapted to meet the specific risk assessment needs of different organizations and industries. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=VUxQMUQw6ak Key Components of Standardized Information Gathering (SIG) The SIG questionnaire comprises a series of detailed questions organized into several control domains. These control domains cover critical areas related to third-party risk assessment, including: Information Security: This domain focuses on evaluating a vendor's information security controls, policies, and procedures. It includes questions related to access controls, encryption, incident response, vulnerability management, and security awareness training. Privacy: The privacy domain assesses a vendor's data handling practices and compliance with privacy regulations. Questions cover topics such as data collection, use, retention, and sharing. Business Continuity... --- ### HIPAA Risk Assessment > A HIPAA risk assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of an organization's security and privacy practices concerning PHI. - Published: 2023-07-27 - Modified: 2023-07-31 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-risk-assessment/ The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a landmark legislation in the United States that sets standards for protecting sensitive patient information known as Protected Health Information (PHI). To ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations and safeguard the privacy and security of PHI, covered entities and their business associates are required to conduct regular HIPAA risk assessments. A HIPAA risk assessment is a critical component of an organization's HIPAA compliance efforts, helping identify and address potential vulnerabilities and threats that could compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of PHI. We will explore the significance of a HIPAA risk assessment, its key components, best practices for conducting one, and its role in maintaining HIPAA compliance. Understanding the Importance of a HIPAA Risk Assessment A HIPAA risk assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of an organization's security and privacy practices concerning PHI. It serves as a foundation for establishing a robust risk management program, helping organizations identify potential risks and vulnerabilities in their processes, systems, and policies that could lead to PHI breaches. HIPAA requires covered entities and business associates to conduct risk assessments regularly to ensure that their safeguards and controls are in line with the ever-evolving threat landscape and the organization's changing environment. The HIPAA BibleEverything you need to know about HIPAA complianceDownload the Whitepaper HIPAA Risk Assessment Requirements Scope Identification: The first step in a HIPAA risk assessment involves identifying the scope of the assessment, including the systems, processes, and personnel involved in the handling of PHI. Data Collection: The organization... --- ### CIS Critical Security Controls > CIS Critical Security Controls is a set of cybersecurity best practices designed to safeguard organizations against damaging cyber threats. - Published: 2023-07-27 - Modified: 2024-12-13 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cis-critical-security-controls/ The Center for Internet Security (CIS) Critical Security Controls, formerly known as the SANS Top 20 Critical Security Controls, is a set of prioritized cybersecurity best practices designed to safeguard organizations against the most prevalent and damaging cyber threats. Developed by a community of cybersecurity experts and practitioners, the CIS controls provide a comprehensive framework for enhancing cybersecurity resilience and mitigating the risks posed by sophisticated cyber adversaries. In this article, we will explore the significance of the CIS Critical Security Controls, their key components, implementation benefits, and their role in establishing a robust cybersecurity posture. Understanding the CIS Critical Security Controls The CIS Critical Security Controls version 8 are a prioritized list of 20 essential security measures that organizations can implement to protect their systems and data from cyber threats. These controls are based on real-world attack data, expert insights, and the collective experiences of cybersecurity professionals across various industries. The controls cover a wide range of security areas, including network security, access controls, data protection, incident response, and continuous monitoring. By following the CIS Critical Security Controls, organizations can build a solid foundation for effective cybersecurity risk management and response. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=JKZHMvE_fcE Key Components of the CIS Critical Security Controls Control 1: Inventory and Control of Hardware Assets Organizations should maintain an up-to-date inventory of all hardware assets and control their use to prevent unauthorized access. Control 2: Inventory and Control of Software Assets A comprehensive inventory of software assets should be maintained, and only authorized... --- ### Vulnerability Management > Vulnerability management is a systematic approach to identifying, evaluating, and mitigating vulnerabilities in an organization. - Published: 2023-07-20 - Modified: 2023-07-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vulnerability-management/ What is a Vulnerability Management System? Vulnerability management is a proactive and systematic approach to identifying, evaluating, and mitigating vulnerabilities in an organization's systems, networks, and applications. It involves a set of processes and practices aimed at reducing the risk of exploitation by addressing vulnerabilities before they can be leveraged by threat actors. Effective vulnerability management programs help organizations maintain a secure environment and protect their critical assets from potential attacks. Steps to the Vulnerability Management Lifecycle Vulnerability Identification: The first step is to identify vulnerabilities within the organization's infrastructure, systems, and applications. This can be done through various methods, including automated vulnerability scanning tools, manual testing, security assessments, and penetration testing. These activities help identify known vulnerabilities in software, misconfigurations, weak or default passwords, outdated software versions, or other weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. Vulnerability Prioritization: Once vulnerabilities are identified, they need to be prioritized based on their severity and potential impact on the organization. Prioritization can be based on common vulnerability scoring systems, such as the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS), which assigns scores to vulnerabilities based on factors like exploitability, potential impact, and ease of remediation. By prioritizing vulnerabilities, organizations can allocate resources effectively and address the most critical vulnerabilities first. Vulnerability Assessment: The next step is to assess and evaluate the identified vulnerabilities to determine their potential impact and risk to the organization. This involves analyzing the specific context in which the vulnerabilities exist, such as the systems or applications they affect, the sensitive... --- ### Annex A Controls > Annex A controls are a set of security controls outlined in Annex A of the ISO 27001 standard and contains a total of 14 control categories. - Published: 2023-07-20 - Modified: 2023-07-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/annex-a-controls/ What are Annex A Controls? Annex A controls refer to a set of security controls outlined in Annex A of the ISO/IEC 27001 standard. This standard provides a comprehensive framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an information security management system (ISMS) within an organization and is a critical aspect of privacy and security.   Annex A of ISO 27001 contains a total of 14 control categories. These controls cover a wide range of areas related to information security management. They serve as a reference point for organizations to assess their security needs and implement appropriate measures to protect their information assets effectively.   The ISO 27001 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper The 14 categories within the ISO 27001 Annex A controls list are as follows: Information Security Policies: this category emphasizes the importance of establishing and maintaining information security policies that are aligned with the organization’s objectives and legal requirements. It covers areas such as policy development, communication, and enforcement. Organizations of Information Security: this category focuses on the establishment of a clear organizational structure for information security management. It includes aspects such as roles and responsibilities, segregation of duties, and coordination of information security efforts. Human Resources Security: this category addresses the security aspects related to human resources. It covers areas such as screening of personnel, awareness training, and defining security responsibilities of employees and contractors. Asset Management: This category deals with the identification, classification, and management information assets. It includes controls for asset inventory,... --- ### SSAE 16 > One of the main objectives of SSAE 16 was to replace the previous standard SAS 70 and align it with the international standard ISAE 3402. - Published: 2023-07-20 - Modified: 2023-07-20 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/ssae-16/ What is SSAE 16?   SSAE 16, otherwise known as Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements No. 16, was an auditing standard developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). It was issued in April 2010 and was specifically designed for service organizations that provide outsourced services. SSAE 16 was introduced to enhance the reporting and assurance standards for service organizations and their clients.   One of the main objectives of SSAE 16 was to replace the previous standard SAS 70 (Statement on Auditing Standards No. 70) and align it with the international standard ISAE 3402 (International Standard on Assurance Engagements No. 3402). This alignment was designed to provide consistency and compatibility in reporting for service organizations that operate on a global scale. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Introduction of a SOC Report SSAE 16 introduced the concept of a Service Organization Control (SOC) report, which replaced the SAS 70 report. The SOC report is an independent auditor’s report that provides information about the design and effectiveness of a service organization’s controls. This report is issued by a service auditor, who evaluates and tests the controls of the service organization to provide assurance to the organization's clients and stakeholders.   The SOC report can be of two types: Type 1 and Type 2. A Type 1 report provides an opinion on the design of the controls as of a specific point in time, while a Type 2 report provides an opinion... --- ### Threat- Based Risk Assessment > A threat-based risk assessment is an approach to evaluating and managing risk that focuses on identifying and analyzing potential threats. - Published: 2023-07-13 - Modified: 2023-07-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/threat-based-risk-assessment/ What is a threat-based risk assessment? A threat-based risk assessment is an approach to evaluating and managing risk that focuses on identifying and analyzing potential threats and their potential impact on an organization's assets, systems, and operations. It involves assessing the likelihood of threats occurring and the potential consequences if they were to materialize. By understanding the specific threats and their associated risks, organizations can develop targeted strategies to mitigate those risks effectively. Steps to conducting a threat- based risk assessment Threat identification: The first step is to identify and understand the various threats that could pose risks to the organization. Threats can come from a range of sources, such as cyber-attacks, physical theft, employee misconduct, or regulatory changes. This step involves comprehensive research, gathering threat intelligence, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and emerging threats in the industry. Asset identification: Next, organizations need to identify their critical assets, systems, processes, and data that could be impacted by the identified threats. This includes tangible assets like infrastructure, equipment, and facilities, as well as intangible assets like intellectual property, customer data, and reputation. Understanding the value and importance of these assets helps prioritize the assessment and mitigation efforts. Threat likelihood assessment: Once threats and assets are identified, the next step is to assess the likelihood of each threat occurring. This involves considering factors such as historical data, industry trends, threat actors, vulnerabilities, and controls in place. By assigning a likelihood rating to each threat, organizations can prioritize their resources and... --- ### Internal Security Assessor > An Internal Security Assessor assesses an organization's compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). - Published: 2023-07-13 - Modified: 2023-07-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/internal-security-assessor/ What is an Internal Security Assessor? An Internal Security Assessor (ISA) is an individual within an organization who is certified by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) to assess and validate the organization's compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). The PCI DSS is a set of security requirements designed to protect cardholder data and ensure the secure handling of payment transactions. The role of an Internal Security Assessor is to conduct internal assessments and validate the organization's adherence to the PCI DSS requirements. Unlike external Qualified Security Assessors (QSAs) who are independent third-party entities, individuals with Internal Security Assessor certifications are employees of the organization they assess. This allows organizations to have an ongoing internal resource for maintaining and validating PCI DSS compliance. The PCI DSS BibleEverything to know about securing payments and cardholder dataDownload the Whitepaper To become an PCI certified Internal Security Assessor, an individual must undergo rigorous training and pass an examination provided by the PCI SSC. This training covers various aspects of the PCI DSS and equips the ISA with the knowledge and skills required to assess and validate compliance within their organization. Responsibilities of an Internal Security Assessor Conducting internal PCI DSS assessments: The ISA is responsible for evaluating the organization's compliance with the PCI DSS requirements. This involves reviewing policies, procedures, network configurations, security controls, and other relevant documentation. The ISA performs assessments to identify gaps and non-compliance areas, providing recommendations for remediation. Remediation guidance: Once... --- ### SSAE 18 > SSAE 18, also known as Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements No. 18, is an auditing standard developed by the AICPA. - Published: 2023-07-13 - Modified: 2023-07-16 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/ssae-18/ What is SSAE 18? SSAE 18, also known as Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements No. 18, is an auditing standard developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). It recently replaced the previous standard SSAE 16 in May 2017 and introduced several changes and enhancements to meet the evolving needs of the auditing profession. SSAE 18 was designed for service organizations that provide outsourced services and seek to provide assurance to their clients regarding effectiveness of their controls. SSAE 18 establishes the requirements and guidance for service auditors when conducting an examination of a service organization’s controls and issuing a report known as a Service Organization Control (SOC) report. These reports are essential for service organizations as they provide valuable information to their clients about the reliability and security of their systems and processes.   One of the significant changes introduced in the SSAE 18 report is the introduction of the “Description Criteria. ” These criteria require the service organization to provide a detailed description of its system and controls in place. This description must include the service organization’s objectives, system boundaries, and the nature and extent of the services provided. This enhanced description helps clients gain a better understanding of the service organization's objective’s operations and evaluate the suitability of the provided services for their needs. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper What is the difference between SSAE 18 and SSAE 16? Another key aspect of SSAE 18 compliance is... --- ### Trust Management Platform > A trust management platform is a comprehensive system, designed to facilitate trust risk management and enhance trust management services. - Published: 2023-07-06 - Modified: 2023-07-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/trust-management-platform/ Being compliant in today’s digital and interconnected world has become more important than ever before. Cyberattacks and breaches happen to many companies, leaving organizations’ and individuals’ private data at risk. When an organization starts their journey to become compliant, there are various tasks and procedures that need to be carried out in order to attain their compliance status. Organizations will not only want to become compliant, but they will also want to maintain their compliance. Many tools and platforms have been developed to aid organizations in achieving this. Trust management platforms can be one of the components used in attaining an organization's compliance.   What is a Trust Management Platform? A trust management platform is a comprehensive, all-inclusive system, which is designed to facilitate trust risk management and enhance trust management services. This comprehensive platform allows organizations to efficiently handle private data and mitigate certain risks. By utilizing the various tools and functions, the trust management platform provides a centralized space for monitoring, analyzing and addressing security compliance matters. The platform contains various features including a risk assessment, secure data storage, automated compliance checks and customizable reporting capabilities. This platform is useful for businesses to proactively identify potential data breaches, assess their impact and implement the right measures to safeguard their trust and maintain strong relationships with their stakeholders and other entities who interact with the organization. By streamlining trust management processes, the platform helps organizations maintain transparency, reliability and integrity, leading to enhanced customer confidence and sustained business growth.... --- ### Vendor Assessment > Organizations often need to take steps to ensure their vendors are just as compliant as them - This is where vendor assessments come in. - Published: 2023-07-06 - Modified: 2023-07-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-assessment/ In order for an organization to make sure all their operations, security measures, policies and data handling are secure, monitored and compliant; they also need to make sure that the vendors they work with also adhere to practices that promote safe data handling and are protected against cyber breaches or attacks.  Organizations often need to take certain steps to ensure their vendors are just as compliant as them - This is where vendor assessments come into play. The aim of a vendor assessment is to determine if a vendor or supplier is suitable for a business partnership.   Why do we need vendor assessments? A vendor assessment is an important action (assessment) needed to be taken by organizations to determine the capabilities, reliability and security infrastructure of their vendors. This includes assessing the vendor's certifications, experience, technology infrastructure, facilities and resources. This can also include assessing a vendor's compliance with data privacy laws, industry regulations, and the organization’s policies. Vendor assessments determine if the vendors that organizations are working with are administering and maintaining the correct security tools. A vendor assessment program is put in place to make sure that the vendors that an organization works with, follows the information security policies and procedures that the company has established. This helps the company stay secure and protected from any potential security risks that may come from working with vendors. A vendor risk assessment is performed to identify any weaknesses in a vendor's operations that could potentially impact the organization's business... --- ### ISMS Governing Body > The ISMS governing body is a group in charge of overseeing and guiding the Information Security Management System within an organization. - Published: 2023-06-29 - Modified: 2023-09-06 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/isms-governing-body/ As an information security professional, you understand the importance of implementing and maintaining an information security management system (ISMS) to protect your organization’s data and systems. A key component of a successful ISMS is establishing a governing body to oversee and guide the program. The ISMS governing body, provides strategic direction, approves policies and procedures, monitors program performance, and ensures alignment with business objectives. For an ISMS to be effective, the governing body must have the appropriate representation, structure and level of authority within the organization.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=nyPyHZX0-4w The ISMS governing body is a group (generally made up of senior executives, managers and key stakeholders) that is in charge of overseeing and guiding the Information Security Management System (ISMS) within an organization. These leaders set the direction and are in charge of establishing the objectives of the ISMS. They ensure that the ISMS aligns with the organization's overall goals and objectives while simultaneously complying with ISO 27001 standard. The governing body is responsible for defining the governance framework for the ISMS. They monitor the effectiveness of the ISMS program and regularly review its performance against set objectives. The ISMS governing body also aids in promoting information security awareness and compliance throughout the organization.   Establishing an effective ISMS governing body Establishing an effective Information Security Management System (ISMS) Governing Body is crucial for its successful implementation and continuous improvement. As an organization, you should: Define the ISMS Governing Body’s roles and responsibilities. This includes overseeing the ISMS,... --- ### ISO 27001 Nonconformity > ISO 27001 nonconformity refers to a circumstance where an organization's ISMS does not meet the requirements for the ISO 27001 standard. - Published: 2023-06-29 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-nonconformity/ In the world of information security management systems, nonconformity is a term that refers to a situation where an organization's ISMS fails to meet certain requirements. ISO 27001 nonconformity refers to a circumstance where an organization's information security management system (ISMS) does not meet the requirements for the ISO 27001 standard. Nonconformities can be identified at any time - Internal audits, external audits or through regular monitoring and/or review processes.   Any instance where the organization is not meeting a requirement of the standard would constitute a nonconformity. Nonconformities are classified based on their severity and impact. Major nonconformities refer to serious issues that affect the capability of the management system to achieve its intended results. Minor nonconformities are issues that are less serious but still represent a failure to meet a standard requirement. Examples of nonconformities are the following: Failure to implement one or more of the required information security controls.   Failure to follow the organization's own information security policies and procedures.   Failure to conduct regular risk assessments and risk treatment as required.   Failure to implement adequate change management processes for changes that could affect information security.   Failure to provide the necessary resources, such as budget, training and personnel, to meet the requirements of the information security management system.   Corrective action  When a nonconformity is discovered, it's crucial to take corrective action immediately. This helps to ensure that the nonconformity is addressed and that the ISMS is brought back into compliance. The corrective action... --- ### HIPAA Breach > A HIPAA breach refers to unauthorized access, use or disclosure of protected health information. HIPAA protects private health information. - Published: 2023-06-21 - Modified: 2023-08-08 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-breach/ What is HIPAA? The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets out various rules and restrictions regarding the use and disclosure of individuals’ protected health information (PHI).   Who needs to adhere to HIPAA? Those who need to adhere to HIPAA regulations are: Health insurance companies, healthcare clearinghouses, business associates, employers (employers that sponsor group health plans for their employees must comply with HIPAA regarding any employee health information they maintain HIPAA), mobile health/telehealth apps and companies and medical device and health technology companies. Ultimately, any individual or organization that handles protected health information for treatment, payment or healthcare operations purposes is considered a covered entity under HIPAA and must comply with HIPAA rules and regulations. This includes maintaining appropriate safeguards to protect patient privacy and data security. HIPAA applies to individuals and organizations within the United States and to companies that handle data of American citizens. https://youtu. be/UF4suMNdiEA What is a HIPAA breach? A HIPAA breach refers to the unauthorized access, use or disclosure of protected health information (PHI). PHI is any information that relates to an individual’s physical or mental health condition, health care provision or payment for health care that identifies the individual or could be used to identify the individual. This includes names, addresses, birth dates, social security number/ ID numbers and any type of healthcare identifiers.   Breaches can happen in a variety of ways, including: Hacking or malware attacks: Hackers can gain unauthorized access to electronic protected health information (ePHI) stored on computers,... --- ### Protected Health Information (PHI) > Protected health information refers to information that can be used to identify someone. Securing PHI should be a priority for organizations. - Published: 2023-06-21 - Modified: 2025-04-29 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/protected-health-information-phi/ As a healthcare professional or a company storing or processing protected health information, you are responsible for protecting your patients’ private health information or PHI. Failure to do so can result in legal and financial consequences for your organization. According to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act or HIPAA, covered entities like doctors, hospitals and insurance companies must have appropriate safeguards and controls in place to protect patients’ PHI from unauthorized access, use and disclosure. It is critical that you understand what constitutes PHI, how it should be handled and the penalties for violations to avoid data breaches and remain compliant with federal law. What is Protected Health Information Protected Health Information (PHI) refers to any individually identifiable health information - This may include one’s name, date of birth, phone number, geographic data, fax number (yes, some people still use faxes), a social security number/ ID number, an email address, medical records, account numbers, health plan benefits, certificates or licenses, vehicle ID, a web URL, device ID, an IP address, full face pictures and biometric records. All this information is received, created, maintained or transmitted by companies working in the healthcare environment or a company storing or processing protected health information. This includes: healthcare providers, health plans, business associates or healthcare clearinghouses. PHI includes various types of data - Physical, electronic and spoken data. The security of PHI is of utmost importance, especially in the realm of cyber security and information security. Strict measures must be implemented to ensure... --- ### Report on Compliance > A PCI Report on Compliance (RoC) is an assessment that tests a company's security controls that protect cardholder data. - Published: 2023-05-29 - Modified: 2023-07-17 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/report-on-compliance/ You've likely heard of reports on compliance, but what are they, exactly? And more importantly, what do they mean for your business? A report on compliance, or RoC, is a document that summarizes a merchant's compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). The report is compiled by a Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) and is used to assess a merchant's PCI DSS compliance. If you're not familiar with PCI DSS, let’s recap. PCI DSS is a set of standards designed to protect credit card data. All businesses that process, store, or transmit credit card information must comply with PCI DSS. What is a Report on Compliance (RoC)? A PCI Report on Compliance (RoC) is an assessment that tests a company's security controls that protect cardholder data. The report details whether your company meets all 12 requirements of the PCI DSS standard and any deficiencies discovered during the assessment. Keep in mind, this form must be completed by all Level 1 Visa merchants. Security Compliance for CISOsSOC 2 and ISO 27001 Deep DiveDownload the eBook How does PCI DSS require a Report on Compliance? When it comes to the protection of customer data, the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is one of the most comprehensive and well-known frameworks. And as a merchant, it's important to understand how PCI requires a report on compliance. Basically, the PCI Security Standards Council (SSC) requires level two, three and four merchants to complete and submit a Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) on... --- ### Qualified Security Assessor > A QSA, is a security company who has been certified by the PCI Security Standards Council (SSC) to perform PCI DSS assessments. - Published: 2023-04-24 - Modified: 2023-07-03 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/qualified-security-assessor/ A Qualified Security Assessor, or QSA, is a security company who has been certified by the PCI Security Standards Council (SSC) to perform PCI DSS assessments. A QSA's primary responsibility is to assess the security of an organization's payment card processing environment in accordance with the PCI DSS. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=leKdpyMb3wI&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fscytale. ai%2F&feature=emb_imp_woyt What are the requirements for becoming QSA certified? So, what are the requirements for becoming QSA certified? Step 1: Application The organization must first submit the required documentation, including certifications, business license, insurance certificates and the registration fee, which is credited against the initial enrollment fee if the firm becomes qualified. Step 2: Training All individuals who will be involved in assessing security for the company’s clients must undergo and pass the Council’s QSA training course and receive official certification. Individual fees apply. Step 3: Enrollment When the enrollment fee balance has been received by the PCI Security Standards Council, the organization will receive a Letter of Acceptance from the Council, and each of its employees who has passed the training course will receive a Certificate of Qualification. The new QSA firm will be listed on the Council Web site, the employees will be added to the Council’s database of certified personnel, and the organization may now perform audits for its clients. Step 4: Transition from QSA to AQSA If a QSA wishes to transition to an Associate QSA, the Primary Contact may choose to submit a Transition Request: QSA to Associate QSA. You can find more... --- ### Asset-Based Risk Assessment > An asset-based risk assessment is a process of identifying and assessing the risks to your company's assets. Learn more here. - Published: 2023-04-24 - Modified: 2023-04-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/asset-based-risk-assessment/ What is an asset-based risk assessment? An asset-based risk assessment is an important part of risk management. An asset-based risk assessment is a process of identifying and assessing the risks to your company's assets. This includes both tangible and intangible assets, such as people, processes, information, systems, and physical infrastructure. The goal of an asset-based risk assessment is to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities that could impact your assets. This information can then be used to develop a plan to mitigate those risks. The benefits of asset-based risk assessments An asset-based risk assessment is a key part of risk management. When you perform an asset-based risk assessment, you identify your assets and then determine the risks associated with them. This allows you to focus your resources on the highest-risk assets and take steps to mitigate those risks. There are several benefits of performing an asset-based risk assessment: You can more easily identify and understand your organization's risks. You can prioritize your risk management efforts. You can more effectively allocate resources to protect your assets. You can better understand your exposure to risk. You can make informed decisions about where to invest in security measures. Security Compliance for CISOsSOC 2 and ISO 27001 Deep DiveDownload the eBook The asset identification risk management process The first step in conducting an asset-based risk assessment is to identify all of the company's assets. This includes anything and everything that has value to the organization: physical assets such as property and equipment, as well as... --- ### Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV) > An ASV is someone that is approved by the PCI SSC to determine if an organization meets PCI DSS external scanning requirements. - Published: 2023-04-03 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/approved-scanning-vendor-asv/ As an ASV, you'll join an elite group of businesses that have been qualified by the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) to conduct point-of-sale (POS) scanning and vulnerability assessments. What is an Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV)? An Approved Scanning Vendor, or ASV, is someone that is approved by the PCI Security Standards Council to determine whether an organization meets PCI DSS external scanning requirements. ASVs perform an external vulnerability scan of an organization's network or website from the outside looking inward, using similar methods to hackers, such as penetration testing. The ASV program is designed to help merchants protect their customers' payment data by providing a certified Scanning Vendor who is approved to scan an organization’s network. This allows merchants to outsource the scanning process, and gives them peace of mind that their payment data is being protected the way it should. There are a number of PCI SSC approved scanning vendors, and the list is constantly changing as new vendors are approved. Costs for services vary, so be sure to do your research and find the best option for your business. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=OwoFkmQa-P4 Benefits of having an Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV) If you're not sure what an Approved Scanning Vendor is, they're essentially third-party companies that have been approved by the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) to determine whether or not your organization is privy to security vulnerabilities, such as malware attacks and other breaches.   There are a number of benefits to having an... --- ### ISO 27001 Internal Audit > An internal audit is an in-depth review of your organization's ISMS before undergoing the ISO 27001 audit with an external auditor. - Published: 2023-04-03 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-internal-audit/ An ISO 27001 internal audit is a critical part of the ISO 27001 readiness process. It is an in-depth review of your organization's Information Security Management System (ISMS)before undergoing the ISO 27001 audit with an external auditor.   An ISO 27001 internal audit can help you identify any areas where your ISMS could use improvement and help you track your compliance with the standard. If you're thinking about conducting an internal audit, or if you've already started the process, you’ll find everything you need to know below. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=sdtgNI31iJY Overview of ISO 27001 internal audits An ISO 27001 internal audit is a critical part of an organization's compliance journey. It helps to ensure that your organization's Information Security Management System (ISMS) is effective and functioning as intended. An ISO 27001 internal audit is an important process that helps your organization achieve or maintain compliance with the standard. It also helps to identify and mitigate any risks associated with your Information Security Management System (ISMS). If you're new to internal audits, don't worry – we've got you covered. We'll provide you with an overview of the ISO 27001 internal audit process. It also includes tips for making the most of your audit experience. The ISO 27001 BibleEverything you need to know about compliance! Download the Whitepaper Appointing an auditor for an ISO 27001 internal audit Internal audits are conducted by employee/s who are familiar with your organization's ISMS and its associated risks or an independent third party, such as... --- ### Automated Vendor Risk Assessment > Automating vendor risk assessments is a great way to streamline your process of managing third-party risk. Learn more here. - Published: 2023-03-20 - Modified: 2023-04-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/automated-vendor-risk-assessment/ You've likely heard the term "vendor risk" before, but what does it actually mean? Put simply, vendor risk is the potential that a third party could negatively impact your organization - whether through compromised data, disrupted operations, or some other issue. Given the importance of protecting your business from any potential risks, it's no surprise that vendor risk management has become a key concern for many organizations. But managing risk can be a complex and overwhelming task. That's where automated vendor risk assessments come in. What is an automated vendor risk assessment? An automated vendor risk assessment is a process by which a technology platform or software reviews and analyzes third-party data in order to identify potential risks. Automated risk assessment tools can help organizations to automate the process of assessing and managing risk with vendors. The use of automated tools can help to speed up the process of assessing risk, and can help to identify potential problems earlier.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=uErxcnM1jl8 What are the benefits of automated vendor risk assessments? There are several benefits of automated vendor risk assessments.   It automates the process of assessing risk, which saves time and resources. It provides a more consistent and accurate assessment of risk.   It allows for better and more timely communication of risk to stakeholders. It enables organizations to identify and manage risks at the earliest possible stage.   Iit helps to improve overall risk management practices. The HIPAA BibleEverything you need to know about HIPAA compliance!... --- ### Vendor Risk Management > When working with third-party vendors, it's important to have a comprehensive VRM program to ensure that your data and systems are protected. - Published: 2023-03-20 - Modified: 2023-04-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-risk-management/ When working with third-party vendors, it's important to have a comprehensive vendor risk management (VRM) program in place to ensure that your data and systems are protected. But what is VRM, and what does it entail? In essence, VRM is the process of assessing and managing the risks associated with third-party vendors. This includes assessing the risks that each vendor poses to your organization, implementing policies and procedures to mitigate those risks, and monitoring the vendors' activities to ensure they remain compliant. What is vendor risk management? When you're looking to outsource certain parts of your business, you're essentially inviting a third party into your inner circle. And with that comes a certain level of risk. That's where vendor risk management comes in. Also known as third-party risk management, it's the process of assessing and mitigating risk with any vendor or supplier that your company does business with.   There are a number of things to consider when it comes to vendor risk management. You'll also want to have a plan in place for how you'll respond if something goes wrong. By implementing vendor risk management processes, you can minimize the risks associated with doing business with third-party vendors. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=wzEZv76LOHg Components of a vendor risk management program A well-run vendor risk management (VRM) program is a key part of any organization's overall information security strategy, as it helps to identify and assess the risks associated with doing business with third-party vendors. But what goes into a VRM... --- ### HIPAA Covered Entities > When it comes to HIPAA compliance, there's a lot of confusion around who is and isn't a covered entity. We're breaking it down for you. - Published: 2023-03-13 - Modified: 2023-04-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-covered-entities/ When it comes to HIPAA compliance, there's a lot of confusion around who is and isn't a covered entity. That's why we're breaking it down for you. HIPAA covered entities are any organization or individual that creates, receives, maintains, or transmits protected health information in the course of carrying out its activities and functions.   In other words, if you're responsible for handling protected health information (PHI), then you need to be HIPAA compliant. Failure to comply with the HIPAA regulation can result in heavy fines and even criminal penalties. So it's important to know what this regulation entails and make sure that your business is in compliance. Read our bog: HIPAA Compliance for Startups: Why Should Startups Care About Being Compliant? https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=Hu5EwCxxlds Who are the covered entities under HIPAA? The HIPAA Privacy Rule regulates the use and disclosure of protected health information by covered entities and business associates.   So who are the HIPAA covered entities? Covered entities are healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses. But there are a few other categories of entities that are also considered covered entities under HIPAA. Business associates are also subject to the HIPAA Privacy Rule. They must protect the privacy of Protected Health Information (PHI) and are subject to the same fines and penalties as covered entities if they violate HIPAA rules. The HIPAA BibleEverything you need to know about HIPAA compliance! Download the Whitepaper What are the requirements for HIPAA-covered entities? Of course, there are certain requirements... --- ### ISO 27017 > The ISO 27017 framework is an international standard that outlines best practices for cloud security. Learn more here. - Published: 2023-02-27 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27017/ What is ISO 27017? The ISO 27017 framework is an international standard that outlines best practices for cloud security. It provides organizations with guidelines on how to protect their information systems and data when using a cloud service provider. ISO 27017 focuses on the security of personal data, and covers topics such as access control, incident management, encryption, and logging.   The standard outlines a set of best practices for the implementation, management, and operation of cloud computing services. It also provides guidelines on how to protect user data in the event of a security breach or other incident.   Furthermore, it helps ensure that organizations are taking appropriate measures to protect their data when using cloud services. By following these standards, businesses can reduce the risk associated with storing sensitive information in the cloud while still enjoying its many benefits. Additionally, it encourages transparency between service providers and customers by helping them understand what steps have been taken to keep their data safe. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=ILZYISEb7mA ISO 27017 controls list You may be wondering what exactly does ISO 27017 compliance cover? And what controls are included? There are two basic aspects of ISO 27017. First, it guides organizations on how to take 37 of the ISO 27001 controls and implement them in cloud environments. Second, it introduces seven security controls that are meant for cloud environments specifically.   These controls include: Shared roles and responsibilities within a cloud computing environment Removal of cloud service customer assets Segregation in... --- ### System Description (Section III) > A SOC 2 system description is a required document that describes the systems, processes and controls relevant to a service organization's system. - Published: 2023-02-27 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/system-description-section-iii/ What is a system description?   Generally speaking, a system description is a section of a technical document or report that provides an overview of the system, its structure and components, and explains how it works. It may also provide information about related systems and technologies used in conjunction with the main system. System descriptions are often included in user manuals, software documentation, project plans, proposal documents, business cases, feasibility studies and other technical reports. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=O40YPdpITcA What is a SOC 2 system description? The SOC 2 reporting system is designed to provide assurance that an organization has established effective controls necessary to meet its objectives as they relate to the Trust Service Principles. A SOC 2 report enables companies to demonstrate their commitment to protecting customer data by providing an independent evaluation of their internal control environment. A SOC 2 system description is a required document that describes the systems, processes and controls relevant to a service organization's system. A system description is the way in which management describes the organization’s system that supports the delivery of products, solutions or services to its customers. The system description is important because it provides a comprehensive overview of the system and its components. It helps to define the scope, objectives, and functionality of the system, as well as provide an understanding of how the system works. This information can be used to help identify potential areas for improvement that would increase information security, efficiency or performance. Additionally, it can... --- ### ISO 27018 > ISO/IEC 27018 is an international standard published by the International Organization for Standardization and International Electrotechnical Commission. - Published: 2023-02-20 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27018/ What is ISO/IEC 27018? ISO/IEC 27018 is an international standard published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The standard outlines best practices for protecting personally identifiable information (PII) in cloud computing environments. It was developed to ensure that cloud service providers maintain adequate security measures when handling PII belonging to their customers. This includes a range of measures such as implementing physical, technical and organizational security controls, conducting periodic risk assessments, and providing robust data breach notification procedures. Additionally, the standard requires providers to adhere to privacy principles such as purpose limitation, data minimization and transparency. What are the key principles and requirements of ISO 27018?   The key principles and requirements of ISO 27018 are as follows:  Establish a framework for the processing of personal data in cloud services by providing guidance on topics such as privacy, security, data protection, and compliance. Ensure that any personal data processed by cloud service providers is protected with appropriate technical and organizational measures. Provide customers with clear information about how their personal data will be used and stored. Enable customer to control their own personal data in accordance with applicable laws. Require that cloud service providers provide adequate remedies to customers if there is a breach or misuse of their personal data. Encourage transparency between the provider and customer regarding the collection, use, and sharing of personal data . Ensure that the cloud service provider maintains a record of any changes made to its services that affect... --- ### Information Security Management System (ISMS) > An Information Security Management System (ISMS) is a set of policies, processes, and procedures that help organizations to protect their information assets. - Published: 2023-02-20 - Modified: 2024-03-21 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/isms/ What is an ISMS?   An Information Security Management System (ISMS) is a set of policies, processes, and procedures that help organizations to protect their information assets. It helps to identify, analyze and manage the security risks associated with the use, processing, storage and transmission of an organization's sensitive data.   An ISMS agreement is between two parties that outlines the security protocols and procedures they will follow to protect their information assets. It includes policies, processes, and technical measures that are implemented to prevent unauthorized access, use, disclosure, modification, or destruction of sensitive data. The ISMS contains all the necessary controls for managing these risks in order to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data.   The ISMS acts as a cybersecurity management system which includes controls such as access control measures, including authentication; encryption techniques; system hardening; network segmentation; vulnerability management activities such as patching or antivirus scanning; monitoring systems for detecting malicious activity or suspicious behavior; incident response plans for dealing with cyberattacks or other security incidents; user awareness training programs to educate staff about secure computing practices; and audits to verify that the ISMS is being properly implemented. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=WB0nLIaZcNM What is an ISMS policy? An ISMS (Information Security Management System) policy is a document that outlines an organization's approach to managing and protecting its information assets. It provides a framework for ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information through appropriate security controls.   The policy should include objectives and responsibilities as well... --- ### ISACA > ISACA is a non-profit, international professional association focused on information technology, assurance, security, and governance. - Published: 2023-02-13 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/isaca/ Who is the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)? ISACA (formerly the Information Systems Audit and Control Association) is a non-profit, international professional association focused on information technology, assurance, security, and governance. It provides frameworks, educational resources and certifications on information systems audit, control, governance, and security to empower individuals and organizations to create digital trust in their operations.   ISACA’s membership includes 140 countries with more than 200 chapters worldwide. The association focuses on four main areas: assurance services; cybersecurity; governance of enterprise IT; and risk management.   The organization offers professional certifications such as Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified in Risk and Information System Controls (CRISC), Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT), among others. ISACA audits are designed to help organizations assess their information security risks and put effective controls in place to protect their assets. The ISACA organization also advocates for increased cybersecurity awareness through its Cybersecurity Nexus platform.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=0Y9WFhfsQlk What is an ISACA audit? An ISACA audit is an independent assessment of a company’s information systems, processes, and controls to ensure compliance with established standards. It evaluates the effectiveness and security of these systems in order to identify any potential risks or vulnerabilities.   The audit focuses on the design and operation of information systems and technologies, looking at security controls and processes to ensure that the systems are compliant with regulations and industry standards.   Remember, ISACA has a simple goal, and that is to provide assurance... --- ### HR Compliance > HR legal compliance is the process of ensuring that a company adheres to all applicable laws and regulations related to human resources (HR) management. - Published: 2023-02-13 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hr-compliance/ What is HR compliance? HR legal compliance is the process of ensuring that a company adheres to all applicable laws and regulations related to human resources (HR) management. This includes security compliance requirements, employment laws, labor standards, workplace safety rules, anti-discrimination policies, recordkeeping requirements, and other relevant regulations. HR legal compliance also involves developing internal policies and procedures that are consistent with external regulations. This helps companies protect their employees, avoid legal issues, and remain compliant with all applicable laws and standards. It involves researching, understanding, and following applicable federal, state, and local laws related to hiring, wages/compensation, benefits, working hours/schedules/conditions, leaves of absence/vacations/holidays/sick days, safety in the workplace (OSHA), discrimination & harassment prevention training (EEOC), termination procedures (WARN Act) etc. HR compliance also includes staying current with changes in legislation as well as developing internal policies that are compliant with these laws. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=fsUxcq_wvsA What is an HR compliance checklist? An HR compliance checklist is a document that helps employers ensure their organization complies with all relevant labor laws and regulations. It typically includes items, such as conducting background checks on new hires, onboarding and offboarding best practices, ensuring all relevant policies and procedures are in place, ensuring workplace safety standards are met, and providing discrimination training. HR compliance checklists include:  Ensure that all employees are familiar with relevant labor laws and regulations. Make sure employee handbooks are up-to-date, accurate, and compliant with applicable laws and regulations. Ensure that all job postings comply with equal opportunity employment... --- ### User Access Review > User access review is where privileged users, are asked to review and confirm that each user has the correct access rights for their job. - Published: 2023-02-06 - Modified: 2023-09-28 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/user-access-review/ What is user access review? User access review is a process where privileged users, such as system administrators, are periodically asked to review and confirm that each user has the correct access rights for their job. The purpose of this review is to help ensure that users have appropriate access privileges and that any changes in employees' roles or responsibilities are reflected in their permissions. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=MXv-YqR65uA What is the user access review checklist? A user access review checklist is a list of items used to ensure that users have the proper level of access to systems, applications, and data. It can include questions about user roles and responsibilities, authentication requirements, authorization levels, password strength requirements, and other related topics. The goal is to make sure that only authorized personnel are able to access sensitive data or resources. Here are a few examples of what is included in the user access review checklist: User name  Department/group Date of last access review Access level(s) Systems and applications accessed Data access rights (view, edit, etc. ) Hardware used (devices and network ports)  Is the user still active? Has the user undergone security awareness training? Are there any unusual or suspicious activity detected? Has the user's access level changed since last review? Are all appropriate security controls in place? Is there a risk of data loss or breach of security policies?   Are any changes to access rights needed based on current role and responsibilities?   Are any access revocations or... --- ### Vendor Risk Assessment > A vendor risk assessment is a process for evaluating the potential risks associated with engaging and working with third-party vendors. - Published: 2023-02-06 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-risk-assessment/ What is a vendor risk assessment? A vendor risk assessment is a process for evaluating the potential risks associated with engaging and working with third-party vendors. It seeks to identify any weaknesses or gaps in security, compliance, business continuity processes, and other areas that could potentially lead to harm or disruption of operations. The goal is to ensure that all vendors are compliant with applicable laws and regulations as well as company policies. The assessment also helps organizations to better manage their vendors and be aware of any potential risks. https://youtu. be/S0ZwQI49-D0 What is a vendor risk assessment program? A vendor risk assessment program is a process used to identify and assess the risks associated with working with third-party vendors. It typically includes collecting information about the vendor, assessing their capabilities and resources, evaluating their security controls, and determining any potential areas of risk. The aim of this type of program is to ensure that organizations are working with reliable partners who can help them meet their business objectives while also protecting the organization's data and systems from potential threats. What is a vendor risk assessment template?   A vendor risk assessment template is a document used to assess the risks associated with working with a particular vendor: Sections that cover the scope of the assessment,  Information about the vendor,  Services/products, and any related contracts,  An analysis of potential risks associated with using their services or products and recommendations for mitigating those risks, and  Background information on the vendor such... --- ### InfoSec Compliance > Infosec compliance is the process of following industry-specific laws, regulations, and standards related to information security. - Published: 2023-02-06 - Modified: 2023-06-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/infosec-compliance/ What is InfoSec compliance? Infosec compliance is the process of following industry-specific laws, regulations, and standards related to information security. It involves implementing policies and procedures to ensure that an organization’s data is secure from unauthorized access or modification. Compliance also includes regularly testing systems for vulnerabilities and responding quickly to any threats that are identified. The correlation between information security and compliance is strong. Information security measures are essential for organizations to ensure that they meet their regulatory and legal obligations regarding data protection, privacy, and other areas of compliance. By implementing appropriate controls, organizations can reduce the risk of a breach or data loss while also ensuring they remain compliant with applicable laws and regulations. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=U_rsToKYuAk Identifying and monitoring infosec cyber security risks is an essential part of compliance. It allows organizations to identify potential threats, assess their likelihood, and take steps to reduce or eliminate them. This helps ensure that the organization’s data and systems are secure from unauthorized access or disruption. Additionally, it provides the necessary information for creating effective countermeasures against cyber-attacks. By identifying risks early on, organizations can more quickly respond to any incidents they may experience while also reducing their financial losses. What is an information security assessment? An information security assessment is an analysis of the potential risks and vulnerabilities associated with a company's IT systems, networks, applications, and data. It provides organizations with insight into their current security posture and helps them identify any gaps or weaknesses in... --- ### Statement of Applicability (SoA) > A SoA is a document used in information security management that outlines the applicable control objectives and controls for an organization - Published: 2023-01-18 - Modified: 2023-07-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/statement-of-applicability-soa/ What is a statement of applicability?   A Statement of Applicability is a document used in information security management that outlines the applicable control objectives and controls for an organization. It is typically created as part of an Information Security Management System (ISMS) to identify which specific standards, laws, regulations, and best practices should be implemented within the business. The statement also includes any additional measures needed to meet organizational goals or requirements. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=PuYBhPJ4FOg What is an ISO 27001 statement of applicability?   An ISO 27001 SoA is a document that outlines the security controls and processes an organization has implemented to protect its information assets. It includes a detailed description of the scope, objectives, risk assessment methodology, and control selection criteria used by the organization. The statement also describes how each security control is applied in relation to specific risks identified within their environment. Finally, the statement explains which controls are applicable for each risk and why they were selected. Steps on how to Create Your Statement of Applicability 1. Identify the scope of your ISO 27001 compliance project  Determine what areas and activities need to be covered by the implementation of an ISMS. Consider factors such as data security, physical security, access control, and disaster recovery. 2. Research applicable requirements  Research relevant standards, regulations, laws, and other requirements that apply to your organization in relation to information security management systems (ISMS). This will help you identify which controls are necessary for your particular environment.  ... --- ### Gap Analysis > A gap analysis is an assessment of the difference between an organization’s current state of compliance and its desired level or standard. - Published: 2023-01-13 - Modified: 2023-06-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/gap-analysis/ What is a gap analysis?   A gap analysis in compliance is an assessment of the difference between an organization’s current state of compliance and its desired level or standard. It is a process used to identify potential areas for improvement by comparing actual performance with expected performance. The goal of a gap analysis in compliance is to bridge any existing gaps between the two states, bringing the organization into alignment with applicable laws, regulations, standards, and policies. A gap analysis typically involves identifying non-compliant processes or activities; assessing their risk levels; determining potential corrective actions that can be taken to address them; and implementing those corrective measures. Once completed, organizations can then measure their progress toward achieving full compliance over time. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=Af9-mnGIuTQ The importance of a gap analysis  Analyzing security gaps is an essential part of any organization’s security strategy. It helps identify the areas which are vulnerable to attack or misuse and provides insight into how best to protect them. By analyzing the various aspects of a system, it can be determined where weaknesses exist and what measures need to be taken in order to mitigate potential risks. Additionally, analyzing security gaps allows organizations to prioritize their efforts when it comes to implementing new technologies or policies that will better secure their infrastructure. Ultimately, this helps ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively toward protecting against threats. What is an ISO 27001 Gap Analysis ISO 27001 gap analysis is a process of identifying the... --- ### HIPAA Violation > A HIPAA violation is any action that violates the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. - Published: 2023-01-13 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-violation/ What is HIPAA? HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. It is a federal law that provides privacy standards to protect medical information about individuals, as well as security measures to safeguard the integrity of electronic protected health information (ePHI). HIPAA requires healthcare providers, insurers, and other entities that handle personal health data to maintain appropriate safeguards for its protection. The act also outlines procedures for reporting breaches in patient data and establishes civil penalties for non-compliance with HIPAA regulations. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=oDWctnzYHjI What is a HIPAA violation?   A HIPAA violation is any action that violates the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. Examples include improper disposal of patient records, sharing confidential information with unauthorized individuals or entities, accessing patient data without authorization, using unsecured networks to store or transmit patient data, and failing to provide adequate physical safeguards for protected health information (PHI). The fines for HIPAA violations can range from $100 to $50,000 per violation (or per record), with a maximum penalty of $1. 5 million per year for violations of an identical provision. In addition to monetary penalties, criminal prosecution may be pursued in cases involving the intentional misuse or disclosure of protected health information (PHI). The penalties for violating the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 are divided into two categories: civil and criminal.   Civil Penalties The U. S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is responsible... --- ### Carved-Out vs Inclusive Method > Simply put, these are two different methods for SOC reporting of your subservice organizations specifically. Learn more about here. - Published: 2022-12-06 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/carved-out-vs-inclusive-method/ What is the carved-out vs inclusive method? Simply put, these are two different methods for SOC reporting of your subservice organizations specifically. Subservice organizations include managed service organizations, data center providers, cloud providers, etc. Think about modern-day businesses. It is no longer common practice to develop your own system end-to-end. You would rather make use of a cloud provider such as AWS, MS Azure, or GCP, as it is scalable, more convenient, and already developed with information security in mind. This makes the organizational life cycle faster, safer, and easier. Subservice organizations offer a ton of services that you can make use of, including tools such as network security, firewalls, databases, storage facilities, remote computing, identity and access management, development, and security solutions. They are all cloud based, and they are all able to be utilized based on your requirements. As a small organization, there is often a limited budget, and so these services offer scalability as your organization grows, and more resources are required. Back to these two methods. Each method is a way in which an organization handles services that are outsourced.   In the carved-out method, the control activities that the subservice organization performs are excluded from the scope of the report, whereas with the inclusive method (as the name suggests), they are included. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper How subservice organizations are presented in SOC reports Now that we have differentiated between them, we need to ascertain which is... --- ### Attestation Report > It is a report that represents the conclusion/outcome of audit procedures and testing performed by an independent CPA or audit body - Published: 2022-12-06 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/attestation-report/ SOC 2 attestation, explained Breaking it down into definitions, an ‘attestation’ is defined as “a declaration that something exists”, and “evidence or proof of something”. A synonym for attestation is the word ‘vouch’. That is the best way to simplify this. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=HCLjLw8K9OM What is a SOC 2 attestation report in the compliance and audit world? Well, it is a report that represents the conclusion/outcome of audit procedures and testing performed by an independent CPA or audit body.   Basically, it says “We performed an audit on , and the report provided herein is accurate, independently constructed, and reliable”. Attestation (services) are broken down into three main areas of focus: Compilation Review, and Audit Compilation refers to a business that outsources the preparation of their financial statements. This is done usually due to budget and resource constraints within the organization. Logically, compliance and review processes are much quicker, and a lot less costly. An audit process will require an independent auditor (and auditing company), and therefore commands a much higher price. The above-mentioned review process resembles a full audit process, but the scope is somewhat reduced, and so the assurance and covered elements are not the same. The audit step is the full process. Completing an audit process will provide an attestation report to interested parties (potential customers, investors, etc. ) assuring them of your system, processes, and practices in place. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper SOC 1, SOC 2, and... --- ### Testing Procedure > This question can only be answered at a high-level. The reason for this is that the specific methodology of each auditing company varies. - Published: 2022-12-06 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/testing-procedure/ What SOC 2 compliance testing procedures does an auditor follow? This question can only be answered at a high-level. The reason for this is that the specific methodology of each auditing company varies. In all instances, the testing procedures that are defined, address the same requirements (i. e. a specific control is tested in a similar manner), but the approach may be slightly different. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Example Auditing firm X may determine that for a sample based control with a population of more than 300 instances, a sample of 20 should be tested. On the other hand, auditing firm Y may have a methodology stating that in order to determine a sample to be tested, the frequency, risk, and prior test results are to be applied. As you can see, both auditing firms will still test the control using a sampling approach, even though they differ slightly. With this in mind, it is easy to identify that there are defined processes for the testing of different types of controls by different auditing firms. Furthermore, testing methodology is something that is reviewed and updated by the respective auditing firms on a regular basis. As information security aspects, results from previous audits, and worldwide standards change, so must the methodology to ensure that the most appropriate, accurate, and complete testing approaches are applied. What are the testing procedures during the SOC 2 gap analysis process? During any readiness phase of an audit,... --- ### HIPAA Compliance > HIPAA compliance is a living culture that health care companies must adopt to safeguard the privacy, security, and integrity of protected health information. - Published: 2022-10-13 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-compliance/ The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, or HIPAA, is a set of rules that specify how protected health information may be used and disclosed legally (PHI). The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) both enforce HIPAA compliance laws (OCR). The OCR's responsibility in preserving medical HIPAA compliance takes the form of routine advice on brand-new healthcare-related issues and in looking into common HIPAA infractions. HIPAA compliance is a living culture that healthcare companies must adopt into their operations to safeguard the privacy, security, and integrity of protected health information. It is achieved through a set of interlocking regulatory rules. What is PHI? The data that a healthcare provider gathers to identify a patient and select the most suitable care is known as protected health information (PHI), sometimes known as personal health information. This data includes demographic data, medical histories, test and laboratory findings, mental health issues, insurance information, and other data. The main law governing the use, access, and disclosure of PHI in the United States is the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996. PHI, as defined by HIPAA, includes information about a person's past, present, or future health as well as information on how that person was treated and how much it cost. Any HIPAA-covered organization is subject to HIPAA regulations regarding the creation, collection, transmission, maintenance, and storage of this data. The healthcare industry deals with private information about patients, such as birthdates, medical... --- ### HIPAA Regulations > The HIPAA Privacy Rules, Security Rules, and Breach Notification Rules make up the three main parts of the HIPAA Rules and Regulations. Learn more here. - Published: 2022-10-13 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/hipaa-regulations/ What are HIPAA rules and regulations? The HIPAA laws and regulations include instructions on how to secure protected health information (PHI), use it appropriately, and respond in the event of a PHI breach. The HIPAA Privacy Rules, Security Rules, and Breach Notification Rules make up the three main parts of the HIPAA Rules and Regulations. HIPAA Privacy Rule Health care clearinghouses, employer-sponsored health plans, health insurers, and medical service providers are examples of covered entities, and the HIPAA Privacy Rules govern how they use and disclose Protected Health Information (PHI) maintained by these businesses. When adopting the HIPAA Omnibus Rule, the Department of Health and Human Services expanded the scope of the HIPAA Privacy Rule to include independent contractors of covered organizations who met the criteria for a business partner. PHI is any data that can be related to an individual's health status, the delivery of healthcare, or the payment for healthcare and is kept by a covered entity. There are 18 ePHI fields that must be considered, including name, diagnosis, social security number, etc. Any information from a person's medical history or financial history falls under this category. According to the HIPAA Privacy Rule, a covered organization may divulge PHI without a patient's written consent in order to support treatment, payment, or health care operations (TPO). The covered entity must seek and keep a written consent from the individual before making any other disclosures of PHI. When a covered entity discloses any PHI, it is required to use commercially... --- ### ISO 27701 > ISO 27701 is an extension of ISO 27001 and focuses on data privacy i.e.defining and providing guidance for the Privacy Information Management System. - Published: 2022-10-05 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27701/ Overview of the ISO 27701 standard With recent attention being paid to data privacy concerns, you may be considering ISO 27701 certification. If so, you’ve come to the right place! We'll explain what ISO 27701 is, how it relates to ISO 27001, and how to get started on the ISO 27701 certification journey. ISO 27701 is a branch standard that stems from the ISO 27001 standard, which focuses on the Information Security Management System (ISMS). The ISO 27701 standard is a great addition to the ISMS and key for any organization looking to create a strong integration between security and privacy controls. The ISO 27701 standard also supports other compliance frameworks like GDPR and SOC 2. In summary, ISO 27001 addresses the organization's information security controls and ISO 27701 addresses the organization’s privacy controls. ISO 27701 controls The controls that make up the Privacy Information Management System (PIMS) relate to the way an organization collects personal data and prevents unauthorized use or disclosure. The controls are listed in Annex A of the ISO 27001 standard, which is 114 security controls. ISO 27701 then expands on the clauses of ISO 27001 and the controls in Annex A that relate specifically to data privacy. It also provides two additional sets of controls, specific to data controllers and data processors. Annex A will be used for data controllers and Annex B will be used for data processors. The ISMS and PIMS work side by side, so the organization must first achieve compliance with... --- ### Compliance Software > Compliance has become a hot topic in today’s world. When organizations hear the word “compliance” they tend to think of ways to shortcut this process. - Published: 2022-09-23 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-software/ What is compliance management software Compliance has become a hot topic in today’s world. When organizations hear the word “compliance” they tend to think of ways to shortcut this process. Compliance software is the answer to that shortcut and can be essential for organizations looking for more effective and efficient ways to comply with the various compliance frameworks. Most organizations that take compliance seriously, will understand what a behemoth effort it can be to become compliant with a relevant standard and more importantly to stay compliant. Main benefits of using compliance monitoring software There are many advantages to using compliance software for your company's compliance objectives. Here are some of the key advantages: It will save you time. Compliance can be a very complicated process and some compliance frameworks can be quite vague, which leaves a lot of gray areas for management. Compliance software will have built-in framework templates and will give you guidance on how to comply with a particular framework. With compliance software, it becomes more like a “checking the box” exercise and will save you an ample amount of time. It makes compliance easy. Compliance software that can automate the collection of evidence will increase the effectiveness and efficiency of collecting audit evidence for the relevant compliance framework. This will decrease business disruptions for management that don't have to take time out in their day in order to collect the necessary evidence manually. With no knowledge of compliance of any kind, the right compliance software can help... --- ### AICPA > The AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) is the US’s organization of Professional CPAs and founder of the SOC reporting standard. - Published: 2022-09-20 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/aicpa/ What is the AICPA? The AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) is the US’s organization of Professional CPAs (Certified Public Accountants). The AICPA is the founder and originator of the SOC reporting standard and audit. Furthermore, the AICPA is a very influential body of professional accountants, and they combine the skills and expertise of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). The result of this is 689k members, students, and professionals that partake in public and management accounting. The mission of the AICPA is to “drive a dynamic accounting profession ready to meet the demands of a constantly changing, disruptive world”. The AICPA was founded over 120 years ago, and represents the professional and standard setting of CPAs. As an organization, the AICPA acts as an advocate before respective regulatory bodies, public interest groups, and professionals. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=zrZX85vGb1I What is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)? A CPA is a type of accountant. It is important to differentiate between them, and be aware that not all accountants are CPAs. In order to achieve CPA status, there are prerequisites including specific educational work, work requirements, and passing the CPA exam. Regarding the CPA exam, the actual exam is graded by the AICPA, but licensing thereafter is done by the district and county Board of Accountancy. The exam consists of four main topics , which are: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG).... --- ### Security Compliance > Security compliance is a process that an organization undergoes to ensure that it is in compliance with the set standards and regulations. - Published: 2022-09-19 - Modified: 2023-06-22 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-compliance/ Overview of security compliance The concept of security and compliance used in the same sentence has become a common theme in recent years. The word ‘security’ specifically in the information technology arena brings up several topics, especially the relevant risks that are associated with these topics, for example: https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=djLuvwzui6g Access security Change management security Data security Application security Network security Cyber security People and processing security Physical security to buildings and data centers The list goes on and on, but when we combine security and compliance, then the risk of the above mentioned topics can quickly be remediated. Organizations must implement and maintain some sort of security compliance management system or framework, aligning people, processes, and technology, to survive in today’s competitive market and comply with external, and in some cases, regulatory requirements. Security compliance benefits The benefits of taking security compliance seriously go far beyond some regulatory requirement or a customer need. It will improve your organization’s control environment, strengthen business processes and increase the organization's reputation in the market.   Some of the key benefits are as follows: Implementing security compliance policies and procedures will help build the foundation of the control environment. Assigning roles and responsibilities to management will ensure day-to-day operations are managed effectively, efficiently and that security compliance is maintained. Mitigation of any security risk by implementing risk assessments and risk treatment plans. Access management can be a headache for organizations, but with security compliance driven processes, management will be more at... --- ### SOC Reports > A SOC report provides a detailed assessment of the controls, processes, and implementation thereof within an organization. - Published: 2022-09-16 - Modified: 2023-07-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-reports/ https://youtu. be/7cQpOKFLcK8 What is a SOC report? SOC stands for Service Organizations Controls. A SOC report provides a detailed assessment of the controls, processes, and implementation thereof within an organization. A SOC report is one the easiest and most effective ways to verify and ensure that an organization is following industry best standards and that the controls they have implemented ensure data security, and the protection of information within the business. Of course, the process to obtain the SOC report is not quite so simple, and a successful report attests to a strong control environment. Purpose of SOC reports In recent times, it has become a very common theme that organizations are not prepared to work with a business partner or vendor if they are not able to prove the security of their system and the prospective customer cannot validate that their information will be safeguarded. There has been a spike in requests for SOC reports as a result of this. Having completed and obtained a SOC report gives the ‘proof’ that you are an organization to work with, and so it has become an absolute no-brainer in the modern business, and data-driven world. What are the different types of SOC reports? We will consider 3 main reports, and 2 types of reports - SOC 1, SOC 2 and SOC 3, and Type I and Type II reports. SOC 1 A SOC 1 report provides an overview and outcome of the attestation process surrounding the internal controls of an organization,... --- ### Audit Period > Think of the audit period as the time duration over which the policies/procedures/IT control environment/etc. are evaluated. - Published: 2022-09-09 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/audit-period/ https://youtu. be/fFFwa4Oxc0M Think of the audit period as the time duration over which the policies/procedures/IT control environment/etc. are evaluated. An audit period is relevant in the world of compliance and auditing. Before a potential business partner or customer enters into contract agreements, paying money, and handing over important information, they want to be assured that the company they are working with is credible and that this credibility has been evaluated and vetted appropriately. Additionally, companies want to ensure that the security environment and processes are up to standard at the current point in time. If an organization were to begin working with a customer in 2022, and they were able to provide the customer with an audit report from 2015, this would be totally superfluous to their current control environment (potentially).   Therefore, an audit period gives assurance and confirmation of when the control environment was evaluated, and for what period of time the report should be considered. Compliance and control-environment security should be an ongoing process. A company that performed a SOC 2 audit for the audit period 1 January 2022 - 31 December 2022, would want their reporting period to be continuous i. e. their next audit would then begin on 1 January 2023. By following this approach, there is no gap in reporting, and there is consistent monitoring and evaluation of the control environment. When there are gaps in audit periods, there are additional considerations, and it is possible to obtain a bridge letter from the independent... --- ### Auditor's Opinion > SOC 2 is based on the AICPA standards to provide an audit opinion on the security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. - Published: 2022-08-02 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/auditors-opinion/ SOC 2 is based on the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) standards to provide an audit opinion on the security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and/ or privacy of a service organization’s controls.   What is a SOC 2 audit opinion? An audit opinion is the audit result or the audit outcome of a SOC 2 audit. Controls are tested using the auditor’s performing procedures, which requires the service organization to provide the auditor with evidence to show that the control is designed, implemented, and operating effectively for the relevant period. The auditor will then conclude on each control and the collective conclusions of the controls, and the criteria will then determine the auditor’s opinion. The auditor’s opinion can be found in Section 2 of the SOC 2 report.  There are four opinion options or outcomes that the auditor can conclude on: Unqualified opinion Qualified opinion Disclaimer of opinion Adverse opinion  The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper An unqualified SOC 2 report opinion This is when the auditors have determined that the controls are well designed and operating effectively. This is the most desired outcome and means that each criterion was concluded effectively. This does not necessarily mean that no deviations or exceptions were found, but that these deviations or exceptions did not impact the criteria to fail. A qualified audit report This opinion is when the auditing team cannot determine if the controls designed are operating effectively. If the auditor determines that... --- ### Vendor Management Policy > In order to sort out these technicalities, it is necessary for outsourcers to create a vendor management policy statement. - Published: 2022-07-15 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-management-policy/ Sometimes, a third-party contractor only needs access to certain company databases or permissions. Or, a third party’s services may only be required on certain days of the week. In order to sort out these technicalities, it is necessary for outsourcers to create a vendor management policy statement. What is a vendor management policy? A vendor management policy is a risk management technique that manages third-party contractors, vendors, and associates. To put it simply, it is a set of rules or controls that a company has over its third-party vendors. What does a vendor management security policy include? A vendor management policy outlines a service level agreement. It should also include controls the company has over the third party, cases when management should intervene, and standards the third party has to meet (which can include compliance standards like SOC 2 and ISO 27001). Equally important, it includes terms that protect the company from third-party risks, such as third-party liability, disaster recovery in case of an incident, and termination of the agreement, if standards aren’t met. It’s similar to an employment contract. How does a vendor management policy statement help? A good vendor management policy will help the third party avoid security incidents. If a prospective third-party vendor is not as well versed in the ways of operational security, a policy that dictates the vendor’s work can be helpful in preventing errors in the future. The vendor risk management policy is the first step a company should take to manage its third-party... --- ### Third-Party Risk > Third-Party Risk is the risk posed to a company by the use of a third-party contractor that needs access to company data or privilege. - Published: 2022-07-15 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/third-party-risk/ Example A company’s offices could follow airtight security practices and have a comprehensive keycard system that keeps unwanted and potentially malicious visitors out. But none of that will matter if one of the hired painters leaves their keycard on the bus, and that card finds itself in the possession of a competitor or some other unauthorized party. The painter is a third-party, and giving them access to the company offices creates third-party risk. Giving someone else access to your office creates the simplest kind of third-party risk; human error. Since you don’t train your contractors, you would have no way of knowing if they lose important assets or are careless with confidential information. Nearly every business must outsource some work to be able to compete with other businesses. Outsourcing work to third-party contractors is an easy way to save money and time that could be used to enhance a company’s products. However, outsourcing work introduces third-party risk to the business. Third-Party risk is the risk posed to a company by the use of a third-party contractor that needs access to company data or privilege. Types of third-party risk Third-party cyber risk If the third party is a software-as-a-service (for example, a mail service), your company could be harmed if there is a vulnerability in that software. Sensitive information often gets exchanged over email, so you are trusting that your email provider can keep your data and messages safe. Increased complexity Buying a third-party service to integrate into your platform causes... --- ### Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) > A SAQ is an important step towards auditing success when aiming for compliance of a varying degree based on results from an SAQ assessment. - Published: 2022-07-12 - Modified: 2023-06-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/self-assessment-questionnaire-saq/ https://youtu. be/8nmJL96f2sc What is a self-assessment questionnaire? A self-assessment questionnaire (SAQ) is an important step towards auditing success when aiming for compliance of a varying degree based on results from an SAQ assessment. The goal of the questionnaires is to prepare your organization for what the audit will entail and to make sure you are set up for success. They revolve around five attributes known as the Trust Services Criteria (TSC) as it relates to information security: Security (common criteria), Availability, Confidentiality, Processing Integrity, and Privacy.   Compliance survey questionnaires are meant to evaluate the compliance program as a whole and give your company an idea of employees’ experience with it.   The SAQ performed by the organization should be relevant and aligned to the framework on which the organization will be audited . i. e. it will not be beneficial to focus on a PCI framework if you plan to undergo a SOC 2 assessment. Below are two examples of SAQs. PCI SAQ Assessment:  A PCI self-assessment questionnaire is necessary for a company to process credit or debit cards. It assures that a company is compliant with Payment Card Industry (PCI) standards that prove the company is capable of processing such payments. An important part of being PCI compliant is being compliant with PCI Data Security Standards (DSS). There are different PCI compliance self-assessments and questionnaires depending on how a business conducts its transactions. For example, questionnaire A is for “Card not Present” e-commerce-like businesses that may conduct trading... --- ### SOC 2 Readiness Assessment > An assessment that is performed to see if a company or more specifically, the control environment of the company’s product, is ready for a SOC 2 audit. - Published: 2022-07-12 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-readiness-assessment/ https://youtu. be/NuOYKyuTEps What is a SOC 2 readiness assessment? A SOC 2 readiness assessment is exactly what the word implies: an assessment that is performed to see if a company or more specifically, the control environment of the company’s product, is ready for a SOC 2 audit. The objective of the report is to summarize the current state of the company’s SOC 2 attestation readiness, including the identification of the relevant controls and noting the extent to which they are currently implemented, whether they have been changed recently and whether they are easily evidenced as operating consistently. During the readiness assessment, the consultant or in some cases the auditor performs the readiness assessment, which will follow a similar process to an actual SOC 2 audit. This is performed via workshops, interviews, walkthroughs, etc. with different stakeholders from management, which normally would be individuals from DevOps, IT Security, and Human Resources.   The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Key areas that will be considered when performing an audit readiness assessment: Determine whether a Type 1 or a Type 2 will be performed in the future. The type of the review is important in order to determine the level of readiness the company needs to be, when agreeing to perform an actual SOC 2 audit. Determine the scope, which includes the Trust Service Criteria and the product. This also includes areas that will not be included in the scope. Determine the period of reliance. This is... --- ### Information Produced by the Entity (IPE) in Compliance > IPE is used in compliance regards the actual information used by the auditor in order to assess, test, and draw conclusions about controls, and audit opinion. - Published: 2022-06-21 - Modified: 2023-11-26 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/information-produced-by-the-entity-ipe/ https://youtu. be/TQYaLoRN_6A IPE audit evidence for compliance IPE, or Information Produced/Provided by the Entity, is a term used in compliance and auditing that regards the actual information used by the auditor in order to assess, test, and draw conclusions about controls, and ultimately, the audit opinion. There is no clear-cut, oxford-dictionary definition of what constitutes IPE, or IPE audit evidence, and so it becomes a rather subjective item. The simplest way to think about it, is to view it as a type of report that is used to (1) show a listing, (2) show a system configuration, or (3) give insight into a system or process. IPE can either be prepared manually or it can be a system generated report. Example Manually generated IPE: A user takes a screenshot within a tool showing the list of users that have access to system X. This screenshot is then manually generated and provided as evidence. Automatically/systematically generated IPE: Taking the same example as above, if you were to run a SQL query on the same database of users as above, and provide the exported list of users as evidence, this would be a system generated IPE. Important to note here is that there are specific considerations with a system generated query, which we will address and discuss below. Whether IPE is produced manually, or systematically, there are several considerations that need to be factored in: How can I verify that the listing I am looking at is really from system A? How... --- ### Complementary User Entity Control (CUEC) > CUEC are controls that reside at the user entity level of a service organization. User entities are organizations that utilize the services of a service organization. - Published: 2022-06-08 - Modified: 2023-06-23 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/complementary-user-entity-control-cuec/ https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=4WQ878PHkxc Complementary user entity controls (CUEC) are controls that reside at the user entity level of a service organization. User entities are organizations that utilize the services of a service organization. Essentially what it means is that there is a shared responsibility between two parties to ensure the control criteria is being achieved. Think of CUECs as more controls that need to be performed on the customer's end of the service being provided. Complementary user entity controls in SOC 2 compliance Example: User Interface (UI) Automation Co, is a company that provides UI automation with a computing platform, for example, Mac OS X and Windows Operating Systems. They automate against native applications within a computing resource. However, they provide an online platform that users can log in to and see the processing of UI automation jobs, completeness of jobs, and a big red emergency stop button that will stop the automation.   Now let’s introduce a company that utilizes UI Automation as a SaaS offering. This company is called Green Money Processing Inc. Green Money uses UI Automation Co to assist with processing data between older systems that do not have an API backend. However, Green Money just dismissed an IT developer. The developer was very distraught and upset about being let go. Since the developer worked on setting up the automation and knows the username and password to the online service for UI Automation, they decided to delete all of the automation they set up for... --- ### Compliance Program > A compliance program is a set of internal policies and processes developed by an organization to ensure that it complies with protecting its reputation. - Published: 2022-05-24 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-program/ As a leader in a developing company, you are well aware that creating a compliance program is something you will have to deal with at some time as you grow. Because industry standards frequently have overlapping criteria, an organization may establish a single policy or a set of rules that meets various needs. It's vital to remember that every audit follows a specific industry standard, so you will need to familiarize yourself with the program's needs and budget for each audit. Keep in mind that your company can meet certain industry standards and regulatory requirements (such as HIPAA) without implementing a formal program. However, you will need to know how to implement a compliance program at some point since your clients, partners, and/or investors will want to see more formal or "official" evidence of compliance before working with you. Creating a compliance program A compliance program is a set of internal policies and processes developed by an organization to ensure that it complies with laws, rules, and regulations while also protecting its reputation. First and foremost, the organization should create a compliance program checklist. After this, the focus should be on implementing a compliance program within an organization that addresses employee behavior to abide by internal policies (e. g. spending corporate funds or maintaining confidentiality) and, more importantly, to maintain the firm's reputation among customers, suppliers, employees, and even the community where the business is located, where regulatory requirements do not apply. There are industry standards for how long different... --- ### Audit Trail > An audit trail, or audit log, is a documented flow of transactions, security relevant records, or data changes that are date and time stamped. - Published: 2022-05-24 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/audit-trail/ An audit trail, or sometimes referred to as an audit log, is a documented flow of transactions, security relevant records, or data changes that are date and time stamped. It keeps a sequential record of the history and details around the change. Depending on the area of expertise, audit trails/logs come in different shapes and sizes to record their unique areas of focus.   Importance of audit tracking The main focal point of an audit trail is to maintain a register of every action, event, or activity a user or a system executed on an application, database, operating system, or network i. e. It can be the creation, modification, or the deletion of a record, or it can be a sequence of automated system actions. For example, in an audit trail in a cloud environment, when an activity occurs on a user account, that activity is recorded as an event that provides details of what the user’s activity was in the cloud environment. Monitoring user activity in that manner is sometimes referred to as audit tracking, which means in this regard a user’s every step is tracked in the cloud environment. Types of audit trails Generally speaking, there aren’t really any “types” of audit trails, but audit trails are generally mentioned as a type when it comes to the context in which they are being used and what type of data/records are being recorded in the audit trail. A record can be stored in form of an action, event, or... --- ### Security Management Policy (IS Policy) > Policies are the principles and guidelines that are defined and approved in order to guide decision-making and ensure that consistent action is taken. - Published: 2022-05-18 - Modified: 2023-07-24 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-management-policy-is-policy/ It is a very well known fact that all organizations require written policies, procedures, and rules in order to achieve compliance. Think about a practical example of building a house. For any solid structure to be developed, you need a solid foundation. The policies are the foundation of an organization. Policies are the principles and guidelines that are defined and approved in order to guide decision-making and ensure that consistent action is taken.   https://youtu. be/WBBVR9-RHWg What is an information security policy? A security policy, or more commonly known as an IS (Information Security) Policy, is a policy framework that is in place to cover end-to-end security aspects of a company or organization. This policy includes guidelines and definitions for a variety of IT security concerns. A good approach to an IS policy is to see it as the ‘CEO’ of policies. Included in the policy are high-level considerations for many aspects of the organizational environment. The granular detail is often not included in the IS policy itself, but rather defines the focus areas at a high level, and then makes reference to the respective policies which define the specific details. Why is a data security policy so important? Information security is essential to an organization's business because it helps to (1) maintain a reliable service, (2) achieve and maintain security compliance with various laws and regulations in the countries in which an organization operates in, (3) protect an organization's clients and their information, (4) comply with customers’ and regulators’... --- ### Cloud Security Compliance > Cloud computing refers to the availability of resources required by computer systems, including and specifically related to data storage and computing power. - Published: 2022-05-17 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/cloud-security-compliance/ “The Cloud'' is terminology that is so commonly used nowadays. Cloud computing refers to the availability of resources required by computer systems, including and specifically related to data storage and computing power without the user/organization having direct management. When we talk about cloud compliance, we are referring to the procedures, policies, and practices that monitor data in the cloud and ensure that this cloud environment complies with governance and regulatory requirements. Organizations deal with customers from all over the globe, all who are governed by different regulatory requirements, such as GDPR, NIST, SOX, and many others. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=1NF-HyApzzE What is cloud compliance management? Cloud compliance management is the process of monitoring (either internally, or using an external cloud compliance tool, such as Scytale) the data and regulatory requirements of the organization (and customers alike) to ensure that appropriate cloud compliance policies, practices, and processes are designed, implemented, and abided by to safeguard data and customer information. Utilizing a cloud provider has a variety of benefits including: reduced IT costs, increased speed of operations, flexibility of product offerings, and endless collaborative possibilities - to name a few. However, with the added convenience, comes a whole new level of security complexity. Using AWS, GCP, or MS Azure as your IaaS provider provides the capability to have a fully ‘off site’ or virtual environment hosted in the cloud. Unfortunately, data security & cloud compliance is not quite as easy and convenient, and if not implemented correctly, can cause more security vulnerabilities.... --- ### Compliance Process Automation > Automate the software to be programmed to follow rule-based instructions and complete the entire task without human intervention. - Published: 2022-05-16 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-process-automation/ For many companies, meeting security and compliance requirements at the same time can be a daunting task. For one thing, many companies do not have their own compliance capabilities. Rather, the security team does the compliance work. They are responsible for time-consuming audit requests, documenting and making changes to internal controls, etc. The preparation is a burden to the company, as more audit requests increase, so does the risk of errors. The security team also has their day-to-day tasks of protecting the company and its assets from hackers and malware. The tools that companies use to manage their compliance workloads (typically a combination of spreadsheets, cloud file storage systems, and email threads) are inadequate for their ever-expanding compliance needs. Without intentional action, these challenges become more and more difficult over time. On one hand, customers and prospects want to make sure that security risks are managed so that their data is protected and they can trust the organization they have chosen to do business with. Therefore, the demand for evaluation and documentation will continue to grow. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=R9TQ_FB309I Introduction to compliance automation Today, leading organizations are looking for automated IT security policy compliance systems to enable them to meet their security and regulatory compliance needs at the same time. Automated regulatory compliance tools that can remediate and automate repetitive tasks have proven to save a significant amount of time and money for security teams and help organizations become more attractive to their business partners. Compliance automation is the... --- ### Vendor Review > Vendor reviews typically involve a series of questions. The answers to those questions result in an overall score, which then identifies the vendor's risk level. - Published: 2022-05-16 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/vendor-review/ Nowadays, there is a plethora of vendor tools, services, and products that exist for almost every business requirement and focus area of an organization, and it is often easier, and more cost effective to use a vendor’s established product or service rather than spending the time and money developing your own. However, using one of these tools means convenience but not an omission of accountability. You, as the organization, are still responsible for ensuring that the service provided by the vendor supports the meeting of the business objectives, and does so securely and appropriately.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=BhIg-jq7aqc Why is 3rd party vendor management important? A vendor review should be performed prior to entering into any contractual agreement with a vendor, as well as on an ongoing basis (annually, for example), to ensure that the service offering and product is still aligned to the organizational requirements, and will not cause any risks to the organization, investors or your customers. What is 3rd party vendor management? A vendor risk assessment helps you and your organization understand the risks that may arise when using, or planning to utilize, a vendor's product or service.   The goals of a vendor performance review are to: Identify any risks the vendor will pose Evaluate if the vendor is able to eliminate those risks Monitor the risks that cannot be eliminated Assess the extent that any outstanding risks may bring to the organization Determine if your organization is willing to accept those risks Identify if... --- ### SOC 2 Auditor > An auditor who has been accredited by the AICPA can attest and report on if controls were suitably designed, and effectively implemented. - Published: 2022-03-10 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-auditor/ What does a SOC 2 auditor do? An auditor who has been accredited by the AICPA can attest and report on if controls were suitably designed, and effectively implemented during the audit period for an organization. Not all accountants are CPAs, so when hiring an auditor it is important to be sure they are commissioned by the AICPA. The auditor hired must be impartial and unbiased meaning they do not have any relation to governing members of the company’s board or hold any stake in the company themselves (completely independent of the auditee). A SOC 2 auditor can get help from IT or cybersecurity professionals, but will be the one writing the final report on your SOC 2 audit.   Responsibilities during a SOC 2 audit In all engagements for a SOC 2 attestation, there is a shared responsibility model that is in place between you as a lead implementer, the service auditor, and the organization. That shared responsibility model encompasses trust between all three parties. The auditor will be conducting extensive interviews with employees and other staff in order to collect sufficient and appropriate evidence to write a conclusive report and determine whether the organization meets the requirements for SOC 2 compliance. The SOC 2 BibleEverything you need to know about complianceDownload the Whitepaper Lead implementer The lead implementer is in charge of the project. They will be responsible for the gap analysis assessment, recommending, reviewing, drafting, designing, and implementing controls, and act as a vital communication line back... --- ### ISO 27001 Security Standard > A standard developed in 2013 by the International Organization for Standardization and IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission). - Published: 2022-03-10 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-security-standard/ A standard that was developed in 2013 by the International Organization for Standardization and IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission). What is the purpose of the ISO 27001 framework? ISO/IEC 27001 is an international standard on how to manage information security. This standard formally specifies an Information Security Management System (ISMS) to be established, maintained, and continuously improved in order to further secure the data they hold. The three stated objectives of the ISO 27001 framework are Confidentiality, Integrity, and availability. This standard is not an obligation for organizations, however, it does provide a certification process that is more than likely going to increase sales numbers. The ISO 27001 standard is usually applicable to the market outside of North America. Most fortune 500 companies want to know that the companies they are performing business with have a strong cyber security posture and security processes in place.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=pZ-rdmm-TYE What are ISO 27001 controls? That standard currently has 114 controls across 14 different domains. The key difference between an ISO audit and a SOC audit is that companies performing an audit for ISO 270001 must in fact have the processes in place along with performing the said processes across the domains. There is no room for error when undergoing an ISO 27001 certification. The ISO 27001 standard is also less flexible than SOC, as more concrete justification is needed to remove any controls from the scope. Examining the scope and controls of ISO 27001 in more detail will reveal that... --- ### Compliance Frameworks > A set of criteria that is developed by an organization that achieves some objective or outcome with the intended purpose of having some type of benefit to the organization. - Published: 2022-03-10 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/compliance-frameworks/ A set of criteria that is developed by an organization that achieves some objective or outcome with the intended purpose of having some type of benefit to the organization. Compliance frameworks allow you to take parts of your organization’s procedures, policies, and other documentation and compile them all into one cohesive entity. There are always new regulations and standards being mandated, so as the number of requirements grows, so too does your need for policies to be integrated into your already existing framework. When it comes to frameworks, organizations usually have different frameworks for different scenarios. For example, an organization might have one compliance framework for protecting data privacy and another for combatting discrimination.   https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=3WbXL1PFUZI What is information security compliance? Information security compliance refers to organizations meeting the rules, standards and best practices about the protection of data and information. There will be a number of government, industry, and other regulations for any organization that determine the specific security requirements for data and information. Information security risk management Information security risk management, or ISRM, is the process of managing risks associated with the use of information technology. Risk frameworks are intended to minimize risk within an organization whereas a governance framework is intended to drive process changes and ensure that management is achieving objectives set defined by the framework. Some common frameworks are as follows: SOC 2 Set of attestation reports based on a framework that essentially provides assurance over controls relevant to the selected scope... --- ### Data Security Controls > Controls used to protect data an organization is responsible for safekeeping due to laws, regulations and compliance requirements. - Published: 2022-03-10 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-security-controls/ Data security controls are any parameters used to prevent and safeguard data within your company. You can use them on an individual level (to protect personnel files) or at a larger scale (to protect sensitive corporate information). Such controls can be in the form of policies, rules, systems, or any other for the sake of guaranteeing compliance. Controls conducted outside of a system are called manual controls whereas controls configured within a system that are used to detect, prevent, or correct problems are referred to as application controls. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=fIN_7tvvHrQ Examples of data security controls Data security controls can come in a wide variety of control sets and types. A few to mention would be data leak prevention or also known as data loss prevention. This is usually a software or hardware device that performs scanning of live packets coming into and out of your environment. However, this control type has several drawbacks including the use of SSL decryption in some instances. However, with newer cloud service offerings provided by AWS and Google Cloud, SSL decryption does not always have to occur.   Data security compliance Data security controls often reference and refer to the “CIA” triad. This refers to Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability of the data. Let's look at each one. Confidentiality This refers to data being made available only to authorized personnel. Think about access controls (described in detail below). Integrity This refers to data being correct and free of any manipulation or tampering. Think about... --- ### Data Classification Policy > A policy that specifies the required tagging of data stored by a company. This data is usually specific in nature such as PCI data, Health Information, and more. - Published: 2022-03-10 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-classification-policy/ A policy that specifies the required tagging of data stored by a company. This data is usually specific in nature such as PCI data, Health Information, and Personally Identifiable Information.   If you have ever worked for a large enterprise, you know how daunting it can be to get up to speed on things. Things are often slower, there are more standard processes in place and oftentimes, it's really boring. With that being the case, the larger the organization becomes, the more data it has. Big Business = Big Data. To ensure that this information is not lost, it's important for organizations to implement data classification and asset mapping at the soonest possible stage.   What is data classification? Data classification can be different for organizations. Some organizations will deal with personally identifiable information, whereas others might have protected health information. Depending on the organization and the types of data they are working with, they will need to implement a data classification program. The data classification should be a set of procedures that contain multiple processes. Example Acme Corporation is standing up a new database that will handle a large volume of health-protected information. This information contains the patients' social security number, patient ID, name, and health records. Once this database has been placed into production, it should be tagged within the asset management tool or architecture diagram that this database contains protected health information. Other ways organizations could also classify these types of systems is through an internal classification... --- ### SOC 2 Type II Report > A SOC 2 Type II report is an attestation of an organization's overall security posture. A SOC 2 report is common among SaaS solutions. - Published: 2022-03-06 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/soc-2-type-ii-report/ A SOC 2 Type II report assesses the design and operating effectiveness of an organization’s controls over a period of time. A SOC 2 Type II report is a report on an organization’s internal controls, capturing how a company safeguards customer data and how well those controls are operating. https://youtu. be/Fr5uS6Eb-B4 SOC 2 Type II Trust Principles Developed by the AICPA, a SOC 2 Type II report is an attestation of an organization's overall security posture. The following Trust Service Principles are reported on: Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy. Security is mandatory, however it is important to note that you only need to include the TSPs that are relevant to your organization’s business operations. Why do you need a SOC 2 Type II report? A SOC 2 report is common among SaaS solutions that process, transmit and store confidential information. Oftentimes organizations are finding that they need a SOC 2 Type II report to work with large customers, or certain customers that request a SOC 2 compliance report before entering into any business partnership.   During the audit period there is a lot of communication between key stakeholders throughout the organization. While at times things can become stressful and frustrating, it’s important to maintain those relationships and build trust. One relationship in particular that needs to be built is with the marketing department.   The marketing department will be instrumental in helping other businesses understand that the company has been audited by a third party and that an... --- ### IT Security Policy > IT Security Policies allow an organization's management team to implement administrative controls and ensure that standards are set for information security. - Published: 2022-03-06 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/it-security-policies/ Information security policies or also known as IT security policies, allow an organization's management team to implement administrative controls and ensure that standards are set for information security across the organization.   The policy should also be able to help an organization avoid a data breach, which is any incident that compromises the security of personal information or causes financial loss. A well-written information security policy can help an organization protect itself from cyberattacks, prevent data theft and leaks, and minimize the risk of fines from government regulators. The minimum an IT data security policy should include Purpose The purpose of an IT security policy is to protect your organization's data and systems. An IT security policy helps organizations build trust with customers by demonstrating their commitment to protecting personal data.  It helps you prevent unauthorized access or misuse of your organization's information assets, which can lead to serious consequences such as financial losses and reputational damage. Scope The scope of your information security policy should be limited to the organization, its employees and contractors, and any third parties that are involved in processing or storing information. Information security objectives The objectives of an information security policy are to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information in an organization. The objectives can be stated in terms of the following: Confidentiality: Preventing unauthorized access to information. Integrity: Preventing unauthorized modification or destruction of information. Availability : Preventing unavailability of information. At a minimum the organization should be reviewing policies and procedures on... --- ### ISO 27001 Compliance > The ISO 27001 standard has continued to be a popular option despite the ever-expanding list of industry-specific solutions due to its applicability - Published: 2022-03-06 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/iso-27001-compliance/ The ISO 27001 standard has continued to be a popular option despite the ever-expanding list of industry-specific solutions due to its applicability across both business sectors and continents. https://youtu. be/MIJojX1G-V0 The ISO 27000 series The deployment and maintenance of an information security management system are the primary focus of the ISO 27001 standard, which is officially known as ISO/IEC 27001:2013 Information Security Management (ISMS). The most well-known of more than a dozen published standards in the ISO/IEC 27000 family, ISO 27001 is a collaborative creation of the International Standards Organization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Additionally, it is the sole member of the family that may be used to certify an organization, with ISO 27002 mainly as reference material and guidance for the "primary" standard. The ISO 27000 series is a series of frameworks. This includes the following: ISO 27001, 27002, 27003, 27004, 27005, 27006.   ISO 27001: ISMS requirements ISO 27002: ISMS controls ISO 27003: ISMS implementation guidelines ISO 27004: ISMS measurements ISO 27005: Risk management ISO 27006: Guidelines for ISO 27000 accreditation bodies The achievement and demonstration of ISO 27001 compliance do not necessitate strict adherence to particular technical rules, in contrast to some other standards and frameworks. Instead, a comprehensive and proactive approach to security is being taken throughout the entire business, with a focus on risk management. The "Annex A" of the standard lists more than a dozen controls, however, it is not expected that all ISO 27001 certified enterprises will have implemented each... --- ### Data Compliance > Data compliance is best summarized as a way for IT firms to ensure safeguards and processing of information is allowed by law. - Published: 2022-03-06 - Modified: 2023-11-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/data-compliance/ https://youtu. be/JUXK4OwpBA8 What is data compliance? Data compliance is a practice and a process. It refers to the adherence of protocols and standards that are designed to safeguard personal data and information. Data compliance requirements and regulations define (1) how data is collected, used, processed, and stored, and (2) the processes to ensure the data is protected against loss, theft, corruption and misuse.   Data compliance defines the guidelines, rules, and processes that need to be adhered to. In comparison, data security is more focused on technology and mechanisms. Although there are multiple different compliance frameworks across the information technology sector, data compliance is best summarized as a way for information technology firms and businesses to ensure safeguards and processing of information is allowed by law, and the safekeeping of records that pertain to an individual or organization are protected and de-identified. Common data compliance frameworks HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) HIPAA focuses on regulations that stipulate the mechanisms and procedures required, in order to enforce Personal Health Information (PHI) Integrity and privacy. The Rule requires that there are safeguards established and enforced to protect the privacy of protected health information. Additionally, HIPAA defines conditions on the use and disclosure that may be made of such PHI. GDPR General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is known as the toughest privacy and security law in the world. GDPR governs the way that we can process, store, and use personal data (information... --- ### Security Questionnaires > These often occur before a business decision is made regarding a product or service to be implemented by an organization. - Published: 2022-03-06 - Modified: 2025-05-09 - URL: https://scytale.ai/glossary/security-questionnaires/ Security questionnaires are very common among business to business transactions. These often occur before a business decision is made regarding a product or service to be implemented by an organization. Why are security questionnaires so important? A well-designed questionnaire is based on industry best practices, which it uses to determine if your organization's security policies and processes are aligned with what "secure" organizations do. The result is that you can make better decisions about how to improve your overall security posture and whether it is a good idea to work with a specific vendor and vice versa. Security questionnaires will often contain questions regarding the security posture of the organization, and if the organization has undergone things such as vulnerability scans, outside penetration tests and external audits such as SOC 2 Type I or Type II. Common questions that you will see in an information security questionnaire Has the organization been breached in the last five years? Total aggregate for Cyber Liability Insurance? Does the organization conduct regular vulnerability scans and remediation steps to protect its infrastructure? Has the organization undergone any external audits such as PCI, SOC2, ISO 27000? Does the organization have a business continuity plan in place? How has your security process evolved over time? Using a security questionnaire is a good way to get a snapshot of an organization's security posture and answer all of these questions. They can be used to identify areas that need to be improved, and which frameworks an organization is compliant... --- ---