Privacy is Power: How ISO/IEC 27701:2019 Builds Trust in a Data-Driven World

What is ISO/IEC 27701?

ISO/IEC 27701 is an international standard that provides guidance on establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving a Privacy Information Management System (PIMS). It extends ISO/IEC 27001 and ISO/IEC 27002, which focus on information security management, by adding privacy-specific requirements and controls.

Key Highlights:

• Published in 2019 by ISO and IEC.
• Aligns with major privacy regulations like GDPR.
• Applicable to controllers and processors of Personally Identifiable Information (PII).
• Provides a framework for risk-based privacy management.

Privacy is Power: How ISO/IEC 27701 Builds Trust in a Data-Driven World

1. Global Privacy Compliance

It bridges the gap between security and privacy, offering a common framework that aligns with regulatory obligations across multiple jurisdictions.

2. Enhances Trust and Reputation

By implementing ISO/IEC 27701, organizations can demonstrate to customers and partners that they take data privacy seriously.

3. Supports Data Governance

It encourages strong data governance practices by integrating privacy with security controls.

4. Reduces Risk of Data Breaches

Proper implementation reduces the likelihood of data breaches and the associated financial and reputational damages.

Key Components of ISO/IEC 27701

The standard includes:

Organizational Controls:

• Data Minimization
• Purpose Limitation
• Consent Management
• Data Subject Rights

Security Controls:

• Access Management
• Encryption
• Audit and Logging
• Risk Management

Processor & Controller Roles:

It defines clear responsibilities for data controllers (who determine how and why data is processed) and processors (who process data on behalf of controllers).

Who Should Implement ISO/IEC 27701?

• Cloud service providers
• Healthcare organizations
• Financial institutions
• Technology companies
• Any organization processing personal data

Whether you're a startup aiming to scale securely or a multinational company managing massive data flows, ISO/IEC 27701 helps ensure you're not just secure—but privacy compliant.

Benefits of ISO/IEC 27701 Certification

• Regulatory readiness (especially for GDPR, CCPA, LGPD)
• Competitive advantage in privacy-conscious markets
• Operational efficiency through defined processes and controls
• Customer confidence in your data handling practices
• Streamlined audits and vendor assessments

Steps to Get Started

1. Conduct a Gap Analysis against ISO/IEC 27001 and 27701.
2. Define Scope of your PIMS based on the nature of data and business objectives.
3. Develop Policies and procedures for data privacy and protection.
4. Train Employees on data protection roles and responsibilities.
5. Monitor & Improve using internal audits and management reviews.
6. Consider Certification through a recognized body for added credibility.

How It Aligns with GDPR & Other Regulations

ISO/IEC 27701 is not a replacement for privacy laws—but it provides a structured approach to meeting them. Its controls map closely to GDPR principles, including lawfulness, fairness, transparency, accountability, and data subject rights.

Final Thoughts

Privacy isn’t optional—it’s foundational. As consumers become more aware of how their data is used, organizations must go beyond basic compliance. ISO/IEC 27701 offers a roadmap to building trust through privacy, while also enhancing security and operational resilience.

Secure the data. Respect the privacy. Lead with trust.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you're beginning your privacy journey or looking to integrate privacy into your existing ISMS, adopting ISO/IEC 27701 is a powerful step toward a more responsible, resilient, and future-ready organization.

Contact us today to start your ISO/IEC 27701 implementation journey.