What is ISO 55018:2016?

ISO 55018:2016 is an international standard that provides guidelines and best practices for the protection of personally identifiable information (PII) in cloud computing environments. It outlines the requirements for cloud service providers to ensure the privacy and security of PII entrusted to them by individuals or organizations.

Scope and Purpose

The scope of ISO 55018:2016 is to establish a framework for cloud service providers to effectively manage the risks associated with processing PII. The standard applies to all types and sizes of organizations that process PII in cloud computing environments, regardless of their geographical location.

ISO 55018:2016 aims to provide cloud service providers with a comprehensive set of controls and guidelines to implement measures that protect PII from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, alteration, and destruction. This helps build trust among cloud customers, as it ensures that their sensitive information is adequately protected in the cloud.

Key Requirements

The standard outlines several key requirements that cloud service providers must comply with to demonstrate their commitment to protecting PII:

Consent and Purpose: Cloud service providers must obtain clear and informed consent from individuals before collecting and processing their PII. They should also clearly specify the purpose for which the PII will be used.

Data Minimization: Cloud service providers should only collect and retain the minimum amount of PII necessary to fulfill the specified purpose.

Security Controls: Robust security controls must be implemented to protect PII from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, alteration, and destruction. These controls should include measures such as encryption, access controls, intrusion detection systems, and regular security assessments.

Transparency: Cloud service providers should be transparent about their data processing practices, including providing individuals with information on how their PII is being handled and who it may be shared with.

Data Breach Notification: In the event of a data breach that compromises PII, cloud service providers must promptly notify affected individuals and relevant authorities to minimize the potential harm caused by the breach.

Benefits and Compliance

By adopting ISO 55018:2016, cloud service providers can benefit from increased trust and confidence from their customers. Compliance with the standard helps organizations demonstrate their commitment to protecting privacy and ensuring the security of sensitive information in cloud environments.

Furthermore, ISO 55018:2016 provides a framework for organizations to assess their current privacy practices and identify gaps or areas for improvement. It also enhances transparency and accountability, as organizations are required to document their privacy policies, procedures, and practices, making them accessible to individuals whose PII is being processed.

In conclusion, ISO 55018:2016 plays a significant role in promoting the safe and responsible use of cloud computing technologies by outlining guidelines and best practices for the protection of PII. Cloud service providers that adhere to the standard can differentiate themselves in the market, building stronger relationships with customers and ensuring compliance with international privacy requirements.