What are Security Certifications?
Definition
Third-party validated security credentials demonstrating adherence to security standards. Key certifications include SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001, FedRAMP (government), PCI-DSS (payments), and HITRUST (healthcare). Certifications provide independent verification of security controls, program maturity, and ongoing compliance. RFPs should specify required certifications and request recent audit reports to verify current status and scope.
Why This Matters
Third-party certifications provide independent verification of security program maturity and ongoing compliance. Certifications (SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001, FedRAMP) demonstrate vendors implement required controls, conduct regular audits, and maintain compliance. RFPs should specify required certifications and request recent audit reports. Self-attestation provides no assurance—only independent certification validates security claims.
Related Terms
Showing semantically related terms from our RFP knowledge graph. Priority connections are highlighted.
Essential Connections
Compliance Certifications
Security & Compliance
Official attestations proving adherence to security and regulatory standards including SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, PCI DSS, FedRAMP, or industry-specific certifications.
SOC 2
Security & Compliance
Service Organization Control 2 - an auditing standard for security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy of customer data in cloud services.
ISO 27001
Security & Compliance
International standard for information security management systems specifying requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving security controls.
Security Compliance
Security & Compliance
Adherence to security standards, certifications, and regulatory requirements to protect data and systems.
Security Standards
Security & Compliance
Industry frameworks for security practices and controls, such as NIST Cybersecurity Framework, CIS Controls, and ISO 27001.
Security Audit
Security & Compliance
Independent examination of security controls, policies, and practices verifying compliance with standards like SOC 2, ISO 27001, or industry regulations.
Security Questions
RFP Fundamentals
20-40 RFP questions assessing data encryption, access controls, compliance certifications, incident response, backup procedures, and vulnerability management.
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