ISO/IEC 27018:2019
Protection of Personal Data in the Cloud
SQNet Assessments, as an independent certification body, offers impartial ISO/IEC 27018:2019 audit and certification services, enabling organizations to demonstrate strong commitment to data privacy, transparency, and responsible handling of personal data in the cloud.
ISO/IEC 27018:2019 – Protection of Personal Data in the Cloud
The rapid adoption of cloud computing has transformed how organizations store, process, and manage personal data. While cloud services offer flexibility and scalability, they also introduce privacy and data protection challenges that must be effectively addressed. ISO/IEC 27018:2019 is an international standard that provides guidelines for the protection of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) in public cloud environments.
Understanding ISO/IEC 27018:2019
ISO/IEC 27018:2019 is a code of practice that focuses on the protection of PII processed by public cloud service providers acting as PII processors. It builds upon ISO/IEC 27001 and ISO/IEC 27002 by introducing cloud-specific privacy controls and guidance.
The standard clarifies the responsibilities of cloud service providers regarding personal data processing and ensures that privacy risks are systematically identified and managed. ISO/IEC 27018 is applicable to organizations that provide cloud services where customer data includes personal or sensitive information.
Purpose of ISO/IEC 27018 Certification
Certification to ISO/IEC 27018:2019 demonstrates that a cloud service provider has implemented appropriate technical and organizational measures to protect personal data in accordance with internationally accepted privacy principles.
ISO/IEC 27018 certification enhances trust among cloud customers, regulators, and stakeholders by providing independent assurance that personal data is processed securely, lawfully, and transparently.
Apply for Certification
Connect with Our Certification Experts
Key Privacy Principles and Controls
ISO/IEC 27018:2019 emphasizes privacy protection throughout the personal data lifecycle. Key areas evaluated during certification include:
Clear limitation on the use of personal data for specified purposes
Prohibition of personal data processing for marketing or advertising without consent
Transparency regarding data processing activities
Controls for data access, disclosure, and transfer
Secure deletion and return of personal data upon contract termination
Support for data subject rights and customer obligations
Breach notification and incident response procedures
Sub-processor management and contractual controls
ISO/IEC 27018 Certification Process
The ISO/IEC 27018 certification process conducted by SQNet Assessments follows internationally accepted certification and auditing principles, ensuring impartial and objective evaluation.
Application & Scope Definition
The process begins with a certification application, during which the scope of cloud services and PII processing activities is defined. This includes identifying data types, processing purposes, and roles and responsibilities within the cloud environment.
Audit & Evaluation
Certification audits assess conformity with ISO/IEC 27018:2019 requirements by reviewing documented privacy controls and evaluating their effective implementation. Auditors examine policies, procedures, contractual agreements, technical safeguards, and operational practices related to personal data protection.
Certification Decision
Upon successful completion of the audit and closure of any identified nonconformities, SQNet Assessments conducts an independent certification decision review before issuing the ISO/IEC 27018:2019 certificate.
Certification Validity & Surveillance Audits
ISO/IEC 27018:2019 certification is generally aligned with the ISO/IEC 27001 certification cycle and is valid for three years, subject to annual surveillance audits. Surveillance audits ensure continued compliance, effectiveness of privacy controls, and adaptation to changes in cloud services and regulatory requirements.
Relationship with Other Standards and Regulations
ISO/IEC 27018:2019 complements and supports alignment with:
ISO/IEC 27001 – Information Security Management Systems
ISO/IEC 27017 – Cloud Security Controls
ISO/IEC 27701 – Privacy Information Management
Data protection regulations such as GDPR and other privacy laws
Together, these standards provide a comprehensive framework for information security and privacy management in cloud environments.
Key Benefits of ISO/IEC 27018
- Enhanced protection of personal data in cloud services
- Increased trust among customers and regulators
- Improved transparency and accountability in data processing
- Support for regulatory and contractual compliance
- Reduced risk of data breaches and privacy incidents
Key Changes in ISO/IEC 27018
- Alignment with the latest ISO management system structure
- Simplified and modernized Annex A controls
- Better integration with risk management and business objectives
- Enhanced focus on cloud security, threat intelligence, and data protection
Frequently Asked Questions
Certification is an independent verification process that confirms an organization’s management system, product, or service complies with applicable international standards. It enhances credibility, builds customer trust, and demonstrates commitment to quality, safety, and compliance.
Certification is applicable to organizations of all sizes and sectors, including manufacturing, service, IT, healthcare, construction, education, and public sector organizations, subject to the applicable standard and scope.
SQNet Assessments provides certification services for various international management system standards, including quality, environmental, occupational health & safety, information security, business continuity, and other applicable ISO and sector-specific standards.
The certification timeline depends on the organization’s size, scope, complexity, and readiness level. Typically, the process may take a few weeks to a few months from application to certificate issuance.
Most management system certifications are valid for three years, subject to successful completion of annual surveillance audits.
Stage 1 audit reviews documentation and readiness for certification.
Stage 2 audit evaluates effective implementation of the management system.
You can apply through the SQNet Assessments website or contact the team directly.
