SOC 2

SOC 2 Readiness Assessment Audit: Scope of Work

Our SOC 2 Readiness Assessment Audit ensures your organization is fully prepared for a successful SOC 2 certification. The process consists of four key stages:

Stage 1: SOC 2 Audit Scoping

We define the audit scope by identifying:

  • Services Provided: Key services to clients.
  • Service Commitments: Contracts and service-level agreements.
  • System & Requirements: Infrastructure and principal requirements for service delivery.
  • Risk Assessment: Internal and supplier-related risks.
  • Trust Service Categories (TSC): Determining applicable categories—Security, Confidentiality, Processing Integrity, Availability, and Privacy.
  • Project Workgroup: Establishing roles for audit preparation.

Deliverable: Defined SOC 2 audit scope.

Stage 2: SOC 2 GAP Assessment

We identify control gaps through:

  • Control Review: Assessment of current controls.
  • Documentation Review: Evaluation of key organizational documents.
  • Corrective Action Plan: Developing a plan to address any gaps.

Deliverable: Corrective Actions Plan.

Stage 3: SOC 2 Remediation

We assist in implementing the necessary SOC 2 controls:

  • Implementation: Support for aligning business processes with SOC 2 requirements.
  • Ongoing Support: Resolving any control issues promptly.

Deliverable: Full implementation of SOC 2 controls.

Stage 4: SOC 2 Audit Assistance

During the SOC 2 Type II audit, we provide:

  • Pre-Audit Consulting: Final preparation for key staff.
  • Onsite/Offsite Support: Assistance during the auditor’s review.
  • Mitigation Guidance: Support for corrective actions if required.

Deliverable: Successful SOC 2 audit assistance.

SOC 2 Trust Service Categories (TSC)

  • Security: Protection of systems against unauthorized access.
  • Confidentiality: Safeguarding sensitive information.
  • Processing Integrity: Ensuring system operations are complete, valid, accurate, and timely.
  • Availability: Systems are operational and accessible as agreed upon.
  • Privacy: Proper collection, use, and disclosure of personal information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • 1: What is SOC 2?

    SOC 2 is a compliance framework designed by the AICPA that focuses on five Trust Service Categories: Security, Confidentiality, Processing Integrity, Availability, and Privacy. It ensures organizations properly manage data security and privacy.

  • 2: How long does a SOC 2 audit take?

    The timeframe varies but typically ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on your organization’s readiness.

  • 3: What’s the difference between SOC 2 Type I and Type II?

    SOC 2 Type I evaluates your system’s design at a specific point in time, while SOC 2 Type II assesses the operational effectiveness of controls over a period of time (usually 6 to 12 months).

  • 4: How do I prepare for a SOC 2 audit?

    Preparation involves scoping, conducting a GAP assessment, remediating gaps, and engaging in pre-audit consulting. Our readiness assessment covers all of these stages.

  • 5: Do I need all five TSC categories for my SOC 2 audit?

    No. The applicable TSC categories depend on your services and risks. Most organizations focus on Security, and others add categories like Confidentiality and Availability based on their needs.

  • 6: What happens if we fail the audit?

    If there are gaps, you will be given corrective actions to resolve them. Our team assists in remediating issues to ensure a successful audit outcome.