SOC 2 Compliance: Safeguarding SaaS Client Data

SaaS data protection has become even more critical as businesses shift their operations to the cloud. With the increased take-up of Software as a Service (SaaS), ensuring the security and privacy of sensitive information has become a top priority for businesses and organizations.

But how does a cloud service provider (CSP) prove to its customers that their SaaS application has the proper controls and data security and simultaneously claim its stake in this growth market?

View SOC 2, an independently audited cybersecurity compliance framework designed to prove how you, as a CSP, protect client data and show just how secure your operation is.

Explore the main SOC 2 compliance principles and gain insights into the importance of protecting sensitive information, differentiating yourself from competitors, and unleashing the power of trust with potential clients.

Table of Contents Table of Contents

1. Key Takeaway
2. What Is SOC 2?
3. A Brief History of SOC 2 Compliance
4. Demonstrating SOC 2 Compliance
5. SOC 2 Principles and Types
6. Who Can See Your SOC 2 Report?
7. SOC 3 Report: An Easier Way to Show Your Achievement
8. The Bottom Line
9. FAQ
10. References

Show Full Guide

Table of Contents

1. Key Takeaway
2. What Is SOC 2?
3. A Brief History of SOC 2 Compliance
Show Full Guide
4. Demonstrating SOC 2 Compliance
5. SOC 2 Principles and Types
6. Who Can See Your SOC 2 Report?
7. SOC 3 Report: An Easier Way to Show Your Achievement
8. The Bottom Line
9. FAQ
10. References

What Is SOC 2?

Developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), SOC 2, or Service Organization Control 2, is a comprehensive compliance framework.

It ensures that third-party service providers (TPSPs) meet the highest standards for securely storing and processing client data.

SOC 2 focuses on security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and data privacy. By adhering to SOC 2 guidelines, businesses can reassure their customers that their applications and data are secure and that SaaS data protection is at the heart of their business model.

A Brief History of SOC 2 Compliance

SOC 2 compliance has a rich history from its inception in 2010. The need for a comprehensive cybersecurity compliance framework became apparent as businesses increasingly placed reliance on third-party service providers (TPSPs) for their data storage and processing needs.

Having already developed SOC 1, which focuses on financial controls, AICPA took the initiative to create SOC 2. This new framework addressed the unique challenges and risks of SaaS data protection.

In 2011, AICPA released the first version of SOC 2, quickly becoming the gold standard for secure data storage and processing.

Demonstrating SOC 2 Compliance

With data breaches and cyber attacks becoming increasingly common, potential buyers are understandably hesitant to trust their sensitive information with SaaS providers.

By obtaining a SOC 2 report, the SaaS provider can clearly show that they take SaaS data protection seriously and have taken the necessary steps to protect their customers’ information. This can be crucial in winning over potential buyers and prioritizing security.

SOC 2 compliance can also benefit the SaaS provider internally. By undergoing the SOC 2 audit process, the CSP gains valuable insights into its information security practices. The audit helps identify any weaknesses or vulnerabilities in their systems and processes, allowing them to address and rectify these issues promptly.

This proactive approach to security enhances the overall security posture of the cloud service provider and strengthens its reputation as a trustworthy and reliable partner.

Specific industries have regulatory requirements that mandate SOC 2 compliance. For instance, companies operating in the healthcare or financial sectors may need to demonstrate SOC 2 compliance to meet the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) standards.

By obtaining SOC 2 compliance, SaaS providers can ensure that they are compliant with industry regulations and can cater to customers in these highly regulated sectors.

SOC 2 Principles and Types

In line with the five SOC 2 categories (TSCs), two types of SOC 2 reports exist.

SOC 2 Type 1

SOC 2 Type 1 audit report offers a snapshot of an organization’s internal controls at a particular moment or point in time, ensuring they are suitable and well-designed.

SOC 2 Type 2

This report assures the design and effectiveness of controls over a minimum period of six months. The SOC 2 Type 2 report specifically evaluates the operational effectiveness of controls.

In most cases, a company conducts a readiness assessment before progressing to a Type 1 report, ultimately leading to the achievement of a Type 2 report.

Both SOC 2 report types include four sections of information; Type 1 reports provide a list of controls, while Type 2 reports offer test steps and results.

Who Can See Your SOC 2 Report?

Potential customers often request SOC 2 reports as part of their due diligence process.

It has become common practice for organizations to include SOC 2 compliance as a requirement in contracts and requests for proposal (RFP) documents. By having a SOC 2 report readily available, SaaS providers can showcase their commitment to security and differentiate themselves from competitors who might have undergone a different level of scrutiny.

However, allowing a potential customer access to your SOC 2 compliance reports would require a signed nondisclosure agreement (NDA); this can create much overhead. SOC 2 reports are considered restricted-use reports.

After all, they contain detailed, sensitive information about your SaaS application and organization. Often, fifty-plus pages of detailed information about your control environment are included.

So, how do you prove you’ve achieved a SOC 2 without a signed NDA and without revealing sensitive details to the public?

You can show potential customers you have a SOC 2 in place by simply displaying the AICPA SOC logo on your website. You must complete a formal application but can demonstrate compliance once approved.

SOC 3 Report: An Easier Way to Show Your Achievement

An alternative method to showcase your SOC 2 accomplishment is by releasing a SOC 3 general use report.

Companies can openly share a SOC 3 report with customers, prospects, and other vital stakeholders. It includes all the necessary information from a SOC 2 report but with fewer details from sections 3 and 4 of your SOC 2.

Rest assured, any sensitive information has been carefully removed.

The Bottom Line

With the increasing importance placed on SaaS data protection, security, and privacy, having a SOC 2 report has become a crucial differentiator for SaaS providers.

By thoroughly scrutinizing their control environment, third-party service providers can showcase their commitment to protecting sensitive information and gain a competitive edge in the SaaS market.

FAQ