Obtaining a SOC 2 (Service Organization Control 2) certification is crucial in ensuring your data’s security and privacy. SOC 2 compliance demonstrates that your organization adheres to high standards for managing customer data based on five “trust service criteria”: 

• Security
• Availability
• processing integrity
• Confidentiality
• Privacy

Selecting a top SOC 2 auditor is essential for a successful audit. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose a qualified SOC 2 compliance auditor.

Understanding SOC 2 Audits

Before diving into the selection process, let’s make sure we understand what SOC 2 audits entail. A SOC 2 audit assesses an organization’s information systems relevant to security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. The audit process involves a detailed examination of how well an organization adheres to these criteria over a period of time. The two types of SOC 2 reports are:

1. SOC 2 Type I: This report describes the organization’s systems and whether their design meets relevant trust principles as of a specified date.
2. SOC 2 Type II: This report details the operational effectiveness of the systems over some time, typically a minimum of six months.

Both types of reports require an audit to be performed by a certified SOC 2 auditor. 

Understanding the distinction between these two types of reports is vital, as it impacts the scope and duration of the audit process.

Qualifications of a SOC 2 Auditor

A qualified SOC 2 compliance auditor should possess several qualifications:

1. CPA Certification: A SOC 2 audit report must be issued by a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) firm. However, the individual performing the audit does not necessarily need to be a CPA. The key requirement is that the engagement is overseen and the final report is signed off by a licensed CPA. The team conducting the audit can include various professionals with expertise in information security and compliance, but the CPA firm ensures adherence to auditing standards and attests to the validity of the report.
2. Specialized Training: Auditors should have undergone specialized training in SOC 2 audits. This includes understanding the trust service criteria and how to apply them during the audit process.
3. Experience: Look for auditors with extensive experience in conducting SOC 2 audits. Experienced auditors are more likely to identify potential issues and provide valuable insights to improve your systems.
4. Industry Expertise: It’s beneficial if the auditor has experience in your specific industry. This allows them to understand your unique challenges and regulatory requirements better.

Steps to Choose a SOC 2 Auditor

1. Research and Shortlist Potential Auditors

Start by researching firms that specialize in SOC 2 audits. Look for firms with a strong reputation and positive client reviews. Create a shortlist of potential auditors based on your research.

2. Evaluate Qualifications and Experience

Review the qualifications and experience of the auditors on your shortlist. Ensure they have the necessary SOC 2 auditor certification, specialized training, and relevant experience.

3.  Assess Industry Expertise

Consider the auditor’s experience in your specific industry. An auditor with industry expertise will be more adept at understanding your organization’s unique needs and challenges.

4. Request References

Ask for references from previous clients. Contact these references to inquire about their experience with the auditor. This will give you insight into the auditor’s professionalism, reliability, and effectiveness.

5. Conduct Interviews

Conduct interviews with the auditors to assess their communication skills and approach to the audit process. A good auditor should be able to clearly explain the audit process and answer any questions you may have. Here are some key questions to ask during the interview:

• How many SOC 2 audits have you conducted?
• Can you provide references from clients in our industry?
• What is your approach to the audit process?
• How do you handle findings and recommendations?

6. Compare Costs

While cost should not be the sole deciding factor, it’s important to consider the fees charged by different auditors. Ensure you understand what is included in the quoted price and compare it against other firms. A higher fee may be justified by greater experience or additional services, but be wary of hidden costs that may arise during the audit process.

7. Review Contract Terms

Carefully review the contract terms before making a final decision. Ensure the contract clearly outlines the scope of the audit, timelines, deliverables, and payment terms. Pay particular attention to:

• Scope of Work: Ensure the scope covers all necessary areas of your operations.
• Timelines: Confirm the audit timeline aligns with your business needs.
• Deliverables: Clarify what reports and documentation will be provided.
• Confidentiality: Ensure there are clauses to protect your sensitive information.

Importance of SOC 2 Auditor Certification

SOC 2 auditor certification is crucial as it ensures that the auditor has met specific professional standards and is qualified to perform SOC 2 audits. Certified auditors have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in the field, ensuring they can effectively evaluate your organization’s controls. Certification also means the auditor is committed to ongoing professional development and adheres to ethical standards.

How to Become a SOC 2 Auditor

If you’re interested in becoming a SOC 2 auditor, here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Obtain CPA Certification: The first step is to become a Certified Public Accountant. This involves meeting educational and experience requirements and passing the CPA exam.
2. Gain Experience: Work in accounting and auditing to gain practical experience. Experience in IT auditing or cybersecurity is particularly valuable.
3. Specialize in SOC 2 Audits: Pursue specialized training in SOC 2 audits. This may involve taking courses, attending workshops, and gaining on-the-job experience.
4. Continue Professional Development: Stay updated with the latest developments in SOC 2 standards and auditing practices.

Big-Name Auditors for SOC 2

When selecting a SOC 2 auditor, it’s helpful to know some of the biggest firms in the field. 

These firms offer a broad spectrum of audit and consulting services. Keep in mind that going for the “gold” isn’t necessarily the best option for all businesses. Each business has unique needs and should consider various factors, including budget and specific industry requirements when selecting a SOC 2 auditor.

1. Deloitte: Known for its comprehensive audit services and extensive industry experience.
2. PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers): Offers a wide range of audit and assurance services with a strong focus on SOC 2 audits.
3. Ernst & Young (EY): Renowned for its global presence and expertise in various industries.
4. KPMG: Provides detailed and thorough SOC 2 audit services with a focus on cybersecurity.
5. Grant Thornton: Known for its personalized approach and expertise in SOC 2 compliance.
6. Schellman: Specializes in compliance and attestation services, offering deep expertise in SOC 2 audits.

Factors to Consider Beyond Qualifications

1. Communication Skills

Effective communication is critical during the SOC 2 audit process. The auditor should be able to explain complex issues in a way that is understandable to your team. They should also provide clear and actionable recommendations.

2. Cultural Fit

The auditor will be working closely with your team, so it’s important that there is a good cultural fit. This means they should understand your company values and be able to work collaboratively with your staff.

3. Technology and Tools

Inquire about the technology and tools the auditor uses. Modern audit tools can streamline the process and provide more accurate results. Ensure the auditor is using up-to-date technology to conduct the audit efficiently.

4. Post-Audit Support

Consider the level of support the auditor offers after the audit is completed. Will they be available to answer questions or provide additional guidance? Post-audit support can be invaluable in addressing any issues that arise after the audit.

The Role of Continuous Improvement

A SOC 2 audit is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. The insights gained from the audit should be used to improve your organization’s controls and processes continually. Working with an auditor who emphasizes continuous improvement can help you stay compliant and improve your security posture.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right SOC 2 auditor is crucial for ensuring your organization’s compliance with SOC 2 standards. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision and choose an auditor who is qualified, experienced and well-suited to your industry. Remember, a successful SOC 2 audit not only demonstrates your commitment to data security and privacy but also enhances your organization’s reputation and trustworthiness.

The post How to Select a Qualified SOC 2 Auditor appeared first on Centraleyes.

*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Centraleyes authored by Rebecca Kappel. Read the original post at: https://www.centraleyes.com/select-a-qualified-soc-2-auditor/