Why ISO 27001:2022 Should Matter to Event Organizers (It Does!)

Picture this: A major B2B conference, hundreds of attendees, sensitive data —and then, a data breach! 💥💥💥

Scenarios like this highlight just how crucial it is to choose the right software for B2B events. It’s the difference between smooth planning and unexpected security nightmares. In a world where data protection and security are top priorities, ISO 27001:2022 certification is a game-changer when selecting an event software provider. In this article, we’ll discuss why, as an event management software user, this certification is significantly more important than you may realize.

What Exactly Is ISO 27001:2022?

ISO 27001:2022 is an internationally recognized standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS). Companies that achieve this certification demonstrate that they have a systematic and documented approach to protecting confidential information, identifying risks, and taking appropriate measures to mitigate those risks.

But it’s more than just a shiny badge on their website—it’s proof that they’re committed to continually improving their security standards. During the certification process, several aspects are rigorously evaluated, including:

• Risk Management: Identifying and assessing risks, then implementing measures to reduce them. This is particularly vital for event software, which often handles sensitive data like attendee details and payment information—gold mines for cybercriminals.
• Data Privacy: Ensuring that personal data is processed in compliance with legal requirements.
• Access Control: Defining who can access sensitive information (and, more importantly, who cannot).
• Technical Security: Identifying system vulnerabilities and implementing robust protective measures.
• Employee Training: Educating staff about security risks and best practices.
• Regular Audits: Continuously monitoring and improving security protocols.

Why Is Data Security So Important for Events?

B2B events often involve handling highly sensitive information:

• Attendee Data: Basic details like names, addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers—but also potentially sensitive info, like dietary restrictions (yes, even that matters).
• Corporate Secrets: Proprietary content, business figures, or other confidential company information.
• Payment Information: Credit card data and other payment details for paid events.

A data breach doesn’t just cause financial damage; it can also ruin your company’s reputation and shatter attendee trust. ISO 27001:2022 certification shows that the software provider you choose understands the value of this data and takes protecting it seriously.

What Are the Benefits of Using ISO-Certified Event Software?

a) Trustworthiness:
The certification is a clear signal that the provider is committed to high security standards. You can rest assured knowing your data is in safe hands.

b) Risk Mitigation:
ISO-certified providers have proven processes for identifying and addressing security risks, significantly reducing the likelihood of security incidents.

c) Compliance:
Many industries face strict legal requirements for data protection (think GDPR). An ISO 27001:2022 certification helps ensure compliance with these regulations.

d) Continuous Improvement:
Certification isn’t a one-time thing. It requires regular audits and updates to security protocols, meaning the provider’s security measures are always up-to-date.

How to Choose the Right Event Software Provider?

If you’re on the hunt for event management software, keep these points in mind:

• Ask About ISO 27001:2022 Certification: Verify the validity of the certification. Be cautious—some companies use their suppliers’ certificates to give the false impression that they are certified themselves. Make sure the certificate explicitly names the provider you’re considering.
• Evaluate Their Data Protection Practices: What steps do they take to protect sensitive information?
• Look for Transparency: How openly do they communicate about their security policies and incidents?

An event software provider with ISO certification isn’t just another vendor—they’re a partner who values your requirements and guarantees long-term security and reliability. As a potential customer, you can verify the authenticity of the ISO certification by requesting the official certificate number and checking it with the issuing certification body.

Using the Certsearch.org database (https://www.iafcertsearch.org/) from the International Accreditation Forum, you can easily verify a company’s certification by entering its name. This platform offers a reliable way to confirm the authenticity of certifications.

Certificates often include QR codes, which allow you to access information about the accreditation body directly. By scanning the QR code, you can visit the accreditation body’s website and confirm the certificate’s validity. This saves time and provides a simple way to verify the certification’s authenticity. Make sure the certificate is current, bears the provider’s name, and matches the listed certification body.