SOC2 and ISAE 3000 audits

How do you demonstrate that your systems and data management are secure?

Organizations offering cloud services, data centers or technical platforms face a growing challenge. Customers, regulators and supply chain partners increasingly demand independent proof that sensitive data is processed securely and systems operate reliably.

An ISO 27001 certificate is not always enough. Business customers want insight into how your control measures are actually working. Government agencies demand detailed reports. NIS2 obligations force chain partners to be transparent.

Internal documentation alone will not convince anyone. The question is not whether you work safely, but how you can prove it.

The different types of assurance reports

An assurance report based on international standards gives your stakeholders the assurance they need. You demonstrate that your security, availability and other controls not only exist on paper, but are actually effective.

A SOC 2 report(ISAE 3000) provides assurance about the quality of internal controls around security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality and privacy of your cloud services and applications. An SOC 1 report(ISAE 3402) is intended for service organizations whose outsourced processes impact their clients' financial reporting.

Bureau Veritas Cybersecurity can help you with these audits. With our combination of technical cybersecurity expertise and formal audit experience, we guide you from preparation to final report.

Choose the report that suits you

You can choose from two report types. Type 1 assesses the design and existence of your controls at a specific reference date. Type 2 goes further and tests whether these controls worked effectively during the required period. Both reports are internationally recognized through ISAE 3000 and meet NOREA guidelines for IT auditors in the Netherlands. Your clients and stakeholders can use these immediately to gain confidence in your services. he common practice for a first IT audit is to choose a Type 1 and then move on to a Type 2, although you can also go straight for a Type 2. Contact our Registered IT Auditors to discuss what is most appropriate in your situation.

Our expertise

Technical expertise and audit experience

You choose Bureau Veritas Cybersecurity because we combine technical cybersecurity expertise with formal auditing experience. Our auditors understand both the technical details of your systems and the formal requirements of assurance reporting. This combination is rare and ensures an effective approach in technically complex environments and an increasingly digital world.

Unique position in Europe

Bureau Veritas Cybersecurity is one of the few parties in Europe that performs SOC2 audits according to NOREA guidelines. NOREA is the Dutch IT auditors' institute that sets strict quality requirements for assurance assignments. This gives you assurance that your report is internationally recognized and meets the highest professional standards.

ISO 9001 and ISO 27001 certified

Bureau Veritas Cybersecurity is certified to ISO 9001 and ISO 27001. This means that our internal processes are standardized and we have a continuous improvement cycle. Each report goes through a four-eye principle with peer review and independent assessment.

FAQ about SOC2 and ISAE 3000 audits

You are considering a SOC2 or ISAE 3000 audit. That raises questions about the process, cost and impact on your organization. Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions.

What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2?

Type 1 assesses the design and existence of your controls on a specific reference date. It tests whether your controls are adequately designed and actually in place. Type 2 goes further and examines whether these controls have worked effectively over a six-month period. Type 2 takes more time and provides more assurance, but Type 1 is often a logical first step.

What is the difference between SOC1/ISAE 3402 and SOC2/ISAE 3000?

SOC1 and ISAE 3402 focus on internal control over financial reporting. These reports are relevant when your services affect your clients' financial records, such as payroll processing or pension administration. SOC2 and ISAE 3000 assess operational controls such as security, availability and processing integrity. These are intended for organizations that provide technical services that focus on data security and system reliability.

How long does an audit take?

A feasibility study takes about eight business days. The actual Type 1 audit takes 22 to 25 working days, usually spread over six to eight weeks. Type 2 audits take longer because the operation of controls is tested over a six-month period. The exact turnaround time depends on the complexity of your systems, the completeness of your documentation and the availability of your staff.

What documentation do I need for a SOC2 audit?

You provide a system description, your control framework, policies and procedures for identity and access management, change management, incident management and logging. You also need evidence such as configurations, authorization matrices, change tickets, incident logs and log files. A current ISO 27001 certification with accompanying documentation speeds up the process considerably.

How do I prepare my organization for a SOC2 audit?

• Start with a feasibility study. Such a survey maps out where your organization stands and what improvements are needed before the audit begins.
• Make sure your documentation is current and complete.
• Make key officials available for interviews.
• Establish a structured system for preserving evidence. The better prepared you are, the smoother the audit will go.

What happens if nonconformities are found?

The auditor reports all findings immediately and discusses them with you. You will have a chance to take remedial action before the final report is delivered. Minor deficiencies do not automatically lead to an adverse opinion. Serious deficiencies, however, can impact the conclusion. Transparent communication during the project prevents such surprises.

Can I use the report for multiple clients?

Yes. A SOC2 or ISAE 3000 report is intended to be provided to multiple stakeholders. You use the same report for different clients, regulators and supply chain partners. This saves time and costs compared to answering individual questionnaires or undergoing multiple audits.

How often should I have a SOC2 audit performed?

Type 1 reports lose their value the further into the past the reference date is. Many organizations have a Type 2 audit performed annually to provide ongoing assurance. Some contracts or regulations require periodic renewal. The appropriate frequency depends on your specific situation.