Transition to ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Before The Deadline

ISO/IEC 27001:2022 is an internationally recognised standard for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS). It helps organisations safeguard sensitive data, manage information security risks, and ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. 

On the 25th of October 2022, ISO 27001 was updated from the ISO 27001:2013 version to a new edition to address evolving cyber threats, introducing new controls and refining existing requirements to better protect organisations in today’s digital landscape.

As the deadline for transitioning to the new ISO/IEC 27001:2022 standard approaches, organisations need to act fast to ensure their Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) are up to date. With the transition period ending in October 2025, those who are certified to ISO 27001:2013 and do not make the necessary updates and achieve certification before then risk having their certification withdrawn. 

In this transition to ISO 27001:2022 blog, we’ll explore:

The Importance of Transitioning to ISO/IEC 27001:2022

The ISO/IEC 27001:2022 revision introduces important changes aimed at better addressing modern-day information security challenges. It focuses on enhanced risk management and addressing emerging technologies. Certification to this version is important for businesses looking to maintain the trust of stakeholders, safeguard against cyber threats, and meet market and industry requirements.

The Transition Period: What Happens if You Don’t Transition to ISO 27001:2022 in Time?

The transition period to the new ISO/IEC 27001:2022 ends on the 31st of October 2025. While this may seem like plenty of time, organisations that delay risk losing their certification. Many Certifiers are already only auditing against the new version during this last year of the transition (from October 2024 to October 2025). If your ISMS hasn’t been updated, you could receive a major non-conformance (NC) during your next audit. These major NCs can result in certification suspension or withdrawal, which can have serious repercussions on your partnerships, and customer confidence.

Failing to transition in time can lead to the following consequences:

1. Loss of Certification – Certifiers will withdraw your certification to the ISO 27001 standard, which can negatively impact your organisation’s credibility and ability to do business, particularly with clients who require certified suppliers. The previous ISO/IEC 27001:2013 version of the standard will be officially superseded by ISO/IEC 27001:2022 in October 2025.
2. Business Disruptions – Without an Information Security certification, you may face challenges maintaining contracts, participating in tenders, or complying with regulatory requirements.
3. Security Vulnerabilities – If your ISMS does not align with the latest standard, it may not sufficiently protect your organisation from modern cyber threats, leaving you exposed to potential data breaches and operational risks.

What needs to be done to transition to ISO/IEC 27001:2022

Transitioning to ISO/IEC 27001:2022 involves understanding the new requirements, assessing what you already have in place, updating risk management and documentation, and training staff. Planning audits and seeking expert support will ensure a smooth upgrade. Here’s a closer look at these key steps:

1. Understand the Changes in ISO/IEC 27001:2022

The first step in preparing for the transition is to fully understand the changes introduced in the 2022 revision. This includes familiarising yourself with the updated control set in Annex A, the refined focus on risk-based thinking, and any new requirements that impact your organisation’s ISMS. ISO/IEC 27001:2022 introduces new controls, including areas like cloud security, threat intelligence, and secure coding, which need to be addressed within your system.

In Australia, you can purchase the licensed ISO/IEC 27001:2022 standard from Standards Australia.

2. Perform an assessment of your current ISMS

A comprehensive assessment is essential for identifying where your current ISMS falls short of the new ISO/IEC 27001:2022 requirements. This process involves:

A Gap Analysis will give you a clear understanding of what needs to be done to achieve conformance to the current version of ISO 27001. However, if your organisation is already Certified, these gaps could also be raised in an Internal Audit against the 2022 version of the standard, since you need to conduct internal audits regularly anyway. Our consultants at ISO Certification Experts can assist you with either approach you take.

3. Update Your Risk Assessment and Treatment Process

ISO/IEC 27001:2022 places a greater emphasis on dynamic risk management. This means organisations need to ensure their risk assessment processes are current and consider emerging threats, such as those related to remote working, cloud computing, and advanced cyber threats. It’s important to update your risk treatment plans to reflect these new risks and ensure you have appropriate controls in place to mitigate them.

4. Revise Your ISMS Documentation

Your ISMS documentation must be revised to meet the new ISO/IEC 27001:2022 standard requirements. This includes policies, procedures, and records. Organisations need to ensure that documentation reflects updated controls and processes. Pay particular attention to any new control objectives and ensure that corresponding documentation is in place.

5. Provide Staff Training and Awareness

Your employees play a crucial role in maintaining conformance with ISO/IEC 27001:2022. As part of the transition process, it’s essential to provide updated training on the new requirements. This will ensure that your team understands their responsibilities under the new standard, particularly with regard to managing risks and responding to security incidents. Staff awareness programs should be updated to include the new controls and their practical implementation.

6. Plan for Internal and External Audits

Before the transition deadline, organisations should conduct an internal audit to ensure that their ISMS meets the documentation and implementation requirements of ISO/IEC 27001:2022. This will help identify any areas that need further attention and prepare your organisation for your Transition Audit. Since many Certifiers are already auditing only against the 2022 version now, conducting a thorough internal audit can reduce the risk of receiving major non-conformances during your next audit (which will be your transition audit to the new standard).

How Our Experts Can Help With The Transition to ISO 27001:2022

The transition process can be complex, and engaging expert support can significantly simplify the journey. Professional consultants, like us at ISO Certification Experts, can guide your organisation through each step of the upgrade process, ensuring you meet all the requirements without unnecessary delays or errors.

Upgrading to the new ISO/IEC 27001:2022 standard requires a structured approach. Our expert consultants can assist you with:

• Gap Analysis – We’ll review your current ISMS to identify any gaps between your current documentation and practices and the new ISO/IEC 27001:2022 requirements.
• Tailored Upgrade Plan – Based on the gap analysis findings, we’ll create a customised action plan that aligns with your business needs and ensures conformity with the updated standard.
• Documentation and Training – We’ll help you update all relevant documentation and train your team to ensure a smooth transition and ongoing conformance.
• Internal Audit – We’ll conduct an internal audit, which includes checking evidence and sampling across your system to ensure implementation is successful, and that you are ready for the external audit with the Certifier.
• Audit Preparation – Our consultants will guide you through the process of preparing for the transition audit by your Certifier, minimising the risk of receiving major non-conformances.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late To Transition to ISO 27001:2022

With the deadline for ISO/IEC 27001:2022 fast approaching, now is the time to act. By partnering with ISO Certification Experts, you can ensure your organisation is fully prepared for the transition, safeguarding your certification and your reputation.

Do you need help or advice with the transition to ISO 27001:2022? Our expert consultants can assist you with updating and implementing your ISMS to meet the updated requirements! Call us now on 1300 614 897, email us, or book your online FREE strategy session to start your transition today.