ISMS and Pentests

Relationship Between Pentesting and ISO 27001

What is ISO 27001?

ISO 27001 is an internationally recognized standard for information security. It defines a comprehensive framework for managing information security in organizations. ISO 27001 defines a variety of control measures that organizations should implement to protect their information.

• Supplementary measures: Pentesting and ISO 27001 are not opposites, they complement each other. While ISO 27001 provides a comprehensive framework for information security, pentesting offers a concrete method for checking the effectiveness of the implemented measures.

• Proof of effectiveness: Through regular pentesting, organizations can prove that their security measures are effective and that vulnerabilities are identified and remediated. This is an important aspect of ISO 27001 certification.

• Continuous improvement: Both pentesting and ISO 27001 promote continuous improvement of information security. Regular pentesting allows vulnerabilities to be identified and remedied at an early stage, while ISO 27001 ensures that security measures remain up to date.
  Requirement in ISO 27001: ISO 27001 explicitly requires organizations to take measures to prevent potential vulnerabilities from being exploited. Penetration testing or vulnerability scanning is a common method of meeting this requirement.

Connection Between Pentesting and TISAX

What is TISAX?

TISAX is an exchange format for information on IT security that was developed by the German automotive industry. It is used to assess and ensure the trustworthiness of suppliers with regard to their IT security measures. Companies wishing to work with the automotive industry must generally be TISAX-compliant.

• TISAX as a framework: TISAX defines requirements for IT security and ensures a common understanding of security in the automotive industry.

• TISAX certification: To obtain TISAX certification, a company must prove that it has implemented a comprehensive information security management system (ISMS).

• Pentesting as part of the ISMS: Pentesting is an essential part of such an ISMS. Regular pentests help to check the effectiveness of the implemented security measures and identify weaknesses.

• Risk-based approach: Both TISAX and pentesting follow a risk-based approach. Companies must assess their specific risks and take appropriate measures to minimize them.

Connection Between Pentesting and IT baseline Protection of German Government (BSI)

What is IT baseline protection?

IT-Grundschutz is a concept developed by the German government to help companies systematically protect their IT systems against cyber attacks. It provides a comprehensive framework with specific recommendations and measures for implementing a secure IT infrastructure.

Requirement in IT baseline protection: IT baseline protection explicitly requires organizations to regularly check their IT systems for vulnerabilities. Penetration tests are a common method of meeting this requirement.