Taking advantage of provider-based information security compliance services

Information security compliance services are provider-based solutions designed to ensure that company data meets the security requirements of a specific federal, state, or local agency. These regulations might include HIPAA IT compliance for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, SOX IT compliance for the Sarbanes Oxley Act, and PCI compliance solutions for the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard requirements. Other examples are the FISMA compliance guidelines for the Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002, FERPA compliance solutions for the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, and GLBA compliance issues related to the Gramm Leach Bliley Act, among others.

Many companies mistakenly assume that issues of information security compliance are strictly the concern of the in-house IT department. However, non-compliance issues can easily result in hefty financial penalties, increased compliance audits, and damage to the company brand. Therefore, everyone in the organization should have a clear understanding of the differences between network security and security compliance-related protocols.

The benefits of information security compliance services

Because most compliance regulations are specifically written to apply to a vast number of different companies, the intended meanings behind of some of the individual requirements can sometimes seem rather vague or unclear. When confusion or discrepancies develop involving perceived interpretations of the law, organizations can easily find themselves at risk of non-compliance. By outsourcing their information security compliance services to a reputable provider, companies are better able to navigate these challenges more easily and cost-effectively.

• When questions arise regarding specific conformance regulations, the third-party specialist is better equipped to communicate and obtain clarification and guidance from the associated agency. As a result, companies save enormous amounts of time, money, and frustration.
• For companies lacking an in-house staff with expertise in HIPAA IT compliance issues, for example, managed services providers can be a quick and cost-effective alternative. Companies are no longer forced to be “held hostage” by the whims of a single, perhaps less-than-desirable employee with a poor attitude or work ethic.
• Professional providers of information security compliance services can also reduce company overhead and training costs for in-house staff. These compliance specialists are always up-to-date with the latest regulatory addendums and revisions.

Whether the organization requires SOX IT compliance, FISMA compliance, PCI compliance solutions, or a combination of several different types, following the law is only half the battle. The confidentiality, integrity, and immediate availability of all related data is of the utmost importance. By hiring a professional information security compliance services provider, organizations can delegate these massive responsibilities which allows them to focus on what they do best – managing a profitable and successful enterprise.