Preparing for the ISO 27001 Update: What You Need to Know About the 2022 Revision

If your business is certified under ISO 27001:2013, you’re probably aware that significant changes are on the horizon. ISO 27001, the internationally recognised standard for information security management systems (ISMS), underwent an update in 2022, and businesses will be required to transition by 2025. This revision introduces new controls and aligns the standard more closely with modern cybersecurity challenges. With the clock ticking, it’s essential to understand what this update means for your business and how you can stay compliant.

If your business fails to transition to ISO 27001:2022 by then, your certification will expire, potentially affecting client trust and contractual agreements. Many industries and government bodies require up-to-date ISO certification, so not meeting the new standard could result in lost business and penalties.

In this blog, we’ll explore the key changes from the 2013 version to the 2022 revision, why they matter, and how you can prepare for a smooth transition.

Key Changes in ISO 27001:2022

1. Simplified Structure with Annex A Updates:

The most noticeable change is the restructuring of Annex A, which contains a set of security controls that companies can implement based on their risk assessment. Previously, the 2013 version had 114 controls grouped into 14 categories. In the 2022 update, these controls are now reduced to 93, grouped into four broader themes:

• Organisational Controls
• People Controls
• Physical Controls
• Technological Controls

This streamlined structure makes it easier for businesses to implement controls relevant to their specific risks.

2. Introduction of New Security Controls:

The 2022 update introduces 11 new controls designed to address emerging cybersecurity challenges, including:

• Threat Intelligence – Emphasizing the importance of gathering and analysing cyber threat data to stay ahead of potential attacks.
• Information Security for Cloud Services – Recognizing the growing reliance on cloud technologies and the need for enhanced cloud security measures.
• Data Masking and Encryption – Strengthening data protection through anonymisation and encryption techniques.
• Configuration Management – Ensuring that IT systems are properly configured to reduce security risks.

These updates reflect the evolving nature of cyber threats and the growing importance of data privacy and cloud security.

3. Focus on Business Continuity and Incident Response:

In response to the increasing frequency of cyberattacks, ISO 27001:2022 places greater emphasis on business continuity and incident response planning. Companies are now required to develop more robust strategies for responding to security incidents and ensuring that critical operations can continue even in the face of disruptions.

4. Aligning with Global Standards:

ISO 27001:2022 has been updated to align more closely with other international standards, such as ISO 31000 (Risk Management) and ISO 9001 (Quality Management). This alignment allows for better integration of ISMS with other management systems, making it easier for businesses to maintain compliance across multiple standards.

Why This Update Matters

With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, the changes introduced in the 2022 version of ISO 27001 provide businesses with a stronger framework to protect their sensitive data and maintain operational resilience. The update reflects modern security needs, including the rise of cloud technologies, remote work, and complex cyberattacks.

Failure to comply with the new standard by 2025 could result in losing your certification, which may impact your reputation, client trust, and business operations. For companies that rely on ISO certification as a competitive edge or regulatory requirement, this transition is critical.

How to Prepare for the Transition

1. Conduct a Gap Analysis: Start by comparing your current ISMS with the new requirements in the 2022 standard. This will help you identify any gaps or areas where you need to implement new controls.
2. Update Documentation and Processes: Review and update your information security policies, procedures, and risk assessments to align with the new controls and structure. Ensure that your staff is aware of these changes and trained accordingly.
3. Engage with a Consultant: If you’re unsure about how to manage the transition, consider partnering with an ISO 27001 consultant. They can guide you through the process, help you update your ISMS, and ensure a smooth transition to the new standard.
4. Plan for Certification: Although the deadline is 2025, it’s wise to begin planning your certification process as early as possible. This will give you ample time to address any issues and prepare for an external audit.

The update from ISO 27001:2013 to ISO 27001:2022 represents a significant shift in how businesses approach information security management. By embracing these changes and starting the transition process now, you’ll ensure that your business remains compliant, secure, and well-prepared for future cybersecurity challenges. Don’t wait until the last minute—take action today and safeguard your ISO certification.