Security compliance frameworks provide structured approaches to protecting information systems and data. Whether required by regulation, customer contracts, or industry standards, compliance programs help organizations implement comprehensive security controls.
Understanding Security Compliance
Security compliance means adhering to frameworks, standards, and regulations that define security requirements. These may be legally mandated (like GDPR or HIPAA) or voluntary standards that demonstrate security maturity to customers and partners.
Compliance is not just about checking boxes—properly implemented, it establishes a foundation for effective security operations and risk management.
Major Compliance Frameworks
Several frameworks apply to different industries and requirements:
ISO 27001
InternationalInternational standard for information security management systems. Provides a systematic approach to managing sensitive information.
Focus: Comprehensive ISMS with continuous improvement
NIST Cybersecurity Framework
US GovernmentVoluntary framework providing guidelines for managing cybersecurity risk. Widely adopted in the US and increasingly globally.
Focus: Risk-based approach with five core functions
PCI DSS
Payment IndustryRequired for organizations handling payment card data. Specifies technical and operational requirements for protecting cardholder data.
Focus: Payment card data protection
SOC 2
Service OrganizationsAudit framework for service organizations demonstrating security, availability, and confidentiality controls to customers.
Focus: Trust service criteria for service providers
Threat Intelligence for Compliance
Threat intelligence supports multiple compliance requirements:
- Continuous Monitoring - Demonstrate ongoing threat awareness and security monitoring capabilities.
- Risk Assessment - Use threat data to inform risk assessments and prioritize security investments.
- Incident Response - Leverage threat intelligence for faster detection and response to security incidents.
- Audit Evidence - Document threat intelligence integration as evidence of proactive security measures.
Implementing Compliance Controls
Start with a gap assessment to understand your current state versus requirements. Prioritize controls that address the highest risks while building toward comprehensive compliance.
Document all security controls, policies, and procedures. Good documentation is essential for audits and demonstrates mature security governance.
Compliance Tip
Many frameworks share common controls. Implementing one framework well provides a foundation for others, reducing duplicate effort across multiple compliance requirements.
Support Your Compliance
Learn how our threat intelligence supports compliance requirements.