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The GDPR and Information Security

20 November 2025

Knowledge

GDPR

How the information security management standard ISO 27001 helps you protect your information

Article 32 of the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) requires businesses to implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure a high level of information security.

Although examples of security measures and controls are cited, the GDPR does not provide detailed guidance on how to achieve this.

ISO 27001 is the international standard for information security and describes the best-practice requirements for implementing an ISMS (information security management system).

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If you would like to know more about how ISO 27001 certification can aid your GDPR compliance journey, call our team of experts on +44 (0)333 800 7000, or request a call back using the form below. Our team are ready and waiting with practical advice.

What is an ISMS?

An ISMS is a system of processes, documents, technology and people that helps to protect all of your company’s information (not just personal data) through a centrally managed framework.

An ISMS needs to be supported by top leadership, incorporated into your organisation’s culture and strategy, and constantly monitored, updated and reviewed. Using a process of continual improvement, your organisation will be able to ensure that the ISMS adapts to changes – both in the environment and inside the organisation – to identify and reduce risks.

Implementing an ISO 27001-compliant ISMS will protect your organisation against all types of risks that can affect the confidentiality, integrity or availability of your data in all its forms.

Find out more about the benefits of implementing an ISMS

How ISO 27001 will help you achieve compliance with the GDPR

ISO 27001 certification has been recognised by several European supervisory authorities for its capacity to provide evidence of intent and effort to comply with the GDPR.

An ISO 27001-compliant ISMS encompasses the three essential aspects of a comprehensive information security regime: people, processes and technology.

This approach will help protect your data from not only technology-based risks but also other, more common threats, such as poorly informed staff or ineffective procedures.

ISO 27001 controls

Annex A of ISO 27001 sets out a recommended list of 93 controls, which are grouped into four themes: organisational, people, physical and technological.

When implementing an ISMS, you will select the controls you need based on your risk assessment. You will then compare them with the Annex A controls to ensure your risks are appropriately covered.

Risk assessment

Effective risk management is at the heart of an ISO 27001-compliant ISMS. Likewise, the GDPR specifically requires a risk assessment to ensure an organisation has identified risks that can affect personal data.

Certification to ISO 27001

Cyber security and compliance are ongoing processes that must regularly be tested, maintained and updated. Failure to implement and maintain essential security practices can significantly reduce your organisation’s legal defensibility in the event of a data breach.

Obtaining independent certification to a recognised security standard such as ISO 27001 provides:

  • An external, expert assessment of the efficacy of your organisation’s security posture; and
  • Evidence that you have taken reasonable measures to mitigate data security risks.