The 4 categories of ISO 27001 controls

Information security is no longer optional; it’s critical to running a successful, resilient business. ISO 27001, the international standard for information security management systems (ISMS), provides a structured approach to safeguarding data. Central to this framework are the 93 controls in Annex A, which are divided into four categories: organizational, people, physical, and technological. 

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This article will break down these categories, explain their significance, and help you understand how to implement their controls effectively for your unique business needs.

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Understanding the four themes of ISO 27001 controls

1. Organizational controls

Organizational controls focus on governance, policies, and risk management. These are the foundations of a robust ISMS. Examples include defining security roles and responsibilities, conducting risk assessments, and establishing clear information security policies.

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Why are these controls critical?

• They ensure leadership involvement and accountability in securing data
• They provide a clear framework for decision-making and resource allocation

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For example, having a formal policy for data classification ensures that sensitive data is identified and protected appropriately, reducing the risk of breaches. Organizational controls also facilitate compliance with regulations like GDPR or SOC 2, often requiring documented policies and processes.

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2. People controls

Even with the best technology in place, people remain one of the most significant risks in information security. This category addresses human factors through measures like background checks, security awareness training, and defined responsibilities during and after employment.

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Why focus on people?

• According to industry reports, human error accounts for over 80% of data breaches
• Social engineering attacks, such as phishing, exploit untrained employees

People controls can mitigate these risks by fostering a culture of security awareness. For instance, regular training sessions can teach employees to recognize phishing attempts, while clear exit procedures ensure departing staff no longer have access to sensitive systems or data.

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3. Physical controls

Physical security often gets overlooked when most business operations have become digital, but it remains vital to protecting information. Physical controls include securing buildings, restricting access to sensitive areas, and monitoring facilities for unauthorized entry.

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Why are physical controls essential?

Imagine a server room without proper access restrictions—anyone could walk in and tamper with equipment or steal data. Physical controls prevent such scenarios by ensuring only authorized personnel can access critical areas. Examples include surveillance cameras, biometric locks, and clear desk policies to prevent sensitive documents from being unattended.

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4. Technological controls

Technological controls are the tools and systems that protect your digital infrastructure. These include encryption, firewalls, antivirus software, and access management systems.

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Why are these controls indispensable?
The digital landscape is fraught with threats like malware, ransomware, and data exfiltration. Technological controls act as a first line of defense, safeguarding both your systems and data.

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For example, implementing multi-factor authentication ensures that even if passwords are compromised, unauthorized access is still prevented. Encryption protects sensitive data during transfer or storage, making it unreadable to unauthorized parties.

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Bridging the gaps with solutions

Implementing and managing these controls can feel overwhelming, especially for organizations new to ISO 27001. However, Vanta simplifies the process by:

• Providing tools to map controls to risks and business processes
• Offering templates for policies and procedures aligned with ISO 27001
• Automating compliance checks and audits to save time and reduce errors

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By using a centralized solution, organizations can streamline their ISMS implementation and focus on what matters most: safeguarding their assets and meeting compliance requirements.

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Want to learn more about how to implement ISO 27001 controls effectively? Discover how BD Emerson’s information security experts can help your organization get ISO 27001 audit-ready. Schedule a consultation today!