Articles & Blogs
What is TISAX Certification (TRUSTED INFORMATION SECURITY ASSESSMENT EXCHANGE)
Written By Srishti Shukla & Virendra Upadhyay II
TISAX Certification (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) is a comprehensive standard that provides a structured framework for assessing and managing information security risks in the automotive industry. The market outlook for the automotive industry is strong and promising, and it is expected to grow rapidly from USD 2.0 billion in 2022 to USD 5.3 billion by 2029.
Significant technological advancements, such as digitization, advanced connectivity, and electric vehicle infrastructure, have transformed how cars are manufactured and operated. These advancements, however, have increased cybersecurity concerns, making it crucial for automotive companies to prioritize cybersecurity as a vital aspect of their operations.
Companies should obtain TISAX certification to demonstrate their commitment to cybersecurity. TISAX certification establishes an organization as a leader in information security. It ensures the delivery of secure products and services to customers. Furthermore, it assures customers that necessary precautions are taken to protect against cyber threats.
What is TISAX Certification?
TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) is a standardized information security assessment and certification framework used by the automotive industry. It was developed by the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) in collaboration with other leading automotive manufacturers to provide a common and consistent approach to information security assessment and certification.
TISAX assessment and certification are based on the internationally recognized ISO/IEC 27001 standard for information security management. It is designed to assist automotive companies in evaluating and managing information security risks related to their supply chain and guaranteeing that their suppliers comply with the same high information security standards.
TISAX Assessment Process
TISAX certification, which demonstrates a commitment to information security and compliance with industry standards, is increasingly becoming a requirement for companies doing business in the automotive industry.
The TISAX assessment and certification process consists of four key steps:
- Preparation: The organization identifies the scope of the assessment and prepares for it by gathering all the necessary information and documentation.
- Assessment: A qualified TISAX assessor conducts an on-site audit of the organization’s information security controls and processes to determine their effectiveness and compliance with TISAX requirements.
- Evaluation: The TISAX assessor evaluates the assessment results and prepares a report that identifies any gaps or deficiencies that should be addressed.
- Certification: If the organization has met all the TISAX requirements, they are issued a TISAX certificate valid for three years.
ISO 27001 v/s TISAX: A Comparison of Cybersecurity Standards in the Automotive Industry
Adopting TISAX would be simpler for organizations that have already achieved ISO 27001 certification, as TISAX is built on the framework of ISO 27001.
Components of TISAX Assessment and TISAX Certification
These components are based on the 14 control categories of the ISO/IEC 27001 standard. With some additional areas (highlighted in blue) specific to the automotive industry, such as supplier relationships and intellectual property protection. Each of these components has specific requirements for compliance with the TISAX framework. The requirements ensure organizations have a comprehensive and effective information security management system. This protects sensitive information and ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information exchanged between companies in the automotive supply chain.
Implementation of TISAX
Benefits of Acquiring TISAX Certification
- Improved Information Security
TISAX implementation can help organizations improve their information security management system. It also helps in reducing the risk of security incidents or data breaches. - Compliance with Automotive Industry Standards
Ensures that organizations meet the information security requirements of the automotive industry. This includes those of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers. - Improved Supplier Relationships
Helps organizations build valuable relationships with their suppliers by ensuring they meet the same information security standards. - Competitive Advantage
Provides a competitive advantage for organizations by demonstrating their commitment to information security and ability to meet industry standards. - Cost Savings
Leads to cost savings by reducing the risk of security incidents or data breaches; which can be costly in terms of financial and reputational damage. - Improved Risk Management
Boosts customer trust in an organization’s ability to protect sensitive information and provide secure products and services. - Global Recognition
Recognizes globally as a standard for information security in the automotive industry; which can provide certified organizations with additional recognition and credibility.
TISAX Assessment Approach
The TISAX implementation has two main approaches:
- Self-Assessment Approach: In this approach, the organization performs a self-assessment of its information security management system (ISMS) against the TISAX requirements. It is responsible for ensuring that it complies with all the requirements and documenting its compliance. Smaller organizations with limited resources often use this approach. It is also used by organizations that want to assess their readiness. The approach is an alternative to undergoing a formal third-party assessment.
- Third-Party Assessment Approach: The organization hires an accredited TISAX Assessment Provider (TAP) to conduct a third-party assessment of its ISMS. The TAP assesses the organization’s compliance with the TISAX requirements and provides a report with the assessment results. This approach is typically used by larger organizations or those wishing to demonstrate compliance with their customers or suppliers.
Both approaches require the organization to have a robust information security management system that meets the TISAX requirements. However, the self-assessment approach is less rigorous than the third-party assessment approach and may not be recognized by all customers or suppliers.
Larger customers or suppliers in the automotive industry require a third-party assessment approach. This approach offers a more objective assessment of the organization’s compliance with TISAX requirements.
Get your TISAX Certification with Accorian
Accorian’s cybersecurity and compliance teams help organizations navigate the information security journey. Our extensive experience in ISO 27001 allows us to assist organizations in achieving TISAX compliance through various services, including gap assessments, policy and procedure development, pre-audits/internal audits, vCISO services, remediation advisory, and program management. With a hands-on, white-glove approach and proven methodology, we provide fiscal value and expertise to each client.