Do you need both SOC 1 and SOC 2?

In today's digital age, ensuring the security and trustworthiness of data has become a top priority for businesses and organizations. With cyber threats on the rise, it is essential to have comprehensive controls in place to safeguard sensitive information. This is where SOC 1 and SOC 2 reports come into play. In this article, we will explore the differences between SOC 1 and SOC 2, their purpose, and why you might need both.

Understanding SOC 1

SOC 1, short for Service Organization Control 1, is a widely recognized auditing standard developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). SOC 1 reports focus on internal controls over financial reporting and are intended for organizations that provide services impacting their clients' financial statements. These reports assess the effectiveness of controls related to financial processes, such as billing, revenue recognition, and payroll.

Examining SOC 2

While SOC 1 deals with financial reporting controls, SOC 2 evaluates controls related to non-financial aspects. SOC 2 reports are designed to assess an organization's controls over security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy (referred to as the Trust Services Criteria). These criteria are essential for any business that handles data, especially personally identifiable information (PII) or protected health information (PHI).

The Need for Both SOC 1 and SOC 2

Some organizations may wonder whether they need both SOC 1 and SOC 2 reports. The answer depends on the nature of the services provided and the industry requirements. If an organization offers services that impact financial reporting, such as outsourced accounting or payroll processing, having only SOC 2 may not be sufficient. In such cases, having both SOC 1 and SOC 2 reports provides a comprehensive view of the controls over financial and non-financial aspects, providing assurance to clients and stakeholders.

Furthermore, specific industries and regulatory standards might demand organizations to comply with both SOC 1 and SOC 2. For instance, healthcare organizations are required to adhere to HIPAA regulations, which necessitate compliance with SOC 2 for data protection and confidentiality. However, they must also demonstrate the effectiveness of financial controls, making SOC 1 equally important.

In conclusion, while SOC 1 and SOC 2 reports serve different purposes, they are complementary and can provide a robust framework for ensuring the integrity, security, and availability of data. Depending on the nature of your organization's services and industry requirements, you may need both SOC 1 and SOC 2. It is crucial to consult with an expert in auditing and compliance to determine the appropriate reporting framework that aligns with your business needs and regulatory obligations.