What are the key cloud security standards and frameworks to follow?

2 NIST SP 800-53

NIST SP 800-53 is a framework that provides a catalog of security and privacy controls for federal information systems and organizations, including cloud-based ones. NIST SP 800-53 is based on the risk management framework (RMF) of NIST SP 800-37, which is a process for selecting and implementing appropriate security controls based on the impact level of the information system. NIST SP 800-53 covers 18 control families, such as access control, audit and accountability, configuration management, contingency planning, identification and authentication, security assessment and authorization, and system and information integrity. By following NIST SP 800-53, you can comply with the federal requirements and standards for cloud security and privacy.

3 CSA CCM

CSA CCM is a framework that provides a comprehensive set of security controls for cloud computing, based on the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) best practices and industry standards. CSA CCM covers 16 domains, such as cloud governance, data security, identity and access management, encryption and key management, threat and vulnerability management, incident response, business continuity and disaster recovery, and audit assurance and compliance. By following CSA CCM, you can align your cloud security strategy with the CSA recommendations and benchmarks, and reduce the complexity and cost of cloud security audits and certifications.

4 CIS CSC

CIS CSC is a framework that provides a prioritized set of security actions for cloud computing, based on the Center for Internet Security (CIS) best practices and expert consensus. CIS CSC covers 20 controls, such as inventory and control of hardware and software assets, secure configuration of systems and applications, continuous vulnerability assessment and remediation, controlled use of administrative privileges, email and web browser protection, malware defenses, data protection, and incident response. By following CIS CSC, you can improve your cloud security posture and performance, and mitigate the most common and impactful cyber threats.

5 SOC 2

SOC 2 is a standard that provides assurance on the security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy of cloud services, based on the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) trust services criteria. SOC 2 requires cloud service providers to undergo an independent audit by a qualified CPA firm, and to produce a report that describes their system, controls, and testing results. By following SOC 2, you can verify your cloud service provider's compliance with the AICPA criteria, and gain confidence in their ability to protect your data and operations.

6 PCI DSS

PCI DSS is a standard that provides requirements for the security of payment card data, based on the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council (PCI SSC) guidelines. PCI DSS applies to any entity that stores, processes, or transmits payment card data, including cloud service providers and customers. PCI DSS covers 12 requirements, such as installing and maintaining a firewall, encrypting cardholder data, protecting systems from malware, restricting access to cardholder data, tracking and monitoring access to network resources and cardholder data, and testing security systems and processes. By following PCI DSS, you can ensure your cloud service provider's and your own compliance with the PCI SSC rules, and avoid fines and penalties for data breaches.