Security is a top priority for businesses today, but does achieving the ISO 27001 standard automatically make a company more secure? Not necessarily. While certification can be a valuable asset—especially for companies working with third parties that demand security assurances—it’s not the only way to achieve strong data protection.
The ISO 27001 Standard:
A Necessity or Just a Badge?
Think about driving. You need a licence to legally drive on public roads, but does that mean every licensed driver is safe? Statistics suggest otherwise. According to the World Health Organisation, over 1.3 million deaths per year are caused by road traffic accidents—many involving licensed drivers. The reality is that having a driving licence doesn’t guarantee safety; it’s how drivers apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios that makes the difference.
This brings us to a fascinating case: in 2023, a man in the UK was found to have been driving without a licence for over 70 years (BBC News). How he managed to avoid detection for so long is a mystery, but it raises a key question—does certification always equal competence?
The same logic applies to cybersecurity and ISO 27001 certification. Just because a company has the ISO 27001 standard doesn’t automatically mean they have bulletproof security. Some businesses without certification may have stronger security measures in place than those with it. Why? Because they focus on practical, risk-based security rather than just ticking compliance boxes.
Does ISO 27001 Certification Make You More Secure?
ISO 27001 certification is a globally recognised standard for information security management. It provides a structured framework for managing risks, implementing controls, and maintaining best practices. However, achieving the ISO 27001 standard is just one part of a broader security strategy.
Many businesses manage their security exceptionally well without certification. For these companies, obtaining ISO 27001 isn’t necessary because:
Their business model doesn’t require certification.
The cost of implementation outweighs the benefits.
They already have strong security controls in place without formal accreditation.
ISO 27001: A Business Requirement, Not a Security Requirement
Some industries and clients demand certification. If you’re working with regulated industries, government contracts, or large enterprises, having ISO 27001 certification might be essential. Think of it like a taxi driver needing a professional driving licence—without it, they simply can’t operate.
However, if your business operates independently and doesn’t require external validation, you may find that adopting security best practices without certification is enough.
A Risk-Based Approach to Security
Certification isn’t the only way to demonstrate strong security. Businesses can enhance their security posture by:
Implementing robust security policies
Conducting regular penetration testing
Training employees on cybersecurity risks
Using encryption and access controls to protect data
Staying up-to-date with security patches and threat intelligence
A proactive approach to security is often more effective than a compliance-driven one. After all, the ISO 27001 standard is only as good as the effort put into maintaining and improving it.
Final Thoughts
If your business requires ISO 27001 certification, it’s a valuable step towards structured security management. However, if certification isn’t a business necessity, focusing on real-world security measures may be a more practical approach.
Much like the unlicensed driver who managed to stay on the road for decades, a company without ISO 27001 can still operate securely—provided they implement the right security controls and best practices.
Want to learn more about ISO 27001 standard and whether it’s right for your business?
Read our What is ISO 27001? guide here.