Certification according to TISAX®: Secure implementation for your company

What is a TISAX® certification?

TISAX® certification confirms that a company fulfils the specific information security requirements developed specifically for the automotive industry. This certification shows that a company reliably protects all data and complies with the highest security standards.

The TISAX® certification is based on international standards such as ISO/IEC 27001 and defines clear standards in the area of information security. These include measures for IT security, the protection of personal data, the physical protection of information and organisational security precautions. The aim is to establish a comprehensive ISMS that covers all relevant aspects of information security and is continuously improved.

What are the benefits of TISAX® certification for automotive companies?

TISAX® certification offers numerous advantages in terms of the competitiveness of automotive companies. By complying with strict security standards, companies can position themselves as trustworthy partners, which gives them a competitive advantage. Certification signals that a company is able to fulfil the high information security requirements of the automotive industry, making it more attractive to new customers and partners.

TISAX® certification goes a long way towards increasing customer confidence in the security and quality of an automotive company's products. Customers can be sure that their sensitive data and information is protected. This creates a solid foundation for long-term business relationships and increases customer satisfaction. By complying with the TISAX® standards, a company demonstrates its commitment to the highest security and quality requirements.

Fulfilment of specific requirements and standards

Automotive companies that receive TISAX® certification fulfil specific requirements and standards in the area of data security and data protection. These requirements include, among others:

• IT security: protection against cyber attacks and unauthorised access to data.
• Data protection: Compliance with legal data protection requirements, in particular the GDPR.
• Physical protection: Measures to protect information and IT infrastructure from physical threats.  
• Organisational security precautions: Processes and policies to ensure information security throughout the organisation.

By meeting these requirements, companies can ensure that their information security practices meet the highest standards, helping them to minimise risks and gain the trust of their stakeholders.

What are the basic requirements for TISAX® certification?

Certain basic requirements must be met in order to obtain TISAX® certification. These include the implementation of an ISMS, which forms the basis for recording, assessing and minimising information security risks. A well-structured ISMS is essential in order to fulfil the requirements of the TISAX® standards and successfully complete the certification process.

How does TISAX® certification work?

In order to accelerate and automate the development of an ISMS, companies should consider calling in experts and specialised consulting companies. These experts have valuable experience and can implement efficient, practice-orientated solutions. The use of modern IT tools and software solutions to automate and monitor security processes is also crucial to ensure compliance with TISAX® requirements.

To prepare for the TISAX® audit, organisations should consider the following steps and considerations:

1. Determine the responsible department: The IT or information security department should take the lead.
2. Assess resources: Review internal capacity and capabilities.
3. Consider external help: Bring in specialised consultants if internal resources or expertise are lacking.
4. Update documentation: Bring security policies and processes up to date.
5. Conduct employee training: Train your employees in information security to increase awareness and implementation.
6. Self-assessment and internal audits: Conduct self-assessments and internal audits to identify and address vulnerabilities.  

The TISAX® audit examines various areas of information security in companies in the automotive industry. These include the ISMS according to ISO/IEC 27001, physical security and access controls in the operating environment, as well as the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information.

Other areas include the management of security incidents, network security, emergency management, supplier management, compliance with data protection regulations (e.g. GDPR) and, where applicable, the protection of prototypes. The protection levels in the TISAX® assessment process include normal, high and very high, depending on the sensitivity of the information to be protected.