TISAX® Certification

What is a TISAX® certification?

TISAX® certification confirms that a company meets the specific information security requirements developed for the automotive industry. This certification demonstrates that a company reliably protects all data and adheres to the highest security standards.

The TISAX® certification is based on international standards such as ISO/IEC 27001 and defines clear standards in information security. These include measures for IT security, the protection of personal data, the physical protection of information and organisational security precautions. The goal 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, providing a competitive edge. Certification signals that a company can meet the high information security requirements of the automotive industry, making it more attractive to new customers and partners.

TISAX® certification significantly enhances customer confidence in the security and quality of an automotive company's products. Customers can be assured that their sensitive data and information are protected, creating a solid foundation for long-term business relationships and increasing customer satisfaction. By adhering to the TISAX® standards, a company demonstrates its commitment to the highest security and quality requirements.

Fulfilment of specific requirements and standards

Automotive companies that achieve TISAX® certification meet specific requirements and standards in 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, particularly 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 adhere to the highest standards, helping them to minimise risks and gain the trust of their stakeholders.

What are the basic requirements for TISAX® certification?

To obtain TISAX® certification, certain basic requirements must be met. These include the implementation of an ISMS, which forms the foundation for recording, assessing and mitigating information security risks. A well-structured ISMS is essential to meet the TISAX® standards and successfully complete the certification process.

How does TISAX® certification work?

To expedite and automate the development of an ISMS, companies should consider engaging experts and specialised consulting firms. These professionals bring valuable experience and can implement efficient, practical 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: Engage specialised consultants if internal resources or expertise are lacking.
4. Update documentation: Ensure security policies and processes are up to date.
5. Conduct employee training: Train 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 within automotive companies. 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.