ISO 27001 vs ISO 27701: Key Differences and Which One Your Organization Needs
ISO 27001 protects information security. ISO 27701 protects personal data privacy. They are related but distinct. This article explains the differences and helps you decide which one (or both) your organisation needs.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | ISO 27001:2022 | ISO 27701:2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | All information assets | Personal data / PII only |
| Type | Standalone certifiable standard | Extension to ISO 27001 |
| Controls | 93 Annex A controls | Additional PII controller/processor controls |
| Regulation driver | Cyber security laws, client contracts | GDPR, CCPA, LGPD, PDPA |
| Prerequisite | None | Must have ISO 27001 first |
| Certification | Yes (by accredited CB) | Yes (as extension to 27001 certificate) |
When You Need Both
If your organisation processes personal data of EU residents (GDPR), health data (HIPAA), or serves as a data processor for clients, you should implement both ISO 27001 and ISO 27701. Start with 27001, then extend with 27701.