ISO 27004
Information technology – Security techniques – Information security management – Monitoring, measurement, analysis and evaluation (Edition 2 – 2016)
Table of Contents
Abstract
“ISO/IEC 27004:2016 provides guidelines intended to assist organisations in evaluating the information security performance and the effectiveness of an information security management system in order to fulfil the requirements of ISO/IEC 27001:2013, 9.1. It establishes: (a) the monitoring and measurement of information security performance; (b) the monitoring and measurement of the effectiveness of an information security management system (ISMS) including its processes and controls; [and] (c) the analysis and evaluation of the results of monitoring and measurement.”
Introduction
ISO 27004 is a standard that is used all over the world to help people measure and judge how well an Information Security Management System (ISMS) is working. ISO 27001 tells you what an ISMS needs to have, and ISO 27002 gives you advice on how to set up controls. ISO 27004, on the other hand, is all about metrics and measurement methods for checking how well security controls are working. Companies use this standard to keep an eye on security performance, show that things are getting better, and help people make smart choices.
Scope of ISO 27004:2016
ISO 27004 covers all parts of measuring and reporting on ISMS performance. It tells you how to set metrics, gather data, look at the results, and share the results with stakeholders. The standard can be used by businesses of all sizes and in all industries to check how well their security controls are working, find problems, and decide which ones to fix first. ISO 27004 helps businesses make sure that their efforts to protect their information are measurable, accountable, and in line with their goals.
Structure of the Standard
ISO 27004 is structured to guide organizations in establishing a robust measurement framework. Key elements include:
- Defining Metrics – Establishing performance indicators aligned with organizational objectives and ISO 27001 requirements
- Data Collection and Analysis – Methods for gathering and analyzing data on control effectiveness and ISMS performance
- Reporting and Improvement – Communicating results to management and stakeholders and using insights to drive continuous improvement
This structure allows organizations to systematically measure the impact of their security initiatives and demonstrate progress over time.
Status
ISO 27004 was first published in 2009 and has been updated to reflect the best ways to measure information security that have changed over time. The current edition gives advice that is in line with ISO 27001:2022, which makes sure that it meets the newest ISMS standards. Many organizations use it to make their information security management programs more open, accountable, and effective.
Insight
Using ISO 27004 metrics helps businesses see how well their security controls and ISMS work in the real world. Some common problems are picking useful indicators, making sure the data is correct, and making measurement a part of everyday business. Companies should set clear goals, use automated monitoring tools when they can, and look at metrics on a regular basis. Companies can make decisions based on data, get the most out of their security investments, and build trust in their information security management practices by following ISO 27004.