The SSAE 16 (now replaced by SSAE 18) is an auditing standard for service organizations, which focuses on internal controls, including security measures. To secure an office space in line with SSAE specifications and to protect against social engineering, consider focusing on the following areas:
b. Clear policies and procedures: Establish clear policies and procedures for handling sensitive information, reporting security incidents, and managing access to systems and data.
c. Phishing awareness: Train employees to identify and report phishing emails and other social engineering attempts.
Regular access reviews: Conduct periodic reviews of user access rights to ensure they remain appropriate and revoke access when no longer needed.
b. Backup and disaster recovery: Implement a robust backup and disaster recovery plan to protect critical data and ensure business continuity in the event of a security incident or other disruption.
b. Contractual agreements: Include specific security requirements and responsibilities in contracts with vendors.
b. Regular testing and updates: Test and update the incident response plan regularly to ensure its effectiveness.
b. Compliance monitoring: Monitor your organization’s compliance with relevant regulations and standards, such as SSAE 18, GDPR, or HIPAA.
By addressing these areas, you can help secure your office space and protect against social engineering threats while adhering to SSAE specifications.