Got a client in an industry that has security compliance requirements?
If so, you’re probably already aware that as their MSP you carry a significant part of the compliance burden and that by proxy you also bear the responsibility of conforming to those requirements.
So, what am I saying?
Their requirements are YOUR requirements.
If your client has a compliance checklist, you (as their MSP) have an implicit one of your own. Why? Because the IT infrastructure, tools, applications, and services you provide will likely be storing, managing, or transmitting the sensitive data that these compliances aim to protect.
What could be some potential security requirements for MSPs? Let's examine a point from the FTC Safeguards Rule.
FTC Safeguards: Requires Vendors and Data Protection
One of the nine requirements of the FTC Safeguards Rule is the expectation that entities work with vendors who can offer a comparable level of data protection.
What does this mean?
- Vendor Vetting: Before partnering with a vendor, MSPs should perform a thorough security audit, understanding the measures the vendor has in place to protect data.
- Contractual Obligations: Ensure contracts with vendors contain clauses stipulating the expected standards of data protection. This binds them legally to maintain the same security standards as the MSP.
- Regular Audits: Conduct periodic reviews of vendor security practices, ensuring they remain up-to-date with the evolving threat landscape.
- Ensuring Compliance as an MSP
As an MSP you have your own compliance obligations, but you also need to stay updated on what your clients are facing. So, what proactive steps can you take to ensure you’re up to speed with what you clients need?
Educate Yourself: Stay updated on all compliance requirements relevant to your client's industry.
Build a Culture of Security: From onboarding to regular training sessions, ensure every member of your team understands the importance of security.
Leverage Advanced Tools: Employ the latest security tools, software, and services to safeguard client data.
Maintain Documentation: Keeping a record of all security practices, audits, and vendor interactions will help in demonstrating compliance.
Transparent Communication with Clients
Being compliant is one thing but demonstrating it to your clients is another. Clear and transparent communication plays a pivotal role. Here’s strategies for doing this effectively:
- Regular Reports: Provide clients with periodic security and compliance reports, showcasing how you're meeting the requirements. Many compliancy frameworks require third-party assessments. That means having someone outside of their organization AND yours review reports and make sure security is working (you can’t proofread your own work).
- Open Dialogue: Establish channels where clients can raise queries or concerns about compliance and security.
- Showcase Vendor Partnerships: Highlight how you're ensuring that your vendors meet the same compliance standards.
For MSPs, understanding the significance of their role in this ecosystem and adapting to fulfill these requirements is essential. With the right practices, not only can you ensure their own security but also fortify the trust and confidence of their clients.
