Cybersecurity in the European maritime industry is no longer optional — it’s a business necessity. With cargo theft, ransomware, and digital piracy on the rise, shipowners across the EU must adopt internationally recognized frameworks to protect their operations and meet regulatory expectations.
Two leading standards stand out: SOC 2 and ISO 27001. While both are highly respected, they serve different purposes. This article compares SOC 2 vs ISO 27001 for shipowners in the European Union, highlighting which framework is best suited for maritime cybersecurity, cargo protection, and compliance with EU regulations.
What is SOC 2 Compliance for Shipowners?
SOC 2 (Service Organization Control 2) is an audit framework developed by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). It evaluates how well an organization protects data across five trust principles:
Security
Availability
Processing integrity
Confidentiality
Privacy
Key Advantage for EU Shipowners: SOC 2 provides ongoing assurance through independent audits, showing clients, insurers, and regulators that your shipping operations meet high cybersecurity standards.
What is ISO 27001 for Shipowners?
ISO 27001 is an international standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS). It provides a structured framework for managing sensitive information and continuously improving security practices.
Key Advantage for EU Shipowners: ISO 27001 is widely recognized in Europe and aligns closely with the EU Cybersecurity Act and GDPR requirements, making it an ideal standard for data protection and compliance.
SOC 2 vs ISO 27001: Key Differences for EU Shipowners
Aspect SOC 2 ISO 27001
Origin Developed by AICPA (U.S.) Developed by ISO (International)
Focus Data security & service reliability Information Security Management System (ISMS)
Audit Type Independent audit report (Type I or Type II) Certification issued by accredited body
Global Recognition Widely trusted in North America, increasingly valued in Europe Highly recognised worldwide, especially in the EU
Regulatory Alignment Complements GDPR & IMO cyber risk management Directly aligns with GDPR, EU Cybersecurity Act & IMO standards
Best Use for Shipowners Building trust with cargo owners, insurers, and international clients Meeting EU regulatory requirements and establishing strong ISMS
Which Standard Should EU Shipowners Choose?
When to Choose SOC 2
If your shipping company works with U.S. clients, insurers, or logistics partners.
When you need a third-party audit report to prove cybersecurity controls.
To build trust with cargo owners demanding evidence of secure operations.
When to Choose ISO 27001
If you operate primarily within the European Union and must comply with GDPR.
When you need a comprehensive information security management system (ISMS).
If your clients and regulators prioritize EU cybersecurity standards.
Best Option: Adopt Both for Maximum Impact
Many EU shipowners benefit from implementing ISO 27001 for regulatory compliance and SOC 2 for international trust-building. Together, they create a robust maritime cybersecurity framework that covers both local and global business requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is SOC 2 recognized in Europe?
Yes. While SOC 2 originated in the U.S., it is gaining recognition in the EU, especially among global logistics and cargo clients.
Q2: Which is more expensive — SOC 2 or ISO 27001?
ISO 27001 often requires more resources to build a full ISMS, while SOC 2 focuses on specific controls. Costs depend on company size and scope.
Q3: Can shipowners in Europe pursue both SOC 2 and ISO 27001?
Absolutely. Many shipping companies use both to satisfy local EU regulations (ISO 27001) and international client requirements (SOC 2).
Q4: Which standard aligns better with GDPR?
ISO 27001 aligns more directly with GDPR requirements, but SOC 2 also supports privacy and confidentiality controls.
Conclusion
For shipowners in the European Union, both SOC 2 and ISO 27001 offer significant benefits. SOC 2 strengthens trust with global partners and insurers, while ISO 27001 ensures compliance with EU data protection and cybersecurity regulations.
The best strategy for EU shipping companies is to implement ISO 27001 as a compliance foundation and pursue SOC 2 for international credibility. Together, these certifications enhance maritime cybersecurity, protect cargo operations, and give shipowners a competitive advantage in the global shipping industry.
Recent Comments