What Is SOC 2 Compliance and Why It Matters?
SOC 2 Compliance is a globally recognized standard designed to verify that organizations securely manage customer data to protect the interests and privacy of their clients.
Developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), it provides a formal framework for evaluating a company’s internal controls related to data security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.
Unlike prescriptive standards that dictate specific tools or configurations, SOC 2 focuses on principles and outcomes.
Each organization defines and implements its own security controls — tailored to its operations, risk profile, and industry — which are then independently audited to confirm they effectively safeguard information.
A SOC 2 report serves as independent assurance that your organization has established robust, documented, and consistently applied security practices.
It demonstrates to customers, business partners, and investors that your systems are not only technically sound but also governed by a culture of accountability and transparency.
SOC 2 compliance matters because it bridges the trust gap in today’s digital economy.
When clients share sensitive data — especially in industries like SaaS, cloud computing, and fintech — they need proof, not promises, that their data is protected.
A valid SOC 2 report provides that proof, acting as a trust certification that strengthens credibility, supports global partnerships, and opens doors to enterprise-level opportunities.
In Israel and across global markets, SOC 2 has become a mandatory trust benchmark for technology companies, SaaS providers, and IT service vendors that handle customer information — ensuring they meet the highest standards of information security and operational reliability.
Who Needs SOC 2 Compliance?
SOC 2 applies to any service provider or technology company that stores, processes, or manages customer data. This includes:
- SaaS companies offering cloud-based platforms.
- Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs).
- IT and cybersecurity companies handling client infrastructure.
- Financial, insurance, and healthcare organizations managing sensitive personal data.
- Third-party vendors or business partners with access to customer information.
Simply put: if your organization handles customer data, SOC 2 compliance isn’t optional — it’s essential for business credibility and trust.
The Five Trust Service Criteria of SOC 2
SOC 2 compliance is based on five foundational “Trust Service Criteria,” each ensuring a specific aspect of data protection and reliability:
- Security – Protecting systems and data against unauthorized access or misuse.
Example: Firewalls, intrusion detection, multifactor authentication, and active monitoring. - Availability – Ensuring systems are operational and accessible as promised.
This includes regular maintenance, monitoring, and backups to minimize downtime. - Processing Integrity – Guaranteeing that systems process data accurately and completely, without alteration or unauthorized intervention.
- Confidentiality – Limiting access to sensitive business or customer information only to authorized individuals or entities.
- Privacy – Safeguarding personal identifiable information (PII) such as names, IDs, addresses, and health data in accordance with privacy laws and policies.
Types of SOC 2 Reports
There are two main types of SOC 2 reports, each designed for a different stage of maturity:
- SOC 2 Type I – Evaluates the design of your organization’s controls at a specific point in time.
Ideal for companies starting their compliance journey. - SOC 2 Type II –Assesses the operating effectiveness of your controls over a period (typically 6–12 months).
This report provides stronger assurance that your security practices work consistently over time.
Type II is considered the gold standard, especially for organizations serving enterprise or international customers.
SOC 1 vs SOC 2 – What’s the Difference?
Feature | SOC 1 | SOC 2 |
Purpose | Focuses on financial reporting controls | Focuses on information security controls |
Primary Audience | Auditors and investors | Customers, partners, and stakeholders |
Scope | Financial data | Data security, privacy, and system reliability |
Applicability | Financial service providers | SaaS, IT, and cloud companies |
SOC 2 vs ISO 27001 – Understanding the Difference
While both SOC 2 and ISO 27001 deal with information security, they serve different purposes:
- ISO 27001 focuses on building and maintaining an Information Security Management System (ISMS).
- SOC 2 focuses on proving and validating that your controls are actually working through an independent audit.
- GDPR, on the other hand, governs data privacy laws rather than control implementation.
Many mature organizations pursue both ISO 27001 and SOC 2 for full coverage — ISO for internal structure, and SOC 2 for external validation and client trust.
The Business Benefits of SOC 2 Compliance
Becoming SOC 2 compliant delivers tangible advantages:
- Improved data security posture
- Increased client confidence and trust
- Competitive advantage in global markets
- Operational efficiency through well-defined controls
- Faster sales cycles and easier contract approvals
- Regulatory readiness – meeting client and industry security requirements
In Israel, top SaaS companies such as Monday.com, Similarweb, and WalkMe leverage SOC 2 certification to build trust with international partners and customers.
Why SOC 2 Compliance Matters?
A SOC 2 report isn’t just about passing an audit — it’s about demonstrating that your organization truly values the privacy and security of customer data. In a world of constant cyber threats and growing compliance demands, SOC 2 compliance helps you differentiate your brand, build credibility, and win enterprise-level business.
Customers increasingly ask one simple question before working with a service provider:
“Are you SOC 2 compliant?”
If your answer is yes, you’re already one step ahead.
How CyberSafe Helps You Achieve SOC 2 Compliance?
At CyberSafe, we specialize in guiding organizations through the entire SOC 2 journey — from readiness assessment to full certification.
Our team provides tailored consulting, implementation, and audit support to make the process smooth, efficient, and transparent.
Step 1 – Gap Analysis and Process Mapping
We begin with a comprehensive review of your systems, security controls, and documentation to identify existing gaps and risks.
Step 2 – Implementation and Employee Training
We help you implement necessary technical and procedural controls — including encryption, access management, monitoring, and employee awareness programs.
Step 3 – SOC 2 Audit Preparation
We prepare your organization for the external audit, conduct mock assessments, and ensure all evidence and documentation meet AICPA standards.
Each project is customized based on your organization’s size, industry, and data sensitivity.
SOC 2 service with CyberSafe
Achieving SOC 2 compliance doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
With CyberSafe’s team of certified cybersecurity professionals, you’ll gain a trusted partner to simplify the process, strengthen your organization’s security, and build long-term customer confidence.
Contact us today at 0722570548 or visit CyberSafe
to schedule a consultation and start your SOC 2 compliance journey with confidence.
COMMON Q&A ABOUT SOC 2
How long does SOC 2 compliance take?
Typically between 3–6 months, depending on the organization’s size and existing controls.
What’s the main difference between Type I and Type II reports?
Type I evaluates the design of your controls, while Type II tests their effectiveness over time.
Is SOC 2 mandatory by law?
No, but many clients — especially in the U.S. and Europe — require it as a contractual condition.
How much does SOC 2 certification cost?
Costs vary depending on scope and company size, but it’s a long-term investment that pays off in customer trust and risk reduction.
Do I need ISO 27001 to get SOC 2?
No, but combining both gives your organization comprehensive security coverage and credibility.
Does CyberSafe perform the audit itself?
CyberSafe guides you through the readiness and preparation phases and coordinates with accredited SOC auditors for the final report.
