TISAX® audits: The automotive industry's gold standard for information security
In the rapidly evolving automotive industry, where connected vehicles and digital supply chains process enormous amounts of sensitive data every day, independent verification of information security practices has become essential. TISAX® (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) audits offer a solution in the form of an industry-recognised benchmark that manufacturers and suppliers can use to demonstrate compliance with strict security standards.
The importance of TISAX® audits is growing steadily as automotive manufacturers increasingly require certification for their supplier networks. These assessments serve a dual purpose: they confirm that organisations have implemented appropriate security processes and are able to identify potential vulnerabilities in order to prevent them from being exploited by criminal forces. For companies in the automotive industry, obtaining TISAX® certification has evolved from a competitive advantage to a fundamental prerequisite for market participation.
As a recognised TISAX® assessment provider, DEKRA Certification GmbH brings specialised expertise to this critical process. Our audit teams combine in-depth knowledge of the automotive industry with comprehensive information security processes. This dual expertise enables us to The importance of TISAX® audits is growing steadily as automotive manufacturers increasingly require certification for their supplier networks. These assessments serve a dual purpose: they confirm that organisations have implemented appropriate security processes and are able to identify potential vulnerabilities in order to prevent them from being exploited by criminal forces. For companies in the automotive industry, obtaining TISAX® certification has evolved from a competitive advantage to a fundamental prerequisite for market participation. We are able to conduct thorough assessments that truly reflect a company's security status while taking into account the specific challenges of networked data security in the automotive industry.
TISAX® audits are either conducted on-site (Assessment Level 3) or remotely (Assessment Level 2). During an on-site audit, our auditors carry out a detailed control review, including verification checks, employee surveys and physical security inspections. The process concludes with a report that clearly outlines any findings and areas for improvement.
Based on our extensive audit experience, we have identified several areas where companies typically need improvement. These include the implementation of access controls, responding to information security incidents, and managing risks posed by third-party providers. Many companies also need to strengthen their physical security measures and employee training programmes. Proactively addressing these areas can significantly simplify the path to TISAX® certification. Manufacturing companies should also pay particular attention to the standard references (focus: ISA/IEC 62443) in the Information Security Assessment (ISA) audit catalogue – especially with regard to availability, intensive checks are carried out here to ensure that the processes introduced for the applied operational technology (OT) have been taken into account for the “mapped” controls.
While the assessment itself provides a snapshot of a company's compliance status, maintaining this status requires continuous attention. Regular internal reviews between audit cycles are necessary to ensure ongoing compliance with TISAX® requirements. Equally important for long-term compliance are information about standard updates and early preparation for recertification.
Our global team of qualified auditors conducts consistent, high-quality assessments that are specifically tailored to the needs of the automotive sector. We offer a transparent audit process: from planning to the final report, we adhere to schedules and meet your requirements and expectations.
For companies seeking one or more TISAX® labels, thorough preparation remains the key to success. This includes internal pre-assessments, complete documentation of all security policies and controls, and appropriate employee training. With the right preparation, companies can approach their TISAX® assessment with confidence, knowing that they have established a strong foundation for information security that will stand the test of time in an increasingly connected automotive world.
The value of TISAX® labels goes far beyond a mere compliance check mark. In an industry where data security breaches can have catastrophic consequences, these assessments provide important security guarantees for partners, customers and regulatory authorities. As technologies continue to evolve rapidly, TISAX® will remain an indispensable tool for ensuring that information security keeps pace with innovation.
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