Posts by John Minnix - Compliance Strategist
What is Compliance Monitoring? Why is it Important?
Non-compliance costs businesses an average of $14.82 million annually, and data breaches can cripple SMBs, sometimes leading to permanent closure. In 2025, compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes for an annual audit anymore, it’s about maintaining a strong security posture every single day. With regulatory requirements tightening, companies face hefty fines and reputational damage if…
Read MoreWhat is a POAM?
Cybersecurity compliance can feel overwhelming for many small and medium businesses. A Plan of Actions and Milestones, or POAM, can be a useful tool for streamlining and simplifying the compliance process. A POAM outlines the current status of an organization’s compliance efforts. It serves as a strategic guide for identifying, prioritizing, and addressing vulnerabilities within…
Read MoreISO 27001 vs. NIST: Which Cybersecurity Framework Best Suits Your Organization?
Across the globe, organizations are ramping up efforts to protect their data from cyber threats. Cybersecurity compliance frameworks are useful for structuring a cybersecurity program and developing a security-conscious culture. ISO 27001 vs. NIST is a common comparison for organizations choosing a cybersecurity framework. ISO 27001 is a comprehensive international standard that provides a blueprint for…
Read MoreStateRAMP Compliance: A Guide for Service Providers
As states increasingly rely on cloud technologies, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more critical. Enter StateRAMP, or the State Risk and Authorization Management Program. StateRAMP is a pioneering initiative designed to standardize and enhance cloud security protocols across state governments. Inspired by the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP), StateRAMP…
Read MoreCMMC Level 2 Compliance: A Step-by-Step Strategy Guide
Are you ready to tackle CMMC Level 2 compliance but unsure where to start? Meeting the 110 security controls required for CMMC Level 2 can secure your position as a trusted defense contractor and protect vital Controlled Unclassified Information. This guide cuts through the complexity, offering actionable steps toward compliance and a more secure organization.…
Read MoreSOC 2 Compliance Requirements: Your Essential 2024 Guide
Are you seeking clarity on SOC 2 compliance requirements? Our SOC 2 compliance requirements overview will break down the key elements you need to know for 2024. SOC 2 is a critical framework for protecting customer data and demonstrating your organization’s commitment to information security. Whether you’re in finance, healthcare, education, or technology, understanding and…
Read MoreThe Benefits of SOC 2 for SaaS Providers
In the Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) space, customer data security, availability, and privacy is paramount. SOC 2 compliance for SaaS companies is crucial in building user trust and credibility. Designed specifically for service providers, SOC 2 sets benchmarks for managing data based on five “trust service principles”: Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality, and Privacy. This blog post…
Read MoreHIPAA Compliance For Startups
Introduction Navigating the complex regulations of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) can seem daunting. This is especially for startups. HIPAA compliance for startups is a critical topic that requires careful attention to ensure that these new entities not only comply with stringent federal laws but also protect the sensitive health information of…
Read MoreCompliance Gap Analysis for SMBs
Small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are increasingly subject to the same cybersecurity threats and regulatory requirements as larger corporations. In fact, 43% of cybersecurity attacks are aimed at SMBs. Compliance frameworks like SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and CMMC are essential for securing sensitive information, maintaining customer trust, and avoiding legal penalties. A thorough compliance…
Read MoreSOC 2 Type 1 vs. Type 2 Compliance
Establishing and maintaining customer trust is paramount for organizations across all sectors, particularly those handling sensitive information. This is where SOC 2, a framework developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), comes into play. It offers a comprehensive guideline for data protection. Organizations looking to demonstrate their commitment to data security often…
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