Posts by John Minnix - Compliance Strategist
SOC 2 For Startups: The Definitive Guide
Establishing trust with customers and stakeholders is crucial for startups. One significant milestone in this trust-building journey is achieving SOC 2 compliance. 60% of companies prefer to work with a startup that has achieved SOC 2. Additionally, 70% of venture capitalists prefer to invest in a startup that has achieved SOC 2. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify SOC…
Read MoreAudit Readiness: Your Guide to the Perfect Compliance Audit
Introduction Bright Defense delivers continuous compliance solutions. Customers frequently ask us what internal controls and business processes they can implement to improve their audit readiness. This guide outlines the process of preparing for a cybersecurity compliance audit. We will detail common frameworks, review our audit readiness checklist, and discuss the advantages of continuous compliance. If…
Read MoreSOC 2 vs. NIST: Choosing the Right Compliance Framework for You
Introduction: SOC 2 vs. NIST Choosing the right compliance framework for your business can be complicated. SOC 2 vs. NIST is a common framework comparison. Both frameworks aim to protect your data, but they take different routes. SOC 2 is focused on trust and security in handling customer data, especially for service organizations. On the…
Read MoreStateRAMP vs. FedRAMP: Navigating Local and Federal Cybersecurity Standards
Introduction to StateRAMP vs. FedRAMP Understanding the nuances between different cybersecurity frameworks is essential in the complex world of government IT contracting. StateRAMP vs. FedRAMP is a common comparison for organizations looking to do business with government agencies. While similar in their aims to safeguard data integrity and security, these frameworks cater to different governmental…
Read MoreA Comprehensive Guide to CMMC Gap Assessment
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) stands as a pivotal framework for defense industry contractors, ensuring they meet the requisite cybersecurity standards. Its implementation across the defense supply chain marks a significant move towards safeguarding sensitive defense information from cyber threats. As CMMC progresses through the rule-making process towards becoming law, it becomes increasingly crucial…
Read More115 Cybersecurity Statistics You Should Know In 2025
The team at Bright Defense has compiled a comprehensive list of up-to-date cybersecurity statistics for 2024. In this article, you’ll find hand-picked statistics about: Without further ado, let’s see the stats! Global Cybersecurity Statistics Cybercrime Statistics Want more cybercrime data? Read our massive guide with 200+ up-to-date cybercrime statistics. Cybersecurity Employment Statistics General Trust in…
Read MoreCompliance Automation: Efficient, Effective, Essential
Compliance is an increasingly important facet of cybersecurity. 91% of companies plan to implement continuous compliance in the next five years. Key drivers for the compliance market include mounting threats from bad actors, changing regulations, and pressure from customers and investors. With an array of frameworks such as SOC 2, HIPAA, NIST, ISO 27001, and CMMC, organizations…
Read MoreThe Benefits of a NIST 800-171 Compliance Consultant
For organizations that handle sensitive information, regulatory compliance is not just a best practice—it’s a necessity. Achieving compliance with NIST 800-171, a comprehensive framework designed to safeguard Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), can be complex and daunting. This is where a NIST 800-171 compliance consultant becomes an invaluable partner on your compliance journey. At Bright Defense,…
Read MoreNIST 800-171 Compliance for Small Business
Introduction Due to expanding regulations and growing risks, compliance is an increasingly important topic for small businesses. According to Accenture, 43% of all cyber attacks in 2023 targeted small businesses. If your organization handles sensitive data or does business with federal government agencies, you may consider the NIST 800-171 compliance framework to improve your security posture…
Read MoreSOC 2 vs. ISO 27001: Which Framework is Right for You?
Two significant frameworks often stand at the forefront of information security and compliance: SOC 2 and ISO 27001. Understanding the differences and similarities between these frameworks is crucial for organizations striving to enhance their data security and earn the trust of stakeholders. This extensive comparison explores the purposes, scopes, applications, and benefits of SOC 2…
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