SOC 3 Audit
SOC 3 reports provide assurance regarding an organization's internal controls and make the report public. Unlike SOC 1 and SOC 2 reports, SOC 3 is intended for general use and distribution. These audits focus on all key aspects: security, availability, confidentiality, privacy, and processing integrity.​
What is a SOC 3 audit?
A SOC 3 audit is a thorough evaluation of an organization's internal controls related to security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, or privacy. It aims to provide assurance to a wide audience about the effectiveness of these controls over a specific timeframe.
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Unlike the more detailed SOC 2 audit, a SOC 3 report is meant for general distribution. Organizations can share it freely with customers, potential clients, and the public without requiring non-disclosure agreements.
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The SOC 3 audit produces a concise report that offers a high-level overview of a service organization's system and the adequacy of its controls. It's particularly valuable for organizations wanting to showcase their commitment to security and privacy without revealing sensitive system information.
Benefits of a SOC 3 audit
Undergoing a SOC 3 audit offers several advantages for service organizations:
Enhanced credibility
A SOC 3 report demonstrates a commitment to security and privacy, enhancing trust among stakeholders.
Marketing advantage
The ability to freely distribute the report and use the SOC 3 logo provides a competitive edge in the marketplace.
Simplified communication
The concise nature of SOC 3 reports makes it easier to convey security assurance to non-technical audiences.
Broad applicability
SOC 3 reports are suitable for a wide range of industries and can meet various regulatory requirements.
Complementary to SOC 2
Organizations can leverage the same audit process to obtain both SOC 2 and SOC 3 reports, maximizing the value of their investment.
SOC 3 vs. SOC 2 - key differences
SOC 2 and SOC 3 audits both assess an organization's controls, but they differ in several important ways. SOC 3 reports are for general use and can be shared openly, while SOC 2 reports have restricted distribution due to their detailed nature. SOC 3 reports provide a high-level summary, whereas SOC 2 reports offer in-depth information about controls and test procedures.
The intended audience for SOC 3 is broader, including those who may not have technical expertise. In contrast, SOC 2 is designed for users with sufficient knowledge of the service organization's system. The structure of SOC 3 reports only includes the auditor's opinion and a brief system description, while SOC 2 reports contain detailed descriptions of controls and test results. Additionally, SOC 3 only offers Type 2 reports covering a period of time, while SOC 2 has both Type 1 (point-in-time) and Type 2 options.
How we can help you?
At ITGRC Advisory Ltd., we specialize in guiding organizations through the SOC 3 audit process. Our team of experts offers comprehensive audit preparation, helping you assess your current controls, identify gaps, and implement necessary improvements before the audit. We ensure efficient audit execution, with our experienced auditors conducting thorough examinations while minimizing disruption to your operations.
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We produce clear, concise, and professional SOC 3 reports that effectively communicate your security posture to stakeholders. Our ongoing support provides guidance on maintaining and improving your controls beyond the audit period. For organizations seeking both SOC 2 and SOC 3 reports, we offer a streamlined process to maximize efficiency and value.
Stay in touch
ITGRC ADVISORY LTD.
590 Kingston Road, London,
United Kingdom, SW20 8DN
​company number: 12435469
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