There have been a lot of very high-profile news stories about cyber attacks, ransomware, and general data security breaches in the last few years. And they are increasing as more people and companies digitalise their lives and their businesses.
No company is immune to cyber attacks, but it is vital that all companies take steps to protect themselves. This is particularly relevant to telecoms and especially to BSS.
When you consider the type of information that is contained and managed in a BSS, we can see that there is a great deal of sensitive and confidential customer and company information here. Customer details, financial information, phone numbers called, data used are all stored in BSS. It also provides the ability to switch on or off different telecoms services as well as to send messages to customers. As CSPs (Communication Service Providers) move into new business areas such as telehealth and smart cities with 5G, the variety and volume of information that BSS manages will increase.
CSPs need an extensive Information Security Management System (ISMS) for BSS that needs independent validation and certification. An ISO 27001 compliant ISMS provides higher and safer levels of information security through the implementation of standardised and measurable information security policies, practises, and guidelines.
I am pleased to report that Qvantel’s ISMS is ISO 27001 certified, covering the security of the entire company and its support functions. This provides benefits such as:
- Increased resilience against cyber security threats
- Increased confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information assets
- Secure and collaborative processes and controls
- Increased levels of personal security awareness and confidence
- Secure continuous improvement and risk management
Qvantel started a three-year certification cycle of the ISO standard in 2020 when we passed the Initial Certification audit. This was followed up with the successful completion of the first Surveillance Audit in 2021, which will be followed by a second Surveillance Audit in Q4 2022. With our strong commitment to security and integrity, Qvantel continues to ensure that a vital security system is in place, enabling our customers to build their future success on this solid foundation.
Paavo Sammalisto
Program Manager - Information Security
