Is Your Company TISAX Certified Yet?

Like many sectors, the automotive industry is rapidly becoming digitalized. And with digital transformation comes data and cybersecurity concerns. This is why TISAX, an information security assessment and certification program for the automotive sector based on ISO 27001, was introduced. Is your company certified yet?

The automotive industry is undergoing a digital transition: autonomous vehicles, explosion of multimedia options behind the wheel, and the success of electric motors. These new technologies and the digital transformation of the supply chain are driving a revolution in security and compliance.

Automotive manufacturers have no choice but to secure the colossal networks of their international suppliers and protect all involved data—an immensely complex task. To address these growing challenges, the industry has found a common solution: the Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange (TISAX).

Why TISAX?

Automotive manufacturers collaborate with numerous partners and suppliers for the design, production, and distribution of their vehicles. In doing so, they exchange confidential information, such as new models. If this valuable data isn’t properly protected, it can be lost, altered, or even stolen. Therefore, manufacturers rigorously select each new partner, even for marketing and sales activities.

What is TISAX For?

TISAX is a common assessment and exchange mechanism that extends beyond the automotive industry. This trademark of the ENX association was developed under the direction of the VDA (German Automotive Industry Association) to ensure impeccable information security levels. TISAX ensures standardization, quality assurance, and mutual recognition of information security audits according to ISO 27001 standards. The main objectives are to guarantee secure information processing by business partners, protect prototypes, and comply with GDPR conditions.

Who Must Comply with TISAX?

Any company wishing to do business with key entities in the German, and by extension European, automotive industry must apply for TISAX accreditation. This rule applies to all automotive companies and service providers handling confidential data. This includes all information that could identify individuals or vehicles, such as customer data, worker data, and technical details. Additionally, it includes all information about development or production processes that competitors could potentially use to gain a competitive advantage.

What Are the Benefits of TISAX Certification?

1. Industry-wide Recognition: Recognized throughout the automotive industry, TISAX certification ensures information security across the supply chain.
2. Better Market Position: Automotive industry companies increasingly require their suppliers to comply with TISAX. Your company is better positioned in the market with TISAX certification.
3. Enhanced Cybersecurity: The cybersecurity measures required for certification are likely to benefit your company overall. You’ll improve data security not only for your partners but also for your own company.
4. Customer Trust: The additional assurance provided by TISAX compliance strengthens partner and customer trust, improves your company’s overall image, and potentially gives you a competitive advantage. Renewal of contracts with existing suppliers will also be simplified.

TISAX Requirements

What are the conditions for obtaining TISAX certification? Many requirements stem from ISO 27001 and NIS2 legislation. Some examples include:

• Implementation of a reliable information management system, including risk assessment and reduction
• Application of secure software development practices
• Adherence to information security best practices
• Ensuring secure IT infrastructure
• Establishment of incident response and disaster recovery plans
• Implementation of appropriate security measures and controls
• Conducting frequent security reviews
• Compliance with relevant legal and regulatory mandates (including GDPR)

Aja Consulting can help make your company TISAX compliant. Contact us without obligation. Our consultants are at your service.