What is security standards?

Security standards are a set of rules, guidelines, and best practices designed to protect information and systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They often include technical, administrative, and physical safeguards. Common security standards include ISO 27001 (Information Security Management), NIST Cybersecurity Framework, PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard), HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), and GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). These standards help organizations establish a baseline of security controls, assess risks, and demonstrate compliance to stakeholders.