Information security plays a central role in today’s automotive industry. Manufacturers and suppliers exchange sensitive data on a daily basis and the security of this information is of paramount importance. This is where TISAX® (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) comes into play, an established standard that ensures that information security in the automotive industry is guaranteed at the highest level. Assessment levels 2 and 3 in particular are often the focus of attention. But what is the difference between these two levels and which one is relevant for your company?
TISAX® Level 2: The need for high protection
TISAX® Level 2 offers an advanced level of protection and is based on a self-assessment using the VDA-ISA questionnaire. This self-assessment is reviewed by an external auditor, which includes both a telephone interview and a document review, usually remotely. Companies that select Level 2 have a high, but not extreme, need for protection. This applies in particular to the exchange of sensitive information within established processes. Remote audits are an advantage here, as they increase flexibility and minimize the effort for the company. By using digital tools and remote audits, companies can respond quickly and efficiently to security concerns without the need for physical inspections. This saves time and resources and enables continuous adaptation of security measures.
TISAX® Level 3: The need for very high protection
TISAX® Level 3 is a completely different matter, with significantly higher requirements. In addition to the self-assessment and document review by the auditor, on-site inspections and live interviews are also required here. This intensive review at various locations enables a detailed assessment of the information security management system (ISMS). Companies with a very high need for protection, especially when processing highly sensitive or confidential data, should consider Level 3. On-site inspections offer the opportunity to directly experience the security measures and assess their effectiveness. Such inspections and interviews help to verify the actual implementation of security measures and uncover potential weaknesses. They also offer the opportunity to evaluate and strengthen the company’s security culture.
Costs and preparations
The cost of a TISAX® audit depends on many factors. These include the number of locations of the company and the complexity of the existing ISMS. Thorough preparation is particularly important for Level 3. Comprehensive optimizations and measures must be implemented before the audit in order to meet the requirements. These preparations can be time-consuming, but are essential to ensure successful certification. Companies should therefore plan early and take all the necessary steps. This includes training employees and implementing new security processes to meet the high standards. A well-designed training program can significantly increase the efficiency of security measures and bring employees’ knowledge up to date.
Why is TISAX® important?
Although TISAX® is not legally binding, it is essential for cooperation with major automotive manufacturers. Without the certification, a business relationship with these partners is often not possible. TISAX® is therefore essential for many companies in the industry. Compliance with TISAX® standards not only ensures the security of a company’s own information, but also strengthens trust throughout the entire supply chain. This can represent a decisive competitive advantage. In addition, TISAX® certification demonstrates to the public and customers that the company adheres to the highest security standards and is prepared to invest in the security of its data.
Conclusion
The choice between TISAX® Level 2 and Level 3 should be carefully considered based on the organization’s specific security requirements and internal processes. It is important to carefully evaluate your own needs and consider which level offers the best security standards. In any case, companies in the automotive sector should discuss the relevant levels with their business partners to ensure that they meet the necessary standards. Early and comprehensive preparation for the TISAX® audit is the key to successful certification and a future-proof business relationship within the automotive sector. Strategic planning and implementation of the necessary measures will not only increase security, but also strengthen the company for future challenges and partnerships.
