The SCF Conformity Assessment Program (SCF CAP) provides company-level cybersecurity conformity assessments. It is possible to become certified using SCF controls. For example, SCF Certified for NIST CSF 2.0, SCF Certified for HIPAA Security Rule, and more. The Cyber AB is the Accreditation Body (AB) for the SCF CAP.
The SCF CAP exists to leverage SCF content to provide a company-level certification through a conformity assessment process. The Cyber AB is the Accreditation Body (AB) for the SCF CAP.
As a metaframework, the SCF CAP allows for a singular certification approach to cybersecurity and data protection requirements. The certification is designed to signify a real accomplishment, rather than be viewed as a “participation ribbon” with little practical value for the Organization Seeking Assessment (OSA) or its stakeholders.
The SCF CAP is designed for cybersecurity and privacy practitioners, by cybersecurity and data privacy practitioners. Key principles include: view compliance as a natural by-product of secure practices; scale to address multifaceted operational requirements simultaneously; acknowledge the stated risk tolerance of the OSA; minimize the risk of “gaming” the certification process; utilize technology to reduce labor-related assessment costs; and leverage existing, industry-recognized assessment practices.
The SCF CAP utilizes an examine, interview, and test assessment methodology to demonstrate conformity with multiple requirements simultaneously. This approach allows the SCF CAP to scale to cover multiple requirements in a single assessment. For example, it can demonstrate conformity with NIST CSF, HIPAA, and EU GDPR as part of one engagement rather than three separate assessments.
The SCF CAP also allows an organization to specify the statutory, regulatory, and contractual obligations that are applicable, establishing a Minimum Security Requirements (MSR) control set tailored to the organization’s specific obligations.
SCF CAP Body of Knowledge
Download the SCF CAP Body of Knowledge (PDF) for a comprehensive overview of the assessment methodology, accreditation requirements, and program structure.
The following SCF-based certifications are available through the SCF CAP. See the SCF Assessment Guides for detailed assessment criteria and control scoping for each certification.
There are several key players in the SCF CAP Ecosystem that are worth highlighting. Together, they form a complete, governed conformity assessment infrastructure. The ecosystem includes 3PAOs, ASPs, RPOs, OSAs, ACIs, LTPs, and LCPs.
Independent organizations authorized to conduct SCF CAP conformity assessments. 3PAOs are accredited by The Cyber AB and must maintain qualified SCF Assessor personnel.
Consulting and advisory organizations registered to provide SCF implementation, advisory, and SCF CAP preparation services to Organizations Seeking Assessment.
Organizations licensed to incorporate SCF content into their commercial products, tools, and platforms under the SCF licensing program.
