As artificial intelligence (AI) adoption accelerates across industries, ensuring information security and ethical AI governance has become paramount.

According to our research, ‘81% of business leaders state their organization is already investing in artificial intelligence (AI).’ However, with this investment comes a host of new challenges, from managing operational risks to adhering to evolving regulations.

To aid organizations in addressing these challenges, we’ve developed a free AI and information security standard decision checklist.

Designed for decision-makers, consultants, and organizations exploring AI integration, this tool provides guidance on adopting ISO/IEC 42001 for Artificial Intelligence Management Systems (AIMS) or ISO/IEC 27001 for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS).

This checklist will help you identify which standard aligns best with your goals, ensuring that your AI initiatives are secure and responsibly managed.

Why information security matters in AI development

AI systems require large datasets to deliver accurate, high-quality outputs, which raises unique information security and privacy concerns.

ISO/IEC 27001 is an industry-leading framework for protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access, breaches, and data loss. It establishes a comprehensive management structure based on the principles of confidentiality, integrity, and availability, ensuring data is handled securely at every level.

Key ISO/IEC 27001 components

The ISO/IEC 27001 framework emphasizes:

• Organizational context: Understanding specific industry risks and operational factors.

• Central information security policies: Defining policies to guide security practices.

• Risk evaluation and treatment: Identifying and addressing security risks effectively.

• Resource allocation: Ensuring resources for maintaining and improving information security.

• Management involvement: Engaging leadership in continuous improvement of information security.

Learn more about ISO/IEC 27001 by reading our article Achieve better information security management with the revised BS EN ISO/IEC 27001.

Understanding AI risks with ISO/IEC 42001

With the growing focus on AI, ISO/IEC 42001 addresses the unique risks that AI technologies bring, providing an AIMS framework that promotes responsible AI governance across the AI lifecycle—from data collection to model deployment.

This standard aids in managing AI-specific risks such as model bias, decision transparency, and unintended social impacts.

Learn more about ISO/IEC 42001 by reading our article Maximizing the value of AI for society with BS EN ISO/IEC 42001.

Key considerations for AI security and governance

For organizations already utilizing ISO/IEC 27001, it’s essential to evaluate whether:

AI risks should be treated separately from traditional information security risks: AI introduces risks that go beyond data protection, affecting model integrity and decision-making processes.

Existing ISO/IEC 27001 controls are sufficient: AI’s unique challenges, such as model evasion and bias, may require additional controls provided by ISO/IEC 42001.

Determining your path: ISMS, AIMS, or both?

The decision to adopt ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, or a combination of both should be informed by your organization’s data maturity and readiness for AI integration.

For companies with robust data governance practices, ISO/IEC 42001 may provide the added structure needed for responsible AI management, while others may benefit from starting with the foundational security measures in ISO/IEC 27001.

Take the next step: Get your free copy of the checklist

Ready to secure your organization’s data and responsibly manage AI?

Our checklist walks you through these considerations, allowing you to assess your readiness and understand how each standard fits within your organization’s risk management and governance strategy.

Download our free AI and Information Security Standard Decision Interactive Checklist now to guide your strategy with ISO/IEC 42001 and ISO/IEC 27001.