The Secure Controls Framework (SCF) is a comprehensive meta-framework that unifies and streamlines compliance efforts across various laws, regulations, and industry standards. Acting as a “framework of frameworks,” the SCF simplifies the complex landscape of cybersecurity and data protection controls. By operationalizing these controls, it enables organizations to efficiently address both compliance obligations and security needs.
The SCF Conformity Assessment Program (SCF CAP) builds upon this foundation to provide certifications at both the organizational and individual levels. Designed to address statutory, regulatory, and contractual requirements, the SCF CAP sets a new standard for demonstrating a robust security posture. This program fosters collaboration among key stakeholders—including the SCF Council, SAICO, SCF Connect, and The Cyber AB—to ensure the ecosystem operates seamlessly and effectively.
The SCF Council is the governing body that oversees the development, maintenance, and evolution of the Secure Controls Framework. As the intellectual property owner of the SCF, the SCF Council ensures the framework remains current and aligned with emerging laws, regulations, and industry best practices. The SCF Council authorizes the types of certifications issued within the ecosystem and provides guidance to key stakeholders, including SAICO and The Cyber AB. By defining the standards and requirements for conformity assessments, the SCF Council ensures the ecosystem operates with consistency and rigor. Its governance enables the SCF CAP to address diverse compliance needs while maintaining a high level of trust and reliability across all participants. The SCF Council’s strategic leadership is essential to the success and credibility of the SCF Ecosystem.
Cyber AB's Exclusive Role in SCF Accreditation
As the designated Accreditation Body (AB) for SCF CAP, The Cyber AB plays a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity and credibility of the certification process. The Cyber AB is responsible for accrediting SCF Third-Party Assessment Organizations (SCF 3PAOs) and overseeing the governance of conflicts of interest within the program. This collaboration ensures that SCF certifications are more than just participation acknowledgments—they signify a genuine achievement in demonstrating a strong security posture.
The Cyber AB's global reach and expertise elevate the SCF CAP, making third-party assessments streamlined and standardized through the use of the Cybersecurity & Data Protection Assessment Standards (CDPAS). By focusing on third-party validation, The Cyber AB supports organizations in managing digital risks more effectively while enhancing trust and confidence in cybersecurity certifications.
The SCF Council and The Cyber AB partnership set a new benchmark for cybersecurity and data protection assessments. Attaining an “SCF Certified” credential reflects not only compliance but also a robust and transparent security posture. With a planned rollout in the first half of 2025, this program represents a forward-thinking approach to cybersecurity certification, simplifying complex requirements while upholding rigorous standards.
The SAICO serves as a cornerstone of the SCF Ecosystem, focusing on individual-level certifications and ensuring the successful implementation of SCF standards across various stakeholders. As the entity responsible for training and certifying professionals, the SAICO develops and maintains comprehensive training materials tailored to roles such as SCF Practitioner, SCF Assessor, and SCF Trainer. By equipping individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills, the SAICO enables them to contribute effectively to organizational compliance efforts. Additionally, the SAICO conducts conformity assessments for SCF Authorized Platform Organizations (APOs) to certify their tools and platforms as meeting SCF standards. These efforts, combined with a robust quality assurance program, ensure the integrity of both individual certifications and APO assessments. Through its innovative and rigorous processes, the SAICO plays a pivotal role in upholding the credibility of the SCF Ecosystem.
SCF Connect serves as the centralized data repository for the SCF Ecosystem, providing a single source of truth for all SCF-related assessment data and processes. This proprietary platform facilitates the implementation of SCF standards by offering tailored digital control sets, managing certification workflows, and maintaining a secure, transparent registry of certifications and final assessments. SCF Connect also supports the generation of Reports on Conformity (ROCs) and integrates seamlessly with APO systems to ensure alignment with SCF requirements. By centralizing these critical functions, SCF Connect enhances operational efficiency, ensures data integrity, and fosters collaboration among all ecosystem participants. For more information about SCF CAP and Cyber AB's role, visit Secure Controls Framework.