As cloud technology evolves, so do the risks and standards to secure sensitive data. To address these growing challenges, Saudi Arabia’s National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) introduced its Cloud Cybersecurity Controls (CCC) back in 2020. This framework quickly became a baseline for securing cloud environments across the Kingdom. Now, with the release of NCA CCC 2 in 2024, there are updates that organizations need to know to stay compliant and protected. 

 

In this article, we’ll take a close look at what NCA CCC 2 is all about, what’s changed since the last version, and how companies can make sure they’re aligned with these new requirements.

 

What is NCA CCC 2?

 

NCA CCC 2 is a comprehensive set of guidelines for organizations operating cloud infrastructure within Saudi Arabia. Designed to enhance cloud security, CCC 2 expands on the foundational principles of NCA CCC to secure cloud environments against cyber threats, ensure data integrity, and protect user privacy. 

 

CCC 2 builds upon the 2020 release with targeted modifications, making the framework even more adaptable to modern, cloud-centric organizations.

 

By following NCA CCC 2, organizations ensure that their cloud operations meet Saudi Arabia’s standards for data security, disaster recovery, and incident response, making the framework a vital element in national cyber security efforts.

 

Key changes in NCA CCC 2

 

While the general structure of the CCC framework remains consistent, NCA CCC 2 includes some significant updates. Here are the most important changes:

 

1. Control adjustments

 

In the CCC 2 update, specific controls within the framework have been removed or renumbered to streamline and simplify requirements. These include:

 

• The controls 2-3-P-1-10 and 2-3-P-1-11 have been deleted.

 

• The control 2-3-P-1-12 has been renumbered to 2-3-P-1-10, reflecting adjustments in priority or alignment within the framework.

 

2. Operational changes for cloud service providers (CSPs)

 

One of the more impactful changes is the removal of the requirement for cloud service providers to store, process, and handle disaster recovery within Saudi Arabia. This adjustment allows cloud providers greater flexibility, enabling organizations to use a wider array of global cloud options without compromising compliance.

 

These changes indicate a more adaptable and streamlined approach, catering to evolving cloud environments while maintaining robust security standards.

 

 

How can you comply with NCA CCC 2?

 

NCA CCC 2 compliance is essential for any organization operating in Saudi Arabia. Here are some practical steps to help organizations align with the updated framework:

 

1. Understand the updated controls

 

Carefully review the changes within CCC 2 to determine which controls apply to your specific cloud operations. If your organization relied on the previously deleted controls (2-3-P-1-10 and 2-3-P-1-11), consult with internal cyber security teams to adapt your security posture accordingly.

 

2. Assess cloud storage and data location requirements

 

With the shift in data residency requirements, organizations have more flexibility in choosing cloud storage and disaster recovery locations. However, it’s essential to assess risks and ensure that data storage locations align with other legal and regulatory requirements, both within and outside Saudi Arabia.

 

3. Develop a compliance roadmap

 

Identify gaps between your current cloud setup and the requirements outlined in NCA CCC 2. Document and address each compliance gap, assigning priority levels to streamline efforts. Also, ensure your organization is fully compliant within a realistic timeline.

 

4. Regularly Monitor and Update Security Practices

 

Compliance doesn’t stop at implementation. Regularly update and audit your security practices as cyber security is continuously evolving. Maintaining compliance with frameworks like CCC 2 requires consistent monitoring.

 

5. Use automated GRC platforms

 

Leverage specialized compliance and risk management platforms like CyberArrow to simplify CCC 2 compliance. These tools can automate many compliance tasks, helping your team stay current with requirements and easing the audit process.

 

Simplify NCA CCC 2 compliance with CyberArrow

 

NCA CCC 2 compliance doesn’t have to be complex. CyberArrow can make compliance seamless and efficient with features that streamline the entire process. 

 

Key benefits of using CyberArrow for CCC 2 compliance include:

 

• Real-time compliance monitoring: Continuously tracks compliance status to ensure up-to-date security practices.

 

• Automated audit trails: Simplifies the audit process with detailed, automatically generated reports.

 

• Guided compliance checks: Provides easy-to-follow guidance on specific CCC 2 controls.

 

• Automated risk management: Identifies and mitigates compliance risks within your cloud environment.

 

• Dedicated support: Offers expert advice and support tailored to CCC 2 and other cyber security frameworks.

 

Don’t take our word for it; see what companies like Nahdi Medical say about CyberArrow: