Strengthening Trust with the New ISO/IEC 29100:2024 Privacy Framework
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Oct 9
- 3 min read
At PINO Switzerland, we believe that privacy is not just a legal obligation, but a cornerstone of trust between organizations and the people they serve. The newly updated ISO/IEC 29100:2024 Privacy Framework represents an important step forward in how institutions manage personal data responsibly and transparently.
This international framework sets the foundation for building privacy programs that are clear, auditable, and adaptable to modern technologies. As an independent inspection body, PINO Switzerland welcomes this update as a strong reference for evaluating privacy compliance and ethical information handling.
A Modern Framework for a Data-Driven World
The ISO/IEC 29100 Privacy Framework was first created to help organizations of all sizes establish a clear structure for managing personally identifiable information (PII). It provides principles, terminology, and practical guidance that help align privacy practices across borders.
The 2024 edition of the framework brings the document fully into the era of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and global digital ecosystems. The new version adds sharper definitions, stronger emphasis on risk-based management, and better integration with security controls to reflect today’s interconnected environment.
The goal is simple but vital: to help organizations protect privacy in every stage of the data lifecycle — from collection to disposal — while remaining transparent and accountable.
Key Highlights of the 2024 Update
The revised ISO/IEC 29100 introduces several key improvements that make it more practical for implementation and auditing:
Risk-Based ApproachOrganizations are now expected to assess the likelihood and potential impact of privacy risks before choosing controls. This ensures proportional protection and efficient use of resources.
Enhanced Security IntegrationPrivacy and information security are now explicitly linked. The standard includes clearer instructions on safeguarding personal information through appropriate technical and organizational measures.
Clearer Roles and ResponsibilitiesThe new version clarifies what is expected from different parties who handle personal data, including controllers, processors, and third-party partners.
Alignment with Modern TechnologiesThe text now considers challenges from artificial intelligence, machine learning, and remote cloud systems, making the framework relevant to current and future trends.
Accountability and DocumentationThe update encourages organizations to maintain documented evidence of privacy decisions, risk assessments, and audits — essential for inspection and certification purposes.
Core Privacy Principles That Remain Central
While the new edition refines many aspects, it continues to uphold the same universal privacy principles that have made ISO/IEC 29100 a trusted global reference. These include:
Consent and individual choice
Purpose limitation
Data minimization
Accuracy and quality
Retention and use limitation
Transparency and openness
Security and accountability
These principles remain at the heart of every privacy program, serving as the ethical backbone for organizations aiming to protect personal data with integrity.
Why This Matters for Organizations
The ISO/IEC 29100 framework provides measurable benefits for any organization that processes personal data. By following it, organizations can:
Strengthen customer trust through transparent practices
Reduce legal and reputational risks
Demonstrate readiness for audits and inspections
Build consistency across international operations
Promote continuous improvement and privacy culture
In an age where data breaches and misuse can quickly damage public confidence, this framework offers a structured, internationally recognized way to show commitment to privacy and compliance.
The Role of Independent Inspection
As a private and independent inspection body, PINO Switzerland applies frameworks like ISO/IEC 29100 to support organizations in improving their systems through voluntary compliance assessments. Our inspections help identify areas of improvement, confirm good practice, and encourage continuous learning and enhancement.
Because PINO Switzerland operates independently and is not governed by any single authority, our audits emphasize transparency, fairness, and practical improvement rather than bureaucratic formality. We see each inspection as an opportunity to help organizations reach higher standards of trust and reliability.
Looking Ahead
Privacy is becoming one of the most defining topics of our time. The ISO/IEC 29100:2024 Privacy Framework will serve as a crucial guide for organizations looking to modernize their governance systems and align with evolving digital realities.
For PINO Switzerland, this update reinforces our long-standing belief that true quality is not imposed by law but achieved through voluntary excellence and professional responsibility. Privacy protection is a shared duty, and this framework gives every organization the tools to act responsibly.
Comments