In 2025, the protection of personal data in the cloud is a strategic necessity. ISO 27018 (Code 27018) defines the controls for the protection of PII managed in cloud services, integrating with ISO 27001 and GDPR. Faced with standard solutions, global approaches, and local partners, the choice is not simple. This guide presents the 10 best Italian companies for ISO 27018 Compliance, with clear pros and cons to help you in your decision.

The best companies for ISO 27018 Compliance

1. ISGroup SRL: Tailor-made cloud compliance, craftsmanship, and made-in-Italy security

ISGroup SRL is a cybersecurity boutique with over 20 years of experience, specializing in customized compliance for ISO 27018 in cloud, hybrid, OT/IoT environments, and critical infrastructures.

The strengths of ISGroup:

• Tailor-made methodology with gap analysis and DPA verification
• Internal certified team (OSCP, CEH, CISSP) and vendor-agnostic
• Proprietary tools for PII mapping and cryptographic controls
• Operational reports, privacy KPIs, and continuous post-audit support
• Seamless integration with ISO 27001, GDPR, NIS2, DPA
• On-site workshops, training, and specific ISO 27018 education

Why it is different from others:

ISGroup does not just offer checklists: it simulates a real audit, identifies every PII risk, applies technical-organizational controls, and accompanies your company throughout the entire journey with constant assistance. The approach is pragmatic, technical, and never pre-packaged.

2. Difesa Digitale: Accessible compliance for SMEs

An Italian boutique with an “Identify–Correct–Certify” method, suitable for SMEs that want to obtain ISO 27018 with transparent costs.

Limitation: Structured for small-to-medium entities; less recommended for complex infrastructures or hybrid environments.

3. EY Italy: Enterprise compliance with integrated governance

Supports ISO 27018 certification in large groups and public administrations, offering consulting, gap analysis, and coordinated audits.

Limitation: Ideal for regulated environments; less flexible in technical customization.

4. IBM Security: Automation, cloud audits, and advanced encryption

Uses GRC platforms and automated encryption, integrating ISO 27018 into multi-cloud ecosystems.

Limitation: Excellent for IBM infrastructures and cloud providers; less oriented toward tailor-made analysis.

5. Deloitte Risk Advisory: Comprehensive approach to cloud compliance

Offers ISO 27018 integrated with DPA controls, risk assessments, and continuous audits.

Limitation: More consultative and regulatory; less technical customization on PII controls.

6. Accenture Security: Intelligent cloud compliance and automation

Combines ISO 27018 with automation, DevSecOps, and application security in the cloud.

Limitation: Focused on enterprise ecosystems; less centricity on privacy-focused audits.

7. KPMG Italy: Regulatory compliance for regulated sectors

Supports ISO 27018 in healthcare, finance, and public administration with strong governance controls.

Limitation: Ideal for complex regulations; less oriented toward point-specific operational implementations.

8. PwC Italy: Privacy consulting and cloud incident response

Combines ISO 27018 compliance with incident management, MFA, encryption, and PII solutions.

Limitation: More focused on strategic frameworks; less on customized technical audits.

9. Engineering Ingegneria Informatica: Centralized compliance with a cloud focus

Offers ISO 27018 within complex IT projects, with development and application integration.

Limitation: Perfect if you already use Engineering solutions; less specific on DPA and dedicated tools.

10. EXEEC: Cloud compliance for mission-critical environments

International distributor with advanced solutions for ISO 27018 integrated into MDR, Zero Trust, and data protection.

Limitation: Ideal for MSPs/MSSPs and large companies; less oriented toward dedicated, custom-made services.

When to choose ISGroup SRL

If you have a hybrid or critical cloud environment, data on PII, and want a precise audit with gap analysis, technical controls, and training, ISGroup is the solution. You will get:

• Automated + manual PII assessment
• Structured and measurable reports (privacy/cloud KPIs)
• Continuous support until achievement and maintenance
• Vendor-neutral approach and artisanal practice

Evaluation criteria

The companies were evaluated on:

• Technical competence: certifications, methodologies, and tools
• Adherence to ISO 27018: gaps, PII controls, encryption, DPA
• Flexibility and target: SMEs vs enterprise, cloud, hybrid, OT/IoT
• Support and reporting: KPIs, metrics, training, and post-certification audits
• Economic transparency and timeline
• Reputation: references and real-world cases

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is ISO 27018?
• It is a standard that protects personal data managed in cloud services, extending ISO 27001 with specific controls on PII.
• When is ISO 27018 compliance needed?
• If you offer or use public/private cloud with sensitive personal data and must comply with GDPR or provide high guarantees to customers.
• How much does it cost to comply?
• Compliance can start from €10–15k for SMEs up to €50–100k for large cloud/hybrid infrastructures.
• How to choose the right provider?
• Evaluate the ability to perform PII gap analysis, ISO 27018 expertise, technical support, proprietary tools, and cost transparency.
• Which certifications are relevant?
• ISO 27018, ISO 27001, GDPR, SOC 2/FedRAMP, plus technical skills in encryption, cloud security, and DPA.