Introduction to TISAX and Its Significance in the Automotive Sector
Today’s automotive industry is undergoing an unprecedented digital transformation that is fundamentally changing the way vehicles are designed, manufactured and operated. Modern cars are no longer just mechanical means of transport, but advanced data centres on wheels, containing up to 150 electronic control units (ECUs) and over 100 million lines of code. This technological revolution, including autonomous vehicles, connected car solutions, electrification and new mobility concepts (such as autonomous cars), brings with it new challenges related to Information Security.
In response to these challenges, the German Association of the Automotive Industry VDA (Verband der Automobilindustrie), in cooperation with the ENX Association, created the TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) standard in 2017. This standard was developed to address the growing need to protect confidential information exchanged in the complex supply chains of the automotive sector.
TISAX is not just another cybersecurity standard, but a comprehensive mechanism for assessing and exchanging the results of Information Security audits, enabling original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), suppliers and service providers to demonstrate their competencies in data protection. The standard has gained international recognition and has become a de facto requirement for companies wishing to cooperate with leading global automotive corporations.
What Is TISAX and Why It Is Critical for the Automotive Industry
TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) is a standardised method of assessing Information Security, specifically designed to meet the needs of the automotive industry. This standard is based on the ISA (Information Security Assessment) catalogue developed by the VDA, which in turn is grounded in international standards ISO/IEC 27001 and ISO/IEC 27002, while also incorporating additional requirements specific to the automotive sector.
Key features of TISAX include an Information Security Management System (ISMS), prototype protection, GDPR compliance, and mechanisms for sharing audit results among industry participants. This standard was designed to address the specific needs of the automotive industry, where the exchange of confidential information relating to projects, production data and technologies is an everyday occurrence.
The importance of TISAX stems from the fact that modern vehicles contain an increasing number of IT systems and software, which exposes them to new types of cyber threats. According to UNECE forecasts, digital systems in OEM vehicles will contain up to 300 million lines of code by 2030. This technological complexity demands appropriate safeguards at every stage of the supply chain.
The TISAX standard addresses these challenges by establishing a uniform level of Information Security across the entire automotive sector. As a result, manufacturers can be confident that their suppliers and business partners apply the necessary data protection measures, which is critical for maintaining competitiveness and regulatory Compliance.
Benefits of TISAX Implementation for Organisations
Implementing TISAX certification provides organisations with a range of significant benefits that go beyond simply meeting regulatory requirements. The first and most important benefit is increased trust from business partners and access to new markets. Organisations holding a TISAX certificate can demonstrate their reliability in terms of data protection, which is increasingly required by automotive groups as a condition of cooperation.
Operational efficiency is another key benefit. TISAX helps avoid duplicated security audits for different clients, resulting in significant time and cost savings. Through standardised assessment processes, organisations can undergo a single audit and share its results with multiple business partners, eliminating the need for separate audits for each client.
Strengthening competitive positioning is also a vital benefit of TISAX certification. In a sector where Information Security is becoming a key differentiator, holding a TISAX certificate may be a decisive factor when selecting a supplier. Certified organisations demonstrate a proactive approach to cybersecurity, which is particularly valued in the context of growing cyber threats.
Improving internal security processes is a long-term benefit of TISAX implementation. The standard requires the implementation of a comprehensive Information Security Management System, which leads to an increased overall level of organisational security. Regular audits and continuous monitoring of security processes contribute to ongoing improvement and adaptation to emerging threats.
Legal Compliance, including with GDPR, is also an important benefit. TISAX takes into account the requirements for personal data protection, helping organisations meet their legal obligations in this area. This is particularly important in the context of increasing penalties for personal data protection breaches.
Levels of Maturity and TISAX Compliance
The TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) system operates based on a maturity model that defines five levels of implementation for Information Security processes. Each level represents a different degree of sophistication and effectiveness of the data protection mechanisms in place.
Level 0
This indicates no implementation of required security processes. Organisations at this level do not have documented procedures or Information Security control mechanisms, rendering them insufficient to achieve TISAX certification.
Level 1
represents an initial implementation stage, where the organisation has basic security processes but implements them on an ad hoc basis without a systematic approach. Process documentation may be incomplete or ineffective.
Level 2
features repeatable security processes. Organisations at this level have documented procedures and control mechanisms, but may lack consistency of implementation across all organisational levels.
Level 3
is the minimum requirement for most TISAX assessment objectives. At this level organisations have defined and consistently implemented Information Security processes that are effectively monitored and controlled. All required procedures are documented and regularly updated.
Level 4
represents managed security processes, where the organisation not only implements the required mechanisms but also actively monitors their effectiveness and undertakes improvements based on collected data and metrics.
Level 5
indicates optimised security processes, where the organisation continuously improves its data protection mechanisms based on industry best practices and innovative technological solutions.
Assessment Objectives and TISAX Audit Levels
TISAX defines twelve assessment objectives that determine the scope and requirements of the audit depending on the type of data processed and the nature of the organisation. These objectives cover handling of information with high and very high protection needs, in terms of both confidentiality and availability.
Confidentiality objectives include handling of information classified as “Confidential” and “Strictly confidential”. The former relates to information with a high need for confidentiality protection, while the latter pertains to data with a very high need for protection.
Availability objectives are divided into “High availability” and “Very high availability”. These apply to organisations whose customers depend on the availability of their products or services, where system failure could result in significant harm in a short time.
Prototype protection is a specific TISAX assessment area, covering objectives such as protection of prototype parts (Proto parts), prototype vehicles (Proto vehicles), test vehicles (Test vehicles) and prototype protection at events (Proto events).
Personal data protection objectives include processing under GDPR article 28 (Data) and processing of special categories of personal data (Special data). These objectives are particularly relevant in the context of increasing legal requirements for privacy protection.
TISAX also distinguishes three audit levels that determine the intensity and depth of the assessment process. Level 1 (AL1) involves mainly organisational self-assessment without external verification. Level 2 (AL2) introduces validation of the self-assessment by an accredited auditor, typically in a remote format. Level 3 (AL3) is the most comprehensive audit, involving detailed on-site verification and observation of the implementation of security processes.
Challenges and Difficulties in the Certification Process
The TISAX certification process presents a range of challenges that organisations must overcome to successfully implement the standard and obtain certification. A key challenge is defining and implementing comprehensive security controls, which require a deep understanding of TISAX requirements and the ability to handle diverse cyber security threats.
Achieving the required maturity level 3 for most assessment objectives is highly demanding, particularly for smaller organisations that may lack the resources or experience to implement advanced Information Security Management Systems. This requires not only technical implementation but also cultural change and senior management engagement at all levels.
Aligning the scope of the TISAX assessment with an existing Information Security Management System (ISMS) can be specifically complex for organisations already certified to ISO 27001. Integration of these systems demands careful planning and may be challenging for specialist firms or those with complex organisational structures.
The extensive documentation requirements of TISAX can overwhelm organisations that are not prepared for detailed documentation of their security measures. Auditors expect clear evidence of implementation and adherence to all required procedures, which demands a systematic approach to documentation management.
The continuous cycle of audits and overlapping regulations can lead to audit fatigue, while the financial and logistical pressure of certification costs can present additional strain. Organisations must also manage evolving regulatory and technological requirements, necessitating continual adaptation of security processes.
Costs and Factors Influencing TISAX Implementation
The costs of TISAX certification vary widely and depend on numerous factors, requiring organisations to carefully plan their budget for the process. Overall certification costs may range from approximately 10 000 euros for smaller firms to 50 000–200 000 euros for larger organisations.
Ongoing certification costs include a registration fee of around 500 euros per location and external auditor fees, typically between 5 000 and 10 000 euros depending on the audit level. Additionally, organisations must consider operational costs related to audit preparation, such as implementation, modernisation or configuration of the Information Security Management System.
The assessment scope of the organisation significantly affects costs as each part of the business handling confidential partner data must be included in scope. A larger scope means more resources are needed for implementation and audit, directly increasing costs.
The number of locations also impacts total certification costs. If the organisation operates in multiple sites, especially across different countries, each location requires an individual audit, which increases complexity and costs. Organisations may consider a group TISAX audit as a cost-saving alternative, but this requires meeting certain prerequisites.
The nature and number of business processes also determine costs. Firms producing complex components, such as engines, have more processes requiring review, leading to higher audit costs. Simpler operations, like steering wheel manufacturing, generally have fewer requirements and therefore lower certification costs.
IT modernisation may represent a significant portion of cost if the organisation needs to upgrade legacy technology to meet TISAX standards. These costs may run into several thousand euros or more, depending on the scale of required improvements.
Implementation Steps for TISAX – A Comprehensive Implementation Process
Implementing TISAX certification is a complex process requiring systematic planning. Patronusec, with many years of experience in cyber security and Compliance, has developed a proven TISAX implementation methodology that covers all crucial aspects of this demanding standard.
Step 1 – Initial Analysis and Strategic Planning
The first stage involves a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the organisation’s Information Security. This phase is critical to identify gaps between existing processes and TISAX requirements. Analysis should include detailed mapping of all organisational processes, identification of IT systems, evaluation of existing security procedures and definition of certification scope.
In this phase it is also necessary to define the TISAX assessment objectives that will determine the requirements for the Information Security Management System. Organisations must thoroughly analyse the type of data processed and the level of protection required by business partners. Patronusec assists clients in this process, utilising its experience working with diverse organisations in the automotive sector.
Strategic planning also includes determining the budget, implementation timeline and human resources needed. Organisations must appoint a project team responsible for coordinating activities and communicating with external auditors. Senior management commitment is essential for successful standard implementation.
Step 2 – Implementation of the Information Security Management System
The second step involves implementing or upgrading an existing Information Security Management System according to TISAX requirements. This stage requires detailed understanding of the ISA (Information Security Assessment) catalogue and implementation of all required security controls. This process is particularly complex as TISAX is based on ISO 27001 but includes additional requirements specific to the automotive sector.
Implementation involves creating Information Security policies, operational procedures, business continuity plans and risk management mechanisms. Organisations must also deploy appropriate technical controls such as access control systems, encryption mechanisms, security monitoring systems and backup procedures. Each control must be tailored to the organisation’s specifics and TISAX requirements.
Special attention must be paid to prototype protection, a unique element of TISAX. Organisations must implement special procedures for handling, storing and transporting prototypes and confidential product development information. This includes physical security, access controls in production areas and procedures for disposing of prototype materials.
GDPR Compliance is another key element of implementation, requiring detailed understanding of personal data protection regulations and implementation of appropriate control mechanisms. Organisations must introduce personal data processing procedures, consent management, data subject rights and breach notification procedures.
Step 3 – Audit Preparation and Self Assessment
The third step involves preparing the organisation for an external audit and conducting a self assessment according to TISAX requirements. Self assessment is key in the certification process as it forms the basis for the external audit and enables the organisation to evaluate the maturity level of its security processes.
Audit preparation requires complete documentation of all implemented security controls and preparation of evidence of their effectiveness. Organisations must collect policies, operational procedures, security test reports, audit logs and employee training records. Each document must be current, complete and accessible to the auditor.
Self assessment covers evaluating the maturity level for each control question in the relevant ISA criteria. Organisations must honestly assess their security processes, identifying areas for improvement before external audit. This requires involvement of multiple departments and deep understanding of TISAX requirements.
Training the audit team is as important as documenting processes. Employees involved must be trained in TISAX requirements, audit procedures and their role in the assessment. It is crucial to prepare an audit schedule that accounts for availability of key personnel and locations requiring assessment.
Step 4 – External Audit and Process Optimisation
The fourth and final step involves carrying out an external TISAX audit by an accredited provider and implementing corrective actions for identified non conformities. The external audit is conducted by an independent auditor who assesses the organisation’s compliance with TISAX requirements and issues an official assessment report.
The audit starts with an opening meeting where the auditor explains the scope and methodology. Then a detailed review of implemented security controls takes place, which may include documentation review, employee interviews, observation of operational processes and technical testing of IT systems. The auditor evaluates not only the existence of controls but also their effectiveness and TISAX compliance.
If non conformities are identified, the organisation must develop a corrective action plan addressing all findings. The plan must include detailed remedial actions, implementation timeline, responsible persons and monitoring mechanisms. Effective implementation requires engagement of the entire organisation and management support.
After implementing corrective actions an additional follow up audit may be required to confirm their effectiveness. Only after successfully completing the auditing process does the organisation receive the official TISAX certificate and relevant labels for sharing with business partners.
Optimisation of processes post certification is as important as certification itself. Organisations must maintain implemented security processes, regularly update them and prepare for recertification, which is required every three years. Patronusec offers support in this respect, helping organisations maintain TISAX Compliance and continuously improve their Information Security processes.
The Importance of Specialist Advisory in Implementation
The complexity of TISAX implementation means that organisations often require specialist advisory to successfully navigate all certification stages. Advisory for TISAX requires not only deep technical knowledge but also practical experience working with diverse automotive organisations.
Our TISAX Experts at Patronusec bring many years of knowledge and practical experience, helping avoid common pitfalls and mistakes. They understand not only TISAX requirements but also the automotive sector specifics and external auditor expectations. This expertise is invaluable when interpreting TISAX requirements and implementing them in real world organisations.
Time efficiency is another key benefit of working with specialists. Our consultants identify the most direct path to certification, helping organisations avoid unnecessary tasks and focus on the most important implementation elements. This can significantly reduce certification time and lower overall costs.
Support in communication with external auditors is also a valuable aspect of specialist advisory. Our advisors (who are also auditors) understand auditor expectations and can prepare the organisation for effective communication during the audit. This can greatly influence the audit process and outcomes.
Continuity of support post certification is as important as the implementation itself. Our advisors assist organisations in maintaining TISAX Compliance, preparing for recertification and adapting to evolving standard requirements. This long term partnership is particularly valuable in the context of a rapidly changing Information Security landscape.
Summary and the Future of TISAX
TISAX now forms the foundation of Information Security within the automotive industry – establishing consistent standards for data protection across the entire supply chain. The standard effectively addresses the growing cybersecurity challenges associated with the digital transformation of the automotive sector and the increasing complexity of modern vehicles.
The future of TISAX will be shaped by the continued evolution of automotive technologies – including autonomous vehicles, enhanced connectivity, and new data-driven business models. The standard will need to evolve to meet emerging cyber threats and shifting regulatory demands. Further harmonisation of TISAX with other cybersecurity standards is expected – along with its potential expansion beyond the automotive industry.
Rising awareness of cybersecurity’s importance at executive level – combined with tightening regulatory requirements – will drive increased adoption of TISAX. Organisations that invest early in implementing the standard will be better prepared for future challenges and will gain a competitive edge through high Information Security standards.
Implementing TISAX is an investment in the organisation’s future – delivering benefits that go well beyond regulatory Compliance. Companies that successfully adopt the standard foster a culture of security, strengthen trust with business partners, and enhance their competitive market position.
However, the complexity and scope of TISAX make the implementation process challenging – even for experienced organisations. The breadth of technical requirements, documentation procedures, and specific security controls demands not only deep expert knowledge but also practical industry experience. In this context, working with seasoned professionals – such as the Experts at Patronusec – who combine technical knowledge with hands-on experience in delivering TISAX projects, can be the decisive factor for achieving certification and building long-term Compliance in the automotive sector.
