Guide
SOC 2 encryption requirements for data at rest and in transit
SOC 2 encryption requirements are not a fixed list of algorithms. Instead, the criteria expect you to protect data appropriately, so encryption at rest and in transit is the usual way to show it.
- Readiness, not the audit
- An independent CPA firm signs
- Written estimate, no call
What the criteria say about encryption
CC6.1 covers protecting information assets, while CC6.7 covers data in transmission. Neither names an algorithm. Therefore auditors look for sensible, current encryption and evidence that it is enabled. The text is in the AICPA Trust Services Criteria.
Meeting SOC 2 encryption requirements in practice
Cloud providers make most of this a setting. So the work is confirming it is on everywhere that matters.
- TLS for all external traffic
- Encrypted databases and storage
- Encrypted backups
- Encrypted laptops
- Secrets stored in a managed vault
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Key management under SOC 2 encryption requirements
Encryption is only as strong as key handling. Also, auditors may ask who can access keys.
| Topic | Typical control |
|---|---|
| Key storage | A managed key service, not code. |
| Access | Limited to named roles. |
| Rotation | As stated in policy. |
Evidence for SOC 2 encryption requirements
Keep configuration screenshots or exports showing encryption enabled. Also keep device management reports for laptops, because endpoints are often forgotten.
Part of readiness
We confirm and document encryption with your engineers inside the fixed readiness fee. A licensed CPA firm then examines it, because we are not a CPA firm.
Do not forget the edges. For example, exports sent to customers, analytics copies and old test databases often hold real data without the same protection. So list where data travels, not only where it rests, and check each stop on that route for encryption. Also check third-party tools that receive data, because their encryption becomes part of your story. Finally, record the settings once, then re-check them each year before the examination, because defaults sometimes change when services are upgraded.
SOC 2 encryption requirements questions
Do SOC 2 encryption requirements name specific algorithms?
No. They expect appropriate protection, so current industry practice is the guide.
Is cloud default encryption enough?
Often, yes, but confirm it is enabled and keep evidence.
Do SOC 2 encryption requirements cover laptops?
In practice, yes, because laptops often hold customer data.
What about internal traffic?
Encrypting it is good practice, and some auditors ask about it.
Related guides
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