SecNumCloud and HDS : Understanding the security challenges for data hosted in France
Introduction
With the increasing digitization of services and the growing importance of data, the security of hosted data is becoming a crucial issue, particularly in France. Two major standards, SecNumCloud and HDS, aim to meet this challenge by defining strict requirements for cloud service providers and healthcare data hosts.
At ALLONIA, we use Sovereign Clouds with SecNumCloud and HDS certifications : Numspot, Outscale and Scaleway. Data security and sovereignty are important to us. This enables us to guarantee our customers optimum data protection, regulatory compliance and total control.
What is SecNumCloud and HDS ?
SecNumCloud and HDS are two French certifications that attest to the security level of cloud services for hosting sensitive data.
SecNumCloud, issued by France’s Agence Nationale de la Sécurité des Systèmes d’Information (ANSSI), is aimed at cloud service providers, and guarantees a high level of security for all types of data. It is particularly appreciated by Organismes d’Importance Vitale (OIV), which have enhanced security requirements.
HDS, for “Hébergeur de Données de Santé”, is a specific certification for the hosting of personal health data. It guarantees the protection of this sensitive data in accordance with the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation (RGPD) and the French Health Data Protection Act.
Let’s talk about SecNumCloud: Enhanced security for cloud services
SecNumCloud is a qualification issued by the French National Agency for Information Systems Security (ANSSI) to cloud service providers. It attests to their ability to meet a high level of security, guaranteeing the protection of data hosted on their infrastructures.
SecNumCloud qualification is based on a number of requirements, covering in particular :
- Risk and incident management
- Infrastructure and systems security
- Data protection
- Supervision and traceability
- Governance and resource management
By achieving SecNumCloud qualification, cloud service providers demonstrate their commitment to the security and protection of their customers’ data. This enables organizations, especially sensitive ones, to choose reliable cloud solutions that comply with the most stringent regulatory requirements.
Let’s talk about HDS : A standard dedicated to health data protection
The HDS (Healthcare Data Hosting) standard is designed to guarantee the security and confidentiality of healthcare data hosted in France. It applies to hosting and cloud service providers who handle this type of sensitive data.
The requirements of the HDS standard cover a wide range of areas, including :
- Security of premises and access
- Data access and authorization management
- Implementation of protection measures against intrusions and computer attacks
- Traceability of data access and processing
- Staff awareness and training
HDS certification enables hosting and cloud service providers to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to protecting healthcare data. This reinforces the confidence of patients and healthcare professionals in the management of their sensitive data.
Choosing Cloud SecNumCloud and HDS : Benefits for all players
For organizations and administrations :
- Enhanced data security : SecNumCloud and HDS guarantee a high level of protection for hosted data, meeting the requirements of the most sensitive environments.
- Regulatory compliance : SecNumCloud and HDS certifications are proof of compliance with current regulations, particularly those concerning the protection of personal and health data.
- Increased confidence : Choosing SecNumCloud and HDS-certified service providers reinforces confidence in the management and security of sensitive data.
- Audited and controlled services : Certified service providers are subject to regular audits and controls, guaranteeing the continuity of their commitment to security.
For cloud service providers and hosting companies :
- Competitive edge : SecNumCloud and HDS qualifications enable you to stand out in a fast-growing market, and meet the demands of the most demanding customers in terms of security.
- Recognition of expertise : These certifications attest to a service provider’s know-how and commitment to data protection.
- Access to new markets : Certification opens up access to sensitive public and private markets, particularly in the healthcare and defense sectors.
- Greater customer confidence : Certified service providers inspire confidence in their customers and foster loyalty.
Sec Num Cloud VS HDS :
The choice between SecNumCloud and HDS depends on the specific needs of your organization and the data being hosted.
Here is a summary table to help you make your choice :
| Criteria | SecNumCloud | HDS |
|---|---|---|
| Target audience | Organizations and administrations in all sectors | Hosts and cloud service providers processing healthcare data |
| Focus | General security for cloud services | Health data protection |
| Requirements | Broader and more general | More specific to the healthcare sector |
| Safety level | Very high | Very high for health data |
| Benefits | Enhanced regulatory compliance, access to public and sensitive markets, greater customer confidence | Optimum protection of healthcare data, recognition of expertise in the healthcare field |
| Requirements | Longer and more complex certification process | Narrower scope of application |
Conclusion
Cloud SecNumCloud and HDS play a crucial role in strengthening the security of data hosted in France. By defining strict requirements and rewarding service providers who meet them, these standards contribute to the creation of a trusted cloud ecosystem, benefiting French organizations and citizens alike.
Key points to remember
- SecNumCloud and HDS are French standards that define security requirements for cloud service providers and healthcare data hosts.
- SecNumCloud certifies a high level of security for cloud services, while HDS focuses on the protection of healthcare data.
- The two standards have points of convergence and can be obtained jointly by cloud service providers.
- SecNumCloud and HDS contribute to the creation of a trusted cloud ecosystem in France.
As a reminder : At ALLONIA, we use Sovereign Clouds with SecNumCloud and HDS certifications: Numspot, Outscale and Scaleway. Data security and sovereignty are important to us. This enables us to guarantee our customers optimum data protection, regulatory compliance and total control.