After the first surveillance audit, what is the recommended maximum time-frame for the second surveillance audit?

The recommended maximum time-frame for the second surveillance audit after the first one is 12 months. This period is established to ensure that the organization's information security management system (ISMS) continues to operate effectively and remains compliant with the ISO/IEC 27001 standard. Conducting surveillance audits at this interval allows for regular monitoring of the ISMS, which helps to identify any non-conformities or areas for improvement promptly. It supports the ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring that the organization remains vigilant in its risk management and security measures.

Extending the period beyond 12 months could jeopardize the effectiveness of the ISMS, as it would leave more gaps between assessments, potentially allowing risks to go unnoticed or unaddressed. Thus, maintaining a 12-month maximum time-frame aligns with best practices in surveillance auditing and helps organizations maintain compliance and secure their information assets effectively.