Can I use Annex A as an information security controls checklist?

Many organisations use the controls listed in Annex A as a menu or checklist of best practice controls to be implemented in order to provide a level of information security.  

However, URM recommends that your risk assessment is used to determine which controls are relevant, as some of them may not be applicable to your organisation.  

We would also recommend that you don’t use Annex A in isolation as ISO 27002 provides very good additional guidance on how controls should be implemented.  

It should also be noted that following your risk assessment, you may identify risks that cannon be adequately mitigated using the supplied controls.  The standard provides the flexibility to permit the creation or introduction of additional controls from other sources which you may wish to implement to address unique risks.

This was really helpful. Lots of information and insight. Thank you!
Contact the ISO 27001 Experts Today

ISO 27001 Clause 7.2 - Competence

Published on
16 Oct
2026

URM's blog explores ISO 27001 Clause 7.2, explaining how to define, assess and evidence competence to support conformance and ISMS effectiveness.

Read more
Thumbnail of the Blog Illustration
Information Security
Published on
2/10/2026
ISO 27001 Clause 4.2, Understanding the Needs and Expectations of Interested Parties

URM's blog examines ISO 27001:2022 Clause 4.2, covering interested parties, their requirements and how these are addressed through the ISMS.

Read more
Thumbnail of the Blog Illustration
Information Security
Published on
22/9/2026
What Are the Critical Steps When Implementing an Effective Information Security Management System?

URM assisted over 500 organisations achieve ISO 27001 certification, here are the critical steps when implementing an effective information security system.

Read more
Thumbnail of the Blog Illustration
Information Security
Published on
22/9/2026
ISO 27001 Clause 4.1 - Understanding the Organisation and its Context

URM's blog explores ISO 27001 Clause 4.1 & how to identify organisational context, assess internal/external issues, and support effective ISMS decision-making.

Read more
"
After a bad experience with a previous provider, we looked to URM for QSA support. The URM QSA we have worked with is phenomenal, and considerably better than our previous QSAs. My team enjoy working with him, and find him to be extremely credible and effective.
CISO at University of Surrey
contact US

Let us help you

Let us help you in your compliance journey by completing the form and letting us know how we can best support you.