ISO/IEC 27001:2013 Clause 4.3 focuses on "Determining the scope of the information security management system (ISMS)." This clause is crucial as it requires the organization to define the boundaries and applicability of its ISMS, clearly outlining what will be included and excluded from the system.
The process of defining the scope involves considering the internal and external issues identified in Clause 4.1 and the requirements of interested parties identified in Clause 4.2. It also requires taking into account the information assets that need protection, the processes used for managing those assets, and the locations where these processes are carried out.
The scope should be documented and should detail the boundaries of the ISMS, helping to establish a clear understanding of what is covered. This includes the physical locations, departments, information systems, technologies, and data. Defining the scope accurately is essential for effective information security management, as it sets the foundation for establishing, implementing, operating, monitoring, reviewing, maintaining, and improving the ISMS. The scope is fundamental in ensuring that all aspects of information security are addressed coherently and comprehensively across the organization.