TISAX
Automotive framework for standardized information security assessments
PDPA
Southeast Asia regulation for personal data protection.
Quick Verdict
TISAX ensures automotive supply chain security via assessments, while PDPA mandates personal data protection in Singapore with fines. Automotive firms adopt TISAX for OEM contracts; all organizations use PDPA to avoid penalties and build trust.
TISAX
Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange (TISAX)
Key Features
- Shareable labels via ENX portal reduce duplicate audits
- Automotive-specific prototype protection controls
- Three assessment levels: AL1 self-assess to AL3 on-site
- VDA ISA catalog based on ISO 27001
- Three-year validity without surveillance audits
PDPA
Personal Data Protection Act 2012
Key Features
- Mandatory Data Protection Officer appointment
- 72-hour data breach notification regime
- Consent with deemed consent exceptions
- Data subject access and correction rights
- Cross-border transfer limitation obligation
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
TISAX Details
What It Is
TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) is an industry-specific assessment framework and exchange platform for the automotive sector. Developed by the ENX Association based on the VDA ISA catalog, it verifies protection of sensitive information like prototypes and IP. It uses a risk-based approach with three assessment levels (AL1-AL3) tailored to data sensitivity.
Key Components
- VDA ISA controls (70+ items) across policy, access, operations, and prototype protection.
- Builds on ISO 27001 with automotive extensions.
- Modular objectives: information security, data protection, prototypes.
- ENX portal for sharing labels valid 3 years.
Why Organizations Use It
- Contractual mandates from OEMs like BMW, Volkswagen.
- Mitigates supply chain risks, prevents €millions in losses.
- Enables market access, reduces audit duplication (70-90%).
- Builds trust, competitive edge in €2.5T chain.
Implementation Overview
Phased: preparation (gap analysis), remediation (controls, table-tops), audit (by accredited providers like DQS), sustainment. Applies to suppliers, OEMs, services; scalable for SMEs to globals. 6-18 months, €15k-€150k+.
PDPA Details
What It Is
Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) is a principles-based regulation—primarily Singapore's 2012 Act, with variants in Thailand and Taiwan—governing collection, use, disclosure of personal data by private sector organizations. It balances individual privacy rights with legitimate business needs via risk-proportionate obligations.
Key Components
- Core obligations: consent/notification, access/correction, accuracy, protection, retention/transfer limitation, accountability.
- 9-10 key provisions; supported by PDPC guidelines.
- Built on fairness, transparency, security principles.
- Compliance via Data Protection Management Programme (DPMP), no formal certification.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory in jurisdictions for data handlers; fines up to SGD/THB 1-5M.
- Mitigates breach risks, enhances trust.
- Enables secure data use, cross-border flows.
- Builds reputation, supports digital economy competitiveness.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: governance, data mapping, policies, controls, training, audits.
- Involves DPO appointment, DPIAs, vendor contracts.
- Applies to all sizes handling local data; Singapore/Thailand focus.
Key Differences
| Aspect | TISAX | PDPA |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Information security, prototype protection in automotive | Personal data protection across private sector activities |
| Industry | Automotive supply chain, global but Europe-focused | All private sector industries in Singapore/Thailand/etc. |
| Nature | Voluntary industry certification and assessment exchange | Mandatory national privacy legislation with fines |
| Testing | AL1-AL3 audits by accredited providers, 3-year validity | Self-assessments, DPIAs, no formal certification required |
| Penalties | Contract loss, no legal fines, audit failure | Fines up to S$1M or 10% revenue, enforcement actions |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about TISAX and PDPA
TISAX FAQ
PDPA FAQ
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