Glossary
Audit & Controls

SOC 2 Report

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
June 16, 2025

DEFINITION:

A SOC 2 Report is an independent audit of an organization’s data security and privacy controls, vital for service providers handling sensitive information.
A SOC 2 Report is an independent attestation that evaluates an organization's controls related to security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Developed by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), this audit report is especially relevant for service organizations that handle sensitive customer data. It provides stakeholders with assurance that the organization is effectively managing and protecting data according to established trust service criteria. SOC 2 audits can be Type I, assessing controls at a specific point in time, or Type II, evaluating their effectiveness over a defined period. Organizations often use SOC 2 Reports to demonstrate their commitment to data security and regulatory compliance to clients, partners, and regulators.

Key Takeaways

  • Evaluates controls for data security and privacy
  • Required by many vendors and clients
  • Comes in Type I and Type II formats
  • Enhances trust and compliance credibility

Why It Matters

A SOC 2 Report builds trust by demonstrating strong data security and compliance controls.

Real World Example

A nonprofit organization uses a cloud-based donor management platform to store sensitive supporter information. Before selecting this vendor, the nonprofit’s board requests to review the company’s SOC 2 Report. The report, completed by an independent auditor, confirms that the platform has robust controls in place for security, confidentiality, and privacy. This assurance helps the nonprofit make an informed decision, knowing their data and donor information will be handled securely and in compliance with industry standards, thus reducing their risk and building trust with their supporters.

How Aplos Helps

While Aplos itself is not a SOC 2 certified solution, many nonprofits using Aplos work with third-party vendors that may require SOC 2 Reports to ensure data protection. Understanding SOC 2 requirements can help organizations assess vendor security and compliance, supporting responsible stewardship of sensitive financial and donor information managed within Aplos.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a SOC 2 Report?

A SOC 2 Report is an independent audit assessing an organization’s controls for security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.

Why do nonprofits care about SOC 2 Reports?

Nonprofits often work with vendors that handle data; SOC 2 Reports help ensure those vendors securely manage sensitive information.

What is the difference between SOC 2 Type I and Type II?

Type I assesses controls at a point in time, while Type II evaluates their effectiveness over a set period.

Does Aplos provide a SOC 2 Report?

Aplos is not SOC 2 certified, but understanding SOC 2 helps organizations evaluate the security of vendors they use with Aplos.

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