ISO 23975: Digital Asset Custody Certification for Crypto & Fintech

 

Introduction

As the digital-asset and cryptocurrency industry evolves rapidly, the need for robust standards in custody, security and operational transparency has become critical. The new ISO 23975 — Digital Asset Custody Certification — addresses this need by providing a structured framework tailored for organisations handling crypto assets, wallets, fintech custody services and related operations. Adopting ISO 23975 helps companies demonstrate reliability, build customer trust, and prepare for regulatory and compliance scrutiny.

What ISO 23975 Covers?

  • Definition of robust custody-management systems covering wallet security, key-management protocols, access controls and audit-ready operations.

  • Requirements for operational processes, documentation, record-keeping, incident response, asset traceability and risk management tailored to digital assets.

  • Guidelines for maintaining integrity, confidentiality and compliance across the full lifecycle of digital-asset custody — from onboarding and storage to transfer and retrieval.

Why ISO 23975 Matters for Crypto and FinTech Firms?

  • Helps build institutional-grade trust by showing adherence to an international standard in a field often viewed as volatile or risky.

  • Supports regulatory alignment and readiness in jurisdictions where crypto regulations are evolving — giving early-mover advantage.

  • Enables robust risk mitigation: reduces chance of loss, theft, mismanagement or compliance-related issues.

  • Enhances transparency and governance, strengthening stakeholder confidence — customers, partners, auditors and regulators alike.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid During Implementation

  • Treating digital-asset custody protocols as ad-hoc or internal practices rather than formal, documented processes.

  • Ignoring comprehensive access and key-management controls, leading to elevated risk of unauthorized access or theft.

  • Skipping proper audit trails, incident logging and documentation of transfers — risking non-compliance and loss of traceability.

  • Underestimating regulatory, data-protection or jurisdictional compliance requirements, especially for cross-border transfers.

  • Failing to integrate risk management and incident response mechanisms suited for digital-asset threats such as hacking, fraud or insider misuse.

How Pacific Certifications Can Help?

Pacific Certifications supports crypto and FinTech firms in adopting ISO 23975. We assist with scoping, gap analysis, documenting custody processes, defining access and key-management controls, establishing audit-ready operations, and preparing for certification assessment. We guide you in building a custody system that is secure, compliant and aligned with international best practices.

Read the full blog here:
https://blog.pacificcert.com/iso-23975-digital-asset-custody-certification-crypto-fintech/

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