Verito offering bespoke WISP service

Verito, an accounting-focused cloud and IT services provider, launched a new service offering designed to help tax and accounting practices actively build and maintain a Written Information Security Program, called VeritShield, versus working alone off a downloaded generic template. 

A WISP is a comprehensive document that outlines how your business identifies, assesses and manages cybersecurity risks to protect sensitive client information, acting as a strategic roadmap for an organization's data security practices. Generally, an organization must designate employees to coordinate information security, identify and assess risks to client information in each area of the practice, evaluate current safeguards, design and implement a safeguards program, regularly monitor and test it, and contract a service provider that maintains safeguards and handling of customer information.

Drafting and maintaining a WISP is a requirement for tax preparers. While Preparer Tax Identification Number renewal and WISP compliance requirements aren't new, IRS modifications last year have expanded their scope and changed basic security protocols into more comprehensive requirements.

Verito will now provide firms with a WISP customized to their specific size, workflow and risk profile; comprehensive documentation and a step-by-step roadmap to follow. It offers actionable guidance to identify and remediate security vulnerabilities; ongoing policy updates and support to prepare for regulatory reviews; and fulfillment of the mandatory IRS requirement for a WISP, ensuring tax preparers can maintain their credentials. Further, Verito will provide firms with expert-developed templates, checklists, and direct advisory support. This model enables a firm's internal team to build and maintain a compliant WISP and confidently designate their own Qualified Individual without having to outsource the role. 

"Many firms are overwhelmed by the complexity of creating a WISP that satisfies federal regulations," says Verito CEO Jatin Narang. "We designed VeritShield WISP to provide a clear, manageable path to compliance peace of mind. It empowers firms to protect their clients and their practice with a straightforward, audit-ready solution."