What standard should a security consultant reference for compliance with international IT security standards?

The ISO standard 15408, also known as the Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation (CC), is a widely recognized international standard that provides a framework for evaluating the security properties of IT products and systems. This standard enables organizations to assess and certify the security features of hardware and software, thereby ensuring compliance with international IT security requirements.

By referencing ISO 15408, a security consultant can align their security practices with a globally accepted standard, which is crucial for organizations operating in multiple countries or wanting to demonstrate their commitment to security in a universally recognized manner. Given the increasingly interconnected nature of global IT systems and the cross-border implications of cybersecurity, adherence to an international standard like ISO 15408 enhances credibility and can facilitate acceptance in various regulatory and legal landscapes.

In contrast, the other standards mentioned primarily serve different purposes. NIST 800-53 focuses on the U.S. government's security and privacy controls, NIST 800-61 provides guidance on incident handling, while COBIT acts as a governance framework for IT management. While each has its own significance, they are not specifically intended for compliance with international IT security standards in the same way ISO 15408 is.