2/25/2004 -- The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium [(ISC)2], creators of the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, is celebrating its 15th anniversary this week at the 2004 RSA Conference in San Francisco.

According to the organization, (ISC)2 was established in 1989 when multiple information security organizations came together to develop a standard for knowledge of industry "best practices" as well as a code of ethics for information security professionals. This resulted in the CISSP certification, as well as a more entry-level Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) title, both of which require documented experience in the field as well as a pledge to adhere to the organization's code of ethics.

"Thanks to the vision of a few information security pioneers, (ISC)2 began the professionalization of the information security industry by developing the CISSP and SSCP certifications," James E. Duffy, executive director of (ISC)2, said in a printed statement annoucing the anniversary. "(ISC)2 also provides programs that support our constituents throughout their careers, and we continually strive to expand the range of professional growth, career development, peer recognition and networking opportunities we offer."

ISC(2) added several specializations for CISSPs in 2003.

According to (ISC)2, there are aproximately 23,000 CISSPs worldwide.

More information on (ISC)2 and its certifications can be found here. -Becky Nagel