Maintaining a strong cybersecurity practice is a crucial requirement in this digitally connected world. And for businesses, especially those industry giants like ARAMCO prioritising email security have to be considered a top priority as they are one of the common medium through which business face cyber-attacks. 

Those companies who are looking forward on collaborating with Saudi Aramco, it is essential to acquire Aramco CCC Certificate (Cybersecurity Compliance Certificate). This adherence to the Third-Party Cybersecurity Standard (SACS-002), indicates the organisations compliance with the strictest cybersecurity guidelines, including those set forth by Aramco Cyber Security. Among its essential controls, TPC-16 specifically enforces anti-spam protection, requiring businesses to scan all inbound emails from external sources.  

But why is this measure so crucial? What are the steps that your company should take to meet these standards? Let us break it down and get to know it a bit deeper. Shall we? 

Understanding TPC-16: Aramco’s Anti-Spam and Email Security Standard 

TPC-16 is a cybersecurity control that instructs to ensure a robust cybersecurity across its supply chain. According to TPC-16 it is critical that all third-party vendors adhere to its Supplier Cybersecurity Assurance Program (SCAP). That is - third party inspect all incoming emails originating from the Internet using anti-spam protection. This framework mandates the implementation of advanced anti-spam and email security measures to safeguard sensitive communications and mitigate risks posed by phishing, malware, and other email-based threats.  

The major requirements under TPC-16 include the deployment of email authentication protocols (SPF, DKIM, DMARC), Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) for scanning malicious attachments, real-time spam filtering so that the unsolicited messages, and encrypted email communications are blocked and thereby unauthorized interception is prevented.  

Aramco reduces risks in a threat landscape that is becoming more complicated by imposing these strict controls, which guarantee that its partners maintain safe and reliable lines of communication. The violation with these criteria may result an organisation in its removal from the Aramco's supply chain thus making it important that any vendor who wishes to work with the energy giant must first make sure to obtain an Aramco CCC certificate.  

Why is TPC-16 Critical for Aramco’s Cybersecurity? 

It is true and known that a single cybersecurity incident could disrupt the entire global supply chain, and the stakes of energy operations are high. This is the reason why Saudi Aramco maintains a rigorous security standard to protect its digital ecosystem. With cyber criminals increasingly targeting third-party vendors as potential entry points, compliance with TPC-16 – becomes a critical component of Aramco's Supplier Cybersecurity Assurance Program thereby becoming an essential for all partners. 

Steps to Achieve TPC-16 Compliance 

Obtaining the Aramco CCC Certificate requires a structured approach. Here’s how businesses can align with TPC-16:  

1. Implement Robust Email Security Solutions 

Deploy enterprise-grade anti-spam and anti-phishing solutions that integrate SPF, DKIM, and DMARC. These protocols verify sender authenticity, reducing the risk of spoofed emails. 

2. Conduct Regular Security Audits 

Periodic assessments ensure that email security controls remain effective. Aramco SACS 002 mandates continuous monitoring, so vendors must stay proactive. 

3. Train Employees on Email Security Best Practices 

Human error is a leading cause of breaches. Regular training on identifying phishing attempts and handling sensitive data is essential for compliance. 

4. Engage Cybersecurity Experts 

Partnering with certified professionals ensures that all Aramco Cyber Security requirements are met efficiently, accelerating the certification process. 

The Business Impact of Compliance 

TPC-16 compliance delivers far more than just regulatory adherence- it creates tangible business value. By achieving the Aramco CCC Certificate, vendors don’t just avoid penalties but instead they gain a strategic advantage in the marketplace.  

Compliance serves as a powerful trust signal, enhancing your company’s reputation and making you a preferred partner for Aramco and beyond. In Aramco’s rigorous procurement process, certified vendors stand out with a proven competitive edge, demonstrating their commitment to cybersecurity excellence. More critically, robust implementation of TPC-16’s email security measures actively reduce risk, shielding your operations from costly disruptions caused by phishing, data breaches, or malware.  

In an era where cyber threats evolve daily, Aramco’s TPC-16 framework sets a strong standard for email security. For suppliers, obtaining the Aramco Cybersecurity Compliance Certificate is more than just a regulatory hurdle and is a strategic investment in resilience and credibility.  By aligning with Aramco SACS 002 and adopting best-in-class security measures, businesses can make sure to secure their place in Aramco’s ecosystem while fortifying their defences against an ever-changing threat landscape. For those organizations who are in serious focus about long-term growth, compliance the foundation of trust in the digital age. By investing in reliable digital partners, you can not only take your business to its best potential, but also safeguard critical assets, protect sensitive data, and ensure uninterrupted operations are also crucial.   

At FIT Solutions, we understand the challenges modern enterprises face. Our solutions can make sure that the challenges you face in your business can be overcome. With customized cybersecurity solutions, seamless application development, and adherence to Aramco Cyber Security standards, we ensure your systems are both high-performing and compliant. Whether you're navigating Aramco SACS 002 requirements or strengthening your overall Aramco Cybersecurity Compliance Certificate posture, our expertise ensures you stay ahead of threats while driving business success.