Which standard focuses on the criteria for data operations and security controls relevant to service organizations?

The correct choice is based on the focus of the SOC 2 standard, which addresses the criteria for managing customer data based on five trust service principles: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. SOC 2 reports are particularly relevant to service organizations that handle sensitive customer information and need to demonstrate that they have implemented sufficient controls and practices to protect that data.

SOC 1, on the other hand, is primarily concerned with controls over financial reporting and is more focused on internal controls over financial transactions. SOC 3 provides a general overview of the SOC 2 report intended for a broader audience, without the detailed information necessary for understanding specific controls and policies. SOC 4 does not exist as a widely recognized standard in this context, which further reinforces the relevance of SOC 2 for data operations and security controls.