Validis Client Onboarding Guide

Subject: Welcome to [Accounting Firm Name] -- Data Sharing Process

Dear [Client Name],

Welcome to [Accounting Firm Name]! As part of our audit process, we use Validis, a secure data-sharing platform that streamlines the collection of your financial records. This is our standard process for all clients, designed to make data sharing efficient, secure, and accurate.

How [Accounting Firm Name] Collects Your Data

Validis serves as a secure bridge between your accounting software and our audit team. With your permission, Validis connects directly to your accounting system (QuickBooks, Sage, Xero, etc.) and extracts the financial data we need in a standardized format. This allows you to focus on your business while we efficiently gather the information required for your audit.

Benefits of Our Process

• Streamlined Experience: No need to manually prepare spreadsheets or exports—the process is automated and efficient.
• Complete Data Coverage: We capture 100% of your financial data, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive audit.
• Time Savings: Quick setup means less disruption to your daily operations.
• Enhanced Insights: With complete data readily available, we can provide more meaningful analysis and recommendations.

Security and Protection

Your data security is our top priority. Validis employs enterprise-grade security measures:

• Bank-Level Encryption: All data is protected with AES-256 encryption and secure TLS 1.2 transmission.
• Certified Platform: Hosted on Microsoft Azure with ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type 2 certifications.
• Controlled Access: Your explicit permission is required for all data access, with full audit trails maintained.
• Read-Only Process: The system only copies your data—no changes can be made to your accounting system.

What to Expect

Our team will provide you with secure access instructions when it's time to share your data:

• Simple Access: Log into a secure portal with the credentials we provide.
• One-Time Authorization: Approve the connection to your accounting system.
• Automated Extraction: Your data is securely copied and transferred to our team.
• Clean Disconnect: The connection closes automatically with no ongoing access.

This process is part of [Accounting Firm Name]'s commitment to providing efficient, secure, and high-quality audit services. Our team is available to answer any questions you may have about the process.

We look forward to working with you.

Best regards,
[Accounting Firm Name] Audit Team

Additional Resources

• Data Protection Details -- Complete information on security measures and data handling.
• Security Overview -- Technical details on encryption, monitoring, and infrastructure.
• How Validis Works -- Technical overview of the data extraction process.

Subject:[Accounting Firm Name] -- Secure Data Sharing with Validis

Dear [Client Name],

As part of our annual audit process, [Accounting Firm Name] is introducing Validis, a secure data‑sharing platform that makes sharing your financial records faster and safer. Validis is a trusted web‑based service used by hundreds of accounting firms and financial institutions worldwide. In simple terms, Validis lets us automatically pull the financial data we need from your accounting system (QuickBooks, Sage, Xero, etc.) in a secure, read-only way. This means you won't have to manually email us spreadsheets or printouts, and we can spend more time analyzing your numbers rather than collecting them.

What is Validis and Why We're Using It

Validis acts as a "data bridge" between your accounting software and our audit team. With your permission, Validis connects directly to your books, extracts the relevant financial data, and packages it in a streamlined, standardized way---so you can connect in minutes and get back to your organization's goals, while we focus on delivering meaningful insights.

Benefits to You

Using Validis helps make the audit process smoother and more transparent:

• Faster Turnaround: Automated data retrieval accelerates the audit---so you spend less time preparing or correcting documents.
• Greater Accuracy: Validis extracts 100% of your financial data, not just samples, making our audit more comprehensive and reducing follow-up.
• Less Manual Work: No more exports or emails; once you grant access, Validis handles everything.
• Better Service: With complete data quickly at hand, we can offer deeper insights and timelier advice about your finances.

Security and Privacy of Your Data

We know security matters most. Validis is built with industry-leading safeguards:

• Encryption: All data is encrypted end-to-end using AES‑256 and protected in transit via TLS 1.2, just like online banking.
• Certified Infrastructure: The platform is hosted on Microsoft Azure and is ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type 2 certified---trusted standards for security and compliance.
• Access Control: No one at Validis or Citrin Cooperman can access your data without your explicit permission; every access is logged and audited.
• Read-Only, No System Impact: Validis only copies your data---it cannot edit or change anything; connections close automatically, leaving no lingering footprint.

In short, Validis and [Accounting Firm Name] protect your information with the same care you'd expect from an online bank or major audit firm---and all standard best practices (encryption, firewalls, monitoring) are in place.

How the Process Works

When it's time to share your data, you'll receive a secure link or instructions from us. Here's what to expect:

• Easy Setup: A simple portal login---no extra tools or effort required.
• Grant Access: You approve the connection---this is a one-time, temporary link.
• Read-Only Extract: Your data is copied, encrypted, and securely uploaded. It's read-only---no changes or access to your system.
• No Footprint Left: If any desktop app is used, it removes itself automatically; otherwise, you can disconnect. You remain in control at every step.

We're confident that Validis will make the audit process more efficient while maintaining top-tier security. Thank you for your trust and cooperation---our team is committed to making this transition seamless so you can focus on your mission.

Sincerely,
[Accounting Firm Name] Audit Team

Helpful Links for More Information

• How is my data protected? -- Details on Validis's encryption, infrastructure, and security practices.
• Security highlights -- Overview of encryption, access controls, penetration testing, firewalls, and 24/7 monitoring.
• FAQ: "How secure is Validis technology?" -- Quick answers about HTTPS, AES-256, firewalls, and certifications.
• Overview of the Validis Service -- Explains how Validis extracts and standardizes accounting data.

Dear ${user.firstName} ${user.lastName},

${relationshipManager.firstName} ${relationshipManager.lastName} from ${client.name} has invited you to join ${client.name} Validis.

Validis is a secure platform for sharing financial data between you and ${client.name}. Setting up your account is quick and easy.

[ACTIVATION LINK BUTTON]

Once you've activated your account, you'll be able to securely upload your financial data for ${client.name}'s review.

If you have any questions, please contact our helpdesk.

Kind regards,
The ${client.name} Validis Team

Helpdesk:
Website: ${support.ticketUrl}
Email: ${support.email}
Phone: ${support.phone}

Dear ${relationshipManager.firstName} ${relationshipManager.lastName},

${user.firstName} ${user.lastName} from ${clientName} has accepted your invitation to join ${client.name} Validis.

You will be notified when new reports are available to view.

If you have any questions, please contact the helpdesk.

Kind regards,
The ${client.name} Validis Team

Helpdesk:
Website: ${support.ticketUrl}
Email: ${support.email}
Phone: ${support.phone}

Dear ${user.firstName} ${user.lastName},

You have been invited to upload your accounts to ${client.name} Validis.

To upload, access your account by clicking here.

If you have any questions, please contact the helpdesk.

Kind regards,

The ${client.name} Validis Team