Elements a security policy should include

Executes security programs across an organization To ensure successful execution, a security program needs an information security policy to provide the framework for operationalizing procedures. It allows organizations to quickly respond to third-party e. Helps to address regulatory compliance requirements The process of developing an information security policy helps organizations identify gaps in security protocols relative to regulatory requirements.

An information security policy should be comprehensive enough to address all security considerations. It must also be accessible; everyone in the organization must be able to understand it.

Boilerplate information security policies are not recommended, as they inevitably have gaps related to the unique aspects of your organization. The information security framework should be created by IT and approved by top-level management.

Established best practices for an information security policy lead with obtaining executive buy-in. Implementation and enforcement are much easier and more effective when the policy has the support of top leadership. Investing in the development and enforcement of an information security policy is well worth the effort. Egnyte has experts ready to answer your questions.

A data classification policy may arrange the entire set of information as follows:. Data owners should determine both the data classification and the exact measures a data custodian needs to take to preserve the integrity in accordance to that level. Sharing IT security policies with staff is a critical step. Making them read and acknowledge a document does not necessarily mean that they are familiar with and understand the new policies.

On the other hand, a training session would engage employees and ensure they understand the procedures and mechanisms in place to protect the data. A small test at the end is perhaps a good idea. Things to consider in this area generally focus on the responsibility of persons appointed to carry out the implementation, education, incident response, user access reviews and periodic updates of an information security policy.

Prevention of theft, information know-how and industrial secrets that could benefit competitors are among the most cited reasons as to why a business may want to employ an information security policy to defend its digital assets and intellectual rights. For example, in the UK, a list of relevant legislation would include:. An information security policy may also include a number of different items.

These include, but are not limited to: virus protection procedure, intrusion detection procedure, incident response, remote work procedure, technical guidelines, audit, employee requirements, consequences for non-compliance, disciplinary actions, terminated employees, physical security of IT, references to supporting documents and more.

This is a careless attempt to readjust their objectives and policy goals to fit a standard, too-broad shape. A high-grade information security policy can make the difference between a growing business and an unsuccessful one. Improved efficiency, increased productivity, clarity of the objectives each entity has, understanding what IT and data should be secured and why, identifying the type and levels of security required and defining the applicable information security best practices are enough reasons to back up this statement.

A new tab for your requested boot camp pricing will open in 5 seconds. If it doesn't open, click here. He obtained a Master degree in Dimitar also holds an LL. Your email address will not be published. Posted: July 20, We've encountered a new and totally unexpected error. Get instant boot camp pricing. Thank you! The policy will also detail the processes and controls the organization will use to properly manage, protect and distribute information.

The most common point of failure is a lack of user awareness of the content of the policy. Without proper user training and enforcement, even the best security policy creates a false sense of security that leaves critical assets at risk. Go Up. Netwrix Blog. What is an information security policy? What are the benefits of an information security policy?

An information security policy is essential for the following reasons: To ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data Having a solid policy in place provides a standardized approach for identifying and mitigating risk to data confidentiality, integrity and availability known as the CIA triad , as well as appropriate steps for response to issues.

Handpicked related content:. Elena Vodopyan. Elena has more than 8 years of experience in the IT industry. She started as a Public Relations Specialist at Netwrix, working on PR materials such as commentaries, articles and customer success stories. Then she transitioned to Content Marketing, where she is now responsible for delivering informative blogs and whitepapers. Data security Information security.