Information security policies refer to the set of rules developed to maintain the optimum state of an entity’s information security state. In addition, this fosters security awareness among the entity’s workers.
The Purpose Of Information Security Policies
Briefly, the purpose of information security policies is to ensure the protection of confidential data.
There may be multiple ways of doing so. However, setting a clear cut of policies enables the general approach. Also, having proper documentation of regulations heightens everyone’s regard for information security.
9 Key Elements Of Information Security Policies
On the other hand, each entity can work through its information security policies. This is because each system and network differ from one entity to another. But these 9 key elements should help the organization shape its guidelines.
1. Purpose
First things first, be clear with your purpose. Why are you establishing these security policies? You may have a number of reasons, which basically pinpoints to data security. So put these into writing.
Outline its benefits for the business, employees, and the customers’ rights.
2. Scope
The scope answers to what extent should the policies apply. For instance, this set of regulations should apple to the following:
- Data
- Programs
- Systems
- Tech infrastructure
- Users
- Third parties
- Facilities
3. Objectives
An entity needs to be clear and well-defined with its objectives. Especially in setting clear grounds on information security policies. For example, this documentation should avoid jargon. This way, the message is clear for everyone. Thus fosters agreements with the set rules and standards.
4. Authorization & Access Control
A hierarchical pattern of authority and access privileges should be specific. As a result, this teaches everyone the scope of their responsibility in granting and gaining access. So the policy should address each position’s access privileges. Thus clarify their given authority.
5. Classification Of Data
Classification of data helps preserve the integrity and confidentiality of data. Because proper handling will be observed according to its type.
In addition, this can be divided into three.
- High-Risk Class
- Confidential Class
- Public Class
6. Data Support & Operations
Serving next to data classification is data support. This key element highlights the management of data. Besides, this can be broken down into three major components. For instance, the following:
- Data Protection Regulations
- Data Back-up Requirements
- Movement of Data
7. Security Awareness Sessions
Awareness and compliance work hand in hand with policies. They bring set policies to life. Thus encourage threat awareness and security practices. So these awareness sessions should help them understand the previous key elements.
In addition, include the following in your training:
- Importance of Clean Desk Policy
- Acceptable usage of corporate devices
- The ways of social engineering
8. Responsibilities, Rights, And Duties Of Personnel
Here outlines of everyone’s share for the policy implementation. For example, detail who accepts responsibility for each security standards and practices. This way, the responsibility is clear for everyone.
9. References
Lastly, attach the references in connection with regulatory compliance. For instance, you can attach the following data protection acts.
- The Data Protection Act of 1998
- Human Rights Act of 1998
- Data Protection Order of 2000
