Cyber Security Policies have several functions, namely informing applicable parties of their obligatory requirements within a company for protecting technology and information assets from various cyber threats and hazards.
Why do I need a Cyber Security Policy?
A Cyber Security Policy is one of the key features that protects the company and is technological and information assets from misuse. One of the biggest cyber threats to companies today are through staff, whether through intentional malice, incompetence or ignorance. As such companies must layer their security to compensate for this.
Cyber Security Policies refer to a set of principles, procedures, and standards that guide staff and decision makers within a company. These policies help manage technological and information assets, outlying response procedures in the event of a breach. These policies are also designed to act as a staff handbook, guiding them on best practices regarding their every-day duties and expected work standard.
What should the Scope of Cyber Security include?
Cyber policies apply to all company permanent/part time staff, remote workers, contractors, volunteers, suppliers, interns, and any other applicable parties with access to the company’s devices, systems or information software.
Overall it is the responsibility of company staff to maintain appropriate standards and protection for all company technology and information assets; safeguarding them from unauthorised access, theft, manipulation or destruction.
Technology and Information Assets that might be included in your policy.
Technological and information assets are commonly referring to the following components:
Devices – All devices used within a company, including but not limited to desktops; laptops; mobile phones; iPads; tablets etc.
Hardware – The physical components of computer systems such as the motherboard; graphics cards; Central Processing Unit (CPU); ventilation fan; power supply; webcams etc.
System Software – The software on a computer that is designed to control and work with computer hardware and run application programs.
Application Software – Application software is a computer package that performs a specific function for users or for other applications. These can include custom written software applications and commercial packages.
Cloud Platforms – Cloud platforms refer to the operating systems and hardware of a server in an internet based data centre.
Communication Network Hardware & Software – Including but not limited to routers; routing tables; hubs; modems; switches; firewalls; private lines and other associated network management software tools.
Physical Security – The physical elements within a company that can impact on cyber security such as suitable access control, device storage etc.
Information Classification – Legal requirement that information is valuable, confidentiality must be maintained.
User Permissions and Access Rights – Access to equipment, platforms, devices, data and systems will work on the principle of least privilege.
Cyber Security Policy Implementation
To implement a cyber policy a company must first evaluate their current cyber threat landscape, identifying the measures and procedures that need to be put in place to mitigate risks and comply with legal obligations. Consultation with IT and other relevant stakeholders is essential to develop comprehensive policies.
The polices should then be introduced to staff with training provided. Cyber policies should always be readily accessible, reviewed and updated annually.
Conclusion
A well-crafted cyber policy will set parameters to help companies to achieve their goals in running more efficiently and reduce the risk of cybercrimes such as phishing. Cyber security policies will clearly outline staff responsibilities, offering best practices and guide key decision making, making it apparent what disciplinary action may be taken should these polices not be abided by.
