Security Policy Design: Key Elements for a Well-Designed Policy

Key Elements for a Well-Designed Security Policy

Question

A security policy is an overall general statement produced by senior management that dictates what role security plays within the organization.

Which of the following are required to be addressed in a well designed policy? Each correct answer represents a part of the solution.

Choose all that apply.

Answers

Explanations

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A. B. C. D.

ABD.

A security policy is an overall general statement produced by senior management (or a selected policy board or committee) that dictates what role security plays within the organization.

A well designed policy addresses the following: What is being secured? - Typically an asset.

Who is expected to comply with the policy? - Typically employees.

Where is the vulnerability, threat, or risk? - Typically an issue of integrity or responsibility.

A well-designed security policy should include the following:

A. What is being secured? The policy should clearly define the assets that need to be protected, such as data, hardware, software, or network resources. This helps in identifying potential threats and risks that could compromise the security of these assets.

B. Where is the vulnerability, threat, or risk? The policy should outline the potential vulnerabilities, threats, and risks that could affect the organization's assets. This could include physical threats, such as theft or damage to hardware, or digital threats, such as malware or hacking attempts.

C. Who is expected to exploit the vulnerability? The policy should identify potential threat actors, such as hackers, insiders, or other external parties, who may attempt to exploit the vulnerabilities in the organization's security posture. This helps in defining the scope of the policy and the security measures that need to be implemented.

D. Who is expected to comply with the policy? The policy should clearly state who is expected to comply with the policy, such as employees, contractors, or third-party vendors. It should also outline the consequences of non-compliance, such as disciplinary action or termination of contracts.

In summary, a well-designed security policy should provide clear guidance on what needs to be protected, potential threats and risks, threat actors, and who is expected to comply with the policy.