This cyber security policy:
In a world that is increasingly reliant on technology, it is no surprise that cyber security has become a hot topic. With so much of our personal and professional lives taking place online, we must take steps to protect ourselves from cyber threats.
Cyber security, also known as computer security or information technology security, is the protection of computer systems from theft or damage to the hardware, software, or electronic data as well as from the disruption or misdirection of the services they provide.
The term ‘cyber security’ encompasses a wide range of activities, including firewalls and virus protection, as well as more comprehensive approaches such as data encryption. Organizations should carefully consider their needs and objectives when designing a cyber security strategy.
A cyber security policy is a documented set of rules, guidelines and procedures that are designed to protect computer networks, information assets and user data from unauthorised access or attack.
A well-crafted cyber security policy can help an organization defend against malicious attacks, safeguard sensitive information and ensure compliance with industry regulations, to ensure cyber security risks are managed efficiently.
The aspects of cyber security policies can cover everything from how data is stored and accessed, to what type of software can be installed on company computers.
The goal of these aspects is to minimize the risk of a data breach or other cyber incident and to ensure that the organization is prepared to respond quickly and effectively if an attack does occur.
Some of the most important aspects of security policies include:
Writing an effective cyber security policy requires a thorough understanding of the organization’s cyber needs and risks. The policy should be tailored to the specific threats faced by the organisation and the type of data it collects and stores.
Organisations should also consider implementing security controls such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems and encryption to further protect their networks and data.
In the event of a cyber-attack or security breach, corrective actions should be undertaken immediately with consideration to the following phases:
Preparation – this includes all activities necessary to first respond to the incident.
Detection – this involves the discovery of how the event occurred. This phase may include an incident declaration or an initial classification of the incident.
Containment – this is where the affected host or system is identified, isolated or otherwise mitigated and when affected parties are notified and the investigative status is established.
Investigation – this is where key personnel determine the priority, scope, and cause of the incident.
Remediation – this includes the repair of affected devices, systems and instructions to affected parties that the threat has been contained.
Recovery – this includes the analysis of the incident for procedural and policy implications and the necessary changes required to enable normal business operations and prevent a reoccurrence.
Given the significant impacts that a cyber security breach can have on a person or a business disciplinary action against personnel who expose an organization or person, is to be expected. This may include:
