Cybersecurity Policy Template

Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) - Compliant with ISO 27001:2022

1. Introduction

1.1 Purpose and Scope: This Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) defines the acceptable and unacceptable use of all information assets owned, leased, or accessed by [Organization Name] ("the Organization") employees, contractors, and third-party users. This policy applies to all organizational devices, systems, networks, applications, data, and information, regardless of location (on-site, remote, or cloud-based). The goal is to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational information assets, complying with legal and regulatory requirements and supporting business objectives.

1.2 Relevance to ISO 27001:2022: This AUP directly supports several ISO 27001:2022 controls, including but not limited to: 5.2 Information security policy, 5.3 Organizational roles, responsibilities and authorities, 6.1 Resource management, 7.1 Awareness, training, education and communication, 8.2 Human resource security, 11.2 Access control, and 19.2 Incident response. It contributes to the overall Information Security Management System (ISMS) by establishing clear expectations for user behaviour and reducing the risk of security incidents.

2. Key Components

This AUP comprises the following key sections:

  • Acceptable Use of Information Assets: Defining permitted activities.

  • Prohibited Use of Information Assets: Defining activities strictly forbidden.

  • Data Handling and Protection: Specific guidelines for data security.

  • Password Management and Security: Rules for creating and managing passwords.

  • Software Use and Installation: Guidelines for software usage and installation.

  • Internet and Email Usage: Policies governing internet and email access.

  • Personal Device Usage: Rules for bringing personal devices to the workplace.

  • Reporting Security Incidents: Procedure for reporting security breaches.

  • Consequences of Non-Compliance: Disciplinary actions for policy violations.

  • Policy Review and Updates: Schedule for policy revisions.

3. Detailed Content

3.1 Acceptable Use of Information Assets:

  • In-depth explanation: Employees are permitted to use organizational information assets for legitimate business purposes only. This includes accessing data relevant to their roles, using organizational software and applications, and communicating with colleagues and clients via approved channels.

  • Best practices: Regularly review user access rights to ensure they align with current roles and responsibilities. Implement role-based access control (RBAC).

  • Example: A marketing manager can access customer data to create marketing campaigns but not employee payroll information.

  • Common pitfalls: Overly broad access rights; lack of clarity on acceptable use.

3.2 Prohibited Use of Information Assets:

  • In-depth explanation: Activities explicitly forbidden include unauthorized access to data, installation of unauthorized software, sharing login credentials, using organizational resources for personal gain, downloading illegal content, accessing inappropriate websites, engaging in cyberbullying or harassment.

  • Best practices: Clearly define prohibited activities, specifying consequences for each violation. Regularly update the policy to address emerging threats.

  • Example: Accessing a colleague’s email without authorization is strictly prohibited. Downloading copyrighted music or movies is also forbidden. Using organizational email for personal business is not allowed unless explicitly authorized in writing by management.

  • Common pitfalls: Vague language leading to misinterpretations; failure to update the policy regularly.

3.3 Data Handling and Protection:

  • In-depth explanation: This section outlines procedures for handling sensitive data, including encryption, access control, data backup, and data disposal. It addresses compliance with relevant regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA).

  • Best practices: Implement data loss prevention (DLP) tools; provide training on data security best practices; enforce data classification.

  • Example: Employees must encrypt sensitive customer data before transmitting it outside the organization. Data must be disposed of securely when no longer needed, adhering to the organization's data retention policy.

  • Common pitfalls: Lack of clarity on data classification; inadequate training on data security practices; insufficient data protection measures.

3.4 Password Management and Security:

  • In-depth explanation: This section covers password complexity requirements, password change frequency, and password storage. Prohibition against password sharing.

  • Best practices: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA); use a password management tool; conduct regular password security awareness training.

  • Example: Passwords must be at least 12 characters long, containing uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Passwords should be changed every 90 days.

  • Common pitfalls: Weak password policies; inadequate password security awareness training; lack of MFA.

(Continue this detailed content section for all key components listed in Section 2, following the same structure: In-depth explanation, Best practices, Example, Common pitfalls.)

4. Implementation Guidelines

1. Policy Drafting and Review: Develop the AUP with input from relevant stakeholders (IT, Legal, HR).

2. Approval and Sign-off: Obtain formal approval from senior management.

3. Training and Awareness: Conduct comprehensive training on the AUP for all employees and contractors.

4. Communication and Dissemination: Make the AUP readily accessible (e.g., intranet, employee handbook).

5. Acknowledgement: Require employees to acknowledge receipt and understanding of the AUP by signing an acknowledgement form.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Information Security Officer (ISO): Oversees the implementation and enforcement of the AUP.

  • IT Department: Provides technical support and enforces technical security controls.

  • Human Resources (HR): Handles disciplinary actions related to AUP violations.

  • All Employees: Responsible for adhering to the AUP.

5. Monitoring and Review

  • Monitoring: Regularly monitor access logs, security incidents, and user behaviour to identify potential AUP violations. Use security information and event management (SIEM) tools if available.

  • Review: Review and update the AUP at least annually or whenever significant changes occur in the organization's IT infrastructure, legal landscape, or business operations.

6. Related Documents

  • Information Security Policy

  • Data Classification Policy

  • Incident Response Plan

  • Remote Access Policy

  • Data Retention Policy

7. Compliance Considerations

This AUP addresses several clauses and controls within ISO 27001:2022, including those mentioned in Section 1.2. It also considers relevant legal and regulatory requirements, such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act), and others applicable to the organization's industry and geographical location. The specific controls addressed will vary depending on the organization's risk assessment and context. Regularly review this policy to ensure it remains compliant with evolving legislation and ISO standards.

This template provides a strong foundation for a comprehensive AUP compliant with ISO 27001:2022. Remember to tailor it to your organization’s specific context, incorporating details relevant to your industry, size, and risk profile. Legal counsel should review the policy to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

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