The most difficult part of creating a Security Policy for your business is determining what, exactly, to include in it. Never heard of a Security Policy before? You’re not alone. But whether you are
only employee in your company or you have a small staff working for you, you need to learn what a Security Policy is, and then you need to create one. In much same way that a personnel policy informs employees of things like vacation time accrual, performance review schedule and other personnel-related issues, a Security Policy informs your employees of steps that are necessary to keep your company’s network and computers secure. The policy is your company’s rules and regulations that are enforceable, under law if necessary, if breached.
A Security Policy will include rules and formal procedures that are clearly written and laid out. But most importantly, information contained must be easy for employees of all levels to understand.
And just as it is with young children, content of your Security Policy must be enforceable, and it must be enforced consistently. Saying in writing that something is not allowed, then allowing it to happen during regular work hours sends mixed messages to your employees. They won’t know what really is right or wrong, which will defeat whole point of your Security Policy. Inconsistent implementation also leaves you open to legal liability.
Like any good policy, your Security Policy should be regularly updated to reflect today’s rapidly-changing business environment. Most of time, you will be person making these changes. However, if your company is growing and adding staff, this may not always be case. Make sure person responsible for updating your company’s Security Policy has guidelines and boundaries, and most of all, make sure you read and approve any changes made by someone else.
