A strong security policy is not only a recommended enterprise practice, but also goes a long way in safeguarding the corporate assets from being compromised. But forming an effective yet flexible security policy is not an easy task. Besides having the larger picture in mind, it is also essential to account for unforeseen, small security loopholes.
Here are some tips to enable IT managers to create better security policies:
- Asset identification: Assets include not only the physical components, but the intellectual property also. Compromised hardware may still be replaced, but theft of sensitive data can be irreparable. That’s why the first step should always be to identify and locate the various assets.
- Fewer universal accesses: As much as possible, try to minimize the number of universal accesses. This not only creates more overhead for the stakeholder, but also introduces possibilities of a security loophole. Make sure only those who are direct participants in a resource get access to it.
- Access prevention: There’s a lot to be said for making the workplace friendlier, but this can’t include liberties like freedom to operate personal email accounts. A single workstation connected to outside networks is a huge security vulnerability, and personal email needs to be discouraged.
- Regular audits: Creating a policy is good, but it’s vital to perform regular audits to make sure it’s being followed diligently. All weak links need to be fortified and bad practices weeded out.
Reviewing the policy impact regularly and making changes as required is also an important part of making sure that the policy proves beneficial in the long run.
