Do you run a startup, small business or a fully remote SaaS company? Are you looking to strengthen your information security practices?
Implementing an Information Security Management System (ISMS) as per the ISO 27001 standard is a great way to manage your company’s information risks.
A key requirement of ISO 27001 is to define an information security policy that sets the direction for your ISMS.
In this post, I will guide you through the key elements to include in your information security policy, as outlined in Clause 5.2 of ISO 27001.
📌 Why Do You Need an Information Security Policy?
An information security policy is a strategic document that:
✅ Outlines your organisation’s approach to managing information security risks
✅ Sets objectives for information security practices
✅ Provides a framework for setting security controls
✅ Demonstrates commitment to comply with information security requirements
✅ Shows commitment to continually improve the ISMS
By having a clearly defined information security policy in place, you set the tone for security practices in your organisation.
It helps ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of your business information – the key principles of information security.
📝 Key Elements to Include in Your Information Security Policy
Based on ISO 27001 Clause 5.2, your information security policy should cover the following elements:
👉 Top Management Involvement
- Top management, like the CEO, CTO or CISO, must be involved in establishing the information security policy.
- This ensures an appropriate level of authority behind the policy.
👉 Alignment with Organisational Objectives
- The policy must be appropriate for your organisation’s purpose and objectives.
- Consider how your business goals relate to information security risks.
👉 Information Security Objectives
- State high-level information security objectives, or explain how these will be established.
- Example objectives could be to protect customer data, prevent unauthorised access, etc.
👉 Commitment to Compliance
- Express commitment to comply with relevant information security regulations, contractual requirements and guidelines.
👉 Commitment to Continual Improvement
- Include commitment to continually improve the information security management system.
👉 Make the Policy Available
- The information security policy must be documented, communicated to employees, and made available to relevant external parties.
📃 Turning Requirements into an Effective Information Security Policy
With these ISO 27001 requirements in mind, here are some tips for crafting an effective information security policy:
✏️ Keep it short and simple – Avoid overly technical language. Keep to 1-2 pages.
✏️ Define information security – Explain what it means for your organisation.
✏️ Outline key principles – Confidentiality, integrity and availability of information.
✏️ Clarify roles and responsibilities – Who is responsible for what regarding security practices?
✏️ Provide examples of acceptable use – Give guidance for employee behaviour.
✏️ Use clear risk management process – How will you identify, assess and treat information security risks?
✏️ Review it regularly – Update the policy as needed to align with evolving security needs.
🏁 Starting Your ISO 27001 Journey?
Implementing an ISMS that complies with ISO 27001 is a major undertaking. To make the process easier, partner with a consulting firm specialising in ISO 27001.
At 27kay, we can guide you through each step – from defining an information security policy and objectives to achieving certification. Get in touch with our remote ISO 27001 services to kickstart your compliance journey today!
Key Points:
- ISO 27001 requires organisations to define an information security policy endorsed by top management.
- The policy sets the direction for information security practices by outlining security objectives, commitment to compliance, and continual improvement.
- When crafting your policy, keep requirements simple, align with business goals, assign responsibilities, and establish risk management processes.
- Partnering with ISO 27001 consultants can help fast-track your implementation and certification process.