A user at Digital Innovation Products has been using company network resources to download torrent files onto a USB drive and transfer those files to their home computer. IT tracked down the torrent traffic during a recent network audit. Unfortunately, the company does not have a current policy that restricts this type of activity.
Identify at least two appropriate policies that should be in place to define this type of behavior and the consequences thereof.
Write a brief overview for C-level executives explaining which policies should be added to the company’s overall security policy framework, why they should be added, and how those policies could protect the company. +300 WORDS citation in-text is APA
It is essential to establish and maintain a secure network environment for Digital Innovation Products by creating policies that prohibit certain activities. The company should add two particular policies addressing the use of torrent files on its network: an Acceptable Use Policy and a Data Loss Prevention Policy.
An Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) should be the foundation of any security policy framework. This policy defines acceptable usage behaviors, guidelines, restrictions, and consequences for users who violate these rules. In this case, it should state that downloading torrents or file sharing applications is prohibited while using company resources. To ensure compliance with the AUP, Digital Innovation Products can implement technical controls such as filtering internet traffic based on protocol signatures and keyword detection to identify illegal activity like peer-to-peer (P2P) networks or encrypted connections associated with torrent downloads. Additionally, periodic monitoring of user activities can also help detect suspicious behavior which can then be reported to IT management for further investigation.
The second policy needed is a Data Loss Prevention (DLP) policy which addresses data leakage from leaving corporate systems outside the company’s control; in this case using USB drives to move sensitive information off-site without permission from IT management or other business stakeholders. This type of policy includes safeguards such as blocking access to removable media devices or controlling access via authentication mechanisms when a USB drive is connected to one of their computers. It should also include reporting mechanisms where employees report any found unauthorized device connections or attempts made by malicious actors in order to take action before confidential information leaves the premises without prior authorization from senior staff members at Digital Innovation Products .
Establishing these policies would help protect the confidentiality, integrity ,and availability of data stored within the system by reducing potential threats posed by employees who might be unaware of some security risks when transferring data off site through unsecured channels like USB Drives . They could also prevent Intellectual Property theft which could result in loss of revenue due to competitors using stolen confidential data against them in competitive markets . Furthermore , implementation would limit legal liabilities resulting from noncompliance with industry regulations related to Information Security .
In conclusion , implementing an Acceptable Use Policy and Data Loss Prevention Policy are key steps towards protecting Digital Innovation Products ‘ network infrastructure against malicious actors attempting to exploit vulnerabilities caused by careless employee activity when accessing corporate resources remotely . These policies will not only reduce risk levels but provide evidence that reasonable steps have been taken towards mitigating potential dangerous situations before they escalate into serious issues causing significant financial losses