How do you justify security policy exceptions?

1 What are security policy exceptions?

A security policy exception is a formal request to deviate from the established security policy or standard for a specific reason and duration. For example, you may need to use a legacy system that does not meet the minimum security requirements, or you may have a business need to access a restricted network or service. A security policy exception does not mean that you can ignore or violate the policy, but that you have a valid and documented justification for doing so.

2 Why do you need to justify security policy exceptions?

Justifying security policy exceptions is important for several reasons. First, it helps you to assess the risks and benefits of the deviation and to identify any compensating controls or mitigating actions that can reduce the impact. Second, it helps you to obtain approval and support from the relevant stakeholders, such as your manager, security team, or compliance officer. Third, it helps you to monitor and review the exception and to ensure that it is terminated or renewed as needed. Fourth, it helps you to maintain accountability and transparency and to demonstrate compliance with internal and external audits.

3 How do you justify security policy exceptions?

To justify security policy exceptions, you need to follow a clear and consistent process. This includes identifying the need for the exception and the scope of the deviation, assessing the risk level and impact of the exception, proposing compensating controls or mitigating actions, documenting and submitting the exception request for approval, implementing it, monitoring its status, and reviewing and terminating or renewing it. Explain why you cannot comply with the policy or standard and what alternatives you have considered and rejected. Evaluate how the exception affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your data and systems, as well as any potential threats or vulnerabilities it introduces or exposes. When proposing compensating controls or mitigating actions, you may consider additional encryption, authentication, or monitoring measures, or limiting access or duration of the exception. Provide all relevant information and evidence to support your justification along with an expected duration and expiration date. Once approved, apply the exception and keep track of any changes or incidents that may affect it. Before expiration, evaluate its effectiveness and necessity to decide whether to terminate it or request a renewal. Update documentation and notify stakeholders accordingly.

4 What are some best practices for justifying security policy exceptions?

Justifying security policy exceptions is not a one-time activity, but a continuous process that requires careful planning, communication, and evaluation. To do this effectively, you should align your exception request with your business objectives and security goals, involve the right people and roles in the process, use simple and precise language to be clear and concise in your documentation, follow the established guidelines and procedures, and be proactive and flexible in your approach. Show how the exception supports your organization's mission, vision, and values and how it aligns with your security strategy and framework. Seek input and feedback from colleagues, managers, security team, and compliance officer to ensure that they understand and agree with your justification. Provide facts and data to back up your claims. Adhere to the policies and standards that govern the exception process. Use the appropriate forms and tools to document and submit your request. Anticipate any challenges or changes that may affect your exception and be ready to adjust or revise your justification as needed.

5 What are some common challenges and pitfalls for justifying security policy exceptions?

Justifying security policy exceptions can be difficult and challenging. You may not be aware of the policy or standard you need to comply with or deviate from, or you may not communicate or collaborate effectively with stakeholders. Furthermore, you may not have enough evidence to support your justification, or you may not have adequate compensating controls to reduce the risk or impact of your exception. Additionally, you may forget to review or renew the exception in a timely manner, or neglect to terminate it when it is no longer needed.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?