GCM – Grayson Community Management
IT Infrastructure Protocol
The following protocol outlines recommended practices for establishing GCM’s IT infrastructure. This enables our employees to securely access data. By implementing these guidelines, we can ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of their data while facilitating online work.
Secure Remote Access
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Require the use of MFA for remote access. This adds an extra layer of security by combining something the user knows (password) with something they possess (smartphone) or something inherent to them (biometrics).
Strong Password Policies
Enforce strong password policies, including minimum length, complexity requirements, and regular password updates. Encourage the use of password managers to facilitate the creation and management of secure passwords.
Data Encryption
Data-at-Rest Encryption
Implement encryption for data at rest to protect sensitive information stored on servers, databases, or other storage devices. Full disk encryption and file-level encryption are recommended approaches.
Data-in-Transit Encryption
Utilize encryption protocols, such as SSL/TLS, to protect data while it is being transmitted between remote employees and the company’s network. This ensures that data cannot be intercepted or tampered with during transmission.
Access Control
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
Implement RBAC to assign access rights and permissions based on job roles and responsibilities. This restricts access to sensitive data, ensuring that only authorized individuals can view or modify it.
Principle of Least Privilege (PoLP)
Follow the principle of least privilege, granting remote employees only the permissions necessary to perform their tasks. Regularly review and update access privileges to ensure they remain appropriate.
Data Backup and Recovery
Regular Backups
Establish a regular backup schedule for all critical data. Backups should be stored in a secure off-site location or in the cloud to ensure data availability in the event of data loss or system failure.
Test Restoration
Periodically test the restoration process to verify that backups are functioning correctly, and that data can be recovered in a timely manner.
Employee Training and Awareness
Security Awareness Training
Provide regular training to remote employees on IT security best practices, including password hygiene, identifying phishing attempts, and the proper handling of sensitive data.
Incident Reporting
Establish clear procedures for reporting security incidents, such as suspected data breaches or compromised devices. Encourage employees to promptly report any incidents to the appropriate IT personnel.
Conclusion
By following these guidelines, GCM protects its data from unauthorized access, maintains data integrity, and promotes a secure and productive remote work environment. Regular monitoring, updates, and adherence to evolving security standards will help maintain the effectiveness of the protocol over time.