What is a security policy?

A security policy is fundamentally a formal document that outlines the security expectations and requirements within an organization. This document serves as a comprehensive guideline, detailing the measures and practices that need to be implemented to protect the organization's information assets. It typically includes policies regarding user access control, data protection, incident response, and compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

By establishing clear and formalized security expectations, a security policy helps ensure that all employees understand their roles and responsibilities regarding information security, thereby fostering a culture of security awareness and compliance within the organization. This clarity minimizes the risk of security breaches and underscores the organization's commitment to safeguarding sensitive information.

In contrast, informal guidelines may lack the structure and authority required for effective implementation and compliance. Additionally, documents centered on financial data or customer relations do not address the core components of information security, further emphasizing the critical nature of a formal security policy in protecting an organization's assets.