Security and information policy templates

Security and information in the workplace refers to the systems, rules, and behaviours that protect company data, IT infrastructure, and confidential information. This includes everything from passwords and devices to how staff access, share, and store information.

Employers have a legal and ethical responsibility to safeguard data against misuse, loss, or cyber threats. A clear security and information policy outlines acceptable use, security protocols, and how personal and business information should be handled across the organisation.

Well-communicated and consistently enforced policies help minimise risk, support legal compliance (such as with GDPR), and build trust with customers, suppliers, and employees. Failure to manage information security effectively can result in data breaches, reputational damage, and regulatory fines.

• The Data Protection Act 2018: This legislation sets out the requirements for the collection, use, and storage of personal data. Security and information policies must ensure that any personal data collected is processed securely and in compliance with this legislation.

• The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): This regulation also sets out requirements for data protection and privacy. Security and information policies must ensure that personal data is processed in compliance with the GDPR.

• The Computer Misuse Act 1990: This legislation makes it a criminal offence to access or modify computer material without proper authorisation. Security and information policies must ensure that employees are aware of their obligations under this Act and are trained to prevent unauthorised access or modification of computer material.

• The Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988: This legislation protects original literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works. Security and information policies must ensure that employees are aware of their obligations under this Act and are trained to prevent the unauthorised use or distribution of copyrighted works.

• The Official Secrets Acts: These Acts make it a criminal offence to disclose information classified as "official secrets" without proper authorisation. Security and information policies must ensure that employees are aware of their obligations under these Acts and are trained to prevent the unauthorised disclosure of official secrets.

• The Human Rights Act 1998: This legislation incorporates the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law and protects fundamental human rights such as the right to privacy and the right to freedom of expression. Security and information policies must ensure that employees are aware of their obligations under this Act and are trained to respect these fundamental rights.