How to Build a Cybersecurity Policy in 1 Day
Every business needs cybersecurity policies, but creating them from scratch feels overwhelming. Here's how to build a functional policy framework in a single day.
Why Policies Matter
Policies aren't just for compliance checkboxes. They:
- Set clear expectations for employees
- Provide a basis for enforcement
- Demonstrate due diligence
- Guide decision-making during incidents
- Satisfy customer and partner requirements
The One-Day Framework
Morning: Foundation Policies (3-4 hours)
1. Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)
What employees can and cannot do with company technology.
Include:
- Permitted use of computers, email, internet
- Personal use guidelines
- Prohibited activities
- Monitoring disclosure
- Consequences for violations
Sample section:
Company technology resources are provided for business purposes. Limited personal use is permitted provided it does not interfere with work responsibilities, violate other policies, or expose the company to security risks.
2. Password Policy
Requirements for creating and managing passwords.
Include:
- Minimum length and complexity
- Change frequency (or why you don't require changes)
- Password manager requirements
- MFA requirements
- Account sharing prohibition
Sample requirements:
- Minimum 14 characters
- MFA required on all systems
- Password manager required
- No password reuse across systems
3. Data Classification Policy
How to identify and handle different types of data.
Include:
- Classification levels (Public, Internal, Confidential, Restricted)
- Examples for each level
- Handling requirements per level
- Labeling requirements
Midday: Operational Policies (2-3 hours)
4. Access Control Policy
Who can access what and how access is granted.
Include:
- Principle of least privilege
- Access request process
- Access review frequency
- Termination procedures
- Admin account requirements
5. Remote Work Policy
Security requirements for working outside the office.
Include:
- VPN requirements
- Home network security
- Physical security (screens visible, etc.)
- Approved devices
- Public Wi-Fi restrictions
6. Incident Response Policy
What happens when something goes wrong.
Include:
- Definition of a security incident
- Reporting requirements and contacts
- Initial response procedures
- Escalation path
- Communication guidelines
Afternoon: Technical Policies (2-3 hours)
7. Patch Management Policy
How and when systems get updated.
Include:
- Patch timeline requirements (critical, high, medium, low)
- Testing requirements
- Emergency patching procedures
- Documentation requirements
8. Backup Policy
Data backup requirements and procedures.
Include:
- What gets backed up
- Backup frequency
- Retention periods
- Testing requirements
- Offsite/offline requirements
9. Vendor Security Policy
Requirements for third parties accessing your systems or data.
Include:
- Security assessment requirements
- Data handling agreements
- Access limitations
- Audit rights
- Termination procedures
Policy Writing Tips
Keep It Simple
- Use plain language
- Avoid jargon
- Be specific enough to be useful, general enough to last
Make It Enforceable
- Don't create rules you can't or won't enforce
- Define consequences clearly
- Ensure leadership buy-in
Plan for Exceptions
- Include an exception process
- Document who can approve exceptions
- Require periodic exception review
Essential Elements of Every Policy
1. Purpose - Why does this policy exist?
2. Scope - Who and what does it cover?
3. Policy Statement - The actual requirements
4. Roles and Responsibilities - Who does what?
5. Enforcement - Consequences of violations
6. Review Schedule - When will it be updated?
7. Approval - Who approved it and when?
After Day One
Week 1
- Have leadership review and approve
- Get legal review if needed
- Prepare training materials
Month 1
- Train all employees
- Collect acknowledgments
- Publish policies where accessible
Quarterly
- Review for needed updates
- Check compliance
- Update training as needed
Annually
- Full policy review
- Incorporate lessons learned
- Verify alignment with business changes
Common Mistakes
Analysis Paralysis
Don't let perfect be the enemy of good. A basic policy today beats a perfect policy never.
Copy-Paste Without Customization
Templates are starting points, not finished products. Customize for your business.
No Training
Policies in a drawer help no one. Employees must understand and acknowledge them.
Set and Forget
Policies need regular review and updates as your business and threats evolve.
Free Resources
Many organizations publish policy templates:
- SANS Institute
- NIST
- Center for Internet Security (CIS)
Start with a template, customize for your needs.
Need help developing security policies for your business? Contact us: m1k3@msquarellc.net