A.5.1Organizational
Policies for information security
Write a top-level security policy plus topic policies, get management to approve them, and share them with staff.
Practical tip
Keep policies short and review them yearly or after big changes.
Control description
Information security policy and topic-specific policies shall be defined, approved by management, published, communicated to and acknowledged by relevant personnel and relevant interested parties, and reviewed at planned intervals and if significant changes occur.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your information security policy, signed off by senior management and dated.
- Your other security policies (for example access control, backup, acceptable use), each with an owner, version number and next review date.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.1 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Proof that staff have read and accepted the policies, such as sign-off records or acknowledgements.
- Evidence that each policy was reviewed on schedule, such as a review date and change notes.
- Where staff can find the policies, such as an intranet page or onboarding pack.
- Staff should be able to tell you where the policies live and name a few rules that apply to their job.
Policies & documents
Information Security Policy and topic-specific policies
View full guideA.5.2Organizational
Information security roles and responsibilities
Make it clear who is responsible for which security tasks.
Practical tip
A simple RACI table beats long job descriptions.
Control description
Information security roles and responsibilities shall be defined and allocated according to the organization needs.
Evidence you need to provide
- A document listing the security roles in your organization and what each person is responsible for.
- Job descriptions for key roles that mention their security duties.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.2 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- An up-to-date organization chart showing who holds each security role.
- Proof people accepted their roles, such as an appointment email or meeting notes.
- Each person in a security role should be able to explain what they are responsible for.
Policies & documents
- Information Security Roles and Responsibility Policy
- ISMS roles, responsibilities and authorities document
- Risk Management Policy
View full guideA.5.3Organizational
Segregation of duties
Split conflicting tasks so one person cannot both do and approve something risky.
Practical tip
In small teams, use peer review and logging as a compensating control.
Control description
Conflicting duties and conflicting areas of responsibility shall be segregated.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your access control policy, stating that conflicting tasks are split between different people (segregation of duties).
- A simple table showing which tasks must not be done by the same person, such as requesting and approving a payment.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.3 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A few recent payments, changes or user setups showing one person asked and a different person approved.
- A list of who has access to sensitive processes, showing no one person can do everything alone.
- Be able to show how your systems stop someone from approving their own request.
Policies & documents
Human Resource Security Policy
View full guideA.5.4Organizational
Management responsibilities
Managers must make sure their people actually follow security policies.
Practical tip
Add security to team meetings and performance check-ins.
Control description
Management shall require all personnel to apply information security in accordance with the established information security policy, topic-specific policies and procedures of the organization.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your information security policy with a clear statement that management expects everyone to follow it.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.4 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Management messages or meeting notes reminding staff about security.
- Training completion records showing managers make sure their teams finish required training.
- Staff objectives or reviews that include security expectations, where you use them.
- Managers should be able to explain how they encourage and check good security habits in their team.
Policies & documents
- Human Resource Security Policy
- Information Security Policy
- Information Security Roles and Responsibilities Policy
View full guideA.5.5Organizational
Contact with authorities
Know how and when to contact regulators, police and other authorities.
Practical tip
Keep an up-to-date contact list next to your incident plan.
Control description
The organization shall establish and maintain contact with relevant authorities.
Evidence you need to provide
- A contact list for the authorities you may need to reach (police, regulators, the data protection authority), with phone numbers and email addresses.
- A short note on when you must contact them, such as reporting a data breach within a set time.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.5 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Proof the contact list was checked recently.
- Records of any contact made with authorities during incidents.
- Be able to say who is responsible for contacting the authorities and when.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.5.6Organizational
Contact with special interest groups
Stay connected to security forums and industry groups to learn about threats.
Practical tip
Subscribe to your national CERT and a sector ISAC newsletter.
Control description
The organization shall establish and maintain contact with special interest groups or other specialist security forums and professional associations.
Evidence you need to provide
- A list of security groups, forums or professional bodies your organization belongs to or follows.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.6 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Membership confirmations, newsletter subscriptions or event attendance records.
- An example of useful information from these groups that was shared or acted on.
- Be able to explain how information from these groups is used.
Policies & documents
- Human Resource Security Policy
- Information Security Roles and Responsibilities Policy
View full guideA.5.7Organizational
Threat intelligence
Collect and analyse information about threats relevant to you and act on it.
Practical tip
Start small: one feed, reviewed monthly, with actions logged.
Control description
Information relating to information security threats shall be collected and analyzed to produce threat intelligence.
Evidence you need to provide
- A short procedure for threat intelligence (information about current threats): which sources you use, who reviews them and what happens next.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.7 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Examples of threat information received, such as national security advisories or supplier security notices.
- A few examples showing a threat was checked for relevance and any action was tracked to completion.
- Updates to your risk register prompted by new threats.
- Be able to explain how you decide whether a threat matters to you.
Policies & documents
- Operations Security Policy
- Information Security Roles and Responsibilities Policy
View full guideA.5.8Organizational
Information security in project management
Build security into every project from the start.
Practical tip
Add a security checklist to your project kickoff template.
Control description
Information security shall be integrated into project management.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your project process or templates showing security is considered at the start, during and before go-live.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.8 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- One or two recent projects with a completed security risk check or security requirements.
- Go-live sign-offs showing security actions were completed.
- A project manager should be able to explain how security is built into projects.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.5.9Organizational
Inventory of information and other associated assets
Keep a list of your information and the assets that hold it, each with an owner.
Practical tip
A well-maintained spreadsheet is fine to begin with.
Control description
An inventory of information and other associated assets, including owners, shall be developed and maintained.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your asset management policy.
- Your asset inventory: a list of your information, devices, software and services, each with an owner.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.9 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Proof the inventory was reviewed and updated recently.
- Evidence that new assets are added and old ones removed, such as recent entries for new laptops and disposed equipment.
- A spot check showing items on the list really exist, and items in use are on the list.
- Be able to show how a new device or system gets added to the inventory.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.5.10Organizational
Acceptable use of information and other associated assets
Set rules for how people may use company information and equipment.
Practical tip
Get staff to acknowledge the acceptable use policy at onboarding.
Control description
Rules for the acceptable use and procedures for handling information and other associated assets shall be identified, documented and implemented.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your acceptable use policy: the rules for using company information and equipment.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.10 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Proof that staff and contractors have accepted the rules.
- Records of any misuse cases and how they were dealt with.
- A list of managed devices or accounts showing equipment is used as the rules say.
- Staff should be able to name a few key rules, such as not sharing passwords.
Policies & documents
- Asset Management Policy
- Data Management Policy
- Information Security Policy
View full guideA.5.11Organizational
Return of assets
Get company assets back when someone leaves or changes role.
Practical tip
Link asset return to your leaver checklist.
Control description
Personnel and other interested parties as appropriate shall return all the organization’s assets in their possession upon change or termination of their employment, contract or agreement.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your leaver checklist, including returning equipment and access cards.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.11 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of people who left in the last 12 months, with proof their equipment was returned.
- Follow-up records for anything not returned, such as remotely locking a laptop.
- Be able to explain who checks that items are returned and how.
Policies & documents
- Asset Management Policy
- Human Resource Security Policy
- Information Security Policy
View full guideA.5.12Organizational
Classification of information
Label information by how sensitive it is so people know how to protect it.
Practical tip
Three or four levels (e.g. Public, Internal, Confidential) are enough.
Control description
Information shall be classified according to the information security needs of the organization based on confidentiality, integrity, availability and relevant interested party requirements.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your classification policy: the levels you use (for example Public, Internal, Confidential) and what goes in each.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.12 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Examples of information with its classification recorded, such as in the asset inventory.
- Proof classifications are reviewed from time to time.
- Staff should be able to explain the levels and give an example of each.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.5.13Organizational
Labelling of information
Apply visible or metadata labels matching your classification scheme.
Practical tip
Use document templates and email tools that add labels automatically.
Control description
An appropriate set of procedures for information labelling shall be developed and implemented in accordance with the information classification scheme adopted by the organization.
Evidence you need to provide
- Simple instructions on how to label information at each classification level (paper, documents, email).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.13 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Examples of labelled documents, reports or shared folders.
- Examples of labelled printed or removable media where relevant.
- Be able to show labelling in everyday use, such as a 'Confidential' footer.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.5.14Organizational
Information transfer
Protect information when you send it by any means: email, file share, paper or verbal.
Practical tip
Define approved transfer tools and ban the rest.
Control description
Information transfer rules, procedures, or agreements shall be in place for all types of transfer facilities within the organization and between the organization and other parties.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your information transfer policy: approved ways to share information by email, file sharing, post and phone.
- Agreements with partners you regularly exchange data with, including security terms.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.14 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A few recent examples of confidential data sent outside the company using an approved, protected method.
- Courier or tracked delivery records for physical media, if used.
- Be able to show how you send a confidential file to a customer or supplier.
Policies & documents
Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.5.15Organizational
Access control
Set rules for who can access what, based on business need.
Practical tip
Write down the 'least privilege' and 'need to know' principles explicitly.
Control description
Rules to control physical and logical access to information and other associated assets shall be established and implemented based on business and information security requirements.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your access control policy, showing who is allowed to access what, based on 'only what you need for your job'.
- A role-based access table showing standard access for each job.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.15 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of users and their access for key systems, matching their roles.
- Approval records for recent access requests.
- Be able to walk through how someone requests and gets access.
Policies & documents
- Access Control Policy
- Physical Security Policy
View full guideA.5.16Organizational
Identity management
Manage the full life cycle of user identities, from creation to removal.
Practical tip
One identity per person; avoid shared accounts.
Control description
The full life cycle of identities shall be managed.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your process for creating, changing and removing user accounts.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.16 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A full user list showing everyone has their own account.
- A list of shared or system accounts, each with a named owner and reason.
- Examples of recent joiners and leavers showing accounts were created and removed correctly.
- Be able to explain how accounts are kept in step with HR changes.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.5.17Organizational
Authentication information
Control how passwords, keys and other secrets are issued and protected.
Practical tip
Mandate a password manager and MFA.
Control description
Allocation and management of authentication information shall be controlled by a management process, including advising personnel on the appropriate handling of authentication information.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your password and login policy, including multi-factor authentication (a second step like a code or app approval).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.17 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Screenshots or exports of system settings showing password and multi-factor rules are switched on.
- Proof that new users must change their first password.
- Staff acknowledgement that they must keep passwords secret.
- Be able to show multi-factor login on your most important systems.
Policies & documents
- Access Control Policy
- Information Security Policy
View full guideA.5.18Organizational
Access rights
Grant, review, change and remove access rights in a controlled way.
Practical tip
Run quarterly access reviews and keep the evidence.
Control description
Access rights to information and other associated assets shall be provisioned, reviewed, modified and removed in accordance with the organization’s topic-specific policy on and rules for access control.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your process for giving, changing, reviewing and removing access.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.18 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of everyone who has left in the last 12 months and proof their access was removed on time.
- A list of new starters and proof their access was approved and matched their role.
- Records of your regular access reviews (who checked what, and what was changed).
- Examples of people who changed role, showing old access was removed.
- Be able to explain how managers check access during reviews.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.5.19Organizational
Information security in supplier relationships
Manage security risks that come from using suppliers.
Practical tip
Tier suppliers by risk so you focus effort on the critical ones.
Control description
Processes and procedures shall be defined and implemented to manage the information security risks associated with the use of supplier’s products or services.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your supplier security policy: how you check suppliers before using them.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.19 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Your supplier list, marked by how important or risky each one is.
- Completed security checks or questionnaires for your key suppliers.
- Be able to explain how security is considered when choosing a supplier.
Policies & documents
Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.5.20Organizational
Addressing information security within supplier agreements
Put the necessary security requirements into supplier contracts.
Practical tip
Keep a standard security schedule to attach to contracts.
Control description
Relevant information security requirements shall be established and agreed with each supplier based on the type of supplier relationship.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your standard contract wording for supplier security.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.20 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Signed contracts with key suppliers that include security, confidentiality, breach notification and right-to-audit terms.
- Data processing agreements where suppliers handle personal data.
- Be able to explain how security terms are agreed with suppliers.
Policies & documents
Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.5.21Organizational
Managing information security in the ICT supply chain
Manage risks in the technology products and services you buy, including their sub-suppliers.
Practical tip
Ask key vendors for their certifications and SBOMs where relevant.
Control description
Processes and procedures shall be defined and implemented to manage the information security risks associated with the ICT products and services supply chain.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your process for checking technology suppliers, including the suppliers they rely on.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.21 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Security checks for key technology suppliers that cover their own subcontractors.
- Records of being told about, or approving, a supplier's subcontractors.
- Be able to explain how you judge the risk of new software or services.
Policies & documents
Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.5.22Organizational
Monitoring, review and change management of supplier services
Regularly check suppliers keep their security promises and manage changes.
Practical tip
Review critical suppliers at least annually.
Control description
The organization shall regularly monitor, review, evaluate and manage change in supplier information security practices and service delivery.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your process for monitoring suppliers and handling changes.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.22 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Notes from regular supplier reviews covering security.
- Supplier certificates or independent security reports, with notes showing someone read them.
- Records of checking the security impact when a supplier changed its service.
- Be able to explain what you do when a supplier falls short.
Policies & documents
Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.5.23Organizational
Information security for use of cloud services
Manage how you acquire, use, manage and exit cloud services securely.
Practical tip
Understand the shared responsibility model for each provider.
Control description
Processes for acquisition, use, management and exit from cloud services shall be established in accordance with the organization’s information security requirements.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your cloud services policy: how you choose, use, manage and leave cloud services.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.23 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of cloud services in use, each with an owner and approval.
- Notes on who is responsible for what security tasks (you or the provider) for key services.
- Your exit plan for key services: how you would get your data back.
- Be able to show the security settings of your most important cloud service.
Policies & documents
Information Security Policy
View full guideA.5.24Organizational
Information security incident management planning and preparation
Plan how you will handle security incidents, with roles and procedures.
Practical tip
Run a tabletop exercise once a year.
Control description
The organization shall plan and prepare for managing information security incidents by defining, establishing and communicating information security incident management processes, roles and responsibilities.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your incident response plan: who does what, how incidents are reported and the steps to handle them.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.24 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- An up-to-date incident team contact list.
- Records of a practice exercise or real incident showing the plan was used.
- Incident team members should be able to explain their role.
Policies & documents
- Incident Response Plan
- Information Security Roles and Responsibilities Policy
View full guideA.5.25Organizational
Assessment and decision on information security events
Assess security events to decide whether they are incidents.
Practical tip
Use a simple severity matrix for triage.
Control description
The organization shall assess information security events and decide if they are to be categorized as information security incidents.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for deciding whether something is a security incident and how serious it is.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.25 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Your incident or ticket log showing each event was assessed and given a severity.
- Notes explaining why some events were not treated as incidents.
- Be able to show how a reported event is assessed.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.5.26Organizational
Response to information security incidents
Respond to incidents according to your documented procedures.
Practical tip
Keep an incident log with timestamps and decisions.
Control description
Information security incidents shall be responded to in accordance with the documented procedures.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your incident handling steps: contain, fix, recover and communicate.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.26 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Your incident log showing what was done and when for recent incidents.
- Records of who was told and when.
- Be able to walk through how a recent incident was handled.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.5.27Organizational
Learning from information security incidents
Use lessons from incidents to strengthen your controls.
Practical tip
Hold a blameless post-incident review.
Control description
Knowledge gained from information security incidents shall be used to strengthen and improve the information security controls.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your process for reviewing incidents afterwards (lessons learned).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.27 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Notes from post-incident reviews, including the root cause.
- Proof that follow-up actions happened, such as updated training or new controls.
- Be able to explain how lessons are shared with the team.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.5.28Organizational
Collection of evidence
Collect and preserve evidence about incidents properly.
Practical tip
Document chain of custody for anything that could go to court.
Control description
The organization shall establish and implement procedures for the identification, collection, acquisition and preservation of evidence related to information security events.
Evidence you need to provide
- Simple instructions for collecting and preserving evidence during an incident (logs, screenshots, emails).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.28 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- An incident record showing evidence was saved before clean-up, with who handled it.
- Log retention settings showing logs are kept long enough to investigate.
- Be able to explain who may collect evidence and how it is stored.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.5.29Organizational
Information security during disruption
Keep security at the right level during disruptions and crises.
Practical tip
Make sure emergency workarounds don't bypass key controls.
Control description
The organization shall plan how to maintain information security at an appropriate level during disruption.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your business continuity plan, showing how security stays in place during a disruption.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.29 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Test results that include security checks.
- Records from any real disruption showing security was maintained, including emergency access.
- Be able to explain how security works when normal systems are down.
Policies & documents
Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plan
View full guideA.5.30Organizational
ICT readiness for business continuity
Make sure your IT can recover in line with business continuity needs.
Practical tip
Test restores and failovers, not just backups.
Control description
ICT readiness shall be planned, implemented, maintained and tested based on business continuity objectives and ICT continuity requirements.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your IT recovery plan, with recovery targets: how fast systems must be back (RTO) and how much data you can afford to lose (RPO).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.30 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Your business impact analysis showing which systems matter most.
- Recovery test results showing targets were met.
- Actions taken to fix problems found in tests.
- IT should be able to explain recovery roles and steps.
Policies & documents
- Incident Response Plan
- Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plan
View full guideA.5.31Organizational
Legal, statutory, regulatory and contractual requirements
Identify and meet the legal and contractual requirements that apply to you.
Practical tip
Maintain a legal register with owners and review dates.
Control description
Legal, statutory, regulatory and contractual requirements relevant to information security and the organization’s approach to meet these requirements shall be identified, documented and kept up to date.
Evidence you need to provide
- A list of the laws, regulations and contract requirements that apply to you, each with an owner.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.31 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Proof the list is reviewed regularly.
- Examples linking a requirement to the control that meets it.
- Be able to explain how you find out about new legal requirements.
Policies & documents
- Legal, regulatory and contractual requirements register
View full guideA.5.32Organizational
Intellectual property rights
Respect intellectual property, including software licences.
Practical tip
Track licences in your asset inventory.
Control description
The organization shall implement appropriate procedures to protect intellectual property rights.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules on software licences and using other people's content.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.32 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Software licence records matching what is installed.
- Approval records for installing new software.
- Be able to show that only approved software is on devices.
Policies & documents
- Legal, regulatory and contractual requirements register
- Information Security Policy
View full guideA.5.33Organizational
Protection of records
Protect records from loss, destruction, falsification and unauthorised access.
Practical tip
Define retention periods per record type.
Control description
Records shall be protected from loss, destruction, falsification, unauthorized access and unauthorized release.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your records retention policy: how long each type of record is kept and how it is protected.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.33 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Examples of records kept for the right time and protected from loss or changes.
- Records of old information being securely deleted when no longer needed.
- Be able to show where key records are stored.
Policies & documents
- Document control procedure
- Access Control Policy
- Data Management Policy
View full guideA.5.34Organizational
Privacy and protection of PII
Meet privacy laws and protect personal data.
Practical tip
Align with your GDPR/privacy programme rather than duplicating it.
Control description
The organization shall identify and meet the requirements regarding the preservation of privacy and protection of PII according to applicable laws and regulations and contractual requirements.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your privacy policy covering how you protect personal data.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.34 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Your list of personal data processing activities, kept up to date.
- Privacy risk assessments for higher-risk uses of personal data.
- Records of requests from individuals (for example access or deletion) answered on time.
- Your privacy lead should be able to explain how privacy rules are met.
Policies & documents
Legal, regulatory and contractual requirements register
View full guideA.5.35Organizational
Independent review of information security
Have your security approach reviewed independently at planned intervals.
Practical tip
Internal audit or an external consultant both count.
Control description
The organization’s approach to managing information security and its implementation including people, processes and technologies shall be reviewed independently at planned intervals, or when significant changes occur.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your plan for an independent review of your security programme, by someone outside the work being checked.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.35 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- The latest independent review or audit report, shared with management.
- Actions from the review and their progress.
- Be able to explain how review results are used.
Policies & documents
- Internal audit procedure
- Management review procedure
- Risk Management Policy
View full guideA.5.36Organizational
Compliance with policies, rules and standards for information security
Check regularly that people and systems follow your security rules.
Practical tip
Use automated compliance checks where possible.
Control description
Compliance with the organization’s information security policy, topic-specific policies, rules and standards shall be regularly reviewed.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your approach to checking that people follow security policies.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.36 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Records of compliance checks, such as spot checks or technical scans.
- Records of problems found and how they were fixed.
- Managers should be able to explain how they check their area.
Policies & documents
- Internal audit procedure
- Management review procedure
- Risk Management Policy
View full guideA.5.37Organizational
Documented operating procedures
Write down operating procedures and make them available to those who need them.
Practical tip
Runbooks in a wiki are perfectly acceptable.
Control description
Operating procedures for information processing facilities shall be documented and made available to personnel who need them.
Evidence you need to provide
- Written procedures for key IT and security tasks.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.5.37 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Procedures with version numbers, owners and review dates.
- Proof the procedures are available to the people who need them.
- Be able to show a task being done the way the procedure says.
Policies & documents
Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.6.1People
Screening
Do background checks on candidates in line with law and the risk of the role.
Practical tip
Scale checks to the sensitivity of the role.
Control description
Background verification checks on all candidates to become personnel shall be carried out prior to joining the organization and on an ongoing basis taking into consideration applicable laws, regulations and ethics and be proportional to the business requirements, the classification of the information to be accessed and the perceived risks.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your screening policy: what background checks you do for each type of role (for example identity, right to work, references, and criminal checks where the law allows).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.6.1 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of people who joined in the last 12 months with proof their checks were completed before they started.
- Records of extra checks for higher-risk roles, such as finance or system administrators.
- Records showing how delayed or failed checks were approved or handled.
- HR should be able to explain the screening steps and what happens if a check raises a concern.
Policies & documents
Human Resource Security Policy
View full guideA.6.2People
Terms and conditions of employment
Employment contracts should state security responsibilities.
Practical tip
Add a security clause to your standard contract.
Control description
The employment contractual agreements shall state the personnel’s and the organization’s responsibilities for information security.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your employment contract and contractor agreement templates, including security and confidentiality terms.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.6.2 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Signed contracts for a few recent starters and contractors.
- Proof contract terms are updated when policies change.
- HR should be able to explain how contract terms are kept current.
Policies & documents
- Human Resource Security Policy
- Information Security Policy
- Information Security Roles and Responsibilities Policy
- Code of Conduct
View full guideA.6.3People
Information security awareness, education and training
Train staff so they understand security and their responsibilities.
Practical tip
Short, regular training beats one long annual session.
Control description
Personnel of the organization and relevant interested parties shall receive appropriate information security awareness, education and training and regular updates of the organization's information security policy, topic-specific policies and procedures, as relevant for their job function.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your training plan: what security training each role needs and how often.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.6.3 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Training completion records for all staff, including new starters.
- Copies of the training content, showing it is up to date.
- Records of extra training for technical roles (developers, administrators, incident team).
- Results of phishing tests or short quizzes, if you use them.
- Staff should be able to explain how to report a security problem.
Policies & documents
Human Resource Security Policy
View full guideA.6.4People
Disciplinary process
Have a formal, communicated process for handling security policy breaches.
Practical tip
Make sure HR and security agree on the process.
Control description
A disciplinary process shall be formalized and communicated to take actions against personnel and other relevant interested parties who have committed an information security policy violation
Evidence you need to provide
- Your disciplinary process, mentioning security breaches.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.6.4 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Records of any security-related disciplinary cases.
- Proof staff have been told about the process, such as in the handbook.
- HR should be able to explain how security breaches are handled.
Policies & documents
- Human Resource Security Policy
- Information Security Policy
View full guideA.6.5People
Responsibilities after termination or change of employment
Security duties that continue after someone leaves must be defined and communicated.
Practical tip
Remind leavers of confidentiality duties in the exit interview.
Control description
Information security responsibilities and duties that remain valid after termination or change of employment shall be defined, enforced and communicated to relevant personnel and other interested parties.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your leaver process, including reminding people of duties that continue after they leave (such as confidentiality).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.6.5 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Exit letters or checklists showing leavers were reminded of ongoing duties.
- Records showing responsibilities and access were updated when people changed role.
- HR should be able to explain how this reminder is given.
Policies & documents
- Human Resource Security Policy
- Employee Termination Security Policy
View full guideA.6.6People
Confidentiality or non-disclosure agreements
Use NDAs that reflect what needs protecting, and review them.
Practical tip
Keep signed NDAs where auditors can find them.
Control description
Confidentiality or non-disclosure agreements reflecting the organization’s needs for the protection of information shall be identified, documented, regularly reviewed and signed by personnel and other relevant interested parties.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your confidentiality agreement (NDA) templates.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.6.6 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Signed agreements for staff, contractors and third parties who see confidential information.
- Proof the templates are reviewed from time to time.
- Be able to explain when an NDA is required.
Policies & documents
Human Resource Resource Security policy
View full guideA.6.7People
Remote working
Put security measures in place for people working outside the office.
Practical tip
Publish a remote working policy covering devices, Wi-Fi and screens.
Control description
Security measures shall be implemented when personnel are working remotely to protect information accessed, processed or stored outside the organization’s premises.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your remote working policy: rules for working from home or other locations.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.6.7 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of devices showing they meet the rules (encrypted, auto-locking, up to date).
- Proof staff have accepted the remote working rules.
- Settings showing remote access uses secure connections and multi-factor login.
- Remote staff should be able to explain how they keep information safe at home and in public.
Policies & documents
- Access Control Policy
- Information Security Policy
View full guideA.6.8People
Information security event reporting
Give people an easy way to report security events quickly.
Practical tip
One email address or button for 'report something odd'.
Control description
The organization shall provide a mechanism for personnel to report observed or suspected information security events through appropriate channels in a timely manner.
Evidence you need to provide
- Simple instructions telling staff how to report something suspicious.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.6.8 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Examples of reports from staff in your incident or ticket log.
- Training or poster material showing how to report.
- Staff should know where and how to report a security concern.
Policies & documents
- Human Resource Security Policy
- Incident Response Plan
- Information Security Policy
View full guideA.7.1Physical
Physical security perimeters
Define and protect the boundaries of areas holding sensitive information.
Practical tip
Map your secure areas on a floor plan.
Control description
Security perimeters shall be defined and used to protect areas that contain information and other associated assets.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your physical security policy, defining the secure boundary around offices and equipment rooms.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.1 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Site plans or notes showing entry points and how they are secured.
- Maintenance records for doors, locks and alarms.
- Be able to show that entrances are secure and in good condition.
Policies & documents
- ISMS scope statement
- Physical Security Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.7.2Physical
Physical entry
Control who can enter secure areas.
Practical tip
Badge access with visitor logs is the norm.
Control description
Secure areas shall be protected by appropriate entry controls and access points.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for entering buildings and handling visitors.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.2 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Visitor sign-in records showing visitors were logged and escorted.
- A list of who has keys or access badges, with approvals.
- Proof leavers' badges were switched off.
- Be able to show that entry is controlled and staff challenge strangers.
Policies & documents
- Physical Security Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.7.3Physical
Securing offices, rooms and facilities
Design physical security for offices and rooms.
Practical tip
Don't signpost where the server room is.
Control description
Physical security for offices, rooms and facilities shall be designed and implemented.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for securing offices and rooms.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.3 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Records of who holds keys or door codes for secure rooms.
- Proof door codes are changed when people leave.
- Be able to show that secure rooms are locked and sensitive information can't be seen from outside.
Policies & documents
- Physical Security Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.7.4Physical
Physical security monitoring
Monitor premises for unauthorised physical access.
Practical tip
CCTV and alarms, with someone actually reviewing alerts.
Control description
Premises shall be continuously monitored for unauthorized physical access.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for monitoring premises (alarms, cameras, security staff).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.4 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Alarm and camera test or maintenance records.
- Records of how long footage is kept and who can view it.
- Be able to show monitoring equipment working and covering key areas.
Policies & documents
- Physical Security Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.7.5Physical
Protecting against physical and environmental threats
Protect against fire, flood, power cuts and other physical threats.
Practical tip
Use your landlord's or data centre's evidence where relevant.
Control description
Protection against physical and environmental threats, such as natural disasters and other intentional or unintentional physical threats to infrastructure shall be designed and implemented.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your assessment of physical risks such as fire, flood and power cuts.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.5 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Maintenance records for fire detection, extinguishers and other protections.
- Records of any incidents, such as leaks, and the response.
- Be able to show how key equipment is protected from these risks.
Policies & documents
- Physical Security Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.7.6Physical
Working in secure areas
Set rules for working inside secure areas.
Practical tip
No tailgating, no unaccompanied visitors.
Control description
Security measures for working in secure areas shall be designed and implemented.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for working in secure areas such as server or records rooms (for example no unaccompanied visitors, no photos).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.6 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of people allowed into secure areas, with approvals.
- Entry records for secure areas showing only authorized people went in.
- Escort records for visitors or contractors in secure areas.
- Signs or notices displaying the rules at the entrance.
- Be able to show that the rules are followed in practice.
Policies & documents
- Physical Security Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.7.7Physical
Clear desk and clear screen
Keep desks clear of sensitive papers and lock screens when away.
Practical tip
Auto-lock screens after a few minutes.
Control description
Clear desk rules for papers and removable storage media and clear screen rules for information processing facilities shall be defined and appropriately enforced.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your clear desk and clear screen policy.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.7 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Results of clear desk spot checks.
- Settings showing screens lock automatically after a short time.
- Records of follow-up when spot checks found problems.
- Be able to show desks and printers free of sensitive papers.
Policies & documents
- Information Security Policy
- Physical Security Policy
View full guideA.7.8Physical
Equipment siting and protection
Place and protect equipment to reduce physical risks and unauthorised access.
Practical tip
Keep printers with sensitive output in controlled spots.
Control description
Equipment shall be sited securely and protected.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for where equipment is placed and how it is protected.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.8 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list or plan of where key equipment is located.
- Notes on protections in place, such as locked racks, privacy screens or raised floors.
- Maintenance records for protective equipment.
- Records of any damage or incidents involving equipment.
- Be able to show that equipment is away from public view and protected from damage.
Policies & documents
- Physical Security Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.7.9Physical
Security of assets off-premises
Protect devices and information taken outside the office.
Practical tip
Full-disk encryption on all laptops.
Control description
Off-site assets shall be protected.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for equipment used outside the office (for example laptops and phones).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.9 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of devices used off-site showing they are encrypted and can be located or wiped.
- Records of lost or stolen devices and what was done.
- Proof staff have accepted the rules for travelling with equipment.
- Staff should be able to explain how they protect devices when travelling.
Policies & documents
- Asset Management Policy
- Information Security Policy
View full guideA.7.10Physical
Storage media
Manage storage media through its life: use, transport and disposal.
Practical tip
Restrict or block USB storage where you can.
Control description
Storage media shall be managed through their life cycle of acquisition, use, transportation and disposal in accordance with the organization’s classification scheme and handling requirements.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for USB drives, external disks and other storage media.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.10 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Approval records for using removable media.
- Settings showing removable media is blocked or encrypted.
- Records of secure destruction of old media.
- Be able to show where any sensitive media is stored.
Policies & documents
- Asset Management Policy
- Data Management Policy
View full guideA.7.11Physical
Supporting utilities
Protect against failures of power, cooling and other utilities.
Practical tip
UPS for critical kit; test it.
Control description
Information processing facilities shall be protected from power failures and other disruptions caused by failures in supporting utilities.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your requirements for power, cooling and internet connections for key equipment.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.11 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Test and maintenance records for backup power and cooling.
- Records of past outages and the response.
- If you use a data centre or cloud provider, their reports covering these protections.
- Be able to show protections in your equipment room, if you have one.
Policies & documents
- Physical Security Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.7.12Physical
Cabling security
Protect power and network cables from interception, interference or damage.
Practical tip
Lock comms cabinets.
Control description
Cables carrying power, data or supporting information services shall be protected from interception, interference or damage.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your requirements for protecting power and network cables.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.12 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Cable diagrams or labelling records.
- Records showing unused network points are switched off.
- Maintenance records for cabling work.
- Be able to show that cables are tidy, protected and not exposed in public areas.
Policies & documents
- Physical Security Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.7.13Physical
Equipment maintenance
Maintain equipment correctly so it stays available and secure.
Practical tip
Keep maintenance records and vendor contracts.
Control description
Equipment shall be maintained correctly to ensure availability, integrity and confidentiality of information.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your equipment maintenance process.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.13 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Maintenance records showing equipment is serviced as recommended.
- A list of approved maintenance providers.
- Records showing data was removed or protected before equipment went out for repair.
- Be able to explain how data is protected when equipment is repaired off-site.
Policies & documents
- Physical Security Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.7.14Physical
Secure disposal or re-use of equipment
Wipe or destroy data before disposing of or reusing equipment.
Practical tip
Get certificates of destruction from disposal vendors.
Control description
Items of equipment containing storage media shall be verified to ensure that any sensitive data and licensed software has been removed or securely overwritten prior to disposal or re-use.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your process for securely wiping or destroying equipment before reuse or disposal.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.7.14 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Wiping records or certificates of destruction.
- Asset inventory entries showing disposed items were marked as disposed.
- Your agreement with any disposal company.
- Be able to explain how drives are wiped before reuse.
Policies & documents
- Asset Management Policy
- Data Management Policy
View full guideA.8.1Technological
User endpoint devices
Protect information on laptops, phones and other user devices.
Practical tip
Use MDM to enforce encryption, PINs and updates.
Control description
Information stored on, processed by or accessible via user endpoint devices shall be protected.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your device policy: security rules for laptops, phones and tablets.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.1 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of company devices showing they are managed and meet the rules (encryption, updates, screen lock, malware protection).
- Examples of devices that fell out of line and how they were fixed.
- Proof staff accepted the device rules.
- Be able to show how settings are enforced on devices.
Policies & documents
- Asset Management Policy
- Data Management Policy
- Information Security Policy
- Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.2Technological
Privileged access rights
Restrict and manage admin-level access tightly.
Practical tip
Separate admin accounts from everyday accounts.
Control description
The allocation and use of privileged access rights shall be restricted and managed.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for administrator (privileged) access: who gets it and how it is controlled.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.2 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of all administrator accounts, each with a reason and approval.
- Records of regular reviews of administrator access.
- Settings showing admins use separate accounts and multi-factor login.
- Administrators should be able to explain when they use their admin account.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.8.3Technological
Information access restriction
Restrict access to information in line with your access control policy.
Practical tip
Default-deny on shared drives and SaaS apps.
Control description
Access to information and other associated assets shall be restricted in accordance with the established topic-specific policy on access control.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your access control policy explaining how access to information is restricted.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.3 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Permission settings for sensitive folders and systems matching approved access.
- Sharing settings showing public or external sharing is controlled.
- Records of approvals for external sharing.
- Be able to show access restrictions on a sensitive folder or system.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.8.4Technological
Access to source code
Control who can read and change source code and related tools.
Practical tip
Use branch protection and code review.
Control description
Read and write access to source code, development tools and software libraries shall be appropriately managed.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules on who can see and change source code.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.4 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of who can access your code repositories, reviewed regularly.
- Settings showing changes need review and approval before being merged.
- Proof that leavers lost repository access.
- Be able to show the repository protection settings.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.8.5Technological
Secure authentication
Use secure authentication technology and procedures.
Practical tip
MFA everywhere, phishing-resistant where possible.
Control description
Secure authentication technologies and procedures shall be implemented based on information access restrictions and the topic-specific policy on access control.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your login rules: multi-factor authentication, account lockout and session timeouts.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.5 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Settings from key systems showing these rules are switched on.
- A list of any exceptions, with approvals.
- Records of locked accounts or failed logins being looked into.
- Be able to show a login to a key system.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.8.6Technological
Capacity management
Monitor and plan capacity so systems don't run out of resources.
Practical tip
Set alerts at 80% utilisation.
Control description
The use of resources shall be monitored and adjusted in line with current and expected capacity requirements.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your process for monitoring system capacity (storage, processing power, bandwidth).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.6 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Capacity monitoring reports or alerts.
- Capacity plans for key systems.
- Records of capacity issues and how they were fixed.
- IT should be able to explain how they spot capacity problems early.
Policies & documents
Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.7Technological
Protection against malware
Protect against malware with technology and user awareness.
Practical tip
EDR plus training on suspicious attachments.
Control description
Protection against malware shall be implemented and supported by appropriate user awareness.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your malware protection policy.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.7 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A report showing malware protection is installed, switched on and up to date on all devices and servers.
- Records of malware detections and how they were handled.
- Awareness material warning staff about malware.
- Be able to show the protection settings.
Policies & documents
- Operations Security Policy
- Information Security Policy
View full guideA.8.8Technological
Management of technical vulnerabilities
Find and fix technical vulnerabilities in a timely way.
Practical tip
Define patch timelines by severity.
Control description
Information about technical vulnerabilities of information systems in use shall be obtained, the organization’s exposure to such vulnerabilities should be evaluated and appropriate measures should be taken.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your vulnerability management process: how often you scan, and how quickly you fix issues by severity.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.8 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Recent vulnerability scan reports.
- Examples of high and critical issues showing they were fixed on time.
- Patch status reports for devices and servers.
- Penetration test reports and the fix tracking.
- IT should be able to explain how they decide what to fix first.
Policies & documents
- Operations Security Policy
- Risk Management Policy
View full guideA.8.9Technological
Configuration management
Define, document and control secure configurations of systems.
Practical tip
Use hardened baselines such as CIS Benchmarks.
Control description
Configurations, including security configurations, of hardware, software, services and networks shall be established, documented, implemented, monitored and reviewed.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your standard secure settings (baselines) for key systems.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.9 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Records showing systems are built using the baselines.
- Reports showing settings haven't drifted.
- Change records for any setting changes.
- Be able to compare one system against its baseline.
Policies & documents
Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.10Technological
Information deletion
Delete information when it is no longer needed.
Practical tip
Automate deletion based on retention rules.
Control description
Information stored in information systems, devices or in any other storage media shall be deleted when no longer required.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for deleting information when it is no longer needed.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.10 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Records showing data was deleted on schedule.
- Records of customer deletion requests being completed.
- Certificates or confirmation of deletion from suppliers where relevant.
- Be able to explain how deletion is carried out and checked.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.8.11Technological
Data masking
Hide or obscure sensitive data where full data isn't needed.
Practical tip
Mask production data before using it in test.
Control description
Data masking shall be used in accordance with the organization’s topic-specific policy on access control and other related topic-specific policies, and business requirements, taking applicable legislation into consideration.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for hiding or scrambling sensitive data (data masking) where full data isn't needed.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.11 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Examples of masked data in test systems or reports.
- Approvals for any exceptions where real data was used.
- A list of which data fields must be masked.
- Be able to show masked data in a test environment.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.8.12Technological
Data leakage prevention
Detect and prevent unauthorised disclosure of information.
Practical tip
Start with DLP rules for your most sensitive data types.
Control description
Data leakage prevention measures shall be applied to systems, networks and any other devices that process, store or transmit sensitive information.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules to stop sensitive data leaking out (data leakage prevention).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.12 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Settings showing controls on email, file sharing, uploads and USB drives.
- Alerts raised and how they were checked.
- Approved exceptions with reasons.
- Be able to show a control blocking or warning about sensitive data being sent out.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.8.13Technological
Information backup
Take backups and test that they can be restored.
Practical tip
Follow the 3-2-1 rule and keep one copy offline/immutable.
Control description
Backup copies of information, software and systems shall be maintained and regularly tested in accordance with the agreed topic-specific policy on backup.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your backup policy: what is backed up, how often, how long it is kept and how backups are protected.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.13 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Backup logs showing backups run successfully.
- Restore test records showing backups actually work.
- Settings showing backups are protected and stored separately from live systems.
- Records of failed backups and how they were fixed.
- Be able to explain what happens when a backup fails.
Policies & documents
Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.14Technological
Redundancy of information processing facilities
Build in enough redundancy to meet availability needs.
Practical tip
Multi-zone deployment for critical services.
Control description
Information processing facilities shall be implemented with redundancy sufficient to meet availability requirements.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your requirements for keeping key systems available, including backup systems (redundancy).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.14 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A diagram or description showing backup systems for critical services.
- Failover test results.
- Uptime or availability reports.
- IT should be able to explain how they know redundancy is working.
Policies & documents
- Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Plan
- Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.15Technological
Logging
Record activities, errors and security events, and protect the logs.
Practical tip
Centralise logs so attackers can't easily erase them.
Control description
Logs that record activities, exceptions, faults and other relevant events shall be produced, stored, protected and analysed.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your logging policy: which activities are recorded, how long logs are kept and how they are protected.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.15 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Settings showing logging is switched on for key systems, including administrator activity.
- Log retention settings.
- Proof that logs can't be changed or deleted by ordinary users.
- Be able to show a sample log with who did what and when.
Policies & documents
Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.16Technological
Monitoring activities
Monitor networks and systems for unusual behaviour and act on it.
Practical tip
Tune alerts so the team actually reads them.
Control description
Networks, systems and applications shall be monitored for anomalous behaviour and appropriate actions taken to evaluate potential information security incidents.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your monitoring process: what is watched and what happens when something unusual happens.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.16 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Alert records and the tickets showing they were investigated.
- A screenshot or export of alert settings showing thresholds and who gets notified.
- Reports of monitoring trends reviewed by IT.
- Be able to show who receives alerts and how quickly they respond.
Policies & documents
Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.17Technological
Clock synchronization
Synchronise system clocks to a trusted time source.
Practical tip
Use NTP; it makes incident timelines possible.
Control description
The clocks of information processing systems used by the organization shall be synchronized to approved time sources.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rule that all systems use the same trusted time source.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.17 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Settings from key systems showing they sync to the approved time source.
- A sample of logs from different systems showing matching timestamps.
- Records of any time sync problems and how they were fixed.
- Your list of key systems covered by the rule.
- Be able to show timestamps lining up across two systems.
Policies & documents
Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.18Technological
Use of privileged utility programs
Restrict tools that can override system or application controls.
Practical tip
Remove or lock down admin utilities on endpoints.
Control description
The use of utility programs that can be capable of overriding system and application controls shall be restricted and tightly controlled.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for powerful utility programs that can override security settings.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.18 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of who can use these programs, with approvals.
- Settings restricting their use to authorized people.
- Logs showing when they were used.
- Records of regular reviews of who has access.
- Be able to explain why each person needs access.
Policies & documents
- Access Control Policy
- Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.19Technological
Installation of software on operational systems
Control software installation on live systems.
Practical tip
Allow-list approved software.
Control description
Procedures and measures shall be implemented to securely manage software installation on operational systems.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your process for approving software installation.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.19 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A list of approved software.
- Approval records for recent installs.
- Settings stopping ordinary users from installing software.
- Reports of unapproved software found and removed.
- Be able to show that a normal user can't install unapproved software.
Policies & documents
- Information Security Policy
- Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.20Technological
Networks security
Secure and manage networks to protect information.
Practical tip
Document your network diagram and firewall rules.
Control description
Networks and network devices shall be secured, managed and controlled to protect information in systems and applications.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your network security requirements.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.20 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- An up-to-date network diagram.
- Records of firewall rule reviews.
- Configuration records for network devices.
- Records of network security changes and their approval.
- Be able to explain how your network is protected from outside threats.
Policies & documents
Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.21Technological
Security of network services
Define and monitor security for network services, internal or outsourced.
Practical tip
Include security SLAs with your ISP/network providers.
Control description
Security mechanisms, service levels and service requirements of network services shall be identified, implemented and monitored.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your security requirements for network services (internet, VPN, hosting connections).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.21 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Contracts or service descriptions from network providers showing security features.
- Monitoring records for network services.
- Records of service issues and how they were handled.
- A list of network services in use with owners.
- Be able to explain how network services are secured.
Policies & documents
- Operations Security Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.8.22Technological
Segregation of networks
Separate groups of systems, users and services on networks.
Practical tip
Put guest Wi-Fi on its own network.
Control description
Groups of information services, users and information systems shall be segregated in the organization’s networks.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for separating networks (for example guests, staff, servers, test and live).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.22 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- A network diagram showing separate segments.
- Rules controlling traffic between segments.
- Records of reviews of those rules.
- Approvals for any exceptions.
- Be able to show that the guest network can't reach internal systems.
Policies & documents
Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.23Technological
Web filtering
Control access to external websites to reduce exposure to malicious content.
Practical tip
Block known-malicious categories via DNS filtering.
Control description
Access to external websites shall be managed to reduce exposure to malicious content.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your web filtering rules: which types of websites are blocked.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.23 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Filtering settings and blocked categories.
- Records of blocked attempts.
- Approval records for any exceptions.
- Reviews of the blocked list.
- Be able to show a blocked website warning.
Policies & documents
Operations Security Policy
View full guideA.8.24Technological
Use of cryptography
Define and apply rules for effective use of cryptography and key management.
Practical tip
Write a short crypto standard listing approved algorithms.
Control description
Rules for the effective use of cryptography, including cryptographic key management, shall be defined and implemented.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your encryption policy: when encryption must be used and how keys are managed.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.24 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Settings showing sensitive data is encrypted when stored and when sent.
- A list of encryption keys and certificates with owners and expiry dates.
- Records of keys being changed or revoked.
- Proof certificates are renewed before they expire.
- Be able to show encryption settings on a key system.
Policies & documents
View full guideA.8.25Technological
Secure development life cycle
Set rules for developing software and systems securely.
Practical tip
Add security gates to your CI/CD pipeline.
Control description
Rules for the secure development of software and systems shall be established and applied.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your secure development policy: how security is built into each stage of building software.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.25 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Records showing security steps at each stage, such as design reviews and testing.
- Training records for developers.
- Release checklists that include security.
- Developers should be able to explain how security fits into their work.
Policies & documents
Secure Development Policy
View full guideA.8.26Technological
Application security requirements
Identify and approve security requirements when building or buying applications.
Practical tip
Include security criteria in vendor selection.
Control description
Information security requirements shall be identified, specified and approved when developing or acquiring applications.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your process for defining security requirements for new or changed applications.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.26 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Security requirements written into feature or project specifications.
- Test results showing those requirements were checked.
- Sign-off before release.
- Product owners should be able to explain how requirements are decided.
Policies & documents
- Secure Development Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.8.27Technological
Secure system architecture and engineering principles
Establish and apply principles for engineering secure systems.
Practical tip
Document principles like defence-in-depth and zero trust.
Control description
Principles for engineering secure systems shall be established, documented, maintained and applied to any information system development activities.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your secure design principles (for example least privilege and defence in depth).
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.27 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Design documents showing the principles were applied.
- Records of security design reviews.
- Proof the principles are reviewed and updated.
- Architects or senior developers should be able to explain the principles.
Policies & documents
Secure Development Policy
View full guideA.8.28Technological
Secure coding
Apply secure coding principles to software development.
Practical tip
Use SAST tools and OWASP guidance.
Control description
Secure coding principles shall be applied to software development.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your secure coding standards.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.28 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Code review records showing security was checked.
- Automated code scan results and fixes.
- Developer training on secure coding.
- Be able to walk through a recent code review.
Policies & documents
Secure Development Policy
View full guideA.8.29Technological
Security testing in development and acceptance
Test security during development and before go-live.
Practical tip
Pen test major releases.
Control description
Security testing processes shall be defined and implemented in the development life cycle.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your security testing requirements for new releases.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.29 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Security test results for recent releases.
- Acceptance test records.
- Approvals for any release that went out with known issues.
- Testers should be able to explain what security testing covers.
Policies & documents
Secure Development Policy
View full guideA.8.30Technological
Outsourced development
Direct, monitor and review outsourced development work.
Practical tip
Contractually require secure coding and code access.
Control description
The organization shall direct, monitor and review the activities related to outsourced system development.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your requirements for outsourced (third-party) software development.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.30 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Contracts with external developers including security terms.
- Records of how their work was supervised.
- Test results for code they delivered.
- Be able to explain how outsourced work is checked.
Policies & documents
- Secure Development Policy
- Third-Party Management Policy
View full guideA.8.31Technological
Separation of development, test and production environments
Keep development, test and production environments apart and secured.
Practical tip
Different credentials per environment.
Control description
Development, testing and production environments shall be separated and secured.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for keeping development, test and live (production) systems separate.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.31 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Access lists showing who can reach the live environment.
- A diagram or description showing separate environments.
- Approvals for any developer access to live systems.
- Be able to show the separation in practice.
Policies & documents
- Operations Security Policy
- Secure Development Policy
View full guideA.8.32Technological
Change management
Control changes to systems and information processing facilities.
Practical tip
Every production change needs a ticket and approval.
Control description
Changes to information processing facilities and information systems shall be subject to change management procedures.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your change management process: how changes are requested, assessed, approved, tested and rolled back if needed.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.32 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Recent change tickets showing approval, testing and a back-out plan.
- Emergency change records reviewed after the fact.
- Your change log or calendar.
- Be able to walk through how a change gets approved.
Policies & documents
- Operations Security Policy
- Secure Development Policy
View full guideA.8.33Technological
Test information
Choose, protect and manage test data appropriately.
Practical tip
Prefer synthetic data over real customer data.
Control description
Test information shall be appropriately selected, protected and managed.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your rules for choosing and protecting test data.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.33 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Approvals for any use of real data in testing.
- Records showing test data was removed when no longer needed.
- Settings restricting access to test data.
- Be able to explain where test data comes from.
Policies & documents
- Data Management Policy
- Secure Development Policy
View full guideA.8.34Technological
Protection of information systems during audit testing
Plan audits and tests so they don't disrupt operational systems.
Practical tip
Agree scope and timing of technical audits in advance.
Control description
Audit tests and other assurance activities involving assessment of operational systems shall be planned and agreed between the tester and appropriate management.
Evidence you need to provide
- Your process for planning audits and technical tests on live systems so they don't cause disruption.
- Your Statement of Applicability (SoA: the list of all 93 controls showing which you use and why) with A.8.34 marked as used or not used, a short reason, and its current status.
- Plans and approvals for recent audits or technical tests.
- Records of when tests ran and who ran them.
- Notes of any disruption and the follow-up.
- IT should be able to explain how testing impact is kept low.
Policies & documents
- Internal audit procedure
- Operations Security Policy
- Risk Management Policy
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