A security policy explains what an organization expects people and teams to do to manage security risk.
A clear policy usually defines:
- Purpose and scope
- Roles and accountability
- Required controls or behaviors
- Exceptions and approval rules
- Review and maintenance expectations
- Related procedures and evidence
A policy is not the same as a step-by-step procedure. It sets direction and requirements; procedures explain how work is performed. A good policy reflects the organization’s actual systems, roles, risk, and operating model instead of copying generic wording.
See the difference between a policy, standard, procedure, and guideline.