What are the best practices for implementing security and privacy in a new system?

1 Assess the risks

The first step in implementing security and privacy in a new system is to identify and evaluate the potential threats and vulnerabilities that could compromise the system or the data it handles. This can be done using a risk assessment framework, such as NIST SP 800-30, that helps to define the scope, context, criteria, and methods of the analysis. The risk assessment should consider the likelihood and impact of various scenarios, such as unauthorized access, data loss, corruption, modification, or disclosure, as well as the legal, ethical, and reputational implications.

2 Apply the standards

The second step in implementing security and privacy in a new system is to apply the relevant standards and best practices that guide the development, implementation, and operation of the system. These standards can be industry-specific, such as HIPAA for health care, PCI DSS for payment card processing, or GDPR for data protection in the EU, or general-purpose, such as ISO 27001 for information security management, or NIST CSF for cybersecurity framework. The standards provide a set of requirements, controls, and guidelines that help to ensure the system meets the expected level of security and privacy.

4 Test the functionality

The fourth step in implementing security and privacy in a new system is to test the functionality of the system, verifying that it performs as expected and meets the security and privacy requirements. This can be done using various testing methods, such as unit testing, integration testing, system testing, and acceptance testing, that check the functionality, usability, reliability, and performance of the system. Additionally, the system should undergo security testing, such as vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, and code review, that identify and eliminate any security flaws or weaknesses.

5 Train the users

The fifth step in implementing security and privacy in a new system is to train the users of the system, educating them about the security and privacy policies, procedures, and best practices that they need to follow. This can be done using various training methods, such as online courses, workshops, webinars, or simulations, that provide the users with the necessary knowledge, skills, and awareness to use the system securely and responsibly. The training should also include the roles and responsibilities of the users, as well as the consequences of violating the security and privacy rules.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?