What is Classification Control?
Classification control is a security technique used to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information within an organization. It involves the categorization of data, systems and networks into different security levels, each with its own set of access controls and restrictions. By controlling access to data and systems, classification control can help protect an organization from unauthorized access, data loss or manipulation, and other malicious activity.
Elements of Classification Control
Classification control consists of several elements that are used together to ensure the security of an organization’s information assets:
- Classification: Data and systems are classified into different levels of security, based on the sensitivity of the information and the potential impact of its loss or misuse.
- Access Controls: Access to systems and data is restricted to authorized users with the appropriate levels of security clearance.
- Monitoring: Activity on systems and networks is monitored to ensure that access is being used correctly and that unauthorized activity is detected and prevented.
- Auditing: Auditing is used to ensure that systems and networks are configured correctly and that access controls are being enforced.
Examples of Classification Control
Classification control is used by organizations of all sizes to protect their information assets. Here are some examples of how it can be used:
- Data Classification: Sensitive data is categorized into different security levels, based on its sensitivity and the potential impact of its loss or misuse. Access to the data is then restricted to authorized users with the appropriate levels of security clearance.
- Network Segmentation: Networks are broken up into different segments, with access to each segment restricted to authorized users. This helps to protect sensitive information by preventing unauthorized access.
- Access Control Lists: Access control lists are used to define who is allowed to access which systems and data. This helps to ensure that access is restricted to authorized users with the appropriate levels of security clearance.
Conclusion
Classification control is an important security technique used to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information within an organization. By categorizing data and systems into different security levels, access controls can be applied to ensure that only authorized users have access to sensitive information. For more information on classification control, please see the following resources: