Using The Scenario, Identify Four Possible Information Tech ✓ Solved

Using the scenario, identify four possible information tec

The organization is a regional XYZ Credit Union/Bank with multiple branches and locations throughout the region. It has recognized that online banking and the Internet are its strengths, particularly due to limited human resources. The critical business function within the organization is the customer service department, underpinning the necessity for robust security practices. To comply with the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) and IT security best practices, the organization has outlined key objectives. These include monitoring and controlling Internet usage through content filtering, eliminating personal use of organization-owned IT assets, and instituting email security controls. Additionally, the organization intends to implement policies for all owned IT assets and integrate policy reviews into an annual security awareness training program.

In line with these requirements, this paper identifies four possible information technology (IT) security controls for the bank and provides a rationale for each selection.

1. Content Filtering

The first recommended IT security control is content filtering. This control is critical in monitoring and restricting the websites that employees can access while using organization-owned IT assets. By implementing content filtering, the bank can prevent access to inappropriate or non-work-related websites, thereby mitigating potential security risks associated with malware, phishing sites, and other harmful online content. Additionally, content filtering will support the organization's goal of eliminating personal use of IT assets, ensuring that employees remain focused on their roles and responsibilities.

2. Email Security Controls

The second control involves implementing email security measures. As email is a primary communication tool within the organization, protecting it against unauthorized access and potential threats is paramount. This can include deploying encryption protocols for sensitive communications, utilizing spam filters to reduce the volume of unsolicited and potentially dangerous emails, and establishing policies regarding acceptable email use. By enforcing such email security controls, the bank can protect sensitive customer information and comply with the provisions set forth by the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA), which emphasizes the importance of safeguarding customer data.

3. Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Solutions

The third recommended control is the implementation of Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solutions. DLP technologies help detect and prevent the unauthorized transmission of sensitive information outside the organization’s network. This is particularly relevant for banking institutions that handle confidential customer data. By monitoring data transfers, DLP solutions can identify and prevent the sharing of sensitive information via email or over the Internet. DLP systems also aid in ensuring organizational compliance with GLBA by providing mechanisms to protect customer financial data and prevent breaches that could result in significant fines and reputational harm.

4. Annual Security Awareness Training

Lastly, an annual security awareness training program is vital to maintaining a culture of security within the organization. Regular training sessions educate employees about the latest security threats, safe computing practices, and the importance of adhering to IT security policies. This control not only reinforces the bank's commitment to protecting its assets and customer information but also empowers employees to act as the first line of defense against potential security threats. Incorporating security policy reviews into this training session will ensure that employees are consistently aware of the organization’s policies and procedures, fostering a proactive security environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, implementing these four IT security controls—content filtering, email security measures, Data Loss Prevention solutions, and annual security awareness training—will enhance the overall security posture of the XYZ Credit Union/Bank. By addressing compliance with the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and reinforcing best practices in information technology security, the organization can mitigate risks, protect customer data, and foster a secure environment for its operations. These measures collectively contribute to safeguarding the bank’s assets and maintaining customer trust in an increasingly digital banking landscape.

References

• Federal Trade Commission. (2022). Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. Retrieved from https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/rules/gramm-leach-bliley-rule
• Easttom, C. (2021). Total Cybersecurity: A Comprehensive Guide to Security Practices. Boston: Pearson.
• Harris, S. (2020). CISSP All-in-One Exam Guide. New York: McGraw-Hill.
• Whitman, M., & Mattord, H. (2018). Principles of Information Security. Boston: Cengage Learning.
• Stallings, W. (2019). Network Security Essentials: Applications and Standards. Boston: Pearson.
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• ENISA. (2021). Guidelines on Data Loss Prevention (DLP). European Union Agency for Cybersecurity. Retrieved from https://www.enisa.europa.eu/publications/guidelines-on-dlp
• ISACA. (2022). Data Loss Prevention: A Strategic Approach. Retrieved from https://www.isaca.org/resources/isaca-journal/issues/2022/volume-2/data-loss-prevention-a-strategic-approach
• Wronka, K. (2021). Employee Security Awareness Training: Best Practices and Lessons Learned. International Journal of Cybersecurity Intelligence and Cybercrime, 4(2), 5-15.