Kimova AI ISO 27001 Auditing Series Physical Control A.7.10 Storage Media
In today’s article at Kimova AI ISO 27001 auditing series, we explore Physical Control A.7.10: Storage Media, which focuses on the security and management of various types of storage media, including portable devices, hard drives, and backup tapes.
Control A.7.10: Storage Media
The objective of this control is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data stored on physical media by implementing proper security measures during usage, storage, and disposal.
Key Aspects of Control A.7.10
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Protection of Sensitive Information on Media
- Explanation: Organizations must ensure that sensitive information stored on physical media is protected from unauthorized access.
- Example: A healthcare organization encrypts all patient data stored on backup tapes to prevent unauthorized access in case of loss or theft.
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Secure Storage of Media
- Explanation: Physical storage media should be stored in secure locations when not in use, such as locked cabinets or safes.
- Example: A financial institution stores its external hard drives in fireproof, locked storage units to safeguard them from both theft and environmental threats.
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Media Labeling and Classification
- Explanation: Organizations should label storage media based on its sensitivity to ensure proper handling.
- Example: An IT company uses color-coded labels on backup tapes, classifying them by the type of data stored (e.g., critical, confidential, or public).
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Regular Audits of Media
- Explanation: Conducting regular audits helps track the location and status of all physical media to prevent unauthorized usage or loss.
- Example: A law firm performs quarterly audits of their external storage devices, ensuring all devices are accounted for and securely stored.
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Encryption of Media
- Explanation: Encryption ensures that data on portable and backup media remains secure, even if the physical device is lost or stolen.
- Example: A software development company encrypts all files on USB drives to protect intellectual property during client meetings or while traveling.
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Secure Disposal of Media
- Explanation: Organizations must have a secure method for disposing of storage media to prevent sensitive data recovery.
- Example: A government agency uses a certified shredding service to destroy obsolete storage media that contains classified information.
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Data Recovery Measures
- Explanation: Media should be backed up regularly and stored securely to facilitate data recovery in case of hardware failure.
- Example: A media company backs up its video content on multiple hard drives stored in separate secure locations, ensuring business continuity.
Conclusion
Physical Control A.7.10: Storage Media emphasizes the need for stringent management of physical media to ensure the protection of data throughout its lifecycle, from use to disposal. Proper storage, encryption, labeling, and disposal are crucial elements to prevent data breaches and maintain compliance with ISO 27001 standards.
In the next article, we will explore Physical Control A.7.11: Supporting Utilities, which addresses the security and reliability of utilities that support information systems and infrastructure.
For more information on how Kimova AI can assist with ISO 27001 compliance, visit Kimova.AI.
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