Human Risk Management: Playbook for sensitive data mishandling

This playbook provides a comprehensive framework for addressing risks associated with the mishandling of sensitive data, such as sending confidential information to personal email accounts, storing data in unsecured locations, or violating data classification policies. Learn strategies to mitigate these risks while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Here’s what you’ll find in the playbook: 

1. Risk scenarios and business impact:
   • Scenarios include repeated violations of data handling protocols and ignoring security controls.
   • Business impacts range from data breaches and compliance violations to reputational damage and operational disruptions.
2. Targeted security outcomes:
   • Implement progressive enforcement measures for repeat offenders.
   • Use education and just-in-time guidance to improve user behavior.
   • Reduce the frequency of offenses and minimize inadvertent data breaches.
3. Control strategy and phased implementation:
   • Phase 1: Visibility & nudging. Monitor behaviors, provide visual cues, and educate users.
   • Phase 2: Targeted enforcement. Introduce friction through stricter policies and oversight.
   • Phase 3: Hard controls. Enforce high-confidence controls for clear violations.
4. Stakeholder engagement:
   • Involves executive leadership, HR, legal teams, security operations, and end-user communities to align efforts and ensure effective implementation.
5. Response and operational support:
   • Includes detection logic, alert criteria, and a response playbook for incidents.
   • Emphasizes integration with tools like XDR/SIEM and HR systems for streamlined operations.
6. Continuous improvement:
   • Metrics to measure effectiveness, user engagement, and compliance.
   • Regular reviews and updates to policies ensure alignment with evolving risks.