Incident Response Plan Template for Belgium

An Incident Response Plan maps out exactly how your organization will detect, respond to, and recover from cybersecurity incidents and data breaches. Under Belgian data protection laws and the EU's GDPR, having this plan isn't just smart - it's legally required for most businesses handling personal data.

The plan details key steps like who to notify when incidents occur, how to contain threats, and ways to document everything for Belgium's Data Protection Authority. It specifically outlines roles and responsibilities, communication protocols, and recovery procedures to help organizations bounce back quickly while staying compliant with notification requirements and preserving evidence for potential investigations.

Your Incident Response Plan comes into action the moment you detect or suspect a data breach, cyber attack, or security incident. For Belgian organizations, this means activating the plan immediately when spotting unauthorized system access, data leaks, ransomware, or any compromise of personal data covered by GDPR.

The plan guides your team through critical first hours: containing the threat, notifying Belgium's Data Protection Authority within 72 hours, informing affected individuals, and preserving evidence. Regular testing through simulated incidents helps ensure your response team stays ready and your procedures remain effective under Belgian and EU requirements.

• Basic Security Response: The standard Incident Response Plan focusing on core cyber threats, system breaches, and basic GDPR compliance requirements - ideal for small to medium Belgian businesses.
• Enterprise-Wide Plan: Comprehensive version covering multiple business units, complex IT infrastructure, and detailed procedures for cross-border incidents under EU regulations.
• Data Protection Focused: Specialized version emphasizing personal data breaches, DPA notification procedures, and victim communication protocols under Belgian privacy laws.
• Industry-Specific Plans: Tailored versions for sectors like healthcare, finance, or critical infrastructure, incorporating sector-specific regulatory requirements and threat scenarios.

• IT Security Teams: Lead the development and execution of the Incident Response Plan, coordinating technical responses during security incidents.
• Data Protection Officers: Ensure the plan aligns with GDPR requirements and manage communications with Belgium's Data Protection Authority.
• Legal Departments: Review and validate plan compliance with Belgian law, handle breach notifications, and manage legal implications.
• Executive Management: Approve the plan, allocate resources, and make critical decisions during major incidents.
• Department Managers: Implement procedures within their teams and report incidents according to plan protocols.
• External Security Consultants: Often help develop, test, and update plans based on evolving threats and regulations.

• System Inventory: Document all IT systems, data types, and critical assets that need protection under Belgian privacy laws.
• Risk Assessment: Map potential security threats and vulnerabilities specific to your organization's operations.
• Response Team: Identify key personnel, their roles, and contact details for immediate incident response.
• Regulatory Requirements: Review GDPR and Belgian DPA notification obligations for various incident types.
• Communication Protocols: Establish clear procedures for internal and external communications during incidents.
• Recovery Procedures: Define steps for system restoration and business continuity after incidents.
• Testing Schedule: Plan regular drills and updates to maintain plan effectiveness.

• Incident Classification: Clear definitions of security incidents and data breaches under GDPR and Belgian law.
• Response Team Structure: Detailed roles, responsibilities, and contact information for all team members.
• Notification Procedures: Specific timelines and processes for alerting Belgium's DPA within 72 hours.
• Data Mapping Section: Inventory of personal data processed and potential impact levels.
• Investigation Protocol: Steps for documenting incidents, preserving evidence, and conducting root cause analysis.
• Communication Templates: Pre-approved formats for notifying affected individuals and authorities.
• Recovery Procedures: Detailed steps for system restoration and business continuity measures.
• Testing Schedule: Regular review and update requirements to maintain plan effectiveness.

An Incident Response Plan differs significantly from a Data Breach Response Policy in several key ways, though they work together to protect organizations. While both documents address security incidents, their scope and application serve different purposes under Belgian law.

• Scope and Focus: An Incident Response Plan covers all types of security incidents (cyber attacks, system failures, physical breaches), while a Data Breach Response Policy specifically addresses personal data compromises under GDPR.
• Timing and Usage: The Incident Response Plan provides immediate, step-by-step emergency procedures, while the Policy outlines broader guidelines and compliance requirements.
• Legal Requirements: The Plan fulfills operational security obligations, while the Policy specifically addresses Belgian DPA and GDPR compliance requirements for data protection.
• Team Structure: The Plan defines emergency response roles and responsibilities, while the Policy focuses on data protection governance and reporting structures.