Security Policy Template for Pakistan

A Security Policy maps out how an organization protects its assets, data, and people from threats. In Pakistan, these policies must align with the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 and the Personal Data Protection Bill, creating clear rules for information handling, network access, and cyber incident responses.

The policy sets mandatory guidelines for everything from password requirements to visitor protocols, helping companies meet both local compliance needs and international security standards. It acts as a cornerstone document that employees at all levels must follow, with specific sections covering digital safety, physical security measures, and emergency procedures tailored to Pakistani business contexts.

Organizations need a Security Policy when they handle sensitive information, operate digital systems, or face compliance requirements under Pakistani law. This is especially crucial for businesses subject to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act or those processing financial data under State Bank regulations.

The policy becomes essential during key business moments: when onboarding new employees, upgrading IT systems, opening new facilities, or responding to security incidents. It's particularly important for companies expanding their digital presence, working with government contracts, or connecting to international networks where data protection standards must meet both local and global requirements.

• Information Security Audit Policy: Outlines comprehensive procedures for evaluating and testing security controls across all information systems, essential for large enterprises and financial institutions.
• Email Security Policy: Focuses specifically on protecting email communications, addressing spam prevention, encryption requirements, and proper handling of sensitive correspondence.
• Consent Security Policy: Details protocols for obtaining, storing, and managing user consent data, crucial for compliance with privacy regulations.
• Security Audit Policy: Establishes frameworks for regular security assessments, incident reporting, and compliance verification procedures.

• IT Directors and CISOs: Lead the development and implementation of Security Policies, ensuring alignment with both technical needs and Pakistani cyber laws.
• Legal Teams: Review and validate policies to ensure compliance with local regulations, particularly the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act.
• Department Managers: Implement security measures within their teams and ensure staff adherence to policy guidelines.
• Employees: Follow security protocols daily, from password management to data handling procedures.
• External Auditors: Verify policy compliance and effectiveness during security assessments.
• Regulatory Bodies: Monitor organizational compliance with security standards, especially in financial and healthcare sectors.

• Asset Inventory: List all systems, data types, and physical assets that need protection under Pakistani law.
• Risk Assessment: Document potential security threats specific to your industry and location.
• Regulatory Review: Check requirements under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act and relevant sector-specific regulations.
• Stakeholder Input: Gather requirements from IT, legal, and department heads about operational needs.
• Technical Details: Document current security measures, access controls, and incident response procedures.
• Policy Generation: Use our platform to create a comprehensive, legally-sound Security Policy that incorporates all gathered information.
• Internal Review: Circulate draft among key departments for practical feedback before finalizing.

• Policy Scope: Clear definition of covered assets, systems, and personnel under Pakistani jurisdiction.
• Legal Framework: Reference to Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 and relevant data protection laws.
• Access Controls: Detailed procedures for system access, authentication, and authorization levels.
• Data Classification: Categories of sensitive information and their handling requirements.
• Incident Response: Mandatory reporting procedures aligned with national cybersecurity guidelines.
• Compliance Measures: Specific steps for meeting regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Enforcement Mechanisms: Clear consequences for policy violations and disciplinary procedures.
• Review Schedule: Mandatory periodic policy updates and assessment timelines.

While a Security Policy and an IT Security Policy may seem similar, they serve distinct purposes in Pakistani organizations. A Security Policy covers both physical and digital security measures across the entire organization, while an IT Security Policy focuses specifically on technology infrastructure and digital assets.

• Scope of Coverage: Security Policies include physical access controls, visitor management, and emergency procedures, alongside digital protection. IT Security Policies deal exclusively with computer systems, networks, and data.
• Regulatory Alignment: Security Policies must comply with broader Pakistani safety regulations and industry standards. IT Security Policies focus on technical compliance with PECA 2016 and digital privacy laws.
• Implementation Responsibility: Security Policies involve multiple departments including facilities, HR, and security teams. IT Security Policies primarily fall under IT department oversight.
• Risk Assessment Focus: Security Policies address both physical and cyber threats. IT Security Policies concentrate on technological vulnerabilities and digital risks.