Device Security Policy

Overview

This Device Security Policy sets the minimum security requirements for all devices—whether assigned to human users or operated by non-human identities (such as bots, APIs, or automated systems)—that access company systems, networks, or data. The policy aims to protect organizational resources against loss, theft, or compromise, and to support regulatory and business requirements.

Scope

This policy applies to all company-owned, personally owned (BYOD), or third-party devices used to access company systems or data, including but not limited to laptops, desktops, smartphones, tablets, servers, IoT devices, and devices used by non-human identities (e.g., service accounts, automation bots).

Definitions

  • Device: Any endpoint capable of accessing company resources, including computers, mobile devices, servers, and IoT devices.
  • BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Personally owned devices used for company business.
  • Non-Human Identity Device: Any device, virtual machine, or container that operates under a service account, API, or other automated process.
  • Remote Wipe: The ability to remotely erase data from a device in case of loss, theft, or compromise.
  • Encryption: The process of making data unreadable without proper authorization, protecting data at rest and in transit.

Policy Requirements

  1. Authentication and Access:

    • All devices must be protected with strong passcodes, biometrics, or equivalent authentication controls.
    • Non-human identity devices (e.g., servers running automated jobs) must use secure, unique credentials.

  2. Encryption:

    • All company data stored on devices must be encrypted at rest using approved encryption protocols.
    • Sensitive transmissions (including those initiated by non-human identities) must use secure, encrypted channels.

  3. Software and Security Updates:

    • Operating systems, applications, and security tools (antivirus, endpoint detection, firewall) must be kept up to date.
    • Automatic updates should be enabled where feasible, including for server and IoT devices.

  4. Device Management:

    • Only authorized devices may access company resources. Enrollment in company device management (e.g., MDM or endpoint management platform) is required.
    • Remote wipe and tracking features must be enabled on all mobile devices where possible.
    • Unused connectivity features (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC) should be disabled when not in use.

  5. Access Controls:

    • Access from devices must follow the principle of least privilege; non-human identity devices must be assigned only the minimum access necessary for their function.
    • Devices suspected of being compromised must be isolated from the network immediately.

  6. Public Networks and VPN:

    • When accessing company resources from public or untrusted networks, all devices (human and non-human) must use an approved, secure VPN.

  7. Backup and Recovery:

    • Regular backups of critical business data must be performed and stored securely, per company data retention and recovery policies.

  8. Physical Security:

    • Devices should be physically secured when unattended. Sensitive devices and servers should be housed in access-controlled environments.

  9. Public Charging Stations:

    • Use of public USB charging stations is prohibited for company devices due to risk of data theft (“juice jacking”); users must use company-provided chargers.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Users: Maintain security posture of assigned devices; report loss, theft, or compromise immediately.
  • IT/Security Team: Provide device management solutions, enforce compliance, and respond to incidents.
  • Managers: Ensure their teams comply with device security requirements.
  • Application/Integration Owners: Ensure devices and endpoints used by non-human identities are properly secured and managed.

Enforcement / Compliance

  • Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action, removal of access, or legal/regulatory penalties.
  • Supports compliance with frameworks such as NIST, CIS, ISO/IEC 27001, HIPAA, GDPR, and PCI DSS.

Exceptions

Exceptions must be formally documented, justified, and approved by the Chief Information Security Officer, and reviewed regularly.

Review and Revision

This policy is reviewed at least annually, or upon major changes in technology, threats, or regulations.

Policy Management

Version Control

  • Current version: 1.0
  • Effective date: [Date]
  • Review frequency: Annual or upon significant technology/threat changes

Responsibilities

  • Policy Owner: Chief Information Security Officer
  • Implementation: IT Security Team
  • Compliance Monitoring: Security Operations Center
  • User Support: IT Help Desk

References

  • NIST Special Publication 800-53: Security and Privacy Controls for Information Systems
  • NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)
  • ISO/IEC 27001:2013 Annex A.11: Physical and Environmental Security
  • CIS Controls v8: Secure Configuration for Hardware and Software on Mobile Devices, Laptops, Workstations, and Servers
  • SANS Device Security Policy Template

Everyday Identity – Breaking down Identity, one post at a time.
This document is intended as a general best-practices template and should be customized to meet your organization’s specific legal, compliance, and operational needs.