What to Include in an Information Security Policy: A Startup’s Guide

If you’re a startup preparing for SOC 2, ISO 27001, or just trying to improve your internal practices, one thing will come up early:

“Do you have an information security policy?”

At first, it might feel like a formality. But a well-crafted security policy does more than check a box. It creates clarity across your team, helps you manage risk, and gives clients confidence that you take security seriously.

You don’t need a 40-page document or legalese. You just need a simple, clear policy that reflects what you actually do—and what you expect from your team.

Here’s what to include.

1. Purpose and Scope

Start by stating why the policy exists and who it applies to.

Example:

• The purpose is to protect company systems and data from unauthorized access, use, or loss.

• The policy applies to all employees, contractors, and third parties who access company systems.

Keep it short. Just make it clear that security is everyone's responsibility.

2. Roles and Responsibilities

Define who owns what:

• Who’s responsible for managing systems and data

• Who to contact in case of a security issue

• Who maintains the policy and ensures it’s followed

You don’t need titles like “Chief Security Officer.” Just describe the function—even if it’s handled by a co-founder for now.

3. Access Control

Outline how you manage system access:

• Use of unique credentials for all users

• Role-based access and least privilege

• Requirements for multi-factor authentication (MFA)

• Process for onboarding and offboarding

This section is often requested in client reviews and audits.

4. Acceptable Use of Systems

List what’s allowed and what’s not:

• Use of company devices and accounts

• Restrictions on personal use

• Handling of sensitive data

• Prohibited activities (e.g., unauthorized software, sharing credentials)

This helps reduce risk from accidental misuse or unclear boundaries.

5. Data Protection and Privacy

Include basic practices to protect data:

• Encryption of data at rest and in transit

• Secure file sharing and storage guidelines

• Handling of customer data and internal records

• Compliance with privacy laws like GDPR or PDPA (if applicable)

You can reference other privacy or data handling policies if they exist.

6. Incident Response

Make it clear what happens if something goes wrong:

• What counts as a security incident

• How to report it

• Who investigates

• What users should (and should not) do in response

Even a simple 4-step process is better than nothing. Clients want to know you’re prepared.

7. Device and Network Security

Mention how company devices and networks should be protected:

• Use of antivirus or endpoint protection

• VPN or secure network requirements

• No use of public Wi-Fi without protection

• Physical device care if remote

If you’re a remote-first team, this part matters even more.

8. Training and Awareness

Note that all team members must:

• Read and acknowledge the policy

• Complete basic security training (if applicable)

• Stay alert to phishing or suspicious activity

This section helps show auditors and clients that your policy is not just written but understood.

9. Policy Review and Updates

End by explaining how often the policy is reviewed and who reviews it.

A good standard is at least once per year, or after a major incident or organizational change.

Optional Add-Ons (If You're Ready)

You can also include or link to:

• Password policy

• Remote work guidelines

• Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy

• Encryption standards

• Data classification rules

Start simple, then layer on more as your company grows.

Final Thought

Your information security policy doesn’t have to be perfect. It just needs to reflect your intent and your current reality.

Write what you can commit to. Keep it updated. Make sure your team reads it.

That alone puts you ahead of many companies your size.

How SAMN Consulting Can Help

We help startups and scaling teams build practical, audit-aligned security policies. Whether you're working toward SOC 2, ISO 27001, or just getting organized, we can support you with:

• Custom information security policy drafts

• Policy frameworks and templates

• Internal training and rollouts

• Audit preparation and GRC alignment

📩 Contact us to get started or request a policy toolkit.