ISO 27001 Clause 5.2

An Information Security Management System (ISMS) relies on a clear, well-communicated Information Security Policy to guide behaviour and decision-making. Clause 5.2 of ISO 27001:2022 focuses on establishing this policy and ensuring it supports the organisation’s information security objectives.

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What is ISO 27001 Clause 5.2?

Clause 5.2 requires organisations to develop a documented Information Security Policy that:

• Aligns with the organisation’s strategic direction.
• Sets out objectives for information security.
• Includes a commitment to satisfy applicable requirements, such as legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations.
• Provides a framework for setting and reviewing security objectives.

The policy should be approved by top management, communicated to all relevant stakeholders, and available to anyone who needs it.

Why an Information Security Policy Matters

A strong policy:

• Demonstrates leadership support for information security.
• Establishes clear expectations for employees, contractors, and partners.
• Guides risk management decisions and operational security practices.
• Forms the foundation for compliance with ISO 27001 and other regulations.

Without a formal policy, information security efforts can lack direction and consistency, leading to gaps and vulnerabilities.

How to Address Clause 5.2

To comply with Clause 5.2, organisations should:

1. Draft a clear, concise policy that outlines objectives, responsibilities, and commitments.
2. Ensure alignment with organisational strategy and ISMS scope (Clause 4.3).
3. Communicate the policy effectively to all employees and relevant external parties.
4. Review and update the policy regularly to reflect changes in the organisation, technology, or regulatory requirements.
5. Obtain formal approval from top management to demonstrate leadership commitment.

Example

A healthcare provider might publish an Information Security Policy stating:

“Our organisation is committed to protecting patient data, complying with GDPR and other applicable regulations, and continuously improving our information security practices. All employees and contractors are expected to follow this policy and contribute to a secure environment.”

This policy clearly sets expectations, links to regulatory obligations, and guides behaviour across the organisation.

Final Thoughts

Clause 5.2 ensures that information security is anchored in a clear, communicated policy. A well-defined policy provides direction, supports leadership objectives, and forms the backbone of an effective ISMS.

Need help creating an ISO 27001-compliant Information Security Policy for your organisation? Candy Management Consultants can help you develop a policy that is practical, compliant, and aligned with your business goals.

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