Acceptable Use Policy (AC-POL-002)

1. Objective

The objective of this policy is to establish acceptable use rules for [Company Name]’s network, information systems, and software resources that meet SOC 2 requirements while maintaining practical implementation. This policy protects company information resources and ensures a secure, productive work environment.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all [Company Name] workforce members and anyone granted access to company network, information systems, and software resources. It covers all network resources including internet access, email, cloud services, devices connected to the corporate network, and all software applications and tools used for business purposes.

3. Policy

All use of [Company Name]’s network resources, information systems, and software tools must be conducted in a secure, professional manner that supports business objectives.

3.1 General Use and Ownership

  • Company Property: All network infrastructure, systems, software, and data are the property of [Company Name].

  • Monitoring: Network traffic and system usage may be monitored for security threats and policy compliance in accordance with applicable laws.

  • Business Purpose: Network resources and software tools are provided for business activities. Limited personal use is permitted if it does not interfere with work performance or violate company policies.

3.2 Security Requirements

Workforce members are responsible for maintaining network security and protecting company data.

  • Credentials: Account credentials must not be shared. Each user must use only their assigned accounts.

  • Malicious Software: Introducing malicious software is prohibited. Exercise caution with email attachments and links from unknown sources.

  • Security Incidents: Report suspected security incidents, unauthorized access, or vulnerabilities immediately to the [Role Title, e.g., IT Manager/Security Officer].

  • Data Protection: Transmission of sensitive company data must use approved, encrypted methods.

3.3 Prohibited Activities

The following activities are prohibited when using company network resources:

  • Illegal Activities: Any activity that violates local, state, or federal law, including harassment, copyright infringement, or fraud.

  • Circumventing Security: Attempting to bypass or disable security controls such as firewalls or content filters.

  • Unauthorized Access: Accessing systems, data, or accounts without explicit authorization.

  • Disruptive Behavior: Activities that could disrupt network services or degrade performance for other users.

  • Unauthorized Data Transfer: Using unapproved file-sharing services or transferring company data to personal cloud storage accounts.

  • Inappropriate Content: Accessing, downloading, or distributing content that violates company professional conduct standards.

3.4 Software and Tool Usage

All software installed and used on company resources must be properly licensed, have a valid business justification, and be approved in accordance with company procedures.

  • Software Approval: The use of any third-party service, including AI-powered tools, for business purposes requires prior approval from IT/Security. Under no circumstances should confidential company or customer data be entered into public or consumer-grade AI tools.

  • Prohibited Software: The installation and use of the following software categories are strictly prohibited:
    • Unlicensed or pirated software
    • Peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing clients
    • Cryptocurrency mining software
    • Tools designed to disable or circumvent security controls
    • Any software from untrusted or unverified sources
    • Software that collects or transmits sensitive data without explicit consent

  • Browser Extensions: Extensions that request broad permissions require formal approval and must be installed only from official browser web stores.

  • Software Governance: The IT Department will use endpoint management tools to enforce software policies and may remotely remove any unauthorized or prohibited software without prior notice.

4. Standards Compliance

This policy is designed to comply with and support the following industry standards and regulations.

Policy Section Standard/Framework Control Reference
All SOC 2 Trust Services Criteria CC6.1 - Logical Access Security
3.2, 3.3 SOC 2 Trust Services Criteria CC6.7 - The entity restricts the transmission, movement, and removal of information…
3.3, 3.4 SOC 2 Trust Services Criteria CC6.8 - The entity implements controls to prevent or detect and act upon the introduction of unauthorized or malicious software.

5. Definitions

  • Network Resources: Company-owned or managed hardware and software providing network connectivity and services, including internet connections, wireless access points, and communication platforms.

  • Sensitive Data: Any company information requiring protection, including customer data, financial information, and proprietary business information.

  • Third-Party Service: Any software, application, or online service not owned or directly controlled by [Company Name], including AI-powered tools and cloud-based services.

6. Responsibilities

Role Responsibility
IT Manager/Security Officer Own, review, and update this policy annually. Monitor network activity and software usage for security and compliance purposes. Approve software and third-party service requests.
IT Department Implement technical controls to enforce this policy. Investigate and respond to security incidents. Manage software inventory and endpoint controls.
Managers Ensure team members understand and follow this policy. Address policy violations in consultation with IT and HR.
All Workforce Members Comply with this policy and use network resources and software tools responsibly. Report violations or security concerns immediately. Submit requests for new software or tools through proper channels.