1. Information Security Policy

1.1 Purpose

To protect Accel IT’s data, customer information, and IT infrastructure from unauthorized access, breaches, and cyber threats.

1.2 Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and third-party vendors who access Accel IT systems.

1.3 Responsibilities

• Employees must protect company information and use strong passwords.

• IT staff must monitor, detect, and mitigate security threats.

• Management must enforce compliance with security policies.

1.4 Data Classification

• Public: Information that can be shared openly.

• Internal: Information restricted to employees.

• Confidential: Sensitive business and customer data requiring strict access controls.

1.5 Access Control

• Least privilege principle enforced.

• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) required for critical systems.

• Periodic user access reviews conducted.

1.6 Network Security

• Firewalls, intrusion detection, and endpoint security must be implemented.

• Remote access restricted via VPN with MFA.

• Unauthorized devices are not allowed on the network.

1.7 Incident Response

• Security incidents must be reported immediately to IT.

• IT will investigate and mitigate incidents promptly.

• Post-incident reviews will be conducted to improve security measures.

2. IT Acceptable Use Policy

2.1 Purpose

To define acceptable use of Accel IT’s technology resources to ensure security, legal compliance, and productivity.

2.2 Scope

Applies to all employees, contractors, and vendors using Accel IT’s IT resources.

2.3 Acceptable Use

• Use IT resources for business purposes only.

• Access only authorized systems and data.

• Follow password and authentication best practices.

2.4 Prohibited Activities

• Unauthorized software installation or modifications.

• Using company IT resources for personal gain or illegal activities.

• Bypassing security controls or accessing unauthorized data.

2.5 Email and Internet Usage

• No opening of suspicious emails or clicking on unknown links.

• No downloading unauthorized software or attachments.

• Internet use must comply with business and security policies.

2.6 Software and Hardware Management

• Only IT-approved software and devices may be used.

• IT must manage software updates and security patches.

• No unauthorized personal devices on corporate networks.

2.7 Monitoring and Compliance

• Accel IT reserves the right to monitor IT systems and usage.

• Violations may result in disciplinary action or termination.

3. Cybersecurity Awareness and Training Policy

3.1 Purpose

To educate employees on cybersecurity threats, safe practices, and compliance requirements.

3.2 Scope

All employees, contractors, and third-party vendors must undergo cybersecurity training.

3.3 Training Requirements

• Employees must complete annual cybersecurity training.

• Phishing awareness training conducted quarterly.

• New hires must undergo cybersecurity onboarding.

3.4 Reporting Suspicious Activity

• Employees must report suspected phishing emails or security breaches immediately.

• IT team will investigate and provide guidance on handling threats.

4. Data Protection and Privacy Policy

4.1 Purpose

To ensure Accel IT and its employees comply with data protection laws and safeguard personal and business information.

4.2 Scope

Applies to all employees and third parties handling Accel IT’s or customer data.

4.3 Data Protection Measures

• Data encryption for sensitive information.

• Regular data backups and secure storage.

• Access control to protect customer and company data.

4.4 Data Retention and Disposal

• Data must be retained only as long as necessary.

• Secure disposal of outdated or unused data is required.

• Compliance with applicable privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, Australian Privacy Act).

5. Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Policy

5.1 Purpose

To ensure Accel IT maintains business operations during disruptions and recovers from disasters efficiently.

5.2 Scope

All IT systems, employees, and business functions are covered under this policy.

5.3 Business Continuity Plan

• Identify critical systems and ensure redundancy.

• Regular testing of disaster recovery plans.

• Maintain offsite backups and cloud-based recovery solutions.

5.4 Disaster Recovery Procedures

• Define roles and responsibilities during recovery.

• Ensure communication plans are in place.

• Restore critical business operations within the predefined timeframe.

6. Vendor and Third-Party Security Policy

6.1 Purpose

To ensure vendors and third-party service providers comply with Accel IT’s security requirements.

6.2 Scope

All third parties that access, process, or store Accel IT’s data.

6.3 Security Requirements for Vendors

• Vendors must adhere to Accel IT’s cybersecurity policies.

• Security audits and risk assessments will be conducted regularly.

• Vendors must report any security incidents that may impact Accel IT.

6.4 Contractual Security Clauses

• Data protection clauses must be included in vendor agreements.

• Non-compliance may result in contract termination.

7. IT Lifecycle (ITL) 

7.1 Purpose

To establish guidelines for managing IT assets throughout their lifecycle, ensuring efficiency, security, and cost-effectiveness.

7.2 Scope

Applies to all hardware, software, and IT infrastructure used within Accel IT.

7.3 IT Asset Management

• Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all IT assets.

• Implement asset tagging and tracking for accountability.

• Periodic audits to assess asset conditions and security compliance.

7.4 Software Lifecycle Management

• Regular review and updating of software applications.

• Decommission unsupported or outdated software.

• Ensure licensing compliance for all software used.

7.5 Hardware Replacement and Upgrades

• Define lifecycle expectations for critical hardware components.

• Budget for periodic upgrades to maintain performance and security.

• Secure disposal and data sanitization of retired hardware.

7.6 IT Service Management

• Establish change management procedures for IT infrastructure.

• Implement incident response and resolution workflows.

• Maintain service level agreements (SLAs) for IT operations.

8. Policy Enforcement and Violations

8.1 Enforcement

• Employees must acknowledge and comply with these policies.

• IT will conduct periodic audits and assessments.

• Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action, termination, or legal consequences.

8.2 Reporting Violations

• Employees must report policy violations or security concerns.

• Reports will be investigated confidentially, and appropriate action taken.

Review and Updates: Policies will be reviewed annually or as required based on evolving cybersecurity threats and business needs.