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Ethics Policy

NIST CSF Functions: Protect (PR), Identify (ID)

Purpose

To establish ethical standards for handling information, technology resources, and business relationships in accordance with cybersecurity best practices.

Scope

Applies to all employees, contractors, and business partners with access to company information and systems.

Ethical Principles

6.1 Information Integrity (NIST CSF: PR.DS-06, GV.PO-01)

  • Maintain accuracy and completeness of business information
  • Report data quality issues and security vulnerabilities promptly
  • Do not deliberately alter, delete, or misrepresent information
  • Protect intellectual property and proprietary information

6.2 Confidentiality and Privacy (NIST CSF: PR.AA-05, PR.DS-01)

  • Respect confidentiality of customer, employee, and business information
  • Access information only as required for job responsibilities
  • Protect privacy rights and comply with data protection regulations
  • Report privacy breaches or unauthorized access immediately

6.3 Conflict of Interest (NIST CSF: GV.RR-02, PR.AA-01)

  • Disclose potential conflicts that could affect cybersecurity decisions
  • Avoid situations where personal interests conflict with company security
  • Do not use company information for personal gain
  • Report suspected insider threats or security policy violations

6.4 Vendor and Third-Party Relations (NIST CSF: GV.SC-01, GV.SC-03)

  • Ensure vendors meet company cybersecurity standards
  • Protect company information when shared with authorized third parties
  • Report vendor security incidents or policy violations
  • Maintain professional relationships that support security objectives

Technology Ethics

6.5 Responsible Use of Technology (NIST CSF: PR.AA-03, PR.AT-01)

  • Use technology resources efficiently and responsibly
  • Respect intellectual property rights and software licensing
  • Report security vulnerabilities through appropriate channels
  • Maintain professional competence in cybersecurity awareness

6.6 Social Engineering and Manipulation (NIST CSF: PR.AT-01, DE.AE-02)

  • Do not engage in deceptive practices to obtain information or access
  • Report attempts by others to manipulate or coerce information disclosure
  • Verify identity before providing sensitive information or access
  • Educate colleagues about social engineering tactics

Reporting and Compliance

6.7 Incident Reporting (NIST CSF: DE.AE-01, RS.CO-02)

  • Report ethical violations and security incidents promptly
  • Use established reporting channels and procedures
  • Cooperate with investigations while protecting sensitive information
  • Support a culture of transparency and continuous improvement

6.8 Training and Awareness (NIST CSF: PR.AT-01, PR.AT-02)

  • Participate in required ethics and cybersecurity training
  • Stay informed about evolving security threats and best practices
  • Share knowledge and support colleagues' security awareness
  • Lead by example in demonstrating ethical behavior

Enforcement

Violations of this policy — including misuse of confidential information, undisclosed conflicts of interest, engaging in prohibited activities, or failure to report known violations — may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination and potential legal action. All violations must be reported to [Security Officer].

References

  • NIST CSF 2.0: GV.PO (Governance), PR.AA (Access Control), PR.AT (Awareness and Training), PR.DS (Data Security)

Version History

Version Date Author Changes
1.0 [Date] [Security Officer] Initial release