How to build a culture of information security - A guide for businesses

How to build a strong information security culture with leadership support

To make information security a high priority across the enterprise, clear commitment from management is essential. Building a culture of information security means fostering a mindset where security is a natural and integrated part of everyday life.

Here are some steps that can help your company build a strong and sustainable information security culture:

1. Leadership engagement

It starts at the top. Management must be clearly committed to prioritizing information security and demonstrate this through actions and communication. When leadership shows a strong commitment to security, it's easier for the rest of the organization to follow suit.

2. Increased awareness

Education and training are key to raising awareness of information security among employees. This can be done by subscribing to online courses that all employees must take, bringing it up as a topic in joint, project and departmental meetings, and holding regular training sessions and workshops to educate employees about security risks, best practices and how they can help protect company data.

3. Clear policies and procedures

Clear and understandable policies and procedures are essential to guide employees in the correct use of technology and handling of sensitive data. Make sure the policies are accessible and understandable to everyone, and encourage active participation and feedback.

4. Reward and recognition

Reward systems can be an effective way to encourage desired information security behaviors. Recognize and reward employees who take security seriously and follow policies – whether through benefits, praise, or other forms of recognition.

5. Continuous monitoring and feedback

Information security is not a static process – it requires continuous monitoring and feedback to ensure that systems and procedures are effective. Conduct regular assessments and evaluations of your organization’s security practices, and use the feedback to make necessary adjustments.

6. Promoting ethics

Ethics play a big role in creating a culture of information security. Encourage honesty, integrity, and accountability in everything you do, and build an environment where employees feel safe to report any security breaches or concerns.

Building a culture of information security is an investment in the future of your organization. By engaging leadership, raising awareness among employees, establishing clear policies and procedures, rewarding desired behavior, and continuously monitoring and promoting ethical practices, your organization can strengthen its security culture and protect its valuable data and digital assets.

Read more about how you can strategically work with information security and how to achieve ISO 27001 certification in our guide below.