Internal Security Directive¶

Category: Policy and Governance Writing

Purpose¶

A directive or mandate from leadership on security: required actions, deadlines, or standards. Creates clear accountability and follow-up.

Audience¶

Internal (target audience may be all staff or specific roles). Authoritative; issued by appropriate authority.

Typical structure¶

• Issuing authority — Who is issuing (e.g., CEO, CISO, board).
• Effective date — When it takes effect.
• Directive — Clear statement of what is required (actions, standards, or behavior).
• Scope — Who must comply (org, business unit, role).
• Deadlines — When actions must be completed.
• Accountability — Who is responsible for compliance and reporting.
• Consequences — What happens for non-compliance (if stated).
• Questions — Where to go for clarification.

When to use¶

• Mandating a specific control or behavior (e.g., MFA, encryption).
• Post-incident or post-audit mandatory actions.
• Implementing a board or regulatory requirement.

Evidence linkage¶

Directive should be tracked: acknowledgment, completion evidence, and exceptions. Becomes part of the governance and compliance trail.