WISP 101: Your Security Plan Isn’t Just a Document—It’s a Shield
WISP 101: Your Security Plan Isn’t Just a Document—It’s a Shield
When it comes to cybersecurity, many small business owners think a Written Information Security Plan (WISP) is just a document they’re required to have. But here’s the truth: **a WISP isn’t just a checklist—it’s your security blueprint.**Done right, it protects your business, keeps customer data safe, and ensures you’re not scrambling when something goes wrong.
Why You Need a WISP (And Why It’s More Than a Formality)
Cyber threats aren’t just for big corporations. Small businesses are prime targets because they often lack structured security programs. Without a clear WISP, you’re left guessing when: ✅ A hacker tries to breach your systems.
✅ An employee accidentally clicks a phishing link.
✅ A laptop with sensitive data goes missing.
✅ A regulator asks how you protect customer information.
A WISP is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s your roadmap to cybersecurity readiness. It defines your policies, assigns responsibilities, and gives you a structured approach to protect, detect, respond, and recover from security incidents.
What This Blog Series Will Cover
If the idea of creating a WISP sounds overwhelming, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Join us as we show you how to turn that boring security plan into a real, working shield for your business. In this step-by-step series, we’ll break it all down into practical, actionable posts:
✅ Step 1: Establishing Your Information Security Policy – Setting the foundation for security.
✅ Step 2: Assigning Roles, Responsibilities, and Permissions – Who does what, and why it matters.
✅ Step 3: Establishing a Plan for Responding to Security Incidents – Be ready before disaster strikes.
✅ Step 4: Tracking Your Assets – You can’t protect what you don’t know you have.
✅ Step 5: Performing a Risk Assessment – Identify security gaps before attackers do.
✅ Step 6: Establishing Rules of Behavior and Conduct – Clear guidelines for employees.
✅ Step 7: Setting an Annual Review Date for Your WISP – Keeping your plan relevant.
✅ Step 8: Training Employees on Security Best Practices – Because people are your first line of defense.
Each post will provide real-world insights and actionable steps to make security part of your everyday operations—without overwhelming you with jargon.
What’s Next?
Over the next few weeks, we’ll take you through each step of building a WISP that actually works. Whether you’re just getting started or updating an existing plan, this series will help you create a simple, effective security program that keeps your business safe.
First up: Establishing Your Information Security Policy—stay tuned!
Still not sure where to start?
Check out Protect Your Business with Our Free Cybersecurity Checklist for Small Businesses or Free Cybersecurity Essentials eBook
