RCIT-02 Reeves County Data Backup Policy

RCIT Reeves County Data Backup Policy

Policy Statement:

The Reeves County IT Department implements robust mechanisms to create precise replicas of its information assets. This policy outlines guidelines for data backup and the restoration of lost data, ensuring the continuity of business activities in the event of data loss, whether due to disasters or planned purges.

Objectives:

1. Protect Reeves County Departments information assets.

2. Prevent the loss of data in the event of accidental deletion, corruption, system failure, or disasters.

3. Enable timely restoration of information and business processes.

4. Manage and secure backup and restoration processes and associated media.

Guidelines:

A. Backups:

1. Adherence to Schedule:

   - Daily, weekly, and as-needed data backups are strictly scheduled and documented.

   - Access to backup processes is limited to IT Department personnel and authorized management.

   - Confirmation of a current, retrievable copy before server movement is mandatory.

2. Media Handling and Storage:

   - Backup media must be clearly identified and logged.

   - Offline storage in a secure off-site data storage company or a secure facility location is required.

   - Regular testing of backup processes and data restoration, at least every six (6) months, ensures media reliability.

3. Backup Level Definition:

   - Backup requirements for each system are formally defined based on scope, frequency, and retention duration.

   - Backup retention periods serve business continuity, distinct from legal or business record retention.

4. Cloud Environments:

   - For cloud environments, system owners determine backup elements, verification, and checks.

B. Security:

1. Protection Mechanisms:

   - Backups are physically secured or encrypted during storage and network transfer.

   - Alternate storage sites are established with geographical separation and equivalent information security safeguards.

2. Portable Media and Storage Devices:

   - Strict controls during transportation and storage, including physical control and fire-resistant containers.

   - Inventoried and reconciled for accountability during transportation.

3. Disposal of Media:

   - Secure deletion or physical destruction of media aligns with Equipment Disposal Policy.

C. Policy Administration and Enforcement:

- Administered and implemented by the Reeves County IT Department IT Department.

- Violations may result in disciplinary actions, including access restrictions, termination, and potential legal consequences.

Conclusion:

This policy is crucial to safeguarding Reeves County IT Department information assets, ensuring data availability, and maintaining the integrity of backup and restoration processes. Users are expected to adhere to these guidelines to secure the institution's data and information infrastructure.