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Acceptable Use Policy Free Template
Here is a full Acceptable Use Policy compliant with SOC 2 (CC1.4, CC1.5) and ISO 27001 (A.5.10):

1. Document Control
Document Title: Acceptable Use Policy
Document Identifier:
POL-ALL-002Version Number:
v1.0Approval Date:
<23 June 2025>Effective Date:
<23 June 2025>Review Date:
<23 June 2026>Document Owner:
<Chief Information Security Officer>Approved By:
<Information Security Governance Committee>
2. Purpose
The purpose of this Acceptable Use Policy is to define the acceptable behaviors, responsibilities, and constraints regarding the use of 's information systems, networks, and technology resources. This policy is intended to protect the organization from security threats, legal liability, data breaches, and reputational damage by ensuring all users understand the standards governing the use of corporate IT assets.
This policy aligns with the SOC 2 Trust Services Criteria CC1.4 and CC1.5, which require that roles and responsibilities be assigned and enforced to ensure the integrity and availability of system resources. Additionally, it is consistent with ISO/IEC 27001 control A.5.10, requiring documented and enforced acceptable use procedures. By clearly articulating expectations and restrictions, the organization aims to safeguard its digital assets, ensure continuity of business operations, and foster a culture of information security.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, interns, consultants, vendors, and other third parties who access or use 's systems, network, or data in any capacity. It governs the use of all IT resources, including:
Company-issued laptops, desktops, and mobile devices
Corporate network access, including VPN and remote connectivity
Cloud-based collaboration and storage platforms
Email systems and communication tools
Internet and intranet resources
Physical access to data centers and secure facilities
This policy applies across all geographic locations, business units, and time zones where operates or is represented.
4. Policy Statement
All users of 's systems and networks must:
Use technology resources for authorized business purposes only.
Comply with all security and privacy regulations, including confidentiality requirements.
Refrain from engaging in any activity that may compromise the organization’s security, legality, or operational integrity.
Prohibited activities include, but are not limited to:
Accessing, storing, or distributing offensive, discriminatory, or illegal content
Using IT systems for personal gain or outside commercial activities
Circumventing security controls, firewalls, or user access restrictions
Installing unauthorized software or connecting personal devices to the corporate network
Sharing credentials or allowing unauthorized individuals to use company systems
Permissible personal use is allowed only if it does not interfere with job responsibilities, violate any company policy, or expose systems to risk.
5. Safeguards
To enforce this policy, will implement the following safeguards:
Access Control: Systems enforce role-based access and MFA (see POL-ALL-003).
Endpoint Security: All devices must have antivirus software, encrypted storage, and screen-lock timers.
Monitoring and Logging: Internet usage, login activity, and data transfers are logged and subject to monitoring.
Content Filtering: Web and email filters block known malicious domains, adult content, and file-sharing platforms.
Patch Management: Devices must auto-update or be patched manually within defined SLAs.
Data Handling: Users must follow the Data Classification and Data Loss Prevention procedures when handling sensitive or proprietary data.
The IT department will maintain technical controls to prevent or detect unacceptable use and generate alerts for non-compliance.
6. Roles and Responsibilities
CISO: Accountable for defining and updating acceptable use standards and integrating with other policy areas (e.g., HR, legal, compliance).
IT Department: Implements, maintains, and monitors technical safeguards supporting this policy.
Managers: Ensure their team members are aware of and comply with the policy.
All Users: Must read, understand, and adhere to the Acceptable Use Policy and report any suspected violations or incidents.
Each user must complete mandatory information security awareness training within 30 days of hire and annually thereafter.
7. Compliance and Exceptions
Compliance with this policy will be monitored through:
Regular reviews of access logs and user behavior analytics
Periodic security awareness tests
Scheduled internal audits by the Risk & Compliance team
Requests for exceptions to this policy must be submitted in writing to the CISO. Exceptions require a documented business justification, risk assessment, and approval by the Information Security Governance Committee. All approved exceptions will be tracked and reviewed semi-annually.
8. Enforcement
Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary actions in accordance with ’s HR procedures. Potential consequences include:
Verbal and written warnings
Revocation of system access
Re-training or mandatory participation in awareness programs
Termination of employment or contracts in severe or repeat cases
If the violation involves illegal activities (e.g., harassment, data theft, fraud), may report the incident to legal authorities. Enforcement will be proportional to the severity of the breach and documented in each instance.
9. Related Policies/Documents
POL-ALL-001: Information Security Policy
POL-ALL-003: Access Control Policy
POL-SEC-004: Password Policy
POL-ALL-014: Information Classification Policy
ISO/IEC 27001:2022 A.5.10 – Acceptable Use of Assets
SOC 2 TSC CC1.4 – Communication of Responsibilities
SOC 2 TSC CC1.5 – Responsibility for System Operations
10. Review and Maintenance
This policy will be reviewed annually or following significant changes to IT infrastructure, regulatory requirements, or security incidents. The CISO is responsible for initiating reviews and coordinating with relevant stakeholders to ensure ongoing alignment with best practices and compliance frameworks.
Updates will follow the organization’s change control procedures, and new versions will be published in the company’s policy management system with version tracking and change logs.
