What this control covers
This control requires the development of system security and privacy plans that are consistent with the organization's enterprise architecture. The plans must define system components, identify roles and responsibilities, describe operational contexts, outline security and privacy requirements, and assess potential risks. The plans should be updated regularly and include a rationale for control decisions. They must also be protected from unauthorized disclosure and modification. This control supports the Security and Privacy Plan Management System capability within the Planning family.
Why it matters
Risk is the language an executive team understands; this control connects technical reality to board-level decisions and budget allocation.
How to implement
AWS
Codify the policy intent as SCPs, AWS Config conformance packs, and Security Hub standards so the cloud enforces what the document says.
Azure
Codify in Azure Policy initiatives (built-in regulatory compliance for CIS, ISO 27001, SOC 2, HIPAA) and assign at management-group level.
Google Workspace
Use Data Export (Takeout-style) and Vault search to scope DSARs. Apply Drive labels + DLP so personal data classes are discoverable.
GitHub
Apply branch protection on default and release branches: require PR review, status checks, signed commits, linear history, and dismiss stale reviews on new commits. Use CODEOWNERS for required reviewers, Dependabot + CodeQL for SAST, and the Dependency graph / SBOM export for vendor disclosures.
On-premises
Maintain a policy library with a documented review cadence (annual minimum); store in your GRC tool with attestation tracking. Map each policy to controls so an audit pull cites the exact policy clause.
Evidence to collect
policy_document— A signed, version-controlled policy stating leadership intent and the named owner.
Signed policy or standard documents the safeguard. Focus: System Security And Privacy Plans.
Quick checklist
- Policy — Management / Privacy
- Security — Management / Privacy
- Consistent — Management / Privacy
- Unauthorized — Management / Privacy
- System — Management / Privacy
- Control — Management / Privacy
Related articles on this site
- NIST 800-171 3.1.9 Provide privacy and security notices consistent with applicable CUI rules.
- NIST 800-171 3.8.7 Control the use of removable media on system components.
- NIST 800-171 3.12.4 Develop, document, and periodically update system security plans that describe system boundaries, system environments of operation, how security requirements are implemented, and the relationships with or connections to
- CMMC 2.0 AC.2.005 Provide privacy and security notices consistent with applicable CUI rules.