Utilize offsite or cloud-based solutions for secure and redundant backups.

Ensure data encrypted before storing it offsite or in the cloud.

Have a clear plan for restoring data from offsite/cloud backups.

Data Backup and Recovery Policy for [Company Name]

1. Policy Objective

To ensure the protection and recoverability of mission-critical systems and data by implementing a robust backup and recovery strategy.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all mission-critical systems and data across [Company Name], including data managed by employees, contractors, and third-party vendors.

3. Backup Procedures

Backup Frequency

Mission-Critical Data: All mission-critical systems and data must be backed up at least once per week to ensure data integrity and availability.

Backup Storage

Offsite/Cloud Storage: Backups of mission-critical data must be stored in a secure offsite location or cloud service provider. This ensures protection against data loss due to local disasters or other unforeseen events.

Encryption

Data Encryption: All backup data must be encrypted using industry-standard encryption methods to protect against unauthorized access and ensure data confidentiality.

4. Data Restoration

Restoration Timeframe

Recovery Objective: Backup data must be restorable within 48 hours (two days) of a data loss incident to minimize downtime and impact on business operations.

Testing Restoration

Annual Recovery Tests: Conduct at least one backup recovery test per year to verify the integrity and effectiveness of backup and restoration procedures. This ensures that backups are valid and can be restored as required.

5. Responsibilities

IT Department

Backup Management: The IT Department is responsible for overseeing the execution of backups, including scheduling, monitoring, and encryption.

Recovery Tests: Conduct and document annual backup recovery tests. Ensure that the results are reviewed, and any issues identified are addressed promptly.

Data Owners

Data Verification: Data owners are responsible for ensuring that mission-critical data under their purview is included in the backup schedule and that backup requirements are met.

6. Policy Review

Review Schedule

Frequency: This policy will be reviewed and updated annually or as significant changes occur in technology, business operations, or compliance requirements.

Responsibility

Policy Review: The IT Department, in collaboration with the Compliance Team, is responsible for reviewing and updating this policy.

7. Approval and Communication

Approval

Policy Approval: This policy is approved by the [Company Name] Executive Management Team.

Communication

Policy Distribution: Communicate this policy to all relevant employees and stakeholders. Ensure that they are aware of and understand their responsibilities regarding data backups and recovery.

8. Contact Information

For any questions or further clarification regarding this policy, please contact the IT Department at [contact information].

This policy ensures that [Company Name] maintains a comprehensive backup and recovery strategy, safeguarding critical data and systems while enabling efficient recovery in case of data loss.