At UBC, we are taking bold steps to merge risk assessments with Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs) — a strategic initiative that addresses both emerging and prevalent risks in privacy and information security. This critical effort fortifies our security frameworks across the campus. By deploying Information Security Standard U1 and its Electronic Service Risk Classification Model, we are not just reacting to potential threats but preemptively safeguarding the UBC community's data to meet the highest standards of privacy and security.
Enhanced PIAs with Data and Service Classification
Data Classification Process: The journey begins with the data each university project handles, classified rigorously into Low, Medium, High, or Very High Risk categories as prescribed by Standard U1. This initial step is vital as it lays the groundwork for pinpointing the privacy risks tied to the diverse data across various university initiatives.
Service Classification with Electronic Service Risk Classification Model: This model offers a robust framework to gauge the risks linked with electronic services at UBC, assessing potential impacts from reputational damage to financial losses and operational disruptions, all the way to the volume of high-risk information processed.
A Closer Look at Our Strategy:
- Detailed Risk Profiling: With precise risk levels at our disposal, each service undergoes a thorough evaluation, leading to customized risk mitigation strategies finely tuned to the specific risk profile at hand.
- Proactive Risk Management: Our forward-thinking approach allows us to address risks like reputational harm and financial setbacks early on, preventing them from evolving into tangible threats.
- Compliance and Assurance: For high-stakes services classified as High or Very High Risk, weaving in documented compliance with Information Security Standards throughout the project lifecycle is non-negotiable. This integration boosts security and cements accountability.
- Strategic Decision Making: By leveraging the model’s impact scale, we strategically allocate resources and prioritize security measures, focusing intensely on services managing sensitive or vast amounts of data.
- Effective Communication: Clear risk classifications empower us to set definitive expectations and responsibilities for risk assessment and mitigation, fostering a well-informed and actively engaged university community.
The deliberate fusion of Information Security Standard U1 into our PIA process underscores our unwavering commitment to protect the privacy and security of our community. This sophisticated approach enables UBC to manage risks adeptly, ensuring every project aligns with a rigorous security and compliance framework. Through ongoing enhancements to our security posture, structured around in-depth risk management, UBC continues to lead in safeguarding the integrity and confidentiality of its data and systems.