Rule: Backup Recovery Points Should Be Encrypted
Ensure all backup recovery points are encrypted to maintain data security.
| Rule | Backup recovery points should be encrypted |
| Framework | CISA-cyber-essentials |
| Severity | ✔ Low |
Rule Description
The rule requires that backup recovery points be encrypted for compliance with CISA Cyber Essentials. Backup recovery points contain sensitive data and encrypting them helps protect the confidentiality and integrity of the information in case of unauthorized access or data breach.
Troubleshooting Steps
If you encounter any issues with encrypting backup recovery points, please follow the troubleshooting steps below:
- 1.
Check Backup Software Compatibility: Ensure that the backup software you are using supports encryption for recovery points. Refer to the software documentation or contact the vendor for guidance.
- 2.
Verify Encryption Settings: Review the encryption settings within your backup software. Ensure that encryption is enabled and properly configured. Set a strong encryption algorithm and key to ensure the security of the recovery points.
- 3.
Check Key Management: If your backup software uses a key management system, ensure that it is properly configured and accessible. Test the key retrieval and decryption process to verify its functionality.
- 4.
Update Backup Software: If you are using an outdated version of the backup software, consider updating it to the latest version, as it may include bug fixes and improvements related to encryption.
- 5.
Review System Requirements: Confirm that your infrastructure meets the necessary system requirements for backup encryption. Ensure that you have sufficient hardware resources and software dependencies in place.
- 6.
Verify Backup Location Security: Ensure that the physical and logical security measures of the backup storage location are appropriately implemented. This includes restricting physical access, secure network protocols, and access controls.
- 7.
Review Error Logs: Check the error logs of the backup software for any relevant error messages or warnings. These logs can provide valuable information for troubleshooting encryption-related issues.
- 8.
Contact Support: If the troubleshooting steps above do not resolve the issue, reach out to the backup software vendor's technical support for further assistance.
Necessary Codes (if applicable)
No specific codes are provided for this rule.
Step-by-Step Guide for Remediation
Follow the steps below to ensure backup recovery points are encrypted for CISA Cyber Essentials compliance:
- 1.
Identify the Backup Solution: Determine the backup software or solution being used within your organization. This could be a commercial product or an open-source tool.
- 2.
Enable Encryption: Access the backup software's configuration settings or options related to encryption. Enable the encryption feature if it is not already enabled.
- 3.
Configure Encryption Settings: Set the encryption algorithm and key size according to the recommended standards. Strong encryption algorithms such as AES-256 are commonly used. Ensure that the encryption key is unique and properly managed.
- 4.
Test Backup and Recovery: Perform a backup of a test dataset or system and verify that the recovery points are being encrypted.
- 5.
Validate Encryption: Using the provided decryption capabilities within the backup software, attempt to restore the test backup. Confirm that the recovery process is successful and that the data is decrypted correctly.
- 6.
Monitor and Review: Regularly monitor the backup system to ensure that encryption is consistently applied to all recovery points. Review the backup logs and monitor any notifications or alerts related to encryption.
- 7.
Periodic Key Rotation: Implement a periodic key rotation process to enhance the security of the encryption. This involves generating new encryption keys and re-encrypting the backup recovery points.
- 8.
Document Encryption Procedures: Create detailed documentation outlining the encryption procedures for backup recovery points. Include information on the encryption settings, key management, and any specific configuration steps required for compliance.
- 9.
Regularly Audit and Validate: Perform regular audits and validations to ensure compliance with the encryption requirements. This can include verifying encryption status, reviewing access controls, and testing the recovery process.
Following the above steps will help ensure that backup recovery points are encrypted in alignment with the CISA Cyber Essentials rule.