Leadline Inc.DS-05: Physical Media Disposal and DLP
Secure disposal of physical media or DLP implementation for data protection
Control Description
"External physical media devices (e.g., hard drives, thumb drives) are scrubbed prior to disposal to avoid compromising confidential information.
OR, if in-scope environment is hosted by a third party:
A data loss prevention (DLP) software solution is implemented to prevent users from storing confidential data on unencrypted physical media devices. The DLP software solution is configured to automatically enforce the Company's DLP configurations on all workstations and laptops on the Company's network."
Plain Meaning
This control provides two options: either implement secure disposal procedures for physical media devices (like hard drives and USB drives) before disposal, OR implement data loss prevention (DLP) software to prevent users from storing confidential data on unencrypted physical media devices.
Implementation
Physical Media Disposal Option
Secure Disposal Procedures
- Hard Drives: Use certified data destruction services
- USB Drives: Physical destruction or secure wiping
- Backup Tapes: Degaussing or physical destruction
- Documentation: Maintain disposal certificates and logs
Disposal Process
- Inventory all physical media
- Classify data sensitivity
- Choose appropriate disposal method
- Execute disposal with verification
- Document disposal activities
Key Success Factors
- Clear Choice: Choose either disposal procedures OR DLP implementation
- Secure Disposal: Proper scrubbing and documentation of disposal
- DLP Coverage: Comprehensive DLP implementation across all devices
- Monitoring: Regular tracking and reporting of compliance
- Documentation: Maintain records of all disposal and DLP activities
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- No Choice: Must implement either disposal OR DLP, not neither
- Incomplete Disposal: Not properly scrubbing all data
- Weak DLP: Insufficient DLP coverage or enforcement
- No Monitoring: Not tracking disposal or DLP activities
Related Controls
- DS-01: Removable media encryption
- DS-03: Laptop hard drive encryption
- DS-04: Mobile device management