Instances of policy non-compliance or deviations are fundamental issues that arise at the grassroots level. When such issues are raised for review or consideration in advance and subsequently approved or consented to, by the policy or control owner, they are categorized as policy exceptions. It’s crucial that policy exceptions are of short-term duration. Before their validity expires, either the requester of the exception or the control owner should identify a more suitable alternative to comply with the policy.
These exceptions can prompt the implementation of new security technologies or the customization and enhancement of existing technologies and processes. In some cases, they may necessitate the revision of controls or policies if feasible solutions are not readily available. Instances of policy non-compliance that are not presented for review should be treated as issues rather than exceptions. Many of these issues may only come to light through audits, assessments, or following an incident.
Exceptions should not be permitted to renew or extend indefinitely, as doing so could result in chronic organizational issues. They should only be considered and allowed in rare cases where they are genuinely justified.
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