Information security clause: Copy, customize, and use instantly
Introduction
An information security clause sets out the standards and requirements for protecting data, systems, and digital infrastructure in a commercial agreement. It helps minimize cybersecurity risks, reduce exposure to data breaches, and ensure both parties follow best practices in handling sensitive information.
Below are templates for information security clauses tailored to different scenarios. Copy, customize, and insert them into your agreement.
Standard information security clause
This version sets a general obligation to maintain appropriate safeguards.
The [Service Provider] shall implement and maintain appropriate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect information handled under this Agreement from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, alteration, or destruction.
Information security clause with industry-standard framework reference
This version refers to common security frameworks.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain an information security program aligned with industry standards such as ISO/IEC 27001 or NIST SP 800-53 and regularly review its controls to ensure ongoing protection.
Information security clause with incident response obligation
This version requires notification and handling of security incidents.
The [Service Provider] shall promptly notify the [Customer] of any actual or suspected information security incident affecting systems, data, or services under this Agreement, and shall take all necessary steps to investigate, contain, and remediate the incident.
Information security clause with right to audit
This version gives the customer audit rights.
The [Customer] may, upon reasonable notice, audit or request independent verification of the [Service Provider]’s information security controls to assess compliance with the security obligations under this Agreement.
Information security clause with encryption requirements
This version mandates encryption for data at rest and in transit.
The [Service Provider] shall encrypt all sensitive data transmitted or stored under this Agreement using industry-standard encryption protocols, including TLS for data in transit and AES-256 or equivalent for data at rest.
Information security clause with access control standards
This version sets minimum access controls.
The [Service Provider] shall restrict access to systems and data under this Agreement based on the principle of least privilege and enforce strong authentication mechanisms for all authorized users.
Information security clause with multi-factor authentication
This version enforces extra login protection.
The [Service Provider] shall implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all administrative access to systems and data used in connection with this Agreement.
Information security clause with secure software development practices
This version requires secure coding procedures.
The [Service Provider] shall follow secure software development practices, including code review, vulnerability scanning, and regular updates to mitigate security risks.
Information security clause with regular penetration testing
This version mandates security testing.
The [Service Provider] shall conduct penetration testing at least annually through independent third-party vendors and promptly remediate identified vulnerabilities.
Information security clause with data breach notification timeline
This version defines a specific response window.
In the event of a data breach, the [Service Provider] shall notify the [Customer] in writing within [48 hours] of discovery and provide a summary of the breach, impact assessment, and remediation plan.
Information security clause with employee training requirements
This version requires staff awareness programs.
The [Service Provider] shall ensure all personnel handling data under this Agreement complete regular information security awareness training, including phishing and incident response procedures.
Information security clause with data segregation controls
This version separates customer data environments.
The [Service Provider] shall implement controls to segregate the [Customer]’s data from other customers’ data to prevent unauthorized access or cross-contamination.
Information security clause with vulnerability management protocol
This version requires patching and updates.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain a vulnerability management program that includes regular patching of systems, timely remediation of known vulnerabilities, and automated scanning tools.
Information security clause with third-party risk management
This version includes vendor oversight.
The [Service Provider] shall ensure that any third-party vendors or subcontractors used in delivering services under this Agreement adhere to equivalent information security standards.
Information security clause with security certification requirement
This version requires formal credentials.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain a valid [ISO/IEC 27001 or SOC 2 Type II] certification and provide a copy of its latest certification report upon request.
Information security clause with data disposal standards
This version governs secure data destruction.
Upon expiration or termination of this Agreement, the [Service Provider] shall securely delete or return all data in accordance with industry best practices and provide written confirmation of disposal.
Information security clause with physical security controls
This version covers facility-level protections.
The [Service Provider] shall implement physical security measures at all facilities processing data under this Agreement, including badge-controlled access, surveillance monitoring, and visitor logs.
Information security clause with business continuity integration
This version connects InfoSec with resilience planning.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain a business continuity and disaster recovery plan that includes provisions for information security during service disruptions.
Information security clause with log monitoring and analysis
This version requires event tracking.
The [Service Provider] shall log and monitor all access and activity related to customer data and systems and review such logs periodically to detect potential threats or unauthorized behavior.
Information security clause with data classification standards
This version mandates formal data categorization.
The [Service Provider] shall implement a data classification policy that categorizes information based on sensitivity and applies appropriate security controls to each category.
Information security clause with endpoint security controls
This version protects workstations and mobile devices.
The [Service Provider] shall ensure all endpoints used to access systems under this Agreement are protected by anti-malware tools, firewalls, and device encryption.
Information security clause with change management procedures
This version governs system updates.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain a formal change management process to evaluate, approve, and document all changes to systems affecting information security.
Information security clause with data integrity assurance
This version requires protections against unauthorized alterations.
The [Service Provider] shall implement controls to protect the integrity of data processed under this Agreement, ensuring data is not altered, deleted, or corrupted without authorization.
Information security clause with removable media restrictions
This version prevents insecure storage.
The [Service Provider] shall prohibit the storage or transfer of sensitive data on unencrypted removable media such as USB drives or portable hard disks.
Information security clause with offboarding protocols
This version governs revoking access.
The [Service Provider] shall promptly revoke system access for personnel who are terminated or reassigned and maintain documented offboarding procedures.
Information security clause with periodic security reviews
This version includes regular security assessments.
The [Service Provider] shall conduct internal information security reviews at least semiannually to assess the effectiveness of controls and implement improvements as needed.
Information security clause with specific incident response plan requirement
This version mandates formal documentation.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain a written information security incident response plan and provide a copy to the [Customer] upon request.
Information security clause with secure file transfer protocols
This version addresses data transmission.
All file transfers between the parties under this Agreement shall be conducted using secure protocols such as SFTP, HTTPS, or other encrypted channels.
Information security clause with geographic data restrictions
This version limits data residency.
The [Service Provider] shall not store or process any data under this Agreement outside of [jurisdiction or region] without the [Customer]’s prior written consent.
Information security clause with anonymization and pseudonymization methods
This version adds privacy-enhancing techniques.
The [Service Provider] shall use anonymization or pseudonymization techniques where appropriate to reduce data exposure and improve security.
Information security clause with layered security architecture requirement
This version promotes a defense-in-depth model.
The [Service Provider] shall implement a layered security architecture incorporating perimeter, network, application, and endpoint protections.
Information security clause with customer-requested risk assessments
This version allows for periodic evaluations.
Upon request, the [Service Provider] shall participate in joint risk assessments with the [Customer] to evaluate system security and identify areas for improvement.
Information security clause with audit trail retention
This version mandates record-keeping.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain detailed audit trails of all access and changes to systems and data for a minimum of [12 months] and make records available upon request.
Information security clause with background checks for personnel
This version addresses employee vetting.
The [Service Provider] shall conduct background checks on all personnel with access to sensitive data or systems and retain evidence of screening results.
Information security clause with secure password policy
This version enforces strong credential management.
The [Service Provider] shall implement a password policy requiring complexity, rotation, and secure storage of user credentials.
Information security clause with security incident root cause analysis
This version adds post-incident learning.
Following any information security incident, the [Service Provider] shall conduct a root cause analysis and share findings with the [Customer], along with prevention strategies.
Information security clause with mandatory patch timelines
This version sets response windows for known vulnerabilities.
The [Service Provider] shall apply security patches for critical vulnerabilities within [7 days] of release and for moderate vulnerabilities within [30 days].
Information security clause with continuous monitoring tools
This version requires real-time threat detection.
The [Service Provider] shall implement continuous monitoring tools such as intrusion detection systems (IDS) and security information and event management (SIEM) platforms.
Information security clause with data minimization principles
This version limits unnecessary data collection.
The [Service Provider] shall only collect, use, and retain data that is strictly necessary for performing obligations under this Agreement.
Information security clause with zero trust architecture reference
This version mentions modern frameworks.
The [Service Provider] shall adopt a zero trust security model, enforcing verification of all users and devices before granting access to systems or data.
Information security clause with subcontractor flow-down obligations
This version extends security duties to subcontractors.
The [Service Provider] shall impose equivalent information security obligations on any subcontractors or third-party providers engaged in performing services under this Agreement.
Information security clause with responsibility assignment matrix
This version defines roles clearly.
The parties shall maintain a responsibility assignment matrix (RACI) to clarify roles and accountability for all information security controls under this Agreement.
Information security clause with threat intelligence integration
This version anticipates emerging risks.
The [Service Provider] shall incorporate threat intelligence data into its information security program to proactively identify and respond to new cyber threats.
Information security clause with secure configuration baselines
This version sets standard system configurations.
The [Service Provider] shall establish and maintain secure configuration baselines for all servers, workstations, and network devices used in service delivery.
Information security clause with log retention minimum
This version defines data retention periods.
The [Service Provider] shall retain system and security logs for a minimum of [12 months] to support forensic investigations and compliance obligations.
Information security clause with secure onboarding procedures
This version ensures proper initial access.
The [Service Provider] shall implement a secure onboarding process for new personnel, including security awareness training and access control setup.
Information security clause with quarterly performance reporting
This version requires InfoSec metrics.
The [Service Provider] shall provide the [Customer] with quarterly reports summarizing key security metrics, incident trends, and risk management efforts.
Information security clause with fallback protocols during outages
This version plans for system failures.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain fallback protocols to ensure data protection and service continuity during planned or unplanned outages.
Information security clause with security updates communication
This version requires notification of changes.
The [Service Provider] shall notify the [Customer] of any material changes to its information security policies or controls that may affect service delivery.
Information security clause with data masking for testing environments
This version protects test data.
The [Service Provider] shall apply data masking or use anonymized datasets in all development or testing environments to protect sensitive information.
Information security clause with escalation matrix for incidents
This version defines incident handling hierarchy.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain an escalation matrix for information security incidents, clearly identifying points of contact and response timelines.
Information security clause with data access approval workflow
This version requires structured access approvals.
The [Service Provider] shall implement an access approval workflow requiring documented authorization before granting access to any system or data associated with this Agreement.
Information security clause with insider threat monitoring
This version adds internal threat safeguards.
The [Service Provider] shall deploy internal monitoring controls to detect and mitigate potential insider threats, including anomalous access behavior and unauthorized data transfers.
Information security clause with monthly security status updates
This version introduces regular update cadence.
The [Service Provider] shall provide the [Customer] with monthly updates summarizing the status of security systems, recent threats, and mitigation activities.
Information security clause with device inventory control
This version tracks authorized devices.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain a current inventory of all devices used to access systems under this Agreement and enforce restrictions on unauthorized hardware.
Information security clause with biometric access options
This version allows biometric authentication.
The [Service Provider] may use biometric authentication measures such as fingerprint or facial recognition to enhance security on systems accessing customer data.
Information security clause with internal phishing simulation testing
This version reinforces staff preparedness.
The [Service Provider] shall conduct regular internal phishing simulation tests to assess employee awareness and strengthen security posture.
Information security clause with security policy attestation
This version requires signed staff acknowledgments.
The [Service Provider] shall require all personnel with system access to formally acknowledge and sign its internal information security policy prior to onboarding.
Information security clause with quarantine protocol for infected devices
This version mitigates malware exposure.
The [Service Provider] shall implement quarantine protocols for any devices found to be compromised or infected with malware, and remove such devices from network access immediately.
Information security clause with secure print management
This version controls hardcopy risks.
The [Service Provider] shall restrict printing of sensitive information and implement secure print release mechanisms to prevent unauthorized document access.
Information security clause with telemetry-based risk alerts
This version includes proactive risk detection.
The [Service Provider] shall implement telemetry systems to generate real-time alerts for risky behavior patterns and unusual activity affecting customer systems.
Information security clause with role-based training modules
This version customizes employee education.
The [Service Provider] shall provide information security training tailored to employee roles and responsibilities, including elevated training for privileged users.
Information security clause with anonymized activity reporting
This version allows usage analysis without identifying users.
The [Service Provider] shall provide anonymized activity reports to the [Customer] to demonstrate system usage patterns while protecting individual identities.
Information security clause with physical media inventory
This version tracks physical data carriers.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain an inventory of all physical media used for data storage or transfer and implement secure handling and disposal procedures.
Information security clause with time-based access permissions
This version uses access expiry controls.
The [Service Provider] shall apply time-based access permissions that automatically expire after a predefined period unless actively renewed.
Information security clause with emergency override restrictions
This version limits override scenarios.
The [Service Provider] shall restrict emergency override access to critical systems to pre-designated personnel and log all override activity for audit purposes.
Information security clause with system hardening requirement
This version requires secure configuration baselines.
The [Service Provider] shall harden all systems used under this Agreement by disabling unnecessary ports, services, and accounts in accordance with recognized security standards.
Information security clause with unannounced security spot checks
This version allows random verification.
The [Customer] may perform unannounced spot checks, directly or through a third party, to assess the [Service Provider]’s ongoing compliance with information security obligations.
Information security clause with single sign-on enforcement
This version streamlines access management.
The [Service Provider] shall implement single sign-on (SSO) capabilities for user authentication and integrate access control systems accordingly.
Information security clause with internal security scorecard tracking
This version formalizes performance metrics.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain an internal security scorecard tracking key indicators such as incident rate, resolution time, and control effectiveness.
Information security clause with email filtering standards
This version mandates email gateway protection.
The [Service Provider] shall deploy email filtering systems to detect and block phishing attempts, malware attachments, and spoofed messages.
Information security clause with data exfiltration controls
This version prevents unauthorized data transfer.
The [Service Provider] shall implement mechanisms to detect and prevent unauthorized data exfiltration from its systems, including content inspection and traffic monitoring.
Information security clause with secure mobile device management (MDM)
This version manages phones and tablets.
The [Service Provider] shall enroll all mobile devices accessing customer systems into a mobile device management (MDM) solution with enforced encryption and remote wipe capabilities.
Information security clause with secure decommissioning process
This version governs system retirement.
The [Service Provider] shall follow a secure decommissioning process to sanitize and remove data from systems prior to retirement or reassignment.
Information security clause with anomaly-based detection systems
This version adds behavioral threat monitoring.
The [Service Provider] shall implement anomaly detection systems to identify suspicious activity not covered by standard threat signatures.
Information security clause with customer-specific control mapping
This version adapts controls to customer needs.
The [Service Provider] shall map its internal security controls to the [Customer]’s specific risk management requirements and provide documentation upon request.
Information security clause with passwordless authentication option
This version introduces advanced login technology.
The [Service Provider] shall support passwordless authentication mechanisms such as security keys or biometric credentials for enhanced access control.
Information security clause with compliance breach penalty
This version introduces financial consequences.
Failure to comply with information security obligations under this Agreement may result in penalties or service credits as outlined in [Schedule X].
Information security clause with secure third-party integrations
This version covers connected systems.
The [Service Provider] shall ensure that all third-party integrations used in connection with services under this Agreement meet equivalent security standards and undergo risk evaluation.
Information security clause with user session timeout policy
This version enforces auto-logout.
The [Service Provider] shall configure all systems to automatically terminate user sessions after a period of inactivity not exceeding [15 minutes].
Information security clause with security risk acceptance thresholds
This version sets formal risk tolerances.
The [Service Provider] shall document any residual security risks accepted under this Agreement and obtain written acknowledgment from the [Customer].
Information security clause with ransomware preparedness plan
This version addresses ransomware threats.
The [Service Provider] shall develop and maintain a ransomware preparedness and response plan, including backup integrity testing and rapid system restoration capabilities.
Information security clause with secure containerization protocols
This version applies to virtual environments.
The [Service Provider] shall secure containerized environments through image scanning, least privilege enforcement, and runtime threat detection.
Information security clause with zero-day vulnerability escalation
This version prioritizes urgent threats.
The [Service Provider] shall escalate and address zero-day vulnerabilities affecting service systems immediately upon discovery and coordinate with the [Customer] on mitigation.
Information security clause with secure API management
This version governs integration points.
The [Service Provider] shall manage APIs using authentication tokens, access control lists, and rate limiting to prevent misuse or exploitation.
Information security clause with real-time alert notification
This version provides immediate threat alerts.
The [Service Provider] shall provide real-time notification to the [Customer] upon detection of high-severity security alerts affecting services under this Agreement.
Information security clause with internal red team exercises
This version simulates attacks.
The [Service Provider] shall conduct periodic red team exercises to test and improve internal defenses against simulated attack scenarios.
Information security clause with immutable audit logs
This version strengthens forensic traceability.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain immutable, tamper-evident audit logs to support post-incident investigations and compliance audits.
Information security clause with dark web threat monitoring
This version addresses external data leaks.
The [Service Provider] shall monitor dark web channels for leaked credentials or other threats related to systems or data covered by this Agreement.
Information security clause with customer-specific access reporting
This version provides user-level reports.
The [Service Provider] shall provide monthly access reports showing all user activity related to the [Customer]’s systems, including timestamps and actions taken.
Information security clause with independent InfoSec audit requirement
This version formalizes external assurance.
The [Service Provider] shall engage an independent auditor to conduct an annual information security audit and share the results with the [Customer].
Information security clause with shared responsibility model clarification
This version defines InfoSec roles.
The parties shall maintain a shared responsibility model outlining which security obligations are owned by the [Customer] and which are owned by the [Service Provider].
Information security clause with supply chain security assessment
This version includes supplier risk reviews.
The [Service Provider] shall perform security assessments of its critical suppliers and provide assurance of their compliance with relevant InfoSec controls.
Information security clause with secure remote work protocols
This version addresses remote access.
The [Service Provider] shall implement secure remote work protocols, including VPN access, endpoint encryption, and user activity monitoring for personnel working offsite.
Information security clause with audit support documentation
This version mandates audit preparation.
The [Service Provider] shall maintain and provide supporting documentation for all security controls, policies, and practices upon request during security audits.
Information security clause with key management procedures
This version governs encryption keys.
The [Service Provider] shall implement key management procedures in accordance with best practices, including key rotation, storage, and access logging.
Information security clause with integration testing for security flaws
This version mandates pre-deployment validation.
The [Service Provider] shall test all system integrations for security flaws prior to deployment and resolve identified issues before production use.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.