Data Breach Incident Response Plan

1. Executive Summary

Executive Summary: Data Breach Incident Report

This section provides a high-level overview of the data breach incident, including its impact and actions taken to date.

2. Introduction

Introduction: Data Breach Incident Report

This document outlines Core Learning Exchange's (Core-LX) approach to handling and reporting data breach incidents. Our commitment to data security and privacy is unwavering, and this plan is designed to guide our response in the event of a breach. It defines the roles, responsibilities, and procedures for all Core-LX employees when a data breach is suspected or confirmed.

3. Incident Classification

Incident Classification: Data Breach Incident Report

Data breaches can take various forms, and it is crucial to classify them to assess their severity accurately. Core-LX classifies data breaches into the following categories:

  1. Unauthorized Access: When an individual or entity gains unauthorized access to Core-LX systems or data.

  2. Data Loss: Accidental or intentional loss of sensitive data, including student or staff information.

  3. Malware Infection: The presence of malware or other malicious software on Core-LX systems.

  4. Phishing Attacks: Deceptive attempts to steal sensitive information, such as usernames and passwords.

Each incident will be classified according to its type and severity to guide appropriate response measures.

4. Incident Response Manager

Incident Manager: The lead coordinator for the incident response.

Chris Sawwa, CTO

chris.sawwa@corelearningexchange.com

703-304-0043

5. Incident Reporting

Incident Reporting: Data Breach Incident Report

If you suspect or confirm a data breach, it is crucial to report it immediately. Follow these steps:

  1. Internal Reporting: Notify the Incident Manager, IT Security Specialist, or your supervisor immediately. Use the incident management system to log the incident.

  2. External Reporting: If the incident involves external parties or suppliers, notify them as required.

  3. Legal and Compliance: Notify the Legal Counsel and Data Privacy Officer to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

  4. Communications: Engage the Communications Specialist to manage internal and external communications.

6. Preliminary Assessment

Preliminary Assessment: Data Breach Incident Report

Upon receiving a breach report, the Incident Manager will conduct a preliminary assessment. This includes verifying the incident, assessing its potential impact, and determining if it is a confirmed breach. If the assessment confirms a breach, the incident will be escalated to the IRT for further action.

7. Containment and Mitigation

Containment and Mitigation: Data Breach Incident Report

If a breach is confirmed, the IRT will take immediate action to contain and mitigate the breach. This may involve isolating affected systems, disabling compromised accounts, or addressing vulnerabilities that led to the breach.

8. Investigation

Investigation: Data Breach Incident Report

Upon containment and mitigation, the IRT will conduct a comprehensive investigation. This includes collecting evidence, preserving data, and identifying the source and impact of the breach. The findings will inform further response actions.

9. Communication

Communication: Data Breach Incident Report

Effective communication is essential during a data breach incident. The Communications Specialist will be responsible for managing both internal and external communications. It is vital to keep all stakeholders informed about the situation, progress, and actions being taken.

10. Notification

Notification: Data Breach Incident Report

Notification is a critical step in the data breach response process. Core-LX will notify affected individuals, regulatory bodies, and other relevant parties as required by law or regulation. Legal Counsel will guide this process.

11. Remediation and Recovery

Remediation and Recovery: Data Breach Incident Report

After the breach is resolved, Core-LX will focus on system remediation and recovery. This involves patching vulnerabilities, restoring affected data, and implementing improvements to prevent future incidents.

12. Documentation

Documentation: Data Breach Incident Report

All actions, findings, and lessons learned during the data breach incident response will be documented. This documentation will serve as a crucial resource for post-incident review and reporting requirements.

13. Post-Incident Review

Post-Incident Review: Data Breach Incident Report

After the incident has been resolved, a post-incident review will be conducted to assess the effectiveness of the response and identify areas for improvement. This review will inform future incident response efforts.

This comprehensive Data Breach Incident Report Plan serves as a guiding document for Core-LX to effectively respond to data breaches and protect the security and privacy of our systems and data. Regular reviews and training are essential to ensure that all employees are prepared to respond promptly and efficiently in the event of a data breach.