ASD ISM 0499Ensure Compliance with ASD Communication Security Policies
Official control statement
Communications security doctrine and policy produced by ASD for the management and operation of HACE is complied with.
Quoted as published. Everything else on this page is written by Control Stack.
In plain English
Follow ASD's security rules for operating and managing communication systems safely.
What this means in practice
This control is about following specific security guidelines set by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) when managing communication systems. It's important because if these rules aren't followed, sensitive information could be intercepted or tampered with, leading to serious privacy breaches and potential financial losses.
Framework
ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)
Control effect (Control Stack)
Preventative
Classifications
S, TS
ISM last updated
June 2025
Control Stack last updated
29 Sept 2026
E8 maturity levels
N/A
Guideline
Guidelines for cryptographySection
Cryptographic fundamentalsTopic
Communications security doctrine
Why it matters
Without complying with ASD HACE communications security policy, interception or compromise of sensitive communications may occur, leading to privacy breaches and legal consequences.
Operational notes
Review ASD HACE communications security policies regularly, and update procedures and configurations promptly when ASD doctrine or policy changes.
Implementation tips
- The IT manager should ensure all staff managing communications systems are familiar with the ASD's security policies. This can be done by organising regular training sessions where the staff learn about these policies and their importance.
- System administrators should regularly review and update communication systems to ensure they comply with ASD guidelines. They can do this by conducting monthly checks and logging any changes made to keep systems secure.
- The compliance officer should create a checklist based on ASD policies to help the team consistently apply the required rules. This checklist should be used during system audits and updates to ensure nothing is overlooked.
- Managers should encourage their teams to report any issues or uncertainties regarding the security of communication systems promptly. They can set up a straightforward reporting process, such as an email hotline where staff can ask questions.
- Human Resources should include cyber security responsibilities in job descriptions for roles involving communication systems management. This ensures that new hires understand their role in maintaining security from day one.
Audit / evidence tips
- AskThe latest ASD communication security policy documents: Request to see the policies referenced for guidanceLook atThe issue date and version number of the documentsGoodPolicies that are marked as current and have been reviewed within the last year
- AskA log of system updates and reviews tied to these policies: Request the change logs from the system administratorsLook atRegular entries showing updates with reference to specific ASD policy requirementsGoodA detailed log updated consistently each month
- AskTraining records on ASD policy compliance: Request records of attendance at any policy training sessionsLook atWhich staff attended and whenGoodRecent training delivered to all relevant staff with attendance documented and up-to-date
- AskThe compliance checklist completed during the latest system audit: Request the completed checklist that the compliance officer usesLook atRecent completion dates and signatures indicating who conducted the auditGoodA properly filled checklist with no items left unchecked
- AskCommunication system incident reports from the last year: Request reports of any security incidents related to communicationsLook atThe type and frequency of incidents reportedGoodFew incidents and indications that issues were resolved promptly following ASD guidance
Cross-framework mappings
How ISM-0499 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Essential Eight, and ASD ISM.
ISO 27001
| Control | Notes | Details |
|---|---|---|
handshakeSupports(1)expand_less | ||
| Annex A 5.31 | ISM-0499 requires compliance with ASD communications security doctrine and policy produced for HACE management and operation | |
These mappings show relationships between controls across frameworks. They do not imply full equivalence or certification.
Related ASD ISM controls in Cryptography
See all Guidelines for cryptography controls, or browse the full ASD ISM library.