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Communications infrastructure
ASD ISMISM-1105

ASD ISM 1105 Ensure wall outlets have appropriate cable security

What it says

SECRET and TOP SECRET wall outlet boxes contain exclusively SECRET or TOP SECRET cables.

Quoted as published. Everything else on this page is written by Control Stack.

What it means

In plain English

Wall outlets for SECRET and TOP SECRET should only have cables that match these classifications.

This control focuses on making sure that the cables connected to wall outlets designated for SECRET and TOP SECRET information match the sensitivity level of those areas. This matters because using less secure cables in these outlets could lead to data leaks or unauthorised access, putting very sensitive information at risk.

Why it matters

Improper cable security at SECRET/TOP SECRET wall outlets can enable interception or unauthorised access to classified traffic, risking national security.

How to implement

  1. The IT manager should identify all wall outlets in areas where SECRET and TOP SECRET information is handled.

    They can do this by walking through each section, checking building plans, and noting locations.

  2. The procurement officer should ensure that only cables designed for SECRET and TOP SECRET use are purchased for these wall outlets.

    They can achieve this by checking supplier catalogues and matching product specifications with security requirements.

  3. Technicians need to install the cables in SECRET and TOP SECRET outlets, ensuring that each cable's classification matches the outlet's classification.

    They can do this by following a checklist that verifies cable specifications before installation.

  4. The facility manager should label all SECRET and TOP SECRET wall outlets to prevent accidental misuse.

    This can be done with clear and permanent signs or tags directly on or near the outlets.

  5. HR should organise training for staff on the importance of using the correct cables in these designated outlets.

    They can arrange for short informational sessions that cover possible risks and correct behaviours.

Keep it running

Inspect wall outlet boxes to confirm only SECRET/TOP SECRET-rated cables are present, and remove/replace any mismatched cable runs promptly.

Evidence and audit

  1. Check 1 of 5What an auditor asks for

    Ask for

    The building's cabling inventory records: Request a list of cables used in SECRET and TOP SECRET areas.

    Look at

    The classification labels on each cable in these records.

    Good evidence

    Shows cables labelled specifically for SECRET and TOP SECRET use only.

  2. Check 2 of 5What an auditor asks for

    Good evidence

    Shows consistent purchasing of correctly classified cables.

  3. Check 3 of 5What an auditor asks for

    Ask for

    Demonstration of labelling on wall outlets: Visit areas with SECRET and TOP SECRET outlets to see the physical labels. Verify that labelling is visible and matches what is indicated in the documentation.

    Good evidence

    Confirms all outlets are correctly labelled in the field.

  4. Check 4 of 5What an auditor asks for

    Look at

    Signatures and dates confirming that cables have been verified to comply with security requirements.

    Good evidence

    Includes regular audit intervals with correct outcomes.

  5. Check 5 of 5What an auditor asks for

    Ask for

    Attendance records from training sessions: Request documentation showing who has attended training on this control. Check if all relevant staff members were present and if refreshers are scheduled.

    Good evidence

    Shows comprehensive coverage and retention activities.

Mappings

Closest match in ISO/IEC 27001: A.7.12, Secure cabling for power and data, which this control partially meets.

ISO 27001

ISO/IEC 27001: 1 mapping

  • A.7.12Secure cabling for power and dataPartially meets

Mappings show how controls relate across frameworks. They do not imply full equivalence or certification.