id: "SC-08" title: "Transmission Confidentiality and Integrity" family: "SC" family_name: "System and Communications Protection" sort_id: "sc-08" priority: "P1" implementation_level: "system" enhancements: - sc-8.1 - sc-8.2 - sc-8.3 - sc-8.4 - sc-8.5
Statement
Protect the {{ insert: param, sc-08_odp }} of transmitted information.
Guidance
Protecting the confidentiality and integrity of transmitted information applies to internal and external networks as well as any system components that can transmit information, including servers, notebook computers, desktop computers, mobile devices, printers, copiers, scanners, facsimile machines, and radios. Unprotected communication paths are exposed to the possibility of interception and modification. Protecting the confidentiality and integrity of information can be accomplished by physical or logical means. Physical protection can be achieved by using protected distribution systems. A protected distribution system is a wireline or fiber-optics telecommunications system that includes terminals and adequate electromagnetic, acoustical, electrical, and physical controls to permit its use for the unencrypted transmission of classified information. Logical protection can be achieved by employing encryption techniques.
Organizations that rely on commercial providers who offer transmission services as commodity services rather than as fully dedicated services may find it difficult to obtain the necessary assurances regarding the implementation of needed controls for transmission confidentiality and integrity. In such situations, organizations determine what types of confidentiality or integrity services are available in standard, commercial telecommunications service packages. If it is not feasible to obtain the necessary controls and assurances of control effectiveness through appropriate contracting vehicles, organizations can implement appropriate compensating controls.
Assessment Objective
the {{ insert: param, sc-08_odp }} of transmitted information is/are protected.
System and communications protection policy
procedures addressing transmission confidentiality and integrity
system design documentation
system configuration settings and associated documentation
system audit records
system security plan
other relevant documents or records
System/network administrators
organizational personnel with information security responsibilities
system developer
Mechanisms supporting and/or implementing transmission confidentiality and/or integrity