Written Information Security Plan Basics

Tax Professionals need to take security seriously. A Written Information Security Plan (WISP) is the most comprehensive way to ensure that your business and its clients’ data is secure.

What is a Written Information Security Plan?

A Written Information Security Plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the strategies, procedures, and processes an organization has in place to protect its information and data. A WISP should include the organization’s security policies, safeguards, and guidelines, as well as how the organization will respond in the event of a security breach. Additionally, a WISP should also include procedures for handling and disposing of confidential information.

Why is a Written Information Security Plan Essential for Tax Professionals?

Tax professionals are entrusted with sensitive information, and their clients rely on them to keep that information safe. A Written Information Security Plan gives tax professionals the procedures and protocols needed to ensure the security of their client’s data. Additionally, a WISP gives tax professionals the ability to respond quickly and effectively to any security threats or breaches that may occur.

How Can Tax Professionals Implement a Written Information Security Plan?

The first step in implementing a WISP is to create a security policy. This policy should include a list of acceptable uses of the company’s information, as well as guidelines for handling confidential information. Additionally, the security policy should outline the organization’s procedures for responding to security threats and data breaches.

What Should be Included in a Written Information Security Plan?

There are WISP tax preparer templates online that can be used as a starting point for creating your own WISP. However, a comprehensive Written Information Security Plan should include:

• A list of acceptable uses of the company’s information.
• Guidelines for handling confidential information.
• Procedures for responding to security threats and data breaches.
• Protocols for data disposal.
• An outline of the organization’s security policies, safeguards, and guidelines.

Protect Your Clients’ Data with a Written Information Security Plan

A Written Information Security Plan is essential for any tax professional. It ensures that your client’s data is secure and that your business is prepared to respond quickly and effectively in the event of a security breach. With a WISP, you can rest assured that your client’s information is safe.