Information Security (INFOSEC)

Information Security (INFOSEC) is the practice of protecting information and information systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. Its goal is to preserve confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data throughout its lifecycle.

What Is Information Security?

Information Security (INFOSEC) is the practice of protecting information and information systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction.

Its goal is to preserve confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data throughout its lifecycle, combining technical controls with policies and training.

Key Characteristics

Confidentiality: Limits access to information to authorized users only.

Integrity: Ensures information remains accurate, complete, and unaltered.

Availability: Keeps systems and data accessible when needed by authorized users.

Risk-based controls: Uses safeguards proportional to the sensitivity of the data and the associated risk.

People, process, and technology: Combines technical controls with organizational policies and employee training.

How It Works in Government Contracting

In practice, contractors implement controls such as access management, encryption, incident response plans, and ongoing monitoring to meet contractual and regulatory requirements.

Where it appears: Information Security appears across the entire procurement lifecycle, from proposal development to contract closeout.

Who uses it: Federal agencies, prime contractors, and subcontractors that handle sensitive or controlled information.

Why it matters: Government contractors often process data that could impact mission operations or national security if compromised.

Regulatory Framework

INFOSEC in government contracting is shaped by several key regulations and standards:

Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA), which requires federal agencies and contractors to establish information security programs

Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), which includes cybersecurity requirements for defense contractors

NIST Special Publication 800-171, which outlines controls for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information in non-federal systems

Why INFOSEC Matters for Contractors

Strong INFOSEC practices protect contractors from data breaches, contract penalties, and loss of future awards. Compliance with INFOSEC requirements is often mandatory for eligibility, especially in defense and civilian agency contracts.

Effective INFOSEC builds trust with government customers and reduces operational and legal risk.

Common Misconceptions About INFOSEC

INFOSEC is only about IT systems.

INFOSEC also includes policies, procedures, and employee behavior — not just technical controls.

Small contractors are not targets.

Smaller firms are often targeted due to weaker security controls and their role as entry points into larger supply chains.

INFOSEC is optional unless a breach occurs.

INFOSEC requirements apply before, during, and after contract performance, not only in response to incidents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between INFOSEC and cybersecurity?

INFOSEC covers protection of all information, while cybersecurity focuses specifically on digital and networked systems.

Why is INFOSEC important for small government contractors?

Small contractors still handle sensitive data and must meet the same compliance standards as larger firms.

What are common INFOSEC controls for contractors?

Typical controls include encryption, access controls, security training, audits, and incident response planning.

Is INFOSEC required for all government contracts?

Not all contracts have the same requirements, but most involving sensitive data include INFOSEC obligations.