SC-8 Transmission Confidentiality and Integrity
Description
This Control applies to both internal and external networks and all types of information system components from which information can be transmitted (e.g., servers, mobile devices, notebook computers, printers, copiers, scanners, facsimile machines).
Communication paths outside the physical protection of a controlled boundary are exposed to the possibility of interception and modification. Protecting the confidentiality and/or integrity of organizational information can be accomplished by physical means (e.g., by employing protected distribution systems) or by logical means (e.g., employing encryption techniques).
Organizations relying on commercial providers offering transmission services as commodity services rather than as fully dedicated services (i.e., services which can be highly specialized to individual customer needs), may find it difficult to obtain the necessary assurances regarding the implementation of needed security controls for transmission confidentiality/integrity. In such situations, organizations determine what types of confidentiality/integrity services are available in standard, commercial telecommunication service packages.
If it is infeasible or impractical to obtain the necessary security controls and assurances of control effectiveness through appropriate contracting vehicles, organizations implement appropriate compensating security controls or explicitly accept the additional risk.
Applicability
This Control applies to all TAMU-CC information resources. The intended audience is all users of university information resources.
Implementation
The information system protects the confidentiality and integrity of transmitted information. Confidential information that is transmitted over a public network (e.g., the Internet) must be encrypted with, at minimum a 128-bit encryption algorithm. Implementing encryption for other data classifications where prudent is encouraged.
Revision History
Last Updated: February 21, 2025
Previous Versions:
- June 29, 2023
- May 31, 2022
- March 25, 2021
- September 16, 2019