Audit ServicesCirculation
Security and Confidentiality
Confidentiality
As addressed in the Audit Bureau of Circulations Bylaw 2.15, Access To Records, all records, data and other information obtained for audit purposes are confidential and used solely for auditing functions conducted by ABC.
Security
Security of your information is one of our highest priorities. ABC has implemented rigorous controls, storage procedures, and controlled access to secure this information. You can be assured that your documents are safe, secure and confidential.
Data or File Transmission
ABC works with various encryption and security techniques including SSH and SSL. ABC utilizes a private FTP site for data transfer as well as Audit QuickLink (newspapers) and the Audit Survey - Data Collection (periodicals) that are also web-based interfaces for the secure transfer of data.
Once the files are transferred you will receive written confirmation of receipt. The auditor will review the files to ensure the data is usable for the audit functions. The information is solely used and analyzed by our auditing departments in a secure work environment.
Server/Network
A Watchguard Firebox firewall and an Intrusion Protection System safeguard access to our site. Changes to the firewall are tightly controlled and approved in advance by senior staff at ABC. Passwords and access are controlled and root passwords are changed on a routine basis.
Our server is housed in a secure location with access limited to only our information systems staff.
To keep your information—and our IS infrastructure secure—ABC routinely undergoes a third-party risk assessment. This review allows ABC to keep the most updated security procedures in place.
Storage
All data is backed up, consistent with the process established by our information systems department. The audit staff also back up their machines regularly and place the files on the secure network drive, which has limited access inside or outside of the organization. The audit data files are destroyed after the release of the audit. The data backup and recovery procedures are routinely tested as part of our ongoing risk-assessment.
Hard-Copy Data and CDs
All hard-copy data and CDs sent to ABC are maintained in a safe and secure environment. If you want any of the documents returned to you, please include a note in the mailing identifying those documents you want returned.
