Create a bespoke document in minutes, or upload and review your own.
Get your first 2 documents free
Your data doesn't train Genie's AI
You keep IP ownership of your information
Acceptable Use Policy
I need an Acceptable Use Policy for a corporate network that outlines permissible and prohibited activities, ensures compliance with local regulations, and includes guidelines for data protection and user privacy. The policy should be clear, concise, and easily understandable for all employees.
What is an Acceptable Use Policy?
An Acceptable Use Policy sets clear rules for how people can use an organization's technology systems, networks, and data. It protects companies in Singapore by spelling out what employees can and cannot do with work devices, software, and internet access - from basic email guidelines to data security requirements under the Personal Data Protection Act.
These policies help organizations prevent misuse, maintain cybersecurity, and stay compliant with local regulations like the Computer Misuse Act. A well-crafted AUP outlines consequences for violations while giving staff practical guidance on responsible tech use, making it an essential tool for managing digital workplace risks.
When should you use an Acceptable Use Policy?
Your business needs an Acceptable Use Policy the moment employees start using company technology, networks, or data systems. This becomes especially critical when introducing new digital tools, onboarding staff, or expanding remote work arrangements - situations where clear guidelines prevent costly mistakes and security breaches.
Many Singapore organizations implement these policies before major tech rollouts or after spotting risky online behaviors. The timing often aligns with compliance updates under the Personal Data Protection Act or when preparing for cybersecurity audits. A proactive AUP helps avoid data breaches, protect company assets, and maintain strong digital governance from day one.
What are the different types of Acceptable Use Policy?
- Basic Network Policy: Covers fundamental rules for internet and email use, password requirements, and acceptable file sharing - ideal for small businesses and startups.
- Enterprise-Wide AUP: Comprehensive policy addressing multiple technology systems, cloud services, and data handling across departments - suited for large organizations.
- BYOD-Focused Policy: Specifically targets rules for personal device use in the workplace, aligning with Singapore's PDPA requirements.
- Industry-Specific AUP: Tailored versions for sectors like healthcare, finance, or education, incorporating relevant regulatory compliance needs.
- Remote Work AUP: Specialized policy focusing on secure remote access, virtual private networks, and home office security protocols.
Who should typically use an Acceptable Use Policy?
- IT Managers: Draft and maintain Acceptable Use Policies, monitor compliance, and implement technical controls to enforce policy requirements.
- Legal Teams: Review policy language, ensure alignment with Singapore's PDPA and cybersecurity laws, and advise on enforcement procedures.
- Employees: Primary audience who must understand and follow the policy's guidelines for using company technology and handling data.
- HR Departments: Incorporate AUPs into employee handbooks, manage policy acknowledgments, and handle violation procedures.
- External Contractors: Must comply with AUPs when accessing company systems or handling organizational data.
How do you write an Acceptable Use Policy?
- Tech Inventory: List all company systems, networks, and devices that employees access and use.
- Risk Assessment: Identify potential security threats and compliance requirements under Singapore's PDPA and cybersecurity laws.
- User Groups: Map out different types of users and their access levels to customize policy requirements accordingly.
- Security Measures: Document specific password rules, data handling procedures, and network security protocols.
- Enforcement Plan: Define clear consequences for violations and establish monitoring procedures.
- Review Process: Our platform streamlines drafting by generating compliant policies tailored to your organization's needs.
What should be included in an Acceptable Use Policy?
- Scope Statement: Clear definition of covered technologies, users, and activities under Singapore jurisdiction.
- Data Protection Clauses: Alignment with PDPA requirements for handling personal and sensitive information.
- Acceptable Uses: Specific permitted activities and behavior when using company systems.
- Prohibited Activities: Explicit list of banned actions, including cybersecurity threats and misuse.
- Monitoring Notice: Disclosure of system monitoring and user privacy expectations.
- Enforcement Terms: Clear consequences for violations and disciplinary procedures.
- Acknowledgment Section: User signature block confirming policy understanding and acceptance.
What's the difference between an Acceptable Use Policy and a Cybersecurity Policy?
While an Acceptable Use Policy focuses on how employees can use company technology systems, a Cybersecurity Policy has a broader scope focusing on protecting organizational data and systems from security threats. Let's explore their key differences:
- Primary Focus: AUPs govern day-to-day user behavior and acceptable technology use, while Cybersecurity Policies outline comprehensive security measures, incident response protocols, and technical safeguards.
- Scope of Coverage: AUPs typically address individual user responsibilities and permitted activities, whereas Cybersecurity Policies cover organization-wide security frameworks, including infrastructure protection and threat management.
- Implementation Level: AUPs work at the user behavior level with clear dos and don'ts, while Cybersecurity Policies operate at the strategic level, defining security architecture and risk management approaches.
- Compliance Requirements: Under Singapore law, AUPs focus on PDPA compliance for user activities, while Cybersecurity Policies must align with the Cybersecurity Act and sector-specific regulations.
Download our whitepaper on the future of AI in Legal
ұԾ’s Security Promise
Genie is the safest place to draft. Here’s how we prioritise your privacy and security.
Your documents are private:
We do not train on your data; ұԾ’s AI improves independently
All data stored on Genie is private to your organisation
Your documents are protected:
Your documents are protected by ultra-secure 256-bit encryption
Our bank-grade security infrastructure undergoes regular external audits
We are ISO27001 certified, so your data is secure
Organizational security
You retain IP ownership of your documents
You have full control over your data and who gets to see it
Innovation in privacy:
Genie partnered with the Computational Privacy Department at Imperial College London
Together, we ran a £1 million research project on privacy and anonymity in legal contracts
Want to know more?
Visit our for more details and real-time security updates.
Read our Privacy Policy.