STATE OF DELAWARE

DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION

801 Silver Lake Blvd.

Dover, Delaware 19904
Doc Ref Number:
Document Type:
Policy Title:

IN-DataClass-001

Revision Number:

Enterprise Policy

Page: 1 of 9

Data Classification Policy

Synopsis:

The goal of this policy is to enhance the States ability to protect data
and information through data classification.

Authority:

Title 29, Delaware Code, 9004C - General powers, duties and

functions of DTI 2) Implement statewide and interagency technology
solutions, policies, standards and guidelines as recommended by the
Technology Investment Council on an ongoing basis and the CIO,
including, but not limited to, statewide technology and information
architectures, statewide information technology plans, development
life cycle methodologies, transport facilities, communications
protocols, data and information sharing considerations, the technique
of obtaining grants involving the State's informational resources and
the overall coordination of information technology efforts undertaken
by and between the various State agencies;

Applicability:

This Policy is applicable to all users of the State of Delaware

communications and computing resources. DTI is an Executive
Branch Agency and has no authority over the customers in Legislative
and Judicial Branches, as well as School Districts, and other Federal
and Local Government entities that use these resources. However, all
users, including these entities, must agree to abide by all policies,
standards promulgated by DTI as a condition of access and continued
use of these resources.

Effective Date:
POC for Changes:
Approval By:
Approved On:

03/01/2006

Expiration Date:

None

Matt Payne, Chief Technology Officer

Secretary Jim Sills, Chief Information Officer
03/01/2006

Enabling Excellence In Delaware State Government

STATE OF DELAWARE
DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION

801 Silver Lake Blvd.

Dover, Delaware 19904
Doc Ref Number:
Document Type:
Policy Title:

IN-DataClass-001

Revision Number:

Enterprise Policy

Page: 2 of 9

Data Classification Policy

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section

Page

I.

Policy

II.

Definitions

III.

Development and Revision History

IV.

Approval Signature Block

V.

Listing of Appendices

I.

Policy

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This policy requires Data Stewards to classify all of the data used by their
organization. It describes the roles and responsibilities of a Data Steward, the four
types of data classifications and the minimum set of classifications. Generally, it lays
the groundwork for the proper classification and handling of data used by the State.
Further insight into this policy may be obtained through your organizations IRM
(Information Resource Manager) or the DTI CRS (Customer Relationship Specialist)
assigned to your organization.
This policy does not limit or redefine FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) laws or
regulations. In case of any conflict, the law shall prevail.
PURPOSE
This policy provides instruction for State organizations to better handle, secure,
access, and use data. Sound business judgment and practices must be applied, and
the State must comply with applicable Federal, State and Local laws and regulations,
as well as any agency-specific guidelines then in effect. Examples of such are
Federal HIPAA and Gramm-Leach-Bliley (GLB), Federal Information Security
Management Act (FSMA), Privacy Act, PCI DSS, etc.1 This policy will be reviewed

HIPAA is the United States Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, PL 104-191.
The Financial Modernization Act of 1999, also known as the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act or GLB Act

Enabling Excellence In Delaware State Government

STATE OF DELAWARE
DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION

801 Silver Lake Blvd.

Dover, Delaware 19904
Doc Ref Number:
Document Type:
Policy Title:

IN-DataClass-001

Revision Number:

Enterprise Policy

Page: 3 of 9

Data Classification Policy

and revised periodically. However, the State is obligated to comply with new laws or
regulations coming into effect between revisions.
This policy is expected to be referenced by other State policies and standards that
will further define the implications of the data classification. As such, the actual data
classification designations will have far-reaching effects on various aspects of
Information Technology throughout the State.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has drafted a
comprehensive approach to data classification and the risks that are associated with
different levels of data classification. Specifically, it addresses the integrity and
availability of data as well as confidentiality, which is the focal point of this policy.
Over time, this policy will be influenced by NIST standards. The reading of the NIST
draft Guide for Mapping Types of Information and Information Systems to Security
Categories SP 800-60 is encouraged.
DATA OWNER and DATA STEWARD
For various reasons, including legal considerations, the States data is owned by the
State of Delaware. At a practical level, each State organization (agency, Governor,
Legislature, Judiciary and School District) generates or gathers data through various
means. The head of each State organization is the primary Data Steward for all data
controlled by the organization, but they may delegate the Data Steward role to
another employee in the organization with appropriate knowledge and authority to
carry out the responsibilities as defined in this policy. The CIO of the State of
Delaware is to be notified in writing of such delegation. Refer to the Enterprise
Standards and Policies and notably to the Delaware Information Security Policy for
further insight.
DATA CLASSIFICATIONS
The Data Steward is responsible for classifying all data under the organizations
control into one of the following classes.
State of Delaware Public Information available to the general public; eligible
for public access.
State of Delaware Confidential Information covered by one or more laws.
The disclosure of this information could endanger citizens, corporations,
business partners and others. The types of information might be covered

Enabling Excellence In Delaware State Government

STATE OF DELAWARE
DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION

801 Silver Lake Blvd.

Dover, Delaware 19904
Doc Ref Number:
Document Type:
Policy Title:

IN-DataClass-001

Revision Number:

Enterprise Policy

Page: 4 of 9

Data Classification Policy

under non-disclosure agreements; or safeguarded by a general reference in

law or best practices.
State of Delaware Secret Information that, if divulged, could compromise or
endanger the people, or assets of the State; such as Public Safety
Information, Data that is specifically protected by law (e.g.. HIPAA).
State of Delaware Top Secret Information that could, if divulged, expose the
States citizens and assets to great risk.
The classifications stated herein are to be considered as minimum classification
levels for the data. The Data Steward may not specify a lower classification.
These classifications are in line with the Federal Government data classifications
found in Executive Order 13292. The exception is that the Federal Government has
no consistent designation for Public data. In some cases, the term Unclassified is
used to denote non-Confidential, non-Secret and non-Top Secret data. For clarity,
the State of Delaware chose to use the term State of Delaware Public data rather
than non-Confidential, non-Secret and non-Top Secret data. One core value that
distinguishes a classification from another is the Risk of Harm. What is the risk that
harm can result from the inappropriate disclosure or use of this information?
Minimum Classifications
The following data elements are examples of data that must be classified no
lower than as shown regardless of the context in which they are represented.
Data Element
Social Security Number
Employee ID
Bank Account Number
Credit Card Number
Mothers Name
Fathers Name
Place of Birth

Classification
State of Delaware
Confidential
State of Delaware
Confidential
State of Delaware
Confidential
State of Delaware
Confidential
State of Delaware
Confidential
State of Delaware
Confidential
State of Delaware
Confidential

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STATE OF DELAWARE
DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION

801 Silver Lake Blvd.

Dover, Delaware 19904
Doc Ref Number:
Document Type:
Policy Title:

IN-DataClass-001

Revision Number:

Enterprise Policy

Page: 5 of 9

Data Classification Policy

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
In addition to ensuring that data is properly classified, the Data Stewards primary
responsibility is to ensure that the data is appropriately protected. In this regard,
Data Stewards will be required by this and other policies or standards to perform
various tasks such as approving system and data access requests, communicating
data classification and appropriate use throughout the organization, approving data
exchange agreements, overseeing data usage, and participating in audits.
Each Data User is responsible to understand the classification of data to which they
have access, and to ensure that they comply with all policies, standards and
guidelines established to protect the data.
The statewide policies and standards pertaining to data protection can be found at
the DTI website. Local guidelines are established by the state organization itself. For
a complete list, please contact your organizations Information Resource Manager
(IRM).
SPECIFIC DUTIES
The Data Steward will:
1. Analyze all computerized data for appropriate data classification at regular
intervals as the data/databases are updated or changed. The Data Steward
maintains a working knowledge of the data under their care and aligns the
organizations data classification selections with it.
2. Ensure, in conjunction with the organizations Information Security Officer
(ISO), the implementation and enforcement of appropriate security control
procedures commensurate with the data classification.
3. Review and evaluate recommended protection requirements of computerized
data with respect to both integrity and confidentiality.
4. Authorize Data User access to computerized data. This process is coordinated
through the Information Security Officer (ISO) and the use of the Service
Manager Automated Security Request System.
5. Evaluate and approve requests for data transfers to or from another party.
The protocol mandates the Sending Data Steward (or equivalent if outside the
State) to clearly communicate to the Receiving Data Steward (or equivalent if
outside the State) the classification of the data to be transferred, and to
obtain a written or otherwise binding document whereby the Receiving Data

Enabling Excellence In Delaware State Government

STATE OF DELAWARE
DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION

801 Silver Lake Blvd.

Dover, Delaware 19904
Doc Ref Number:
Document Type:
Policy Title:

IN-DataClass-001

Revision Number:

Enterprise Policy

Page: 6 of 9

Data Classification Policy

Steward agrees to treat the transmitted data according to the classification as

declared by the Sending Data Steward. Upon transfer of the data, the
Receiving Data Steward (or equivalent) bears the responsibility for the
transmitted data. The State Data Steward must take into consideration the
security issues involved in releasing this data outside of the State and, if
deemed appropriate, may increase the data classification rating.
6. Ensure appropriate backups are taken and tested. Document retention
periods for computerized data in the General Records Retention Schedule,
and Agency Records Retention Schedule.
7. Select and approve appropriate security measures as recommended by DTI
and the ISO to protect data against unauthorized modification, destruction,
and disclosure.
8. Restrict computer applications and data access to authorized persons.
9. Establish and enforce Data Privacy rules as appropriate.
10. Provide data security training and security guidelines.
Data Stewards should be aware that data classification applies to all copies of the
data regardless of form or media, especially backups. Full compliance will require a
thorough examination of retention periods, numbers of copies, and proliferation of
data.

ENFORCEMENT and WAIVER

DTI will enforce this policy during the course of normal business activities, including
review of proposed projects and during the design, development or support of
systems. This policy may also be enforced by others during the course of their
normal business activities, including audits.
If any dispute arises regarding the minimum classifications of data contained in this
policy, the waiver process will resolve the issue. If any disputes or questions arise
from the Data Classification Guidelines, the data steward can present them to the
States Chief Security Officer for help in determining the proper classification.
Failure to Comply
Failure to comply with the policy is a serious matter whether through intentional act
or negligence and may be grounds for discipline up to and including dismissal based
on the Just Cause standard set forth by Merit Rules, or collective bargaining
agreement, whichever is applicable to the subject employee. Exempt employees shall

Enabling Excellence In Delaware State Government

STATE OF DELAWARE
DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION

801 Silver Lake Blvd.

Dover, Delaware 19904
Doc Ref Number:
Document Type:
Policy Title:

IN-DataClass-001

Revision Number:

Enterprise Policy

Page: 7 of 9

Data Classification Policy

be subject to appropriate discipline without recourse, except as provided by law.

While DTI has no authority to discipline employees of other agencies/organizations in
the Executive, Legislative, or Judicial branches of government, it will take the
appropriate steps to ensure any misconduct is appropriately addressed.

II.

Definitions

Data Distinct pieces of information in digital (computer-readable) format that can

be stored, read, manipulated, or transmitted.
Dataset A Dataset is a collection of data elements in a structure that is its own
unique entity and usually associated with a name. Examples include files,
databases, etc. A Datasets classification must be at least as high as that of the
highest data element contained therein (classification by association). This also
applies to multiple Datasets when stored or transmitted together; the
classification of the combined Datasets must be at least as high as that of the
highest Dataset in the combination.
Data Owner The Data Owner is that entity that has ultimate responsibility for how
State data is used. For this policy, the Data Owner is considered to be the State
of Delaware. Other entities, such as other states, the Federal Government,
outside companies, and individuals are also considered owners of data that is
under their control. This policy applies to data owned by the State of Delaware.
Data Steward The head of a state organization, or an employee delegated by the
head of the organization, with appropriate knowledge and authority to carry out
the responsibilities of the Data Steward as defined in this policy. The following
definitions apply when an organization sends data to or receives data from
another entity within the State or outside the State.

Sending Data Steward The Data Steward (or equivalent if outside the
State) of the source data being sent.

Receiving Data Steward The Data Steward (or equivalent if outside the
State) of the data being received.

Data User - Individuals who access and use State data.

Document vs. Data - A document merges data and format together to assist the
reader in understanding the context of the data. A document is usually a set of
words that form sentences that can be understood in their form and context.
Data usually does not contain syntax or grammar, leaving the letters and
numbers without association beyond the database schema or data dictionary.
Enabling Excellence In Delaware State Government

STATE OF DELAWARE
DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION

801 Silver Lake Blvd.

Dover, Delaware 19904
Doc Ref Number:
Document Type:
Policy Title:

IN-DataClass-001

Revision Number:

Enterprise Policy

Page: 8 of 9

Data Classification Policy

Information Resource Manager (IRM) Those assigned the responsibility to act

as the primary points of contact for appropriate communications between DTI
and the organization.
Information Security Officer (ISO) An individual in the organization designated
by the organizations management who is responsible for ensuring the security of
the organizations information.
Personally Identifiable Information (PII) Information which can be used to
identify or contact a person uniquely and reliably, or can be used with other
sources to uniquely identify an individual. Examples include but are not limited
to full name, full social security number, full date of birth, street address,
telephone number, email address, and fingerprints or other biometric data.
Personal Health Information (PHI) Individually identifiable health information
that is maintained or transmitted in any form or medium.
Personal Financial Information (PFI) Individually identifiable financial
information that is maintained or transmitted in any form or medium.
Privileged Account This type of account allows individuals to perform
administrator or super-user functions within an IT system or environment.

Enabling Excellence In Delaware State Government

STATE OF DELAWARE
DEPARTMENT OF TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION

801 Silver Lake Blvd.

Dover, Delaware 19904
Doc Ref Number:
Document Type:
Policy Title:

III.

IN-DataClass-001

Revision Number:

Enterprise Policy

Page: 9 of 9

Data Classification Policy

Development and Revision History

Initial version established 03/01/2006
Second version established 2/28/2008
Minor revision established 3/22/2011
Minor revision POC changed on 10/15/2013

IV.

Approval Signature Block

Name & Title:

Date

Cabinet Secretary State Chief Information Officer

V.

Other Documents

A Data Classification Guideline has been published and it is hereby noted. If there is
any conflict between the Data Classification Guideline and this policy, the policy shall
prevail. To obtain more information, please reference the Enterprise Standards and
Policies and notably the Delaware Information Security Policy for further insight.

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