If an information security manager finds that employees are not complying with the access control policy for the data center, what should be the first step to address this?

The first step in addressing noncompliance with the access control policy for the data center should be to assess the risk of noncompliance. This involves evaluating the potential impact on the organization if the access control policies are not followed. By understanding the risks, an information security manager can prioritize the issues and identify the specific vulnerabilities in the current practices.

Assessing the risk provides a foundation for developing strategies to mitigate those risks effectively. It allows the organization to understand the consequences of noncompliance, which can include unauthorized access to sensitive data, potential data breaches, and financial repercussions. This risk assessment can lead to tailored solutions and mitigations that address the root causes of noncompliance rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.

After assessing the risks, the manager can decide on the most appropriate actions to take, such as initiating security awareness training, increasing enforcement, or reporting the status to management. However, understanding the specific risks posed by the current state of noncompliance must come first to ensure that any subsequent measures are informed, targeted, and effective.