When an enterprise is transferring its IT operations to an offshore location, what should the information security manager primarily focus on?

When an enterprise decides to transfer its IT operations to an offshore location, the primary focus of the information security manager should be on conducting a risk assessment. This process is essential to identify potential security vulnerabilities that could arise from the transfer and to evaluate the threats specific to the new operating environment.

A risk assessment helps in understanding the different risks associated with the offshore location, including data breaches, compliance issues, and the security posture of the new partners involved. By analyzing these risks, the information security manager can develop strategies to mitigate them, ensuring that sensitive data remains protected and that the enterprise complies with relevant laws and regulations at both the domestic and international levels.

While reviewing new laws and regulations, updating operational procedures, and validating staff qualifications are also important steps in the process of moving operations offshore, they all stem from the insights gained during the risk assessment. A comprehensive risk assessment provides the foundation for these additional activities, allowing the organization to implement security measures that are appropriate for the identified risks.