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AC-4 (21)Information Flow Enforcement | Physical or Logical Separation of Information Flows

Moderate
High

>Control Description

Separate information flows logically or physically using organization-defined mechanisms and/or techniques to accomplish organization-defined required separations by types of information.

>FedRAMP Baseline Requirements

No FedRAMP-specific parameter values or requirements for this baseline.

>Discussion

Enforcing the separation of information flows associated with defined types of data can enhance protection by ensuring that information is not commingled while in transit and by enabling flow control by transmission paths that are not otherwise achievable. Types of separable information include inbound and outbound communications traffic, service requests and responses, and information of differing security impact or classification levels.

>Assessment Interview Topics

Questions assessors commonly ask

Process & Governance:

  • What formal policies and procedures govern the implementation of AC-4(21) (Physical Or Logical Separation Of Information Flows)?
  • Who are the designated roles responsible for implementing, maintaining, and monitoring AC-4(21)?
  • How frequently is the AC-4(21) policy reviewed and updated, and what triggers policy changes?
  • What training or awareness programs ensure personnel understand their responsibilities related to AC-4(21)?

Technical Implementation:

  • Describe the specific technical mechanisms or controls used to enforce AC-4(21) requirements.
  • What automated tools, systems, or technologies are deployed to implement AC-4(21)?
  • How is AC-4(21) integrated into your system architecture and overall security posture?
  • What configuration settings, parameters, or technical specifications enforce AC-4(21) requirements?

Evidence & Documentation:

  • What documentation demonstrates the complete implementation of AC-4(21)?
  • What audit logs, records, reports, or monitoring data validate AC-4(21) compliance?
  • Can you provide evidence of periodic reviews, assessments, or testing of AC-4(21) effectiveness?
  • What artifacts would you present during a FedRAMP assessment to demonstrate AC-4(21) compliance?

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