AC-4(6)—Metadata
>Control Description
Enforce information flow control based on ⚙organization-defined metadata.
>Cross-Framework Mappings
>Supplemental Guidance
Metadata is information that describes the characteristics of data. Metadata can include structural metadata describing data structures or descriptive metadata describing data content. Enforcement of allowed information flows based on metadata enables simpler and more effective flow control.
Organizations consider the trustworthiness of metadata regarding data accuracy (i.e., knowledge that the metadata values are correct with respect to the data), data integrity (i.e., protecting against unauthorized changes to metadata tags), and the binding of metadata to the data payload (i.e., employing sufficiently strong binding techniques with appropriate assurance).
>Related Controls
>Assessment Interview Topics
Questions assessors commonly ask
Process & Governance:
- •What formal policies and procedures govern the implementation of AC-4(6) (Metadata)?
- •Who are the designated roles responsible for implementing, maintaining, and monitoring AC-4(6)?
- •How frequently is the AC-4(6) policy reviewed and updated, and what triggers policy changes?
- •What training or awareness programs ensure personnel understand their responsibilities related to AC-4(6)?
Technical Implementation:
- •Describe the specific technical mechanisms or controls used to enforce AC-4(6) requirements.
- •What automated tools, systems, or technologies are deployed to implement AC-4(6)?
- •How is AC-4(6) integrated into your system architecture and overall security posture?
- •What configuration settings, parameters, or technical specifications enforce AC-4(6) requirements?
Evidence & Documentation:
- •What documentation demonstrates the complete implementation of AC-4(6)?
- •What audit logs, records, reports, or monitoring data validate AC-4(6) compliance?
- •Can you provide evidence of periodic reviews, assessments, or testing of AC-4(6) effectiveness?
- •What artifacts would you present during a FedRAMP assessment to demonstrate AC-4(6) compliance?
Ask AI
Configure your API key to use AI features.