Guidelines to Develop Digital Security SOP for Media Companies

Amid increasingly complex cyber threats, media companies need to have clear and structured Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to comprehensively protect their digital assets. A survey conducted by the Media Regulation and Regulatory Monitor (PR2Media) and the Independent Journalists Alliance (AJI) in May-June 2024 revealed that the Digital Security Index score of 116 cyber media companies only reached 19.71 out of a maximum score of 31, indicating that digital security conditions are still poor. Specifically, media companies' digital security practices scored only 5.03 out of a maximum of 11, reflecting significant deficiencies in the management of important aspects such as SOPs for handling attacks, systematic digital security practices, employee training, and regular security audits.

Although many media companies are aware of the importance of journalist data security, corporate digital assets such as websites, internal applications, and corporate social media accounts often do not receive adequate attention. Without comprehensive SOPs, these assets are vulnerable to various digital threats.

The e-book “Guidelines to Develop Digital Security SOP for Media Companies” is a practical solution to help media companies develop comprehensive SOPs. This book not only focuses on protecting journalists' data, but also provides guidance on securing all digital assets that support media company operations. This book reviews various aspects, ranging from the basic understanding of SOPs, the stages of their development, to the main components that must be included in effective digital security SOPs.

The main points discussed in this book include:

• Types of digital attacks that threaten media companies, such as attacks on websites, internal applications, and other digital platforms.
• Structured and practical stages of SOP development, including important steps in designing SOPs that suit the needs of media companies.
• Components of Digital Security SOPs that include comprehensive protection for websites, internal applications, and social media accounts, as well as hardware and software used by companies.
• Mechanisms for preventing and handling digital attacks, which include proactive measures to protect digital assets, as well as quick and efficient handling procedures in the event of an attack.

This e-book helps media companies comprehensively protect their digital assets by designing effective security SOPs. With the right SOPs, media companies can ensure information security, maintain data integrity, and protect operational continuity amid ever-evolving cyber threats.

Writers:
Sasmito
Adib Muttaqin Asfar

Reviewer:
Arif Kurniawan

Layout and Cover Designer:
Krisna Sahwono

Translator: 
Desy Nurhayati

November 2025