Which practice is essential for maintaining device and media control?

Maintaining device and media control is crucial for ensuring that sensitive information is protected against unauthorized access and breaches. Secure storage and proper return of media directly address this need by outlining the procedures for safely handling physical media containing sensitive information, such as USB drives, CDs, or tapes. When organizations implement secure storage practices, they reduce the risk of data leaks and theft by ensuring that such media is kept in locked, secure areas when not in use. Properly returning media after usage ensures that it is not left in unsecured locations, further minimizing vulnerabilities.

This practice goes beyond simply restricting access; it creates a systematic approach to managing the lifecycle of sensitive media. Hence, it plays a central role in an organization's overall data security compliance strategy by fostering a culture of accountability and vigilance concerning physical data handling.