A Combined Approach of FMEA and Gray Theory to Rank Aspects of Information Security Risk Management

Abstract

The study conducted with aim of ranking each aspect of information security risk management. At the first stage, the dimensions and characteristics of each have been identified based on the research literature and expert opinions. In order to rank the factors under study using a hybrid approach using FEMA and Gray theory, 50 questionnaires collected among IT, soft ware, and network experts that choosed based on researchers’ judgement and accessible one. According to the results, the security of communications was ranked first. Infrastructure of hard ware and network, human factors, security management, access to information and systems and the development of secure information systems were ranked second to sixth, respectively.Therefore, it is recommended that organizations set up an independent security department within the organization. Also, providing a list of all the information assets of the organization and specifying control and strategic goals in the area of information security in the organization can be useful for organizations. Moreover, if the organization has several branches and need internet connection, preferably communications are available as VPN. In addition, if organizations have web automation for outside usage, the site should be licensed with SSL and https protocol.

Keywords

• risk management
• information security
• grey theory
• failure modes & effects analysis
• fmea