GV.OC-03 addresses the need for organizations to fully grasp and manage the legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations that govern their cybersecurity practices. This includes compliance with laws like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), as well as contractual commitments to protect supplier or customer data. It ensures organizations stay ahead of mandatory requirements while safeguarding privacy and civil liberties.

Effective management under this subcategory involves establishing processes to track these obligations and integrating them into the broader cybersecurity strategy. It requires diligence to adapt to evolving legal landscapes and contractual terms, ensuring that policies and practices remain compliant and defensible. GV.OC-03 highlights the intersection of cybersecurity with governance, making it a critical component for avoiding penalties and maintaining operational integrity.