Cybersecurity frameworks act as the backbone for organizations, providing a structured set of rules and procedures to shield against cyber threats. Their primary goal? Safeguarding an organization's digital assets with precision and efficiency.

When it comes to compliance, think of it as the essential roadmap guiding security professionals through the intricate landscape of risks. These frameworks aren't just optional; they're often a mandatory requirement to meet state, industry, or international regulations.

Now, let's embark on a journey to explore how different industries leverage cybersecurity frameworks to ensure their operations remain secure and compliant.

COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIES

Commercial companies that manage their daily infrastructure online are prone to data breaches or security risks, making cybersecurity essential. To better support these organizations, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Cybersecurity, and Infrastructure Security Agency has enacted acts to aid commercial entities in identifying and mitigating risks. 

Frameworks such as ISO 27001/2, NIST, and PCI DSS are commonly used throughout the commercial industry. These frameworks empower organizations to evaluate and fortify their security measures.

ISO 27001/2
ISO 27001/2 is a globally recognized standard for information security management systems, ensuring comprehensive protection of digital assets. It was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and is officially recognized by the EU.

NIST

NIST, or National Institute of Standards and Technology, is a U.S. government agency, as well as a standard model. The NIST offers a structured approach to cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of risk assessment and continuous improvement:

1. Identify your organization’s current cybersecurity environment and what is in place.
2. Acknowledge your organization’s goals for overall cybersecurity protection and compliance.
3. Identify and prioritize areas for improvement.
4. Assess the progress made toward the organization’s goals.
5. Communicate with internal team members to ensure awareness is made.

PCI DSS

PCI DSS, or Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, is a set of requirements for all organizations that process credit and debit card transactions. PCI DSS sets stringent requirements to safeguard sensitive financial data.

FINANCIAL SERVICES AND BANKING

The financial services and banking industry is one of the most regulated industries in the nation. This results in financial organizations needing robust security measures to monitor and track their infrastructure’s data along with protecting their customer’s assets.

Any changes to existing cybersecurity regulations as well as new security standards are important for the finance industry to know. Since there are so many security standards, however, it can be difficult for some organizations to follow.

Compliance frameworks, including NIST, SAS70/SSAE16, FFEIC, and FISMA, among others, can be relevant to the operations of financial organizations. In addition, specific financial industry organizations can require compliance with SOX and GLBA. Below is more information on each:

ISO/IEC 27001

ISO/IEC 27001 is a comprehensive standard and framework that offers international organizations guidelines for effectively safeguarding their information systems while mitigating security risks. It encompasses requirements for conducting thorough risk assessments and implementing robust business continuity management processes.

These policies cover a wide array of areas including e-commerce standards, software development practices, and information security protocols.

SOX 

SOX stands for the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. This act was passed by Congress after the scandal and subsequent collapse of the energy company Enron Corporation. It is designed to protect investors from fraudulent accounting practices. The law requires that publicly traded companies maintain accurate records and that their financial statements can be justified if questioned by regulators. SOX also requires these organizations to implement internal control to prevent fraud or misconduct by an employee.

GLBA

GLBA or Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act was passed in 1999. This act requires financial institutions to be 100% transparent with their customers when it comes to disclosing any of their personal information with outside parties and safeguarding sensitive data. This act is mandatory for all financial institutions that reside in the US and failure to comply can result in high penalties, including jail time.

GOVERNMENT

Even the government must follow a standard of rules and regulations when it comes to cybersecurity compliance. Federal agencies hold valuable information that can leave the nation and individual communities vulnerable like personal identification, financial and economic data, and national security information. 

• NIST is a national standard that many US organizations tend to follow. NIST ensures that an organization’s cybersecurity is being discussed and monitored.
• FISMA (Federal Information Security Management Act) is a law that requires federal agencies to implement security practices. It also mandates annual risk assessments
• NERC (North American Electric Reliability Corporation) is a nonprofit organization. It sets standards for the electric grid.

HEALTHCARE

With healthcare industries relying heavily on technology to help perform their duties, a growing number of cyber attackers have been infiltrating these sensitive organizations. Tasked with not only keeping individual personal information confidential, these organizations must ensure that their systems are safe and well-protected.

Along with HIPPA, the following frameworks, standards, and certifications are important for healthcare entities to be aware of:

• HITRUST CSF The Health Information Trust Alliance Cyber Security Framework is a voluntary information security management framework. It applies the NIST Cybersecurity Framework to the healthcare industry. It provides a roadmap for organizations to manage their cybersecurity risk and also keeps their sensitive data secure.

• CMS (Centers for Medicare) also provides security guidance for healthcare companies and organizations. This includes guidelines on how to protect patient data. It also contains best practices for conducting vulnerability assessments and penetration testing.
• ISO helps organizations develop a culture of information security by addressing information risk management, confidentiality, integrity, availability, and accountability. They also guide identifying risks such as human error or intentional misconduct (e.g., fraud).

MANUFACTURING & CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

The manufacturing industry is becoming increasingly targeted by hackers and cyber criminals as organizations continue to advance their technology. From AI to cloud computing and robotics, manufacturing businesses are at a risk more than ever before to fall victim to an attack.

• NIST Cybersecurity Framework is the most popular cybersecurity framework for manufacturers. It offers four levels of security, from "not yet effective" to "highly effective."
• ISO 27001/2 compliance is an international standard for information security management systems (ISMS). It covers all aspects of ISMS including risk management and incident response.
• FERC is the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. They regulate the electric power grid in the United States.
• NERC Critical Infrastructure Protection is a regulation that requires critical infrastructure companies to be certified against FERC regulations and standards.

THE IMPORTANCE OF DEVELOPING A CYBERSECURITY FRAMEWORK

Cybersecurity frameworks provide organizations with a blueprint to bolster their online defenses. JANUS Associates offers expert guidance to navigate the complexities of compliance and enhance cybersecurity posture. Contact us today to secure your organization's digital assets.

With cyber security frameworks, organizations benefit by maximizing their security protection and minimizing their risk footprint.

Though security frameworks can help identify what measures organizations should take to safeguard their data, compliance can still be complex to navigate. Working with a firm like JANUS, organizations can gain vital insight into where their highest cyber security risks reside and create a strategy to reach a higher level of security.

CONTACT JANUS ASSOCIATES TODAY

At JANUS Associates, our mission is to improve the information security of our clients, and society at large. In business since 1988, JANUS offers a full range of high-quality cyber security, privacy, and regulatory compliance services at affordable costs.

We understand the challenges that organizations of all sizes face. We can help you achieve your information security goals regardless of your size.

To learn more about how a team of affordable professionals can help you secure your organization, contact us.