It is essential to maintain robust cybersecurity in the modern age. A good framework can enable you to protect your core digital assets. There are many who seek to exploit weak set ups for their own gain. Today then, we’ll provide some tips on how to establish a strong cybersecurity framework.
What is a cybersecurity framework?
Put simply, it is a system of best practices, guidelines and standards to help with digital risk management. When aligned with security objectives such as preventing unauthorized access via password controls, it can help you safeguard against breaches.
If your organisation is seeking to comply with cybersecurity regulations, we encourage you to implement a cybersecurity framework. In many cases, such as when dealing with credit card transactions, it is a mandatory requirement. In this instance, companies must then successfully complete a Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) audit. Our experts can help with this.
Types of framework
The former CISO for SANS institute, Frank Kim, is regarded as a top cybersecurity expert. CRIBB’s Patrick Carolan believes his explanation for the different types of framework to be particularly useful.
“Kim breaks them down into three types: Control, program and risk frameworks. Control sees the development of a basic strategy for the security team, where they provide baseline controls. These are then used to assess the current technical state so that control implementation can be correctly prioritised.
“Program frameworks involve an assessment of the existing security program. If necessary, you then build a more comprehensive program, constantly measuring it and utilising competitive analysis. A core objective is to establish simple communication between the security team and the business leaders.
Finally, there are risk frameworks, within which you must define key processes to evaluate and then manage risks. Prioritise your security activities and always look to identify and quantify risks.”
The 5 NIST pillars
Patrick is also keen to point towards the NIST framework, introduced by the National Institute of Standards and Technology to help organisations improve their cybersecurity efforts.
“The NIST framework is built upon five core pillars: Identify, protect, detect, respond and recover. Identify the types of threats and the assets which are at risk. Then protect these assets. Detect the threats and respond to them. Recover any assets or infrastructure which has been impacted.”
Read more on the official NIST website.
Top Tip
Follow these simple steps in your own organisation to take a big step towards strengthening your cybersecurity. Compliance is key, not only in safeguarding your digital assets but also in generating trust. If you are actively pursuing a robust level of security, potential customers will be more likely to engage with you. Aim for a strong cybersecurity framework and then maintain it.
Our experts help clients in travel, cruise, healthcare and education. Our objective is enable them to achieve a high level of cyber resilience. If you need advice, contact us today and we’ll guide you on our security by design approach.