In a world where the digital landscape plays an integral role, data is not just a mere asset but a matter of national security. Hence, the safety of data and information systems becomes an imperative task.
Protecting government information systems is more than just bureaucracy; it involves strict procedures.
The susceptibleness of data contained in government agencies requires the security systems to put on the best armor against cyber threats. FISMA services form the heart of the defense against malicious attacks, the key to securing national data in government agencies.
Dive in and gain keen insights into the crucial role of FISMA and the comprehensive requirements to understand why it is the cornerstone for cybersecurity.
What Does FISMA Entail?
Since its enactment in 2002, FISMA has required federal agencies to implement security systems to safeguard data and information. It entails a security framework that guides federal agencies’ security protocols and procedures for information safety.
FISMA maintains data security in the ever-evolving digital and data space. For example, the framework involves updates to ensure that the security protocols can keep up with new cyber threats and safeguard federal information effectively.
FISMA’s objectives are interlinked to the nation’s economy and security, ensuring security by prioritizing national data’s safety. FISMA, therefore, requires federal agencies to create, implement, and monitor security programs to protect government data, information, and systems.
Today, Federal agencies are required to follow the FISMA 2014 framework for the security of government information systems. FISMA 2014 is an amendment of the previous policies and the most updated framework version.
FISMA Compliance
There are specific requirements and standards that federal agencies must fulfill to safeguard national data and information following FISMA. The requirements protect sensitive government data from cyber security attacks. FISMA requirements include:
Keeping Of Information Systems Inventory
According to FISMA, federal agencies should keep an inventory of the information systems within the organization. There should be a mapping of connections between various information systems within the organization. To create an adequate inventory, federal agencies must understand the different entry points within the information systems in the organization.
Categorization Of Risk
Another FISMA requirement is outlining the risk level for all the categories listed in the inventory used in the federal organization. The risk level is the system’s vulnerability in the event of a cyber threat. Risk categorization is integral to FISMA compliance as it helps determine the level of security needed for each system.
Maintaining the Security Plan
Federal agencies need to create and develop a vigorous security plan for each system in the organization. FISMA stipulates the essence of regularly reviewing and updating the security plan for changing cyber security threats. The security plan is scrutinized to ensure it is strong enough to handle updated threats.
Implementing Security Controls
The NIST 800-53 guidelines provide a protocol for implementing security controls. The implementation of security controls must align with the identified risks and work towards covering the information systems from the dangers.
Risk Assessment
Risk assessment forms an integral part of the FISMA requirements. It identifies security gaps in the information systems and allows improvement and evaluation of current security systems to enhance continuous improvements. Risk assessment also facilitates the detection of potential threats to allow early mitigation and save on costs.
Acquiring Accreditation
The process of acquiring FISMA accreditation involves security systems going through thorough scrutiny. Before accreditation or certification, security controls also undergo an assessment to detect potential risks and ensure that information systems are secure before accreditation or certification.
Systems Monitoring
Another essential concept of the FISMA requirements is continuous monitoring; this involves regular assessment of security controls. The constant evaluation facilitates tracking security events, ensuring the security system remains strong. The standard review also provides the opportunity to note future risks or potential attacks on the information system.
Essence of Following the FISMA Requirements
Federal agencies must follow through with the thorough guidelines and requirements provided by FISMA to the letter.
Here is why:
- To prevent data breaches and access to classified government information
- To maintain resilience against cyber threats and safeguard the nation’s economic and social interests
- It builds public trust and allows citizens to trust government agencies with sensitive information
- It will enable federal agencies to stay ahead of cybersecurity threats
- To prevent interruption of government activities caused by data breaches
- It saves the skyrocketing costs involved in mitigating a threat through early detection of risks
