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Top Cybersecurity Standards and Frameworks

Published On: November 21, 2024

Introduction

Keeping in mind the various detailed such as objectives, key outcomes, scope, time and others, provides a suitable outline for selecting a cybersecurity standard or framework for application of necessary measures and controls. The key lies in the utilization of the appropriate standard or framework for the designated use case.

This overview highlights six essential standards and guidelines: GDPR, ISO 27001, COBIT, NIS2 Directive, CIS Critical Security Controls, and the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF). Each framework offers unique insights and options of protecting data, managing IT systems, and mitigating cyber risks, helping organizations across industries to enhance their security posture and maintain trust

General Data Protection Regulation

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a European Union regulation designed to protect the privacy and personal data of individuals within the EU. It came into effect on May 25, 2018, and applies to any organization, regardless of location, that processes the personal data of EU citizens. GDPR gives individuals greater control over their personal data, such as the right to access, correct, or delete their information.

The regulation is necessary to ensure data privacy in an increasingly digital world where businesses and organizations collect vast amounts of personal information. GDPR holds organizations accountable for how they handle personal data, requiring transparency, data minimization, and security measures to prevent breaches. It also imposes significant penalties for non-compliance, encouraging businesses to prioritize data protection and reduce the risk of misuse, unauthorized access, or data theft.

ISO 27001

ISO 27001 is an international standard that provides a framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining and improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS). The standard was first published in October 2005 with the latest update being released October 2022. It focuses on helping organizations protect sensitive information by ensuring it’s confidentiality, integrity and availability. The framework guides users to continuously identify potential security risks and to implement controls to mitigate them. ISO 27001 has a strong emphasis on continuous improvement and adapting to new risks through regular assessments and updates. The framework is intended for organizations of any size or industry. Any organization can be certified following an audit from a certified body.

The usage of an ISMS aims to unify the protection of all information assets, including non-IT resources. This helps eliminate vulnerabilities caused by inconsistent security practices, lack of awareness, and isolated approaches to information protection. Bringing together all aspects of information security, such as physical security measures, employee training, and IT controls.

COBIT

COBIT, which stands for Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies, is a framework designed to help organizations manage and govern their IT systems effectively. The first version was released in 1996, with the latest version (COBIT 5) launched in 2019. Its main goal is to align IT operations with business objectives, ensuring that IT contributes to business success while managing risks and meeting regulatory requirements. COBIT helps organizations optimize their IT resources, improve performance, and ensure that IT delivers value to the business.

It’s useful for both IT managers and business leaders, providing clear guidelines on how to control and monitor IT activities. COBIT is different from other frameworks because it focuses not only on cybersecurity but also on IT governance, making sure that technology supports overall business strategies. It helps organizations of all sizes and fields to maintain a balance between managing risks, securing their IT infrastructure, and achieving their business goals.

NIS2 Directive

The Network and Information Security Directive 2, first published in January 2023, is a legislative framework designed to enhance cybersecurity across the European Union. It builds on the original NIS Directive, expanding its scope to cover more sectors and introducing stricter security measures and incident reporting obligations. The directive is designed to harmonize cybersecurity practices across the EU by providing a clear framework that organizations must follow to mitigate cyber risks. NIS2 applies to public and private sector entities that provide certain critical services or critical infrastructure, qualify as medium-sized or large-sized enterprises that provide their services or conduct their activities within the EU.

NIS2 mandates that companies adopt risk-based approaches to cybersecurity, focusing on identifying vulnerabilities, securing networks and information systems, and ensuring business continuity. The directive also aligns with other key industry frameworks, such as GDPR and ISO27001, making it easier for organizations to integrate compliance efforts.

CIS Critical Security Controls

The Center for Internet Security Critical Security Controls are a prioritized set of best practices that a company can use to strengthen their cybersecurity posture. The controls are based on the latest information about common attacks and reflect the combined knowledge of commercial forensics experts, penetration testers and contributors from U.S. government agencies. CIS controls also align with different major industry standard frameworks like GDPR, ISO27001 and NIST CSF.

The first version of the Controls came out in 2008, the latest version, released in June 2024, consists of 18 Critical security controls. They cover topics like data protection, account management, email and web browser protection and many others. The biggest benefit of the controls is that it can be implemented by companies of any size and industry.

More info: https://www.cisecurity.org/controls

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (U.S) Cybersecurity Framework is a guideline for organizations to improve cybersecurity practices. The framework is voluntary, but very useful for businesses of all sizes to better understand, manage and reduce their cybersecurity risks and protect their whole organization. The first version of the framework was released in 2014, and the latest update was released in February 2024.

The NIST CSF is divided into 5 main areas:

Identify – Identify all the assets that the organization should protect.
Protect – Protect all the organization’s equipment, software and data.
Detect – Monitor all organizational assets.
Respond – Have a plan in case an attack occurs.
Recover – Have a plan after an attack has occurred.

It is important to note that the NIST CSF is not a checklist for businesses to check boxes but rather a guide on how to reduce security risks.

More info: https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework

Conclusion

Cybersecurity standards and frameworks provide valuable guidance on risk management, security measures, and compliance, helping businesses navigate the complexities of cybersecurity. While a comprehensive framework or standard is indispensable, implementing one into practice can be a big investment of time and resources. Especially for smaller institutions, the cost of implementing a complete framework can be prohibitive, however more focused options, such as CIS Controls may offer a faster payoff with reduced workload and other associated costs. Therefore, it is important to consider the options and find a fitting solution for your organization.

To learn more about how to consider picking the best Cybersecurity Standards and Framework for your organization in training intiatives, visit our Strategic Cybersecurity Exercises page.

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