Cybersecurity has been an important part of federal agencies’ security agenda for a long time. How federal agencies can build their cybersecurity momentum? There has been a focus on securing the networks of government agencies, as well as the nation’s critical infrastructure. But if the government’s budget crisis continues, the work of cybersecurity could suffer.
Zero-trust network architecture
Zero-trust network architecture is rapidly gaining momentum in the IT industry and federal agencies are rushing to adopt it. These initiatives are meant to protect against the rising complexity of threats in the cyberspace. However, they also require a multi-layered approach.
Achieving zero-trust security requires the right approach. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, and no agency is the same. This means that a company’s path to a zero-trust architecture might not be the same as another organizations.
The key to a successful zero-trust implementation is integrating your security strategy with your business needs. This includes updating your employee training.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has released a special publication on zero trust deployment models. This will help federal IT leaders establish a conceptual framework for implementing zero-trust security.
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has set a goal of implementing a zero-trust security architecture by the end of Fiscal Year 2024. The OMB strategy combines encryption with intelligent automation of security actions.
Multifactor authentication at the application level
Multifactor authentication (MFA) is a security technology that combines several independent factors into one secure and reliable method of identifying a person. These factors include a physical device, such as a fingerprint reader, and a software application. These factors can also combine with a password and other security measures.
The best MFA solutions combine biometric and contextual features to provide greater security while enhancing the user experience. The key is to find a solution that’s easy to implement and manage across an organization.
The number of attacks against users and systems is increasing. Hackers use many different methods to gain access to sensitive information. This means that the right MFA solution is not only the one that provides the best user experience, but it’s also the best way to ensure that no one can get access to critical data.
While there are many options for achieving a solid MFA strategy, the best solution will be scalable and easy to deploy. It should also offer a comprehensive set of features that helps you increase security while reducing your operational costs.
National Centers for Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Program
The National Centers for Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity program for federal agencies developed by the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The goal of this collaborative educational effort is to produce a greater number of highly skilled cyber defense experts to protect the United States and its citizens.
The NCAE-C designation requires specific academic requirements and a five-year work requirement. Universities and colleges that hold this designation may compete for grants from participating agencies. In addition, students may qualify for government scholarships that geared towards NCAE-C designee schools.
The National Centers for Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity designed to improve the depth and breadth of cyber operation programs in colleges and universities. To apply for this designation, an institution must fill out an application checklist and accepted by the program management office. It takes several months to complete the mentor/reviewer program. The successful completion of this process results in the school’s designation as an NCAE-C.
Sequestration threatens to forestall work on cybersecurity
With sequestration looming, Federal agencies are facing a growing threat to their cybersecurity efforts. These threats are rooted in the interconnectedness of critical infrastructure systems. These systems are vulnerable to malicious cyber attacks, compromising core processes and information.
These attacks can occur from malicious software known as malware. It can also compromise user credentials. Additionally, it can undermine confidence in the nation’s financial services sector.
Amid the growing threat, Federal Government has begun to prioritize cybersecurity. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is advancing cybersecurity alongside democratic values. DHS investigates, detects, and responds to malicious cyber activity. The agency’s mission is to protect the Nation’s civilian networks.
The United States currently impacted by several cyber attacks. These attacks can be malicious or asymmetric. As a result, the private and public sectors are at risk.
While the government focused on protecting the nation’s digital security, the private sector is increasingly concerned with protecting products. With the growth of artificial intelligence and other new technologies, security vulnerabilities can arise. The industry must develop more rigorous measures to ensure products are secure.
