What Guidance Identifies Federal Information Security Controls?
Federal information security controls are the measures that federal agencies take to protect their information and information systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. These controls are essential to ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of federal information.
The primary guidance that identifies federal information security controls is the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA). FISMA was enacted in 2002 and requires all federal agencies to develop, document, and implement agency-wide information security programs. These programs must include a risk assessment process that identifies the threats and vulnerabilities to agency information and systems. Based on the results of the risk assessment, agencies must then select and implement appropriate security controls to mitigate those risks.
FISMA also requires agencies to report on their information security programs to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). OMB uses this information to assess agency compliance with FISMA and to identify areas for improvement.
In addition to FISMA, there are a number of other guidance documents that provide additional information on federal information security controls. These documents include:
- NIST Special Publication 800-53, which provides a catalog of security controls that can be used by federal agencies.
- OMB Circular A-130, which provides guidance on federal information security and privacy.
- NIST Special Publication 800-30, which provides guidance on conducting risk assessments.
Questions Related to Federal Information Security Controls
Here are some questions that are commonly asked about federal information security controls:
- What are the different types of federal information security controls?
There are four main types of federal information security controls:
* **Technical controls** are measures that use technology to protect information and information systems. Examples of technical controls include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption. * **Operational controls** are measures that are implemented by people to protect information and information systems. Examples of operational controls include security awareness training, incident response plans, and access control policies. * **Administrative controls** are measures that are implemented by management to protect information and information systems. Examples of administrative controls include security policies, procedures, and standards. * **Physical controls** are measures that protect information and information systems from physical threats. Examples of physical controls include access control to facilities, security cameras, and fire suppression systems. - How do federal agencies select and implement information security controls?
The selection and implementation of information security controls is a risk-based process. Agencies must first identify the threats and vulnerabilities to their information and systems. Based on the results of the risk assessment, agencies can then select appropriate security controls to mitigate those risks.
- How do federal agencies report on their information security programs?
Agencies must report on their information security programs to OMB annually. The OMB FISMA reporting package includes information on the agency’s risk assessment, security controls, and compliance with FISMA requirements.
- What are the consequences of non-compliance with federal information security requirements?
Agencies that are found to be non-compliant with federal information security requirements may be subject to a variety of sanctions, including:
* **Recommendations for corrective action** * **Financial penalties** * **Debarment from federal contracts** Conclusion
Federal information security controls are essential to protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of federal information. Agencies must take steps to implement appropriate security controls to mitigate the risks to their information and systems.
