Simplify Your CIS-Based Risk Assessment

In an era where cybersecurity threats loom larger than ever, organizations are constantly striving to protect their digital assets. The Center for Internet Security (CIS) provides a comprehensive set of guidelines to help in this endeavor. CIS Controls, a prioritized set of actions, is a widely adopted framework to enhance cybersecurity posture. However, for many, navigating the intricate landscape of CIS-based risk assessment can be overwhelming. This article aims to simplify the process, making it more accessible and understandable for organizations of all sizes.

Understanding the CIS Controls

Before delving into simplification, let’s grasp the fundamentals. The CIS Controls are a set of 20 best practices that help organizations defend against the most common cyber threats. These controls are divided into three categories:

1. Basic Controls (1-6): Focus on foundational security measures like asset inventory, continuous vulnerability assessment, and secure configurations.
2. Foundational Controls (7-16): Address the essential security practices required to enhance cybersecurity posture further. These include data protection, controlled access, and email and web browser protection.
3. Organizational Controls (17-20): These controls deal with higher-level strategies such as security skills assessment and an incident response plan.

Now, let’s simplify the risk assessment process associated with these controls.

1. Prioritize the Basics

Begin by prioritizing the Basic Controls (1-6). These are the fundamental building blocks of cybersecurity. Instead of trying to implement all of them simultaneously, start with Control 1: Inventory and Control of Hardware Assets, and Control 2: Inventory and Control of Software Assets. These controls lay the foundation for the rest.

Control 1: Compile a list of all your organization’s hardware assets. This includes servers, workstations, and networking equipment. Knowing what you have is the first step to securing it.

Control 2: Similarly, create an inventory of all software assets. Ensure that only authorized software is installed on your systems and keep a vigilant eye on unapproved applications.

2. Continuous Vulnerability Assessment

The next step is Control 3: Continuous Vulnerability Assessment and Remediation. This control is critical because new vulnerabilities are discovered regularly, making it essential to scan for them consistently. Consider using automated vulnerability scanning tools to streamline this process. These tools can identify weaknesses in your systems and help prioritize remediation efforts.

3. Secure Configurations

Control 4: Secure Configuration for Hardware and Software on Mobile Devices, Laptops, Workstations, and Servers is all about ensuring that your systems are configured securely. It’s vital to have configuration standards in place and to regularly audit and update them to meet evolving threats. Simplify this process by adopting configuration management tools that automate many of these tasks.

4. Data Protection

Data protection is a crucial aspect of cybersecurity. Control 7: Email and Web Browser Protections and Control 8: Malware Defenses are your allies here. Implement email filtering and web browser protections to block malicious content. Deploy antivirus software and anti-malware solutions to safeguard against malware threats.

5. Controlled Access

Control 9: Limitation and Control of Network Ports, Protocols, and Services and Control 10: Data Recovery Capabilities are about controlling access to your systems. Limit unnecessary network ports and services to reduce attack surfaces. Ensure you have reliable data backup and recovery processes in place to mitigate data loss.

6. Regular Monitoring and Analysis

Control 16: Account Monitoring and Control is essential for maintaining security. Continuously monitor user accounts for suspicious activities and ensure that you have account control policies in place.

7. Create an Incident Response Plan

Finally, consider Control 19: Incident Response and Management. This control guides organizations on how to prepare for, respond to, and recover from cybersecurity incidents. Simplify the process by creating a step-by-step incident response plan tailored to your organization’s needs. Ensure that all employees are trained in its execution.

8. Stay Informed and Evolve

The world of cybersecurity is constantly evolving. Keep abreast of the latest threats and trends by staying connected with industry news, attending security conferences, and participating in relevant forums and communities. This will help you adapt your CIS-based risk assessment as needed.

Conclusion

Simplifying your CIS-based risk assessment is not about cutting corners or compromising security; it’s about prioritizing the most critical controls and streamlining their implementation. By focusing on the basics, continuously monitoring vulnerabilities, securing configurations, protecting data, controlling access, and preparing for incidents, you can significantly enhance your organization’s cybersecurity posture.

Remember, the CIS Controls are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Tailor them to your organization’s specific needs and resources. As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, the ability to adapt and simplify your risk assessment processes will be a valuable asset in safeguarding your digital assets.

Contact Cyber Defense Advisors to learn more about our CIS-Based Risk Assessment solutions.