How to Leverage NIST CSF Version 1.1 at Your Organization

Today, organizations face an evolving range of cyber threats, from data breaches to ransomware attacks. As these threats grow in sophistication, so does the importance of having a solid cybersecurity strategy to mitigate the risk. Amidst the countless tools, policies, and processes, frameworks have emerged as guiding lights, paving the way for a robust cybersecurity program. One such framework that stands out is the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Cybersecurity Framework (NIST CSF). 

Whether you’re assessing the current maturity of your security program, or starting to build out your program, the NIST CSF supports a seamless transition, minimizing resistance and fostering business buy-in for security investments. Embracing the NIST CSF as a strategic partner to your security program can pave the way for a more secure and resilient future. 

What is NIST CSF?

The current version of the NIST CSF revolves around five primary functions. These functions provide a comprehensive framework of a cybersecurity program, from understanding your environment to restoring normal operations after a breach. 

1. Identify - Identifying what needs protection and where vulnerabilities might exist is the foundational step in cybersecurity. Without this awareness, defenses can be misguided or incomplete. 
2. Protect - Centers around developing and implementing safeguards to limit or contain the impact of cybersecurity events. This proactive defense against threats helps keep systems secure, and data confidential. 
3. Detect - Concentrates on keeping watch through continuous monitoring and detection of cybersecurity threats. Early detection helps minimize damage and enables a timely response. . Without detection, a threat may remain unnoticed and can cause even more harm. 
4. Respond - Aims to take swift action to manage and mitigate detected cybersecurity incidents. A quick and structured response aids in limiting damage, restoring confidence and operations as well as maintaining the organization’s reputation. 
5. Recover - Zeroes in on building back by restoring and improving systems and processes following a cybersecurity incident. Cybersecurity incidents are events that compromise the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of data or an information system. These could be phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches or unauthorized access. Recovery ensures business continuity and fortifies against incidents by applying lessons learned. 

How to Start Using NIST CSF

To get started in your NIST CSF journey, use this roadmap:

Understand Your Current State

1. Conduct a Current State Assessment:  This assessment involves first analyzing potential threats, gauging their impact, and understanding the likelihood of their occurrence. Once the threats are identified, take the NIST CSF and the subcategories identified for each function and determine how your organization is meeting them. Only by knowing where you currently stand can you effectively strategize for the future. 
2. Extra Credit - Map Out Current Processes and Practices: Documenting your current cybersecurity measures provides a clear starting point. Analyze and record the processes, tools, and protocols in place to support the subcategories assessed in the current state assessment. This snapshot of your present environment will help later in aligning with the CSF’s guidelines. 

Setting Target Goals and Implementing the Framework

1. Identify Gaps and Weaknesses in your Current Environment: Transitioning to the NIST CSF is not about reinventing the wheel. Instead, match your existing processes with the CSF’s best practices, and modify or enhance them accordingly. Using the initial current state assessment, pinpoint areas where your cybersecurity defenses are lacking or could be strengthened. Are there certain subcategories or functions that have the most gaps? Unprotected assets? Inefficient processes? Recognizing these gaps is pivotal in creating a roadmap. 
2. Create a Tailored Implementation Plan: Not all vulnerabilities are equal. Using the framework, draft a plan that prioritizes areas of highest risk or impact for early attention based on your organization’s unique needs, environment, and risk appetite. Directing your initial focus and resources on areas that, if compromised, could have the most significant impact on your organization can reduce your threat landscape and provide a sense of achievement, motivating further progress.

Monitor and Review

1. Continuous Monitoring of the Security Environment: Cybersecurity is not a one-time endeavor. Continuously monitor the environment for emerging threats and vulnerabilities. Leverage technologies like Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions and email security filtering tools, which can help provide additional support and monitoring. Have questions? Check out the Cybersecurity Best Practices and Smart Controls on Corvus’ Knowledge Nest.
2. Adjust and Refine Processes and Controls as Threats Evolve: In the realm of cybersecurity, adaptation is key. Periodically review your controls, practices, strategies, and risk appetite. As you gain insights from monitoring and collaboration with the broader cybersecurity community, recalibrate your approach to stay ahead of potential threats. 

Get Started Today!

NIST CSF gives organizations of every size the guidelines for building a scalable and resilient security program. 

If you are not sure where to start, looking to identify gaps in your existing program, or are looking to mature your program, CSF gives you the roadmap. This roadmap helps bridge the gap between technical and non-technical functions, fostering a holistic organizational approach to cyber risks.

The NIST CSF is more than a framework; it’s a strategic partner in your journey towards a more secure, resilient, and cyber-aware future. Embrace it, evolve with it, and let it guide your organization’s cybersecurity program. 

Additional Resources

• NIST CSF Homepage - A centralized hub  for all things related to the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, including detailed overviews, FAQs, and other documentation. 
• NIST CSF 1.1 - Explore the current version of the framework.
• Success Stories - Discover how other organizations have leveraged the NIST CSF in their cybersecurity journey.