The modern security threat landscape differs from what it looked like in previous years. Cybersecurity, much like the technology that it seeks to protect, is ever-evolving. Combining organizational needs as well as applicable compliance requirements, IT and Security teams face challenges in mitigating infrastructural risks while balancing data security and user privacy. Thankfully, organizations can enhance their security posture through Security Frameworks by streamlining procedures, minimizing risks, achieving compliance, and enforcing best practices via security policies.
CEOs and compliance experts recognize the importance of cybersecurity, but deciding on the appropriate security frameworks the organization should adopt can be daunting.
This write-up is a complete study of security frameworks. It explores some security frameworks for organizations and provides functional understanding to help you confidently choose the right security frameworks that are fit for your organization.
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Security Framework: What Is It?
A security framework outlines policies and procedures for establishing and maintaining security controls. It acts as a detailed guide that helps organizations build and maintain their security plan—just like how blueprints help contractors build a home to specification.
The role of a security framework in an organization is simple: it provides a systematic approach to securing an organization against various risk factors by determining which policies, procedures, and controls should be implemented. It also includes how they should be configured for optimal protection across the enterprise.
When speaking about security frameworks, it is natural to mention cybersecurity frameworks because security measures in an organization do not only apply to the physical organizational structure —that is, the hardware. It also includes data security and user privacy.
The term “framework” may imply hardware but it doesn’t help where the word “mainframe” exists, and its existence may imply that we’re dealing with a tangible infrastructure consisting of servers, data storage devices, etc. This brings us to the definition of “cybersecurity.”
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is the practice that safeguards computer hardware, software, and data from disruption, theft, or damage. It comprises layers of protective software and hardware that safeguard weak spots in computers, networks, and programs.
Furthermore, cybersecurity informs people about cyber threats and appropriate actions to take in the event of an attack. Installing security software is like installing locks on the doors and windows of your house so thieves can’t get in. Likewise, in computing, security software prevents cyber thieves from accessing data saved on your computer and servers.
In addition, just like in the “real world”, a framework consists of a structure (maybe a skeletal structure) that supports a building or other large objects. The cybersecurity framework provides foundation, structure, and support to an organization’s security system.
As we know, most of these IT programs, application software, and servers used by most organizations are cloud-based, which means they store data and information in cloud servers. Due to this, there is a need for protective measures to be taken to keep data, applications, and information in the cloud servers safe. This practice is called “Cloud Security”.
What is Cloud Security?
Simply put, cloud security is the process of protecting data, applications, and infrastructure in cloud environments. It usually involves encryption (i.e., converting data or information into codes), access controls, security updates, threat detection, audits, backups, and adherence to cloud security policies to mitigate risks and safeguard sensitive information.
Cloud security encompasses policies, technologies, applications, and controls for protecting virtualized IP, data, applications, services, and the associated infrastructure of cloud computing. Note: Cloud computing enables remote data storage, management, and processing. With cloud computing, you can access applications from anywhere through the internet, without having to rely on domestic infrastructure or traditional data centers.
Cloud Security Frameworks
Just like any security framework, a Cloud security framework is a set of guidelines, practices, and controls that organizations use to secure data, applications, and infrastructure in a cloud computing environment. It is a structured approach to identifying and mitigating risks. It also provides information to the broader industry about security measures that are applicable to cloud environments
Cloud security frameworks prioritize maintaining security for compliance and governance. Some of the frameworks provide the security controls needed to meet suitable security standards and regulations, but not all are inclusive when it comes to compliance.
Having understood what security frameworks are and the various terms associated with them, it is also essential that we point out the benefits of security frameworks in securing the user’s privacy, data, IT programs, application software, backup servers, and infrastructural components of your organization.
Benefits of Security Frameworks
As earlier stated, technology is constantly changing, as is security. As a result, the need arises for security to adapt to the evolving needs, tools, strategies, practices, and procedures for protecting devices, users’ privacy, and data, or risk being an easy target to threat actors, including possible data breaches and the dire consequences that come as a result of its negligence.
Here are some reasons why you should adopt security frameworks into the organizational structure of your company:
#1. Safeguards personal data:
Personal data is valuable for businesses and individuals. Malware can compromise personal information privacy and potentially threaten employees, customers, or organizations. Cybersecurity safeguards data from internal and external threats, enabling secure and safe internet access for employees.
#2. Preserves reputation:
It takes years for any organization to retain customers and build brand loyalty. When there is any breach in data, it puts the reputation of the business or organization in jeopardy. Implementing a cyber security system helps organizations avoid unexpected setbacks that can be due to data breaches. Technologies like network security and cloud security enhance data access and authentication, thereby fostering future recommendations, ventures, and expansions.
#3. Improves productivity:
With the advancement of technology, cybercriminals exploit advanced technology to breach data. Viruses negatively impact productivity by affecting networks, workflows, and functioning. Organizations may experience a standstill due to downtime. Firms with automated backups and enhanced firewalls enhance productivity. This is an encouraging benefit of cybersecurity.
#4. Supports remote workspace:
The system of remote working enables employees to access multiple remote models for workflows from different locations. Organizations may feel uneasy sharing sensitive data globally where there are cybercrimes using IoT, Wi-Fi, and personal devices. Businesses face significant challenges in protecting data due to increased data breaches as a result of remote work.
Sensitive data, strategies, and analytics are susceptible to hacking and leakage. Cyber security safeguards and stores data and prevents home Wi-Fi from tracking users’ privacy.
#5. Compliance with regulations:
Regulatory agencies like HIPAA, SOC, PCI DSS, and GDPR protect users and organizations effectively. Noncompliance with these rules leads to severe penalties.
#6. Educates and trains the workforce:
Educating the organization’s workforce about potential risks such as ransomware, data breaches, spyware, and more enhances organizational safety. Employees become less susceptible to phishing attacks and know proper responses in case of any.
#7. Maintain trust and credibility:
Cybersecurity enhances trust and credibility among customers and investors. A breach of trust damages the reputation of an organization and reduces its audience base. When there is a history of business and customer data safety, it boosts the customer base of the organization.
#8. Improve access control:
Organizations feel that the tasks of supervising internal and external processes are not efficiently carried out. Companies can prioritize meaningful tasks and establish accountability for strategic management with simplified access to systems, computers, and resources, thus reducing cybercrime threats.
#9. Provides IT support:
Cyberattacks cause regulatory fines and customer claims, resulting in low sales and revenue and disrupting continuity. Also, cybercrimes disrupt daily operations, and due to advances in technology, there are advanced hacking practices. The IT team must stay informed about cyberspace’s constantly evolving changes. IT teams with advanced tools and knowledge effectively combat cybercrime.
#10. Enhances cyber posture:
Cybersecurity safeguards organizations’ digital access, ensuring employee flexibility and safe Internet access. Advanced cybersecurity technology monitors systems in real-time with a single click. Automated cybersecurity measures enhance smooth operations and toughen responses to cyberattacks.
Having seen a few of the numerous benefits of a security framework, it is important to know the categories in which security frameworks are classified. As we are about to see, these frameworks come in many types.
Types of Security Frameworks
Security Frameworks are classified into three types based on function. Let’s define them briefly in order to understand the task they perform.
- Control Frameworks: The function of this framework is to develop a crucial cyber security strategy for an organization. It also offers various security measures, assesses the present state of the infrastructure and technology in use, and prioritizes security control implementation.
- Program Frameworks: This framework analyzes an organization’s security program status. It also constructs a comprehensive cybersecurity program, assesses program security, and conducts competitive analysis. In addition, it improves communications between the cyber security team and the managers and executives
- Risk Frameworks: The risk frameworks recommend essential processes for risk assessment and management. It also structures security programs for effective risk management. The risk framework identifies, measures, and quantifies organizational security risks and prioritizes security measures and activities.
We understand the challenges you face and how confusing it can be to decide which security framework is right for your organization. Due to this, we have done research and studies, and we are able to come up with a list of the best security frameworks out there to make it easier for you to choose.
The Best Security Frameworks
Now that we’ve established why security frameworks are important, let’s take a look at the best frameworks to help you decide which one is right for your organization.
#1. NIST Cybersecurity Framework:
The NIST cybersecurity framework is a set of guidelines for reducing organizational cybersecurity risk. The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) developed it. The framework is divided into three components: the Core, the Implementation Tiers, and Profiles.
The Core establishes cybersecurity objectives in five phases; identifying, protecting, detecting, responding, and recovering.
The Implementation evaluates the effectiveness of cybersecurity efforts in achieving framework goals.
The Profiles compare objectives with the framework’s core and identify improvement opportunities. NIST’s tailored services align with the organization’s needs.
NIST is a trusted tool for identifying security vulnerabilities. It can assist Organizations in complying with regulations and receiving personalized security advice.
#2. SOC 2 (Systems and Organization Controls)
The SOC 2 is a set of compliance principles. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) was responsible for developing it. SOC 2 assesses a company’s security posture using Trust Services Criteria. Following a survey, the auditor provides the company with a SOC 2 report on cybersecurity quality, including TSC security, availability, confidentiality, and privacy.
#3. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
A 1996 federal statute established standards for safeguarding patients’ vital and confidential health information from all kinds of threats. Healthcare organizations must adhere to cybersecurity practices and conduct risk assessments in line with HIPAA. The Healthcare sector faces a recurring cyberattack threat, therefore, organizations in the health sector must be vigilant.
#4. Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS)
The PCI-DSS was created in 2006 to ensure the secure operation of credit card companies, including payment processing, transaction processing, and data transmission companies. The framework aims to protect cardholder information. It is quite evident that the Financial sector is a popular target for cybercriminals, which is why PCI DSS compliance is crucial for all companies handling information in regards to credit card companies, especially for companies avoiding fines in the case of a breach.
#5. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Framework:
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is responsible for enforcing the GDPR, a European Union-passed legal framework. It sets the guidelines that protect the data of EU citizens. It covers the collection and processing of the personal information of all individuals holding European Union (EU) citizenship.
This framework is mandatory for organizations transacting with European customers, operating within EU member countries, or employing citizens.
COBIT is a global framework that connects security processes to enterprise goals. The Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) was responsible for developing it. The framework aids companies in developing and implementing information management strategies, thereby reducing organizational technical risk. It’s a framework for developing enterprise-wide IT governance systems.
COBIT has been updated several times to address security threats. COBIT 2019, the latest version, offers six principles and 40 processes and is suitable for all business objectives.
#7. Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA):
FISMA is a framework for federal agencies and third-party vendors operating on behalf of the federal government. According to FISMA, organizations must implement controls and processes, conduct routine risk assessments, and monitor IT infrastructure regularly.
The Department of Homeland Security is in charge of overseeing the FISMA policy’s implementation.
#8. North American Electric Reliability Corporation, Critical Infrastructure Protection (NERC-CIP):
The 2008 US infrastructure attacks led to the creation of NERC-CIP to ensure the reliability and security of the bulk electric system in North America. It was designed for the power and infrastructure sectors, requiring compliance by all entities involved in the region’s power grid.
To prevent minor issues from escalating into widespread power crises, NERC-CIP establishes industry standards and mandates for safeguarding operations. The framework outlines requirements for organizations in this sector, including asset inventory, security measures, employee training, incident response plans, and electricity delivery.
#9. Center for Internet Security (CIS) Critical Security Controls:
Unlike most cybersecurity frameworks that focus on risk identification and management, CIS Controls outline actions for protection. CIS prioritizes essential cybersecurity measures for organizations to mitigate cybersecurity risk. CIS Controls prevent attacks and build future cyber defense capabilities.
For example, other frameworks are great for locating where the security “pipe” is leaking. CIS Controls provides guidance on how to seal the leak.
#10. ISO 27001:
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) created ISO 27000 to establish guidelines for putting information security policies into practice. As the international standard for security program validity, ISO certification verifies security program validity and reliability. Specifically, ISO 27001 outlines requirements for building and maintaining an information security management system (ISMS), which minimizes information security risk by managing people, processes, and technology.
#11. California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA):
The 2018 California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) improves consumer privacy rights. Primarily focused on companies’ collection and usage of personal information, CCPA enhances consumer data control, based on the EU GDPR. Companies must comply with consumer requests for information on data collection purposes, third-party access control, and data deletion options.
Bonus Answers to FAQs
What are Application Security Frameworks?
Application security involves ensuring a secure software development life cycle. The end goal is to improve security practices to identify, fix, and prevent application issues. It entails the whole application life cycle, including analysis, design, implementation, verification, and maintenance. An application security framework provides a detailed and comprehensive approach to safeguarding applications and the sensitive data they hold.
What are the three Pillars of the Security Framework?
According to the CIA triad, an information security model is made up of three main pillars:
- Confidentiality
- Integrity and
- Availability.
Each component represents a fundamental objective of information security.
What are the Components of a Security Framework?
The Cybersecurity Framework is made up of three main components: the Core, Implementation Tiers, and Profiles. The Framework Core outlines cybersecurity activities and outcomes in easy-to-understand language.
Conclusion:
Data is the foundation of marketing and product strategies. Losing it to hackers or competitors may require a fresh start, thereby providing a competitive advantage to competitors. Hence, consistent data monitoring is crucial for flawless data security implementation. In addition, cybersecurity enhances operational efficiency beyond security.
In all, cybersecurity frameworks are essential for all organizations. These security frameworks improve the cybersecurity posture of organizations across sectors, protecting assets and customers.
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