Posts

ISO 27001:2022 and TISAX: overlaps and differences

/in

Introduction

ISO 27001:2022 and TISAX VDA ISA 6.0 are two prominent standards in the realm of information security management, particularly within the automotive industry. While ISO 27001 provides a global framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an information security management system (ISMS), TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange), based on the VDA ISA (Information Security Assessment) framework, is tailored to meet the specific needs of the automotive sector.

This article delves into the nuances of these two standards, highlighting their overlaps, the ways in which TISAX leverages ISO 27001, and the distinct features that set TISAX apart.

Overview of ISO 27001:2022

ISO 27001:2022 is the latest revision of the internationally recognized standard for information security management. It provides a comprehensive approach to managing sensitive company information so that it remains secure. This involves a risk management process, which includes people, processes, and IT systems by applying a risk management process.

Key Features of ISO 27001:2022

  • Risk-Based Approach: Emphasizes the identification and management of risks through a continuous improvement process.
  • Annex A Controls: Contains 93 controls categorized under four themes: Organizational, People, Physical, and Technological.
  • PDCA Cycle: The Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle is integral for continuous improvement.
  • Context of the Organization: Requires understanding of internal and external factors impacting information security.
  • Leadership Commitment: Highlights the importance of top management’s involvement in the ISMS.

Overview of TISAX VDA ISA 6.0

TISAX, a standard specific to the automotive industry, is based on the VDA ISA (Verband der Automobilindustrie Information Security Assessment) catalog. TISAX ensures that automotive manufacturers and suppliers meet strict information security requirements to protect sensitive information.

Key Features of TISAX VDA ISA 6.0

  • Sector-Specific: Tailored specifically for the automotive industry.
  • VDA ISA Catalog: Based on the VDA ISA framework, which is a detailed checklist of requirements and controls. It is split in several areas of interest:
    • Information security – containing everything that belongs to an ISMS
      • IS Policies and Organization
      • Information Security Policies
      • Organization of Information Security
      • Asset Management
      • IS Risk Management
      • Assessments
      • Incident and Crisis Management
      • Human Resources
      • Physical Security
      • Identity and Access Management
      • Identity Management
      • Access Management
      • IT Security / Cyber Security
      • Cryptography
      • Operations Security
      • System acquisitions, requirement management and development
      • Supplier Relationships
      • Compliance
    • Prototype Protection – focused on physical and cyber protection of prototypes
    • Data Protection – focused on policies for protecting privacy and secrets
  • Assessment Levels: Comprises different levels of assessment depending on the type of information and its criticality.
  • Labeling System: Provides a TISAX label indicating compliance, which can be shared with partners within the automotive ecosystem.
  • Focus on KPIs: VDA ISA provides a large set of examples on how to measure certain controls effectively.

Overlaps between ISO 27001:2022 and TISAX VDA ISA 6.0

While TISAX and ISO 27001 serve different purposes, they share several common elements. TISAX leverages the fundamental principles of ISO 27001, creating a robust framework that is both comprehensive and specific to the automotive sector.

In the VDA ISA 6.x (and previous) there are the columns “Reference to other standards” (column P) and “Reference to implementation guidance” (column Q) which point to known standards. Of course, there is no coincidence that the most reference standard is the ISO 27001 in both versions 2022 and 2013.

In the guidance we usually see reference to the Annex A of the ISO 27001 standard (both versions).

 

In the column W there is “Further information” containing explanations of what can be described by the respective control.

Risk Management

Both ISO 27001 and TISAX emphasize a risk-based approach to information security. ISO 27001 mandates a formal risk assessment process, while TISAX incorporates this through the VDA ISA requirements, ensuring that organizations identify and manage risks relevant to the automotive industry.

Control Objectives and Controls

ISO 27001:2022 and TISAX VDA ISA 6.0 share a common structure in terms of control objectives and specific controls. Many of the controls listed in Annex A of ISO 27001 are reflected in the VDA ISA catalog, ensuring a comprehensive approach to securing information.

While this is a common trait shared by the standards, the TISAX is making use of other standards than ISO 27001: NIST, BSI other ISO standards.

Continuous Improvement

Both standards advocate for continuous improvement. ISO 27001’s PDCA cycle and TISAX’s periodic reassessment and updating of security measures ensure that organizations continually enhance their security posture in response to evolving threats.

TISAX VDA ISA has a sheet called “Maturity Levels” containing descriptions of the Maturity Levels 0 to 5.

Documentation and Record-Keeping

ISO 27001 requires detailed documentation of the ISMS, including risk assessments, policies, and procedures. TISAX also mandates thorough documentation as part of its assessment criteria, ensuring that organizations maintain a clear record of their security practices.

Third-Party Management/Suppliers Relationships

Third-party risk management is a critical component in both standards. ISO 27001 includes controls for managing supplier relationships and ensuring their compliance with information security requirements. Similarly, TISAX places a strong emphasis on securing information exchanged with suppliers and partners, crucial for maintaining the integrity of the automotive supply chain.

Differences between ISO 27001:2022 and TISAX VDA ISA 6.0

Despite their overlaps, ISO 27001 and TISAX have several distinctions, reflecting their different scopes and target audiences.

Industry Focus

ISO 27001 is a generic standard applicable to any organization, regardless of its sector. TISAX, however, is designed specifically for the automotive industry, addressing unique challenges such as the secure exchange of data between manufacturers and suppliers.

Assessment Process

ISO 27001 involves a formal certification process conducted by accredited bodies, leading to ISO 27001 certification. TISAX, on the other hand, employs a mutual assessment model where organizations are assessed by ENX approved audit providers, and successful assessments result in a TISAX label. This label can then be shared with other automotive industry stakeholders, facilitating trust and compliance.

Control Specificity

While ISO 27001 provides a broad framework of controls applicable to various industries, TISAX’s controls are highly specific to the automotive sector. The VDA ISA catalog includes detailed requirements for protecting manufacturing data, ensuring compliance with industry-specific regulations, and safeguarding automotive intellectual property.

Levels of Assessment

TISAX introduces different levels of assessment (Basic(Must and Should), High, and Very High) depending on the sensitivity and criticality of the information being protected. ISO 27001 does not have a tiered assessment system but rather a uniform certification standard.

Focus Areas

TISAX places significant emphasis on physical security, secure development of automotive products, and compliance with industry-specific legal requirements. ISO 27001, while comprehensive, does not delve into sector-specific issues with the same level of detail.

Commercial vs Open standards

ISO 27001 is an open international standard governed by the Internation Standards Organisation (ISO). The TISAX trademark is owned by the organization ENX, formed by many OEMs in automotive sector.

 

Implementation of TISAX Using ISO 27001

TISAX leverages ISO 27001’s framework to build a robust and industry-specific information security system. Many organizations begin with ISO 27001 certification and then adapt their ISMS to meet the additional requirements of TISAX.

Integration of Standards

  1. Foundation in ISO 27001: Organizations often establish a basic ISMS in accordance with ISO 27001. This includes conducting risk assessments, implementing controls, and ensuring continuous improvement.
  2. Customization to TISAX Requirements: Once the foundational ISMS is in place, organizations tailor it to meet TISAX requirements, which may involve additional controls specific to automotive data security and third-party management.
  3. Assessment and Labeling: Organizations undergo a TISAX assessment conducted by an approved audit provider. Successful completion results in the issuance of a TISAX label, demonstrating compliance with industry-specific security requirements.

Benefits of Integration

Integrating ISO 27001 with TISAX offers several benefits:

  • Streamlined Compliance: Simplifies the process of meeting both generic and sector-specific security requirements.
  • Enhanced Trust: The TISAX label, backed by ISO 27001’s rigorous framework, enhances trust among automotive industry partners.
  • Cost Efficiency: Leveraging ISO 27001 as a foundation reduces duplication of effort and resources in implementing security measures.

Conclusion

ISO 27001:2022 and TISAX VDA ISA 6.0 represent critical standards for information security, particularly within the automotive sector. While they share common principles such as risk management and continuous improvement, TISAX’s industry-specific focus and detailed requirements for automotive set it apart. By leveraging the robust framework of ISO 27001, organizations can start to effectively implement TISAX, ensuring comprehensive protection of sensitive automotive data and fostering trust within the industry.

Understanding the connections between these standards and their unique requirements is very important for organizations aiming to achieve a high level of information security and compliance.

The post ISO 27001:2022 and TISAX: overlaps and differences first appeared on Sorin Mustaca on Cybersecurity.

Introduction to CISA’s Secure by Design Initiative

/in

 

What is Secure by Design?

Secure by Design products are those where the security of the customers is a core business requirement, not just a technical feature. Secure by Design principles should be implemented during the design phase of a product’s development lifecycle to dramatically reduce the number of exploitable flaws before they are introduced to the market for broad use or consumption. Products should be secure to use out of the box, with secure configurations enabled by default and security features such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), logging, and single sign on (SSO) available at no additional cost. (Source)

Secure by Design is an initiative by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) aimed at integrating cybersecurity practices into the design and development phases of technology products and systems. The goal is to ensure that security is considered a fundamental element from the outset, rather than an afterthought. This approach helps in reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing the resilience of systems against evolving cyber threats.

Sounds familiar?

Yes, because we know for the past 20 years or more the Microsoft initiative:   Secure by design – Secure by default – Secure operations

 

 

 

Who Should Be Interested?

This initiative is crucial for software developers, system designers, engineers, and manufacturers involved in creating and deploying digital solutions. It is also vital for policy makers and business leaders who oversee the management and governance of cybersecurity risks in their organizations.

Why Is It Important?

Incorporating cybersecurity measures early in the design process can significantly mitigate risks, reduce costs associated with addressing security flaws after deployment, and improve consumer trust. Secure by Design supports not only the protection of individual products but also the overall security posture of national infrastructure and business ecosystems.

Focus of the Initiative

The primary focus of the Secure by Design initiative is to create a systematic, standardized approach to cybersecurity, ensuring that every phase of technology development includes security as a core component. This involves collaborative efforts among stakeholders to adopt best practices that promote security from the initial stages of product and system development.

Topics Covered by the Initiative

Development and Implementation of Security Practices

  • Guidelines for integrating security into software development life cycles (SDLC).
  • Establishment of security benchmarks and standards for new technologies.

Stakeholder Collaboration

  • Engagement with private sector, academia, and international bodies to harmonize security standards.
  • Public-private partnerships to advance security innovations and solutions.

Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management

  • Frameworks for compliance with emerging laws and standards in cybersecurity.
  • Strategies for risk assessment and management integrated into the design process.

Implementation and Auditing

How to Implement

  • Create a Secure Software Development Lifecycle with security protocols and checklists tailored to each stage of the design and development processes.
  • Incorporate automated security testing tools to assess vulnerabilities during the development phase.
  • Continuous monitoring and updating of security measures as part of ongoing maintenance.

Auditing

  • Regular security audits conducted by internal or third-party auditors to ensure adherence to established standards.
  • Use of automated auditing tools to provide ongoing assessments of security posture.

Responsibility and Governance

Who Is Responsible?

  • Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and IT managers are primarily responsible for overseeing the implementation of Secure by Design principles.
  • Developers, engineers, and product managers are accountable for incorporating these principles into their workflows and outputs.

Governance

  • Establishment of a governance structure to enforce security standards and practices.
  • Regular reviews and updates to security policies to align with technological advancements and threat landscapes.

Conclusion and further steps

CISA’s Secure by Design initiative represents a proactive shift in cybersecurity strategy, emphasizing the importance of integrating security at the foundational level of technology development. By fostering a collaborative environment among all stakeholders, it aims to standardize and strengthen cybersecurity practices across industries, thereby enhancing the security and resilience of digital infrastructures and systems.

 

CISA’s Secure by Design Alert Series

highlights the prevalence of widely known and documented vulnerabilities, with available and effective mitigations, that have not been eliminated. Alerts are released in response to threat actor activity, but further demonstrate how secure by design software development can help reasonably protect against malicious cyber actors successfully exploiting predictable and well-known vulnerabilities.

Check here their page for Alerts: https://www.cisa.gov/securebydesign/alerts

Secure by Design Blogs

Learn what’s top of mind at CISA and our efforts to help make technology products secure by design.

https://www.cisa.gov/securebydesign/blogs

The post Introduction to CISA’s Secure by Design Initiative first appeared on Sorin Mustaca on Cybersecurity.

Implementing ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.18 – Compliance

/in

We started the ISO 27001:2022 series with the promise of explaining how the 14 categories of controls can be implemented.

Today we end the series with ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.18, “Compliance”, which addresses the importance of ensuring that organizations comply with relevant laws, regulations, contractual agreements, and other requirements related to information security. This annex focuses on ensuring that the organization identifies and adheres to all applicable legal, statutory, regulatory, and contractual requirements regarding information security and the requirements of the ISMS itself.

Understanding the Importance of Compliance

Annex A.18 is divided into several controls designed to help organizations manage and demonstrate compliance with various information security requirements.

These controls aim to prevent breaches of legal, statutory, regulatory, or contractual obligations related to information security and the security requirements of the organization.

Compliance with legal, regulatory, and contractual requirements is essential for organizations to maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information assets and mitigate legal and regulatory risks.

Annex A.18 emphasizes several key aspects:

  • Legal and Regulatory Requirements: Identifying and understanding applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards related to information security.
  • Contractual Obligations: Ensuring compliance with contractual agreements, service level agreements (SLAs), and data protection agreements with customers, partners, and suppliers.
  • Risk Management: Assessing and mitigating legal and regulatory risks associated with non-compliance, including financial penalties, legal liabilities, and damage to reputation.

Key Controls in Annex A.18:

  • A.18.1.1 Identification of Applicable Legislation and Contractual Requirements: Identify all relevant requirements that the organization must comply with.
  • A.18.1.2 Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): Ensure protection of IPR, covering software, information content, and patents.
  • A.18.1.3 Protection of Records: Securely manage records in accordance with legal, regulatory, and contractual requirements.
  • A.18.1.4 Privacy and Protection of Personally Identifiable Information: Ensure the protection of personal information as per privacy laws and other requirements.
  • A.18.1.5 Regulation of Cryptographic Controls: Use cryptographic controls as required by legislation, regulations, and agreements.

Practical Implementation of Annex A.18

Legal and Regulatory Compliance Assessment

Practical Examples

  1. Regulatory Mapping: Identify and map relevant legal and regulatory requirements, such as data protection laws (e.g., GDPR, CCPA), industry standards (e.g., PCI DSS, HIPAA), and sector-specific regulations (e.g., SOX for financial services).
  2. Compliance Assessment: Conduct compliance assessments to evaluate the organization’s adherence to legal and regulatory requirements, including data protection principles, security controls, and breach notification obligations.

Contractual Compliance Management

Practical Examples

  1. Contract Review: Review contractual agreements, SLAs, and data processing agreements to identify information security requirements, confidentiality obligations, data protection clauses, and compliance obligations.
  2. Compliance Monitoring: Monitor compliance with contractual agreements by tracking performance metrics, service levels, and adherence to contractual terms and conditions.

Risk Management and Compliance Monitoring

Practical Examples

  1. Risk Assessment: Assess legal and regulatory risks associated with non-compliance, including financial penalties, legal liabilities, and reputational damage, and implement measures to mitigate these risks.
  2. Compliance Monitoring: Establish processes for ongoing compliance monitoring, including periodic reviews, audits, and assessments to ensure adherence to legal, regulatory, and contractual requirements.

We know Compliance is hard, so here are some more examples:

More examples

  1. Compliance Framework Development
    • Example: A multinational corporation needs to comply with the GDPR for its operations in Europe and the CCPA for those in California.
    • Implementation: Establish a compliance framework that identifies all applicable legal and regulatory requirements for each region of operation. Maintain a database of these requirements and update it as laws evolve.
  2. Training and Awareness
    • Example: An organization handling sensitive patient data under HIPAA must ensure that all employees are aware of the requirements.
    • Implementation: Develop ongoing training programs and workshops to educate employees about their responsibilities under relevant laws and how these impact their day-to-day operations.
  3. Auditing and Monitoring
    • Example: A financial services firm regularly audits its data handling practices to ensure compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
    • Implementation: Implement a schedule for regular audits, both internal and external, to assess compliance with legal and contractual obligations. Use automated tools to monitor compliance continuously.
  4. Handling Intellectual Property
    • Example: A software development company uses proprietary code that needs to be protected under copyright laws.
    • Implementation: Implement IPR controls, including secure storage, access controls, and regular audits of IPR usage and adherence to licensing agreements.
  5. Privacy Management
    • Example: A retail company collects customer data and needs to comply with privacy laws in multiple jurisdictions.
    • Implementation: Deploy a privacy management solution that helps in classifying, managing, and protecting personal data in compliance with all applicable privacy laws.

Auditing Annex A.18 Implementation

The audit process for ISO 27001:2022’s Annex A.18 involves verifying that the organization has effectively implemented the controls to meet compliance requirements. The audit typically includes:

  1. Document Review: Review policies, procedures, compliance records, training records, audit reports, and any actions taken on previous audit findings.
  2. Interviews: Discuss with management and staff to assess their understanding and implementation of compliance controls.
  3. Observation: Observe processes and controls in operation to verify that they function as intended.
  4. Compliance Verification: Check compliance with specific legal, regulatory, and contractual requirements through evidence collection and analysis.
  5. Report Findings: Provide a detailed report of the audit findings with recommendations for improvement if any non-conformities are found.

Conclusion

Effective implementation of ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.18 ensures that an organization not only meets its legal and contractual obligations but also demonstrates a commitment to comprehensive information security management.

By establishing a structured compliance program and conducting thorough audits, organizations can maintain high standards of information security and build trust with stakeholders.

The post Implementing ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.18 – Compliance first appeared on Sorin Mustaca on Cybersecurity.

Implementing ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.17 – Information Security Aspects of Business Continuity Management

/in

We started the ISO 27001:2022 series with the promise of explaining how the 14 categories of controls can be implemented.

Today we address ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.17, “Information Security Aspects of Business Continuity Management” is crucial for organizations to ensure the resilience of their information security management systems (ISMS) in the face of disruptive events.

This annex provides guidelines for integrating information security into business continuity management processes to minimize the impact of disruptions and ensure the continuity of critical business operations.

Understanding the Importance of Business Continuity Management

Annex A.17 of ISO 27001:2022 outlines the controls necessary to ensure that information security is an integral part of the organization’s business continuity management. The annex emphasizes the need to prepare for, respond to, and recover from incidents that can impact the availability of critical information assets.

Business continuity management (BCM) is essential for organizations to prepare for and respond to disruptions that could affect their ability to deliver products and services.

Annex A.17 emphasizes several key aspects:

  • Risk Assessment: Identifying and assessing risks that could disrupt business operations and impact information security.
  • Business Impact Analysis: Evaluating the potential consequences of disruptions on critical business processes and information assets.
  • Business Continuity Planning: Developing and implementing strategies and procedures to maintain essential functions during and after disruptive events.
  • Testing and Exercise: Conducting regular testing and exercises to validate the effectiveness of business continuity plans and improve response capabilities.

 

Key Controls in Annex A.17:

  • A.17.1 Information Security Continuity: Ensure that information security continuity is embedded within the organization’s overall business continuity management systems.
  • A.17.2 Redundancies: Implement redundancy measures to ensure availability of information processing facilities.

Practical Implementation of Annex A.17

  1. Risk Assessment and Business Impact Analysis (BIA):
    • Example: An e-commerce company assesses the impact of a server downtime on its operations. The BIA shows significant revenue loss for each hour of downtime.
    • Implementation: Develop and implement continuity strategies based on the results of BIA. This includes identifying critical systems and processes and the extent of their protection.
  2. Establishing Redundancy and Resilience:
    • Example: A financial institution uses multiple data centers in geographically diverse locations to ensure data availability even in the case of a natural disaster.
    • Implementation: Invest in redundant hardware, failover systems, and data mirroring techniques to ensure continuous service and data availability.
  3. Developing and Implementing Business Continuity Plans:
    • Example: A healthcare provider ensures that all critical patient information systems have backups and are capable of being restored quickly in any emergency.
    • Implementation: Prepare detailed business continuity plans that include recovery objectives, strategies, and employee responsibilities. Regularly train staff on their roles during a disruption.
  4. Testing and Exercises:
    • Example: A technology firm conducts bi-annual drills to simulate different scenarios including cyber-attacks and power failures.
    • Implementation: Regular testing and rehearsal of business continuity plans to evaluate their effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
  5. Embedding Information Security into Business Continuity:
    • Example: Incorporate cybersecurity measures into the business continuity plans of an online retailer to protect against data breaches during disruptions.
    • Implementation: Ensure that information security practices are maintained during a disruption, including access controls, encryption, and secure communication channels.

Auditing Annex A.17 Implementation

The audit of ISO 27001:2022’s Annex A.17 focuses on verifying that the business continuity plans and controls are in place, effective, and in alignment with the organization’s overall security policies. The audit process typically involves the following steps:

  1. Documentation Review: Auditors review all relevant documentation including the business impact analysis, risk assessments, continuity plans, and previous audit reports.
  2. Interviews: Conduct interviews with key personnel involved in business continuity management to assess their understanding and implementation of the policies.
  3. Observation and Testing: Direct observation of drills and testing processes, and reviewing logs and records to verify that procedures are regularly executed and monitored.
  4. Report Findings and Recommendations: Provide a detailed report of findings with any non-conformities and suggest corrective actions.

Conclusion

Implementing Annex A.17 of ISO 27001:2022 effectively ensures that an organization can protect its critical information assets during disruptions. By following structured implementation and regular audits, organizations can not only comply with ISO 27001 but also enhance their resilience against unforeseen events, thereby safeguarding their operations and reputation in the long term.

The post Implementing ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.17 – Information Security Aspects of Business Continuity Management first appeared on Sorin Mustaca on Cybersecurity.

Implementing ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.16 – Information Security Incident Management

/in

We started the ISO 27001:2022 series with the promise of explaining how the 14 categories of controls can be implemented.

Today we address ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.16, “Information Security Incident Management” is crucial for organizations to effectively detect, respond to, and recover from security incidents. This annex provides guidelines for establishing an incident management process to minimize the impact of security breaches and ensure the continuity of business operations.

Understanding the Importance of Information Security Incident Management

Incident management is a fundamental aspect of information security, helping organizations mitigate the impact of security incidents and protect sensitive information assets. Annex A.16 emphasizes several key aspects:

  • Timely Response: Promptly detecting and responding to security incidents minimizes their impact on operations and prevents further damage.
  • Containment and Recovery: Implementing effective containment and recovery measures helps restore affected systems and data to normal operations.
  • Continuous Improvement: Regularly reviewing and updating incident management procedures ensures their effectiveness and alignment with evolving threats and technologies.

Implementing Annex A.16 in Practice

Establishing Incident Management Procedures

Practical Examples:

  1. Incident Identification: Implement mechanisms to detect and identify security incidents, such as intrusion detection systems (IDS), security information and event management (SIEM) systems, and user reporting mechanisms.
  2. Incident Classification: Define criteria for classifying incidents based on severity, impact, and urgency to prioritize response efforts effectively.
  3. Incident Response Team: Establish an incident response team comprising key personnel responsible for coordinating and executing incident response activities.

Incident Response and Containment

Practical Examples

  1. Response Plan: Develop incident response plans outlining roles, responsibilities, and actions to be taken during security incidents, including containment, eradication, recovery, and communication procedures.
  2. Containment Measures: Implement measures to contain and mitigate the impact of security incidents, such as isolating affected systems, disabling compromised accounts, or blocking malicious traffic.
  3. Evidence Preservation: Preserve evidence related to security incidents for forensic analysis and investigation purposes, ensuring the integrity and admissibility of evidence.

Incident Analysis and Recovery

Practical Examples

  1. Root Cause Analysis: Conduct root cause analysis to identify the underlying causes of security incidents and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
  2. System Restoration: Restore affected systems and data to normal operations following security incidents, using backup and recovery procedures to minimize downtime and data loss.
  3. Communication: Communicate with stakeholders, including senior management, employees, customers, and regulatory authorities, regarding the nature and impact of security incidents and steps taken for resolution.

Audit of Compliance with Annex A.16

Auditing compliance with Annex A.16 involves assessing the effectiveness of incident management procedures and practices. The audit process typically includes:

  • Audit Preparation: Gathering documentation related to incident management procedures, incident response plans, and incident logs.
  • On-site Audit: Assessing implementation of incident management controls through interviews, document reviews, and observations of incident response activities.
  • Audit Findings: Analyzing audit findings and identifying areas of non-compliance or improvement opportunities.
  • Reporting: Documenting audit results and providing recommendations for corrective actions to address identified issues.
  • Follow-up: Monitoring implementation of corrective actions and conducting follow-up audits to verify compliance.

Conclusion

ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.16 underscores the importance of establishing robust incident management procedures to effectively respond to security incidents and minimize their impact on business operations. By implementing incident identification, response, containment, and recovery measures, organizations can enhance their resilience to security threats and ensure the continuity of critical business functions. Regular audits help assess compliance with Annex A.16 requirements and drive continuous improvement in incident management practices, enabling organizations to adapt to evolving security challenges effectively. Prioritizing information security incident management is essential for organizations seeking to protect sensitive information assets and maintain trust and confidence in their operations.

The post Implementing ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.16 – Information Security Incident Management first appeared on Sorin Mustaca on Cybersecurity.

NIS-2: 10 common misconceptions about the regulation

/in

We wrote here about NIS2 and we will continue to add more content about it.

Because we are getting closer to October 17th, many people are getting more and more nervous about NIS2.

Despite its significance, there are numerous misconceptions and misinterpretations circulating about the scope and implications of this regulation.

This article aims to clarify some of the misconceptions,  which I collected mostly from LinkedIn and articles about NIS-2.

 

Note:

“NIS2” and “NIS-2” are exactly the same thing. I am using both in this article only because of SEO.

 

 

1. NIS2 starts being applied in the EU starting 17.10.2024

Truth is that the regulation is already applicable in the EU since it was approved. This deadline applies to the individual countries of the EU to convert and apply the NIS2 requirements in local laws.

If national authorities fail to properly implement EU laws, the Commission may launch a formal infringement procedure against the country in question. If the issue is still not settled, the Commission may eventually refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union.

 

2. Limited scope of application

Contrary to the belief that NIS-2 only applies to large tech companies, the directive significantly broadens its scope compared to its predecessor, NIS.

NIS-2 extends beyond just critical infrastructure sectors like energy and transport, encompassing a wide array of sectors such as digital services, public administration, and healthcare.

It mandates a security and incident reporting framework that applies to both Essential and Important Entities, significantly expanding the list of sectors and services affected.

3. NIS-2 Is Just About Cybersecurity

While cybersecurity is a core component, NIS-2 is not merely about preventing cyberattacks. The directive emphasizes a comprehensive approach to security, which includes resilience against a wide range of threats.

This includes but it is not limited to:

  • supply chain security,
  • incident response, and
  • crisis management.

It establishes a baseline for security measures and incident notifications that entities must adhere to, ensuring a uniform level of security across member states.

4. NIS-2 compliance is the same across all EU countries

Although NIS-2 sets a framework for cybersecurity across the EU, member states have some flexibility in implementation. This means that there can be variations in how directives are enforced from one country to another, depending on local laws and regulations.

Companies operating across multiple jurisdictions need to be aware of and comply with local variations to ensure full compliance.

5. Heavy penalties are the main compliance driver

While it is true that NIS-2 can impose hefty fines for non-compliance, focusing solely on penalties misses the broader objective of the directive.

NIS-2 is designed to cultivate a culture of security and resilience. It encourages entities to proactively manage their cybersecurity risks and to collaborate with national authorities.

This cooperative approach is fundamental to enhancing the overall cybersecurity posture of the EU.

6. NIS-2 does not affect third-party suppliers

NIS-2 places explicit requirements on the security practices of third-party suppliers. Entities covered under the directive are required to ensure that their supply chains are secure.

This includes mandatory risk assessments and incident reporting requirements that extend to service providers, reflecting an understanding that security is only as strong as the weakest link in the supply chain.

 

7. NIS-2 contains rules for AI, IoT, Industry 4.0.

NIS-2 sets a framework for cybersecurity and it does not address anything in particular. However, the rules described can be very well applied to companies in the fields like those mentioned that fall under the regulation applicability.

The companies active in Digital Infrastructure Services (Internet Nodes, DNS Service Providers, TLD Registries, Cloud Providers, Data Centers, Content Delivery Networks, Trust Services, Communication Networks, Communication Services ) and in

ICT Service Management (B2B only) (Managed Services (IT, Networks/Infrastructure, Applications), Managed Security Services (Risk and Cyber Security) ) are potentially directly affected by the regulation. However, there are clear criteria about which companies are affected.

 

8. Any company with activity in the domains marked as Important and Essential is affected by NIS-2

Although the domains are under the NIS-2 regulation, a company is affected if it meets the criteria:

  • Essential Entities (EE):
    • at least 250 employees and
    • 50 Mil € revenue
  • Important Entities (IE):
    • at least 50 employees and
    • 10 Mil € revenue

If a company doesn’t have these characteristics, then, in general, it is not affected by the regulation directly. It is highly recommended that even in such cases the companies follow the regulation’s requirements, since it will increase their resilience against cyber attacks.

However, an entity may still be considered “essential” or “important” even if it does not meet the size criteria, in specific cases such as when it is the sole provider of a critical service for societal or economic activity in a Member State.

 

9. All affected companies must certify for NIS-2

A the time of writing this post there is no certification for NIS-2. This might change in the future, especially when because we don’t know at this time how the regulation will be implemented in each of the EU member states.

There are consulting companies that sell consulting services and guarantee that a company will get the “NIS-2  certification” if they bus their services. While buying consulting is in general a good thing, the only thing that can be obtained is help in meeting the requirements of the regulation.

I recommend to stay away from offers that promise things that don’t exist.

 

10. Companies can buy software/hardware products to become conform with NIS-2

Although conformity is sometimes made easier by using specialized software and hardware products, there is no requirement or recommendation to purchase anything.

Some security providers and consulting companies are offering On The Shelf  (OTS) products that promise immediate conformity with NIS-2 (or guarantee obtaining a “certification” – see point 9 above).

If you look at the series of articles in the NIS2 area of this website, you will see that actually quite a lot of  steps involve an ISMS, a cybersecurity framework, cybersecurity products and so on.

These can be implemented with commercial or open source products, but there is still need to know where and how to install them in order to become conform.

I can very well imagine that there will be soon commercial offerings with sets of templates for implementing the NIS-2 requirements, just like there are with ISO 27001, TISAX and other certifications.

The post NIS-2: 10 common misconceptions about the regulation first appeared on Sorin Mustaca on Cybersecurity.

Implementing ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.15 – Supplier Relationships

/in

We started the ISO 27001:2022 series with the promise of explaining how the 14 categories of controls can be implemented.

Today we address ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.15, “Supplier Relationships”, which is crucial for organizations in order to ensure the security of information assets shared with external suppliers. This annex provides guidelines for managing supplier relationships effectively to mitigate risks and maintain information security.

From an IT security perspective, suppliers are external entities or third-party organizations that provide goods, services, or resources to support an organization’s operations.

These suppliers often play a critical role in the organization’s IT infrastructure, providing hardware, software, cloud services, and other technology solutions.

Suppliers may also have access to sensitive information, systems, or networks of the organization, making them potential security risks.

Therefore, managing supplier relationships is essential for ensuring the security of information assets and mitigating risks associated with third-party access.

 

Understanding the Importance of Supplier Relationships

Supplier relationships play a vital role in the overall information security posture of organizations. Annex A.15 emphasizes several key aspects:

  • Risk Management: Assessing and managing risks associated with suppliers who have access to sensitive information.
  • Contractual Agreements: Establishing clear contractual agreements that define security responsibilities and obligations.
  • Monitoring and Review: Continuously monitoring supplier performance and adherence to security requirements.

Implementing Annex A.15 in Practice

Supplier Selection and Evaluation

Practical Examples:

  1. Risk Assessment: Conduct thorough risk assessments of potential suppliers to evaluate their security controls, practices, and potential risks to information assets.
  2. Due Diligence: Perform due diligence checks, such as reviewing security certifications, conducting site visits, and requesting security documentation from suppliers.
  3. Security Requirements: Clearly communicate security requirements to suppliers during the selection process, including data protection measures, access controls, and incident response capabilities.

Contractual Agreements

Practical Examples:

  1. Security Clauses: Include specific security clauses in contracts that outline security requirements, confidentiality obligations, data protection measures, and compliance with relevant regulations.
  2. Data Protection: Address data protection requirements, including data handling procedures, data encryption, and secure transmission methods.
  3. Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Define SLAs for security-related metrics, such as incident response times, availability guarantees, and security incident notification procedures.

Monitoring and Review

Practical Examples:

  1. Ongoing Assessment: Continuously monitor supplier performance and security practices to ensure compliance with contractual agreements and security requirements.
  2. Audits and Reviews: Conduct periodic audits and reviews of supplier security controls, practices, and compliance with contractual obligations.
  3. Incident Response: Establish procedures for managing security incidents involving suppliers, including incident reporting, investigation, and remediation.

Audit of Compliance with Annex A.15

Auditing compliance with Annex A.15 involves assessing the effectiveness of supplier relationship management practices. The audit process typically includes:

  • Audit Preparation: Gather documentation related to supplier relationships, contracts, and security controls.
  • On-site Audit: Assess implementation of supplier management controls through interviews, document reviews, and observations.
  • Audit Findings: Analyze audit findings and identify areas of non-compliance or improvement opportunities.
  • Reporting: Document audit results and provide recommendations for corrective actions to address identified issues.
  • Follow-up: Monitor implementation of corrective actions and conduct follow-up audits to verify compliance.

Conclusion

ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.15 emphasizes the importance of effectively managing supplier relationships to protect information assets and mitigate risks. By implementing robust supplier management practices, organizations can ensure compliance with security requirements, maintain confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information, and enhance overall information security posture. Regular audits help assess compliance with Annex A.15 requirements and drive continuous improvement in supplier relationship management processes.

The post Implementing ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.15 – Supplier Relationships first appeared on Sorin Mustaca on Cybersecurity.

Understanding ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.14 – System Acquisition, Development, and Maintenance

/in

We started the ISO 27001:2022 series with the promise of explaining how the 14 categories of controls can be implemented.

Today we address ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.14, “System Acquisition, Development, and Maintenance”, which addresses the importance of ensuring the security of information systems throughout their lifecycle, from acquisition and development to maintenance and disposal. This annex provides guidelines for implementing controls to manage the security of information systems and software applications.

 

 

Importance of System Acquisition, Development, and Maintenance

System acquisition, development, and maintenance are critical stages in the lifecycle of information systems and software applications. Annex A.14 underscores this importance by:

  1. Security by Design: Integrating security considerations into the acquisition, development, and maintenance processes helps identify and mitigate security risks early in the lifecycle, reducing the likelihood of vulnerabilities and security incidents.
  2. Secure Development Practices: Implementing secure coding practices, testing methodologies, and vulnerability management processes helps ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of software applications and systems.
  3. Change Management: Managing changes to information systems and software in a controlled manner helps prevent unauthorized modifications, configuration errors, and disruptions to services.

Implementing Annex A.14 in Practice

To effectively implement Annex A.14, organizations can follow these practical steps:

  1. Security Requirements Analysis: Conduct a security requirements analysis during the system acquisition phase to identify security requirements and considerations for information systems and software applications.

    Example: Include security requirements such as authentication mechanisms, access controls, encryption, and audit logging in the procurement specifications for new information systems or software applications.

  2. Secure Development Practices: Adopt secure coding guidelines, frameworks, and best practices during the development phase to minimize the risk of security vulnerabilities and weaknesses in software applications.

    Example: Implement input validation, output encoding, and proper error handling to mitigate common vulnerabilities such as cross-site scripting (XSS), SQL injection, and buffer overflows in web applications.

  3. Vulnerability Management: Implement vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, and code reviews to identify and remediate security vulnerabilities and weaknesses in information systems and software applications.

    Example: Conduct regular vulnerability scans and penetration tests of network infrastructure, web applications, and databases to identify security vulnerabilities and prioritize remediation efforts.

  4. Change Control: Establish change management procedures to control and document changes to information systems and software applications in a controlled and auditable manner.

    Example: Implement a change management system to track and manage changes to software code, configurations, and configurations, ensuring that changes are reviewed, approved, and tested before deployment.

  5. Patch Management: Implement patch management processes to identify, assess, and apply security patches and updates to information systems and software applications in a timely manner.

    Example: Establish a patch management schedule to regularly assess and apply security patches and updates to operating systems, software applications, and firmware to mitigate security vulnerabilities and risks.

Audit of Compliance with Annex A.14

Auditing compliance with Annex A.14 is essential for evaluating an organization’s adherence to system acquisition, development, and maintenance requirements. Here’s how the audit process typically unfolds:

  1. Audit Preparation: Gather documentation related to system acquisition, development, and maintenance policies, procedures, and controls. Appoint an audit team to facilitate the audit process.
  2. Audit Planning: Define the audit scope, objectives, and criteria. Develop an audit plan outlining activities, timelines, and responsibilities of auditors and auditees.
  3. On-site Audit: Conduct on-site visits to assess implementation of system acquisition, development, and maintenance controls. Review documentation, inspect development environments, and observe change management practices. Use checklists or assessment tools to evaluate compliance.
  4. Audit Findings: Analyze findings and identify areas of non-compliance or improvement opportunities. Document observations, including strengths and weaknesses in system acquisition, development, and maintenance implementation.
  5. Reporting: Prepare an audit report summarizing findings, conclusions, and recommendations for corrective actions. Share with senior management and stakeholders for review and action.
  6. Follow-up: Address audit findings by implementing corrective actions and improvements as recommended. Conduct follow-up audits to verify effectiveness of corrective measures and ensure ongoing compliance.

Conclusion

ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.14 emphasizes the importance of ensuring the security of information systems throughout their lifecycle. By implementing controls and best practices for system acquisition, development, and maintenance, organizations can minimize security risks, vulnerabilities, and incidents. Regular audits help assess compliance with Annex A.14 requirements and drive continuous improvement in system security practices.

The post Understanding ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.14 – System Acquisition, Development, and Maintenance first appeared on Sorin Mustaca on Cybersecurity.

Understanding ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.13 – Communications Security

/in

We started the ISO 27001:2022 series with the promise of explaining how the 14 categories of controls can be implemented.

Today we address ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.13, “Communications Security”, which addresses the importance of securing information during its transmission over communication networks.

This annex provides guidelines for implementing controls to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information exchanged between parties.

 

 

Importance of Communications Security

Communications security is crucial for safeguarding sensitive information transmitted over communication channels, such as networks, internet connections, and wireless technologies. Annex A.13 underscores this importance by:

  1. Confidentiality: Encrypting communications prevents unauthorized parties from intercepting and eavesdropping on sensitive information transmitted over unsecured networks.
  2. Integrity: Implementing integrity checks and digital signatures ensures that transmitted data remains intact and unaltered during transit, protecting against tampering and unauthorized modifications.
  3. Availability: Securing communication channels helps maintain the availability of information services and prevents disruptions caused by network attacks, denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, or transmission errors.

Implementing Annex A.13 in Practice

To effectively implement Annex A.13, organizations can follow these practical steps:

  1. Encryption: Encrypt data transmitted over insecure communication channels using encryption protocols such as Transport Layer Security (TLS), Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), or Virtual Private Network (VPN) tunnels.Example: Configure email servers to use TLS encryption for encrypting emails in transit between email clients and servers, preventing eavesdropping on email communications.
  2. Digital Signatures: Use digital signatures to verify the authenticity and integrity of transmitted data and messages. Implement digital signature algorithms and certificate authorities to ensure the validity of signatures.Example: Digitally sign electronic documents, such as contracts or reports, using a digital signature certificate issued by a trusted certificate authority to verify the authenticity and integrity of the documents.
  3. Secure Protocols: Use secure communication protocols and standards, such as Secure Shell (SSH), Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS), and Internet Protocol Security (IPsec), to protect data transmitted over networks.Example: Configure web servers to use HTTPS protocol for secure transmission of sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial transactions, over the internet.
  4. Access Controls: Implement access controls to restrict access to communication channels and network resources to authorized users only. Use strong authentication mechanisms to verify the identity of users accessing network services.Example: Configure network routers and firewalls to enforce access control lists (ACLs) restricting inbound and outbound traffic based on source and destination IP addresses, ports, and protocols.
  5. Monitoring and Logging: Deploy monitoring and logging mechanisms to track communication activities, detect anomalies, and identify potential security incidents or unauthorized access attempts.Example: Set up network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) or intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to monitor network traffic for suspicious behavior, such as port scans or packet sniffing attempts.

Audit of Compliance with Annex A.13

Auditing compliance with Annex A.13 is essential for evaluating an organization’s adherence to communications security requirements. Here’s how the audit process typically unfolds:

  1. Audit Preparation: Gather documentation related to communications security policies, procedures, and controls. Appoint an audit team to facilitate the audit process.
  2. Audit Planning: Define the audit scope, objectives, and criteria. Develop an audit plan outlining activities, timelines, and responsibilities of auditors and auditees.
  3. On-site Audit: Conduct on-site visits to assess implementation of communications security controls. Review documentation, inspect network configurations, and observe communication practices. Use checklists or assessment tools to evaluate compliance.
  4. Audit Findings: Analyze findings and identify areas of non-compliance or improvement opportunities. Document observations, including strengths and weaknesses in communications security implementation.
  5. Reporting: Prepare an audit report summarizing findings, conclusions, and recommendations for corrective actions. Share with senior management and stakeholders for review and action.
  6. Follow-up: Address audit findings by implementing corrective actions and improvements as recommended. Conduct follow-up audits to verify effectiveness of corrective measures and ensure ongoing compliance.

Conclusion

ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.13 emphasizes the importance of communications security in protecting sensitive information transmitted over communication networks. By implementing robust controls and measures to encrypt data, verify authenticity, and enforce access controls, organizations can mitigate risks and safeguard against unauthorized access or interception of communications. Regular audits help assess compliance with Annex A.13 requirements and drive continuous improvement in communications security practices.

The post Understanding ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.13 – Communications Security first appeared on Sorin Mustaca on Cybersecurity.

Understanding ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.12 – Operations Security

/in

We started the ISO 27001:2022 series with the promise of explaining how the 14 categories of controls can be implemented.

Today we address ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.12, “Operations Security”, which focuses on ensuring secure operations of information systems and assets. This annex provides guidelines for implementing controls to manage day-to-day operations, protect against security incidents, and maintain the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of information assets.

 

Importance of Operations Security

Operations security is critical for maintaining the effectiveness and resilience of information systems and assets. Annex A.12 underscores this importance by:

  1. Risk Management: Implementing operational controls helps identify, assess, and mitigate risks to information assets, ensuring business continuity and protecting against security incidents.
  2. Incident Response: Establishing incident response procedures enables organizations to detect, respond to, and recover from security incidents effectively, minimizing the impact on operations and data integrity.
  3. Change Management: Managing changes to information systems and assets in a controlled manner helps prevent unauthorized modifications, configuration errors, and disruptions to services.

Implementing Annex A.12 in Practice

To effectively implement Annex A.12, organizations can follow these practical steps:

  1. Risk Assessment: Conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential threats, vulnerabilities, and risks to information assets. Assess the likelihood and impact of identified risks to prioritize mitigation efforts.Example: Perform a comprehensive risk assessment of IT systems, networks, and applications to identify vulnerabilities, such as outdated software or misconfigured settings, that could expose assets to security threats.
  2. Incident Management: Establish incident response procedures to define roles, responsibilities, and actions to be taken in the event of a security incident. Develop incident response plans, escalation procedures, and communication protocols.Example: Develop an incident response playbook outlining steps to be followed in case of a security breach, including incident detection, containment, eradication, recovery, and post-incident analysis.
  3. Monitoring and Logging: Implement monitoring and logging mechanisms to track user activities, detect anomalies, and identify potential security incidents. Collect and analyze log data from information systems, networks, and security devices.Example: Deploy security information and event management (SIEM) systems to aggregate and correlate log data from various sources, enabling real-time monitoring, alerting, and analysis of security events.
  4. Change Control: Establish change management procedures to control and document changes to information systems, applications, configurations, and infrastructure. Define change request processes, approval workflows, and testing requirements.Example: Implement a change management system to track and manage changes to IT assets, including software updates, patches, configuration changes, and infrastructure modifications, following a structured change control process.
  5. Backup and Recovery: Implement backup and recovery procedures to protect against data loss, corruption, and unauthorized access. Regularly back up critical data and systems, and test backup restoration procedures.Example: Configure automated backup schedules for critical databases, files, and systems, ensuring that backup copies are stored securely and can be restored in the event of data loss or system failure.
  6. Protection against malware: Implement detection, prevention and recovery controls to protect against malware, combined with appropriate user awareness training.

Audit of Compliance with Annex A.12

Auditing compliance with Annex A.12 is essential for evaluating an organization’s adherence to operational security requirements. Here’s how the audit process typically unfolds:

  1. Audit Preparation: Gather documentation related to operational security policies, procedures, and controls. Appoint an audit team to facilitate the audit process.
  2. Audit Planning: Define the audit scope, objectives, and criteria. Develop an audit plan outlining activities, timelines, and responsibilities of auditors and auditees.
  3. On-site Audit: Conduct on-site visits to assess implementation of operational security controls. Review documentation, interview personnel, and observe operational practices. Use checklists or assessment tools to evaluate compliance.
  4. Audit Findings: Analyze findings and identify areas of non-compliance or improvement opportunities. Document observations, including strengths and weaknesses in operational security implementation.
  5. Reporting: Prepare an audit report summarizing findings, conclusions, and recommendations for corrective actions. Share with senior management and stakeholders for review and action.
  6. Follow-up: Address audit findings by implementing corrective actions and improvements as recommended. Conduct follow-up audits to verify effectiveness of corrective measures and ensure ongoing compliance.

Conclusion

ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.12 emphasizes the importance of operational security in maintaining the effectiveness, resilience, and integrity of information systems and assets. By implementing robust controls and procedures for risk management, incident response, change control, and backup and recovery, organizations can mitigate risks, protect against security incidents, and ensure business continuity. Regular audits help assess compliance with Annex A.12 requirements and drive continuous improvement in operational security practices.

The post Understanding ISO 27001:2022 Annex A.12 – Operations Security first appeared on Sorin Mustaca on Cybersecurity.