Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA)

 

The Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) is a United States federal law that established a comprehensive framework for protecting the security of government information, operations, and assets. It was enacted in 2002 as part of the Electronic Government Act, and it requires federal agencies to develop, document, and implement an information security program to protect their information and systems.

FISMA sets out specific requirements for federal agencies to manage and secure their information systems, including conducting risk assessments, developing and implementing security plans, providing security awareness training for employees, and monitoring and testing the effectiveness of security controls.

FISMA also mandates annual reporting by federal agencies to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on the status of their information security programs. The reports include the results of security assessments and the agency's plans for addressing any identified vulnerabilities or weaknesses.

Overall, FISMA is intended to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of government information and systems, and to promote a consistent approach to information security across all federal agencies.

The Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) requires federal agencies to implement a comprehensive set of cybersecurity controls to protect their information systems and data. The controls are based on guidance from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and are organized into three categories: management, operational, and technical.

Here are some examples of the cybersecurity controls that federal agencies should have in place to comply with FISMA:

1. Management Controls: These controls involve policies, procedures, and guidelines that help ensure that the agency's information security program is effective and well-managed. Examples include:

• Conducting periodic risk assessments to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities.
• Developing and implementing security plans that align with agency mission objectives.
• Ensuring that personnel are trained and aware of their security responsibilities.
• Establishing incident response and reporting procedures.

2. Operational Controls: These controls involve day-to-day activities that help protect the agency's information and systems. Examples include:

• Limiting access to sensitive information to authorized personnel only.
• Conducting background checks on employees and contractors who have access to sensitive information.
• Ensuring that all software and hardware are up to date with the latest security patches.
• Monitoring network traffic and logs for suspicious activity.

3. Technical Controls: These controls involve technology-based measures that help prevent unauthorized access to the agency's information systems. Examples include:

• Installing firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and antivirus software.
• Enforcing strong password policies and using multi-factor authentication.
• Encrypting sensitive data in transit and at rest.
• Conducting regular vulnerability scans and penetration testing.

Overall, compliance with FISMA requires a holistic approach to information security that involves people, processes, and technology. It requires a continuous effort to identify, assess, and mitigate risks to the agency's information and systems.