Picking the right security framework is important to protect your organization’s sensitive information and systems. With so many threats and regulations to think about, it’s important to have a plan in place to reduce risks and meet compliance requirements.
A security framework provides step-by-step guidelines to help you manage risks, set up security systems, and meet legal and industry standards. Frameworks like NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISO 27001, and CIS Controls are commonly used to help organizations improve security and monitor risks effectively.
If you’re new to the idea of security frameworks, it may be helpful to think about it as a structure that supports securing your digital assets and information.
However, choosing the right framework can be tricky because it depends on factors like the size of your business, the industry you work in, and the type of risks you face.
This guide will help you choose the framework that works best for your business and show you how to put it into practice effectively.
*Spoiler alert–
There is no one-size-fits-all solution regarding information security frameworks and guidelines. No option exists that will solve all your risk mitigation and security problems or even a narrow slice of them- on its own. People must operationalize it. If you need support with this, we can help, but let’s start with an understanding of where to begin.
4 Steps to choose the best information security framework for your business.
There are 4 primary steps that you need to take to align the right information security framework with your organization’s unique customer and business outcomes.
Step 1: Understand which information security framework best aligns with your needs
If you’re new to the idea of security frameworks, it may be helpful to think about it as a structure that supports securing your digital assets and information. There are many types of information security frameworks for different purposes, but (at the risk of overgeneralizing) each is essentially a system of guidelines and best practices that will help you keep your organization secure. Depending on your industry, sector, business domain, and organizational profile, here are the most common industry-recognized frameworks to consider.
NIST Cybersecurity Framework (NIST CSF)
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) developed NIST CSF to manage cybersecurity risk by providing standards, guidelines, and best practices to identify, protect, detect, and respond to cybersecurity threats. NIST CSF covers critical infrastructure, but it has proven flexible enough for deployment by various companies across all industry sectors.
NIST 800-53
As part of the NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF), NIST 800-53 is a set of procedures and criteria for assessing and documenting threats and vulnerabilities. NIST 800-53 provides direction for implementing security measures to minimize the risk of adverse information security events.
ANSI/ISA 62443
ISA 62443 is a series of standards, technical reports, and related information that defines procedures for implementing electronically secure Industrial Automation and Control Systems. This applies to industrial communication networks, secure networks, embedded devices, and other relevant applications.
ISO 27000/27001
ISO 27001 is an international standard and can be used by internal and external parties to assess the organization’s ability to meet the organization’s information security requirements.
OWASP
Open Web Application Security Project is a worldwide not-for-profit organization focused on improving the security of web applications. OWASP publishes the OWASP TOP 10, an awareness document for web application security.
CIS
The Center for Internet Security (CIS) Controls are a prioritized set of actions aligned with the latest cyber threat data. CIS controls are useful for any organization in improving its cybersecurity posture.
COBIT
The COBIT framework assists in the governance and management of enterprise IT with guidance and benchmarks.
CSA
The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) offers security guidance to improve security and mitigate risk in adopting cloud computing technologies.
Step 2: Consider industry standards
Depending on your scenario, there may be specific industry standards that you need to consider based on your product, service, and/or business operations.
FedRAMP
FedRAMP is a standardized approach to security assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring of cloud products and services for cloud service providers (CSPs) working with US government agencies.
PCI
The Payment Card Industry (PCI) Security Standards Council is a global forum that creates security standards for payment account security. It maintains, updates, and promotes the Payment Card Industry Security Standards and provides tools for implementing them.
Step 3: Review laws and regulations
Some industries have clear regulatory requirements that must be adhered to, often requiring validation by audit or certification for ongoing compliance. But even if your business isn’t subject to specific regulations, it can be helpful to maintain an awareness of different regulatory requirements if your customers reside in specific geographic areas or you do business with a partner who does.
For example, effective risk management plays a crucial role in ensuring your organization meets these regulatory needs while reducing exposure to threats. Learn more about how to identify and address risks on our Risk Management page.
California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)
Consumers have the right to receive details about personal information collected about them. CCPA protects the constitutional right to privacy by giving consumers more control over the personal information businesses collect about them, including sources and third parties with which the information is shared. CCPA also requires businesses to give consumers certain notices explaining their privacy practices.
HIPAA
Did you know HIPAA stands for Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act? (No? You’re welcome.) This legislation was passed by the United States in 1996. It provides health information privacy and security provisions for the protection of patients.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
The European Union General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) provides privacy protection to EU citizens as a fundamental right, allowing the individual to direct how their personal data may and may not be used and directing companies in providing such protections.
SOX
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act is a United States Act to protect investors by improving the accuracy and reliability of corporate financial reporting.
Step 4: Evaluate and consider
Once you choose a framework, it’s important to start using it right away. This might involve setting up systems for business activity monitoring, training your team with secure development training, or making a plan to respond to ransomware attacks.
You’ll also need tools like identity management software or project management systems to support your team in following the framework properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to implement an information security framework?
The time required depends on your organization’s size and complexity. Smaller businesses might take a few weeks, while larger enterprises could need several months to fully implement a framework like ISO 27001 or NIST CSF.
What are the costs involved in implementing a security framework?
Costs vary depending on the framework and resources needed. Common expenses include training, technology upgrades, and consulting services. Frameworks like CIS Controls can be cost-effective for smaller organizations.
Is it necessary to hire a consultant to implement a framework?
Hiring a consultant can streamline the process and provide expert guidance, but it’s not always necessary. Businesses with in-house IT expertise may be able to implement frameworks independently, especially for less complex frameworks.
How often should we review and update our security framework?
It’s recommended to review your framework at least annually or after major organizational changes, such as adopting new technologies or expanding into new markets. Regular reviews ensure your security practices remain effective against evolving threats.
Conclusion
No single framework is a perfect solution, but the right one can help improve your organization’s security. Whether you’re preparing for IT disaster recovery, creating a zero trust roadmap, or training your team on new tools, choosing the right framework makes a big difference.
Kalles Group has walked this path with many of our clients, and we can bring enterprise company concepts into the right-sized solutions for your organization. We can help you reach the next level of maturity by simplifying these concepts to internalize, action, and improve your cybersecurity posture.
If you need help talking through your scenario with an expert, or if there is more you’d like to see addressed in this article, contact us today.