In an age where technology underpins much of our daily lives and critical infrastructure, cybersecurity remains paramount. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has been at the forefront of promoting cybersecurity best practices, and its recently unveiled NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 is a step forward in fortifying our digital defenses.
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework, initially introduced in 2014, has been instrumental in helping organizations across various sectors mitigate cybersecurity risks. As the landscape of cyber threats evolves, it is crucial that the framework evolves with it to remain effective. NIST recognizes this and has worked to develop a draft revision, the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0.
This draft seeks to build on the successes of its predecessor, CSF 1.1, while addressing current and future cybersecurity challenges. Pennsylvania legislators and business owners have a vested interest in the continued enhancement of cybersecurity practices, given the increasing digitization of public services and private industries.
Here’s what you need to know about the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0:
1. Public Input and Feedback: NIST is eager to receive input from stakeholders, including Pennsylvania legislators, on the draft revision. Feedback is being solicited to ensure that the framework addresses current and anticipated cybersecurity challenges, aligns with leading practices, and reflects the insights of the wider community. Your input can help shape the future of cybersecurity in our state and beyond.
2. Implementation Examples and Informative References: The draft includes an updated version of the CSF Core, which serves as the foundation of the framework. Implementation Examples and Informative References are essential components that provide guidance on putting the framework into practice. NIST is seeking input on what types of Examples would be most beneficial and how often they should be updated. This is a unique opportunity for Pennsylvania to contribute valuable insights and resources to the framework.
3. Public Accessibility and Transparency: All comments, including attachments and supporting materials, will be made publicly available on the NIST CSF 2.0 website. This open approach ensures transparency in the framework’s development and allows stakeholders, including our legislative body, to review and learn from the insights shared by others.
4. No Additional Drafts Planned: NIST does not intend to release another draft of CSF 2.0 for comment. Therefore, the feedback submitted by the Pennsylvania legislative body, as well as other stakeholders, will directly influence the final version of CSF 2.0, set to be published in early 2024.
The modifications made between Version 1.1 and this draft are based on a comprehensive collection of community feedback, including responses to discussion drafts, concept papers, in-person working sessions, and workshops attended by thousands from around the world.
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 is a pivotal document that shapes the landscape of cybersecurity not only in Pennsylvania but nationwide. We, as legislators, have a unique opportunity to contribute to this framework, ensuring that it is robust, adaptive, and practical for organizations of all sizes. By engaging with the public draft, we can help foster a more secure digital environment for our state.
As the CSF 2.0 is finalized, the updated Implementation Examples and Informative References will be maintained online on the NIST Cybersecurity Framework website, leveraging the NIST Cybersecurity and Privacy Reference Tool (CPRT). Resource owners and authors who are interested in mapping their resources to the final CSF 2.0 to create Informative References should reach out to NIST.
We encourage you to review the draft and provide your valuable feedback to cyberframework@nist.gov before the deadline on November 6, 2023. Your insights will play a significant role in strengthening cybersecurity practices in Pennsylvania and beyond. Click here for more information →
DVIRC is part of the NIST National Network and is dedicated to the prosperity and success of manufacturers in Southeastern Pennsylvania.