“DHS Council Looks to Streamline Cyber Incident Reporting for Improved Efficiency”

Policy DHS Council Seeks to Simplify Cyber Incident Reporting Rules

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) delivered a 100-page report on Tuesday, outlining recommendations to simplify the complex landscape of cyber incident reporting requirements faced by critical infrastructure operators in the United States. The report, developed by the Cyber Incident Reporting Council, highlights the need for harmonization and streamlining of reporting requirements from multiple federal agencies. This effort is aligned with the larger goal of the Biden administration to develop more effective cyber policies that address the growing threats faced by critical infrastructure.

The Dizzying Landscape of Reporting Requirements

According to the report, critical infrastructure entities currently face 45 active reporting requirements from 22 different federal agencies, with an additional five under consideration. This complex web of requirements poses a significant challenge to harmonization and streamlined reporting. The report urges for the definition of a “reportable cyber incident” to be standardized across agencies and suggests that agencies should examine whether they can adapt to such a definition.

Furthermore, the report highlights the need to simplify the criteria for qualifying an incident, determining the timeline for reporting, and standardizing the reporting process. It recommends that incidents impacting national and economic security and safety should be reported more promptly than the current 72-hour timeline under the Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA). On the other hand, impacts to personal private information may require greater flexibility in reporting.

Challenges and Opportunities for Improvement

The report acknowledges that updating incident reporting rules to align with one another will be a lengthy process, potentially lasting months or even years. This is due to the complexity of existing agency structures and the need for their authority to make such changes. The report also highlights challenges such as the Environmental Protection Agency’s lack of authority to require reporting from utilities.

However, the report also identifies opportunities for improvement. It suggests that agencies should consider delayed public notifications if there is a national security risk associated with public disclosure. Additionally, the report emphasizes the need to improve the process of engaging with victims, ensuring that multiple agencies do not duplicate their requests for information.

Balancing the Need for Information and Industry Burden

CISA Director Jen Easterly underscores the importance of reporting cyber incidents, as it allows for real-time trend analysis, immediate assistance to victims, and the sharing of information to warn potential targets. However, she also acknowledges the need to balance the burden placed on industry with the necessity of reporting. The report recognizes this challenge and recommends that reporting requirements and submission processes be as uniform as possible across sectors.

Internet Security and National Cybersecurity

The efforts to simplify cyber incident reporting requirements align with broader concerns for internet security and national cybersecurity. The dizzying landscape of reporting requirements not only adds complexity for critical infrastructure entities but also creates challenges for federal agencies in effectively responding to threats.

Standardizing reporting requirements will not only streamline the process but also provide a clearer picture of the threat landscape to both the private sector and federal government. This unified reporting requirement will aid in prioritization efforts and enable prompt response to incidents that pose risks to national and economic security.

Editorial: The Need for a Holistic Approach

The report by the Cyber Incident Reporting Council is an important step towards simplifying and harmonizing cyber incident reporting requirements. However, it is crucial to recognize that this is just one piece of the puzzle in enhancing national cybersecurity.

The Biden administration, along with relevant agencies, should take a holistic approach to cybersecurity, addressing not only incident reporting but also proactive measures to prevent cyber threats. This includes investment in advanced technologies, robust cybersecurity training and awareness programs, and international cooperation to combat cybercrime.

Advice for Critical Infrastructure Operators

In light of the potential changes in reporting requirements, critical infrastructure operators should stay updated on the progress of proposed rule-making by CISA. They should proactively engage with industry associations and federal agencies to provide input and ensure that their specific concerns are taken into account.

Furthermore, critical infrastructure operators should continue to invest in robust cybersecurity measures to minimize the risk of cyber incidents. This includes regular security assessments, employee training, and the implementation of the latest cybersecurity technologies.

By working collaboratively with government agencies and industry partners, critical infrastructure operators can play a vital role in strengthening the overall cybersecurity posture of the nation.