Strengthening the cybersecurity of federal networks: Beyond financial investment

Government Defending Federal Networks Requires More Than Money, CSIS Study Finds

A recent study conducted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) reveals that the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) needs more than just financial investment to effectively protect federal networks. The study examined CISA’s role in safeguarding over 100 federal civilian executive branch agencies from criminal and state-backed hackers.

Deficiencies in Resources and Authorities

The study highlights the need for additional resources to enhance CISA’s continuous diagnostics and mitigation program, which provides tools and services to help agencies defend themselves against cyberattacks. It recommends a more predictable and flexible funding structure for this program. Furthermore, the report suggests that Congress should fund and formalize the Joint Collaborative Environment and establish a cyber statistics program for anonymized incidents and vulnerabilities.

The study also emphasizes the importance of clearly defining CISA’s roles and responsibilities as the lead agency for federal network defense. It recommends that Congress should harmonize incident reporting and designate CISA as the primary agency for government and agency reports of major incidents. Additionally, CISA must find effective ways to engage in discussions on misinformation and disinformation, given the role these issues have played in previous elections.

The Limitations of Money

While financial investment is crucial, the study emphasizes that it is not enough to defend federal networks adequately. The U.S. government must improve its planning, coordination, and communication regarding the risks associated with cyberattacks targeting federal executive agencies.

Ben Jensen, the lead author of the report, suggests that CISA should expand its advisory role by providing teams that can assist civilian agencies in balancing short-term objectives with long-term risks. Defending the .gov websites involves a diverse range of services required by different agencies, each with their unique network needs. For example, the disruption of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments or manipulation of economic statistics could have severe consequences for the American people.

A Longstanding Issue

The report acknowledges that policymakers have struggled to allocate resources effectively to protect civilian agencies for nearly two decades. However, both the Trump and Biden administrations have made significant changes to federal cybersecurity policy with the establishment of CISA and the National Cyber Director.

This study, which included the participation of influential members of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, involved interviews with federal and private chief information security officers, as well as expert tabletop exercises and public consultations. The findings shed light on the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to strengthening government defense against cyber threats.

Editorial: Addressing the Complex Challenges of Federal Network Defense

The CSIS study reveals the critical gaps in resources, authorities, and communication that exist in protecting federal networks. Its recommendations provide a roadmap for addressing these challenges and improving the overall cybersecurity posture of the U.S. government.

Unpredictable Funding and Resource Allocation

One of the key issues highlighted in the report is the need for a more predictable and flexible funding structure for CISA’s continuous diagnostics and mitigation program. Cybersecurity is an ongoing battle, and agencies must have the necessary resources to adapt and respond to evolving threats. Congress should carefully consider the recommendations to ensure consistent and sufficient funding for these vital programs.

Coordinated Incident Reporting and Response

The report underscores the importance of harmonizing incident reporting and designating CISA as the lead agency for government and agency reports of major incidents. This centralization of reporting and incident response can streamline coordination efforts and ensure a more effective and efficient response to cyber threats. Congress should act swiftly to enact these recommendations into law.

Tackling Disinformation and Misinformation

Considering the significant impact of disinformation campaigns on previous elections, the study rightly emphasizes the need for CISA to engage in discussions on misinformation and disinformation. A comprehensive understanding of these tactics is essential for developing effective strategies to counter them. The recommended study of cyber-enabled disinformation campaigns is an important first step in this direction.

Long-Term Planning and Risk Mitigation

Protecting federal networks is a complex task that requires a delicate balance between short-term objectives and long-term risks. The report’s suggestion of sending teams to assist civilian agencies in this process is commendable. CISA can play a crucial role in guiding agencies on risk mitigation strategies and ensuring that the nation’s critical infrastructure and services remain secure.

Advice: Prioritizing Federal Network Defense

The findings of the CSIS study should serve as a wake-up call for the U.S. government to prioritize the defense of federal networks. While financial investment is necessary, it is not sufficient. To effectively protect against cyber threats, the government must take a comprehensive approach that addresses the following key areas:

Elevating Cybersecurity as a National Priority

The government must recognize that cybersecurity is not just a technical issue but a national security imperative. It should allocate adequate resources, establish clear mandates, and engage in strategic partnerships with the private sector to strengthen federal network defenses.

Improving Information Sharing and Collaboration

The report underscores the need for better communication and coordination among stakeholders. Agencies must share information and best practices to enable a more proactive defense posture. The government should establish platforms and mechanisms that facilitate collaboration, information sharing, and collective defense against cyber threats.

Investing in Cybersecurity Education and Workforce Development

Cybersecurity skills are in high demand, and the government must invest in training and education to build a robust cybersecurity workforce. This includes attracting top talent, providing ongoing professional development opportunities, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and best practices across federal agencies.

Adopting a Risk-Based Approach

The government should prioritize risks and allocate resources accordingly. It must assess the criticality of systems and data, identify vulnerabilities, and proactively implement measures to mitigate cyber risks. This includes regular assessments, audits, and testing to ensure the effectiveness of security measures.

In conclusion, defending federal networks requires a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond financial investment. The CSIS study provides valuable insights and recommendations that should guide policymakers in strengthening the nation’s cybersecurity defenses. It is imperative that the U.S. government take immediate action to address the deficiencies highlighted in the report and prioritize the protection of federal networks.