The Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA): 10 Key Facts
The Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) is a United States federal law enacted in 2002 to establish a comprehensive framework for protecting federal government information, operations, and assets against cybersecurity threats. Here are 10 key facts you should know about FISMA:
1. FISMA requires federal agencies to adhere to a risk-based approach to information security
FISMA mandates that all federal agencies must adopt a risk-based approach to information security to protect their IT infrastructures, systems, and data. This approach involves identifying and assessing security risks, implementing appropriate security controls, and continuously monitoring and improving the security posture of the agency’s information technology assets.
2. FISMA requires federal agencies to establish and maintain an information security program
FISMA requires federal agencies to establish and maintain an information security program that is aligned with the agency’s mission, goals, and business processes. The program must include policies, procedures, and guidelines to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the agency’s information and information systems.
3. FISMA mandates the development and implementation of security controls
FISMA mandates the development and implementation of security controls to protect federal information and information systems. These controls should be based on risk assessments and include administrative, physical, and technical safeguards that ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information and systems.
4. FISMA requires federal agencies to conduct ongoing risk assessments and security testing
FISMA requires federal agencies to conduct ongoing risk assessments and security testing to identify vulnerabilities and risks to their information systems and take appropriate steps to mitigate them. Agencies must also report security incidents to the appropriate authorities and conduct post-incident analysis to prevent future incidents.
5. FISMA establishes reporting requirements for federal agencies
FISMA establishes reporting requirements for federal agencies to ensure oversight and accountability. Agencies must report their security posture and progress, including their compliance with FISMA requirements, to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and Congress.
6. FISMA requires third-party assessment and authorization of information systems
FISMA mandates that third-party assessments and authorizations (A&A) of information systems be conducted to ensure their security and compliance with FISMA requirements. A&A involves evaluating the security controls of information systems, assessing their risk posture, and providing an authorization to operate (ATO) or denial of authorization (DOA).
7. FISMA sets standards for the security of federal information and information systems
FISMA sets standards for the security of federal information and information systems that federal agencies must meet. These standards include the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publications (SP) that provide guidance on best practices for securing federal information.
8. FISMA applies to all federal agencies and their contractors
FISMA applies to all federal agencies and their contractors that collect, store, process, transmit, or use federal information or operate federal information systems. Contractors must ensure compliance with FISMA requirements and obtain appropriate authorizations to access federal information and information systems.
9. FISMA promotes cybersecurity collaboration between federal agencies and the private sector
FISMA promotes cybersecurity collaboration between federal agencies and the private sector to address cybersecurity threats and share best practices. The law enables federal agencies to adopt standards and technologies developed by the private sector and leverage private sector expertise in cybersecurity.
10. FISMA is subject to ongoing revisions and updates
FISMA is subject to ongoing revisions and updates to keep pace with emerging cybersecurity threats and technologies. Amendments to FISMA include the Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA 2014) and the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act (CISA) of 2015.
Conclusion
FISMA establishes a comprehensive framework for protecting federal information and information systems against cybersecurity threats. Compliance with FISMA requirements enables federal agencies and their contractors to safeguard the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of federal information and information systems. Ongoing risk assessments, security testing, reporting, and collaboration with the private sector are key to addressing emerging threats and ensuring the effectiveness of FISMA.
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