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FISMA Compliance

Fortify your cyber defences and achieve FISMA compliance seamlessly.

What is the Federal Information Security Modernisation Act (FISMA)?

FISMA is a vital cybersecurity legislation aiming to protect federal information systems and data by setting standards and guidelines for security and risk management.

FISMA compliance in cybersecurity refers to adherence to the mandates set forth by the Act, ensuring that organisations implement robust security measures to protect sensitive data and systems from cyber threats. Compliance involves rigorous assessments, risk management strategies, and adherence to established standards.

The Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) is a critical framework that mandates federal agencies, as well as any organization handling government data, to implement and maintain strong information security programs. Originally passed in 2002 and later amended in 2014, FISMA sets the foundation for securing government information systems against cyber threats, data breaches, and unauthorized access.

 

Achieving FISMA compliance requires organizations to develop, document, and implement a comprehensive information security program that protects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive government data. This includes adhering to security standards and guidelines developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), particularly the NIST SP 800-53 and NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF).

 

Key components of FISMA compliance include:

 

  • Risk Categorization: Classifying systems and data based on impact levels (Low, Moderate, High) to prioritize protection.

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  • Security Controls: Selecting and implementing appropriate controls from NIST SP 800-53 to safeguard systems.

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  • System Security Plan (SSP): Documenting the system’s security controls, policies, and procedures.

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  • Continuous Monitoring: Maintaining situational awareness through regular audits, vulnerability assessments, and real-time monitoring.

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  • Incident Response: Establishing a robust plan to detect, report, and respond to security incidents.

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  • Annual Reporting: Submitting FISMA reports to OMB (Office of Management and Budget) and Congress, including audit findings and compliance status.

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FISMA compliance is not a one-time activity but an ongoing effort to continuously assess and strengthen the security posture of federal systems. For contractors, cloud service providers (CSPs), and third-party vendors working with government agencies, FISMA compliance is often a prerequisite for conducting business with federal entities.

 

By aligning with FISMA, organizations not only meet legal obligations but also build a resilient cybersecurity infrastructure that helps mitigate risks and ensures trust in the handling of government data.

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