Information Security Publication Comparison: Chart comparing major sections of the USPS Handbook AS-805 – Information Security to NIST Special Publications; 800-12, 800-14, 800-18, 800-26, and 800-30.
Computer Incident Response Teams (CIRTs or IRTs) play a crucial role in information security incident response. An effective Incident Response Policy is essential for guiding the team in handling incidents and ensuring a coordinated and efficient response. This policy should outline the steps, tasks, and procedures that need to be followed during incident response. It covers various aspects, including communication, escalation, incident tracking, reporting and documentation, investigation checklists, remediation checklists, evidence collection, forensics investigation, data retention, and more. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of proper security architecture, baselines, and processes for incident identification. It also highlights the containment, eradication, and recovery phases of incident response, emphasizing the need for caution, evidence gathering, problem correction, and system restoration. By following a well-defined incident response policy and learning from each incident, organizations can improve their incident response capabilities and better protect their systems and data.
These attacks can occur when data enters a Web application through an untrusted source, or data is included in dynamic content that is sent to a web user without being validated for malicious content. Malicious content can be JavaScript, but may also be HTML
Roles play a crucial role in enhancing database security by granting and denying permissions to groups of users based on their job responsibilities. By effectively managing user access and privileges, roles reduce the security workload for administrators. This article explores the concept of roles in database security, including their benefits, types, and assignment methods. Discover how roles can streamline user access management, improve data protection, and contribute to a more secure database environment.
Media sanitization is a critical process that organizations must undertake when retiring or repurposing information systems. The goal is to ensure that sensitive data stored on media remains protected throughout the retirement process. NIST Special Publication 800-88 provides valuable guidance on media sanitization, emphasizing the need to safeguard the confidentiality of recorded information. There are two primary types of media: hard copy and electronic. Each requires specific measures to render data inaccessible. The process of sanitizing media involves three categories: Clear, Purge, and Destroy. Clear employs logical techniques to protect against simple data recovery methods, while Purge utilizes physical or logical techniques to make data recovery infeasible. Destroy involves techniques that deform or destroy the media, preventing any future use for data storage. Cryptographic Erase (CE) is an effective method when encryption is involved, rendering the data unrecoverable without the encryption key. Physical destruction techniques such as bending, drilling, cutting, shredding, and thermal destruction provide a robust defense against data recovery. By following these guidelines, organizations can effectively protect the confidentiality of sensitive information throughout the retirement process, mitigating the risks associated with data exposure and unauthorized access.
Developing an Effective Red Team is crucial for organizations to assess and improve the security of their systems. Penetration testing, or pen-testing, allows simulated attacks to identify vulnerabilities and exploits. However, it requires skilled individuals who can think like attackers and bypass controls effectively. A qualified Red Team must have technical expertise, a malicious mindset, and proficiency in penetration testing tools. The Red Team leader should possess both technical knowledge and business acumen to identify opportunities and quantify threats. With an effective Red Team in place, organizations can uncover vulnerabilities and enhance their system’s security against real-world attacks
Measurement and metrics play a crucial role in improving the security characteristics of software during the development process. This article explores the importance of security metrics and provides guidance on software measurement and analysis based on industry standards such as ISO/IEC 15939 and CMMI. It highlights the key practices for aligning measurement objectives with organizational goals and performing effective measurement and analysis activities. The article emphasizes the significance of addressing security concerns throughout the measurement process and offers insights into formulating measurement objectives to achieve security requirements. Additionally, it provides examples of analytical questions that can help assess vulnerabilities, compliance with security processes, and the identification of critical modules. By implementing these measurement practices, organizations can enhance their software development process to effectively incorporate security requirements. The article emphasizes the need for simplicity in measurements while meeting the information needs of the stakeholders
Securing the Administrator Account in Microsoft Windows Systems is of utmost importance to ensure the overall security of the system. The Administrator account holds extensive privileges and access rights, making it a prime target for attackers. This article explores the significance of securing the Administrator account and provides practical security measures to protect it. Learn how to implement strong passwords, secure remote control settings, disable or rename the account, and take precautions in Active Directory environments. By following these best practices, organizations can enhance the security posture of their Microsoft Windows systems and mitigate potential risks associated with the Administrator account
Explore the significance of patch management in enhancing system security and protecting against malicious attacks. Learn about the essential processes involved in effective patch management, including auditing, patch identification, testing, approval, deployment, verification, and compliance management. Discover how a formal patch management system, preferably automated, can help organizations safeguard their Microsoft-based systems and maintain a secure production environment.
Leadership plays a critical role in information security within organizations. This article explores the importance of leadership in promoting security practices and the role of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) in advocating for a security-conscious culture. It emphasizes the need for leaders to lead by example, adhere to security policies, and actively engage in staff training and development. The key characteristics and responsibilities of a CISO are discussed, including risk articulation, communication skills, and promoting a security-aware culture. The article concludes by highlighting the shared responsibility for information security across the organization and the significance of integrating security measures at all levels.