Cybersecurity Modernization

CASE STUDY
One of ClearFocus federal clients wanted to modernize their existing cybersecurity program since the organization was not able to address several federally mandated security requirements.

Additionally, new standards like the Risk Management Framework (RMF) require new processes, technology and approaches to meet the NIST SP 800-37 requirements. ClearFocus staff conducted a review of applicable law, regulations, policy, and agency requirements to determine gaps in the existing cybersecurity program.

PROCESS

We began with Assessment and Authorization (A&A) processes, automating significant portions of the Risk Management Framework (RMF) which reduced the time to complete A&A activities by 50%. We developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to support the RMF, and deployed security tools and queries, reports and dashboards to support the NIST 800-137 Continuous Monitoring requirement. Additionally, we implemented a common control strategy which reduced the time to accredit individual systems by leveraging inherited controls common to the operating environment. ClearFocus also reviewed the existing security architecture, rationalizing the existing tools and security sensors to ensure maximum coverage, while reducing duplicative solutions.

RESULT

As a result, ClearFocus recommended the retirement of some existing security solutions, while recommending new “best in class” solutions to function as a cohesive security architecture. ClearFocus recommended, deployed, and maintained all the client’s security tools including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, Security Information and Event Management software (SIEM), security orchestration tools, malware detection, vulnerability management, and cyber threat detection. By taking a holistic approach to the client’s security architecture, discovery of incidents and anomalous activity increased by 40% and critical vulnerabilities were reduced by 65%.

Case Studies.

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Industrial Control Systems

Industrial Control Systems (ICS) that support our nation’s critical infrastructure and manufacturing are vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Our nation’s energy grid, chemical plants, water treatment plants, manufacturing plants and other public and private sectors that use cyber physical systems have been the target of cyber-attacks in recent years, and these systems, if compromised, can cause serious harm and even loss of life. 

Cybersecurity Modernization

One of ClearFocus federal clients wanted to modernize their existing cybersecurity program since the organization was not able to address several federally mandated security requirements. Additionally, new standards like the Risk Management Framework (RMF) require new processes, technology and approaches to meet the NIST SP 800-37 requirements.

SOC Operations

A ClearFocus client had recently formed a Security Operations Center (SOC) but was struggling with the roles, responsibilities and procedures to run an effective SOC.

Establishing a Threat Defense Life Cycle

Cyber threats and the sophistication of cyber-attacks continue to increase. Yet, today’s cyber defenses may not be adequate to stop tomorrow’s cyber-attack. By now, most enterprises have invested in cyber defenses, deploying a myriad of cybersecurity tools to protect their information assets…but have they really reduced the risk of breach?

Industrial Control Systems

Industrial Control Systems (ICS) that support our nation’s critical infrastructure and manufacturing are vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Our nation’s energy grid, chemical plants, water treatment plants, manufacturing plants and other public and private sectors that use cyber physical systems have been the target of cyber-attacks in recent years, and these systems, if compromised, can cause serious harm and even loss of life. 

Cybersecurity Modernization

One of ClearFocus federal clients wanted to modernize their existing cybersecurity program since the organization was not able to address several federally mandated security requirements. Additionally, new standards like the Risk Management Framework (RMF) require new processes, technology and approaches to meet the NIST SP 800-37 requirements.

SOC Operations

A ClearFocus client had recently formed a Security Operations Center (SOC) but was struggling with the roles, responsibilities and procedures to run an effective SOC.

Establishing a Threat Defense Life Cycle

Cyber threats and the sophistication of cyber-attacks continue to increase. Yet, today’s cyber defenses may not be adequate to stop tomorrow’s cyber-attack. By now, most enterprises have invested in cyber defenses, deploying a myriad of cybersecurity tools to protect their information assets…but have they really reduced the risk of breach?