PlexTrac ConceptsPrioritization Frameworks

In cybersecurity, prioritization frameworks offer a structured method for evaluating and ranking security risks, enabling organizations to address the most critical threats and vulnerabilities first. These frameworks outline security measures based on the potential impact and likelihood of exploitation. To enhance protection, organizations should perform risk assessments, identify key assets, use risk scoring systems, and select an appropriate framework — like NIST or MITRE ATT&CK® — that best aligns with their needs and infrastructure.

Some of the most common prioritization frameworks are: 

• CIS v8: The CIS Critical Security Controls (CIS v8) is a prioritized framework designed to help organizations quickly improve cybersecurity. It offers a three-tiered approach, allowing businesses of all sizes to implement security controls. Widely used across industries, CIS v8 is flexible but not a substitute for industry-specific compliance requirements.
• CMMC 2.0: The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC 2.0), a cybersecurity requirement established by the U.S. Department of Defense, protects sensitive defense data. It has three certification levels based on NIST standards. Compliance is verified through self-assessments, third-party audits, or government reviews.
• FFIEC: The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) framework helps financial institutions assess and manage cybersecurity risks using its Cybersecurity Assessment Tool (CAT). Compliance requires risk assessments, internal reviews, and ongoing monitoring. Federally supervised financial institutions, like banks and credit unions, must adhere to FFIEC guidelines.
• ISO 27001: ISO 27001 is a globally recognized cybersecurity and data privacy standard that organizations adopt to strengthen security and gain credibility. While not mandatory in the United States, certification requires demonstrating a strong cybersecurity model, staff training, and regular audits.
• NIST 800-53: NIST 800-53 is a comprehensive cybersecurity framework for U.S. federal agencies and contractors, outlining security and privacy controls for information systems. It serves as the foundation for other standards like NIST 800-171 and CMMC, making it valuable for organizations working with the government.
• NIST CSF: The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a flexible framework designed to help organizations develop effective cybersecurity strategies. Based on five core functions—Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover—it is widely used across industries, including aerospace, banking, and technology. While not mandatory, it is a valuable tool for organizations of all sizes.

Using cybersecurity frameworks effectively requires frequent assessments to ensure compliance. Whether your assessments are required for certification or you want to keep in line with best practices, PlexTrac can help streamline the assessment process. PlexTrac’s Assessments Module offers up-to-date questionnaire templates for many standard frameworks and helps you create custom templates for implementation, updates, and integration into your overall pentesting and risk assessment process.

See how to create and deploy simple scoping questionnaires or complex security frameworks like CMMC 2.0 with unparalleled flexibility. Request a demo today. 

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