FISMA and Data Protection
The Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) was designed to improve oversight of federal information security activities and provide a framework for making sure that information security controls are effective.
FISMA defines information security as protecting IT systems to provide confidentiality, integrity, and availability. IT systems must be protected from unauthorized use, access, disruption, modification, and destruction.
Answer the following question(s):
Post 1-2 paragraph response to one of the following questions
What is the relationship between FISMA and sensitive but unclassified data on federal systems?
2. Agree or Disagree? Why or Why not?
1. What is the relationship between FISMA and sensitive but unclassified data on federal systems?
The relationship between the Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) and sensitive but unclassified data on federal systems is crucial in ensuring the protection and confidentiality of government information. “FISMA establishes a framework for federal agencies to develop, implement, and manage their information security programs. It requires agencies to categorize their information systems based on the impact level of the data they process, store, or transmit” (CISA). Sensitive but unclassified data refers to information that is not classified but still requires protection due to its sensitivity. This can include personally identifiable information, financial data, proprietary information, and other sensitive information. FISMA mandates agencies to identify and assess the risks associated with their sensitive but unclassified data and implement appropriate security controls to safeguard it. For example, an agency handling citizens’ healthcare information must comply with FISMA requirements to protect the confidentiality and integrity of that data by implementing access controls, encryption, and regular security assessments. Overall, FISMA plays a crucial role in ensuring the security of sensitive but unclassified data on federal systems by providing a comprehensive framework and guidelines for agencies to follow.
Reference:
CISA. (2014). Federal Information Security Modernization Act | CISA. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency CISA. https://www.cisa.gov/topics/cyber-threats-and-advisories/federal-information-security-modernization-act