The CIS Controls v8 (Center for Internet Security Controls Version 8) are a comprehensive set of cybersecurity best practices designed to help organizations defend against the most pervasive and dangerous cyber threats. As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to grow in popularity, the need for robust security practices specific to IoT devices has become more urgent. The CIS Controls v8 Internet of Things Companion Guide offers guidance to organizations on how to implement these best practices in the context of IoT. This article will explore key concepts from the companion guide and its relevance to IoT, addressing everything from security challenges to notable changes in the latest version of CIS Controls.
Defining IoT
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of interconnected devices embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies that enable them to collect and exchange data. These devices can range from everyday consumer products like smart thermostats and wearables to complex industrial systems such as factory machinery and automated supply chains. With the rise of IoT, there are significant benefits in terms of efficiency, automation, and data-driven decision-making, but they also introduce new risks. Ensuring the security of these devices and their networks is critical to preventing cyberattacks and protecting sensitive data.
Security Challenges for IoT
IoT security presents unique challenges due to the vast number of devices, their diverse functions, and often limited built-in security features. Many IoT devices were designed without considering cybersecurity at the forefront, leading to vulnerabilities. These challenges include:
- Device Authentication and Authorization: Ensuring that devices are authenticated and authorized to join the network is critical to prevent unauthorized access.
- Data Privacy: IoT devices often collect sensitive data, such as personal health information or business-critical data. Ensuring that this data is protected from interception or misuse is essential.
- Software and Firmware Updates: Many IoT devices lack a secure and seamless way to update software and firmware, making them susceptible to exploitation if vulnerabilities are found.
- Insecure Communications: Many IoT devices communicate over unsecured protocols, which can be intercepted or manipulated by cybercriminals.
- Resource Constraints: Many IoT devices are resource-constrained in terms of processing power, memory, and battery life, which can limit the implementation of robust security measures.
What Is the Center for Internet Security (CIS)?
The Center for Internet Security (CIS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the cybersecurity posture of organizations across the globe. CIS provides a set of globally recognized best practices, including the CIS Controls, which are a prioritized set of cybersecurity actions that organizations can implement to protect themselves against common threats. The goal of CIS is to help organizations defend against the most prevalent and impactful cybersecurity risks by providing them with actionable, practical guidance.
SecureSuite Membership
To support organizations in their cybersecurity efforts, CIS offers the SecureSuite Membership. This membership provides access to a range of resources, including tools, templates, training materials, and direct consultation. By becoming a SecureSuite member, organizations gain the support they need to implement the CIS Controls effectively, including guidance specific to the IoT security landscape.
What are CIS Controls v8?
The CIS Controls v8 are a set of 18 cybersecurity controls that organizations can implement to defend against the most common and impactful cyberattacks. These controls focus on areas such as inventory management, vulnerability management, access control, and data protection. CIS Controls v8 is updated from the previous versions to address evolving cybersecurity threats and ensure that organizations remain protected.
What are the 18 Controls from CIS Version 8?
CIS Controls v8 consists of 18 specific actions that organizations can implement to strengthen their security posture. These include:
- Inventory and Control of Enterprise Assets
- Inventory and Control of Software Assets
- Data Protection
- Controlled Use of Administrative Privileges
- Secure Configuration for Hardware and Software
- Maintenance, Monitoring, and Analysis of Audit Logs
- Email and Web Browser Protections
- Malware Defenses
- Limitation and Control of Network Ports
- Data Recovery Capability
- Secure Configuration for Network Devices
- Boundary Defense
- Data Protection
- Security Awareness and Skills Training
- Application Software Security
- Incident Response Management
- Penetration Testing
- Security Management and Governance
How is the CIS Controls v8 Document Structured?
The CIS Controls v8 document is structured around 18 distinct controls, each focused on a critical area of cybersecurity. These controls are divided into three categories:
- Basic Controls: These are foundational and cover essential security measures like inventory management and secure configurations.
- Foundational Controls: These build on the basic controls and address areas like vulnerability management and access control.
- Organizational Controls: These focus on more strategic areas, such as security governance and incident response.
Each control includes a description, a series of recommended actions, and guidance for implementation. The document is intended to be practical and adaptable to various organizational needs, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.
How to Change the Name of the Document
To change the name of a document, including the CIS Controls v8, you can follow a standard process of editing the title in the document’s metadata or directly within the document itself. However, this should only be done if it doesn’t alter the meaning or context of the original document. Modifications to the document should be done with care to avoid confusion or the misrepresentation of the controls.
What are the Notable Changes to CIS Controls v8?
CIS Controls v8 introduced several important updates that better address modern cybersecurity challenges. Some notable changes include:
- Updated IoT Focus: With the increasing use of connected devices, there is now a greater emphasis on securing IoT devices and networks.
- Increased Focus on Cloud Security: As more organizations move their operations to the cloud, the CIS Controls v8 has enhanced focus on securing cloud environments.
- Task-Based Approach: The controls now focus on specific tasks to be completed rather than specific people carrying them out. This shift is designed to improve clarity and allow for greater flexibility in implementation.
- Simplified Terminology: CIS has simplified the language used in the document to make it more accessible for a wider audience, including non-technical stakeholders.
Task-Based Focus Regardless of Who Executes Controls
A significant shift in CIS Controls v8 is the emphasis on task-based actions instead of focusing on who executes them. This change reflects the idea that security tasks can be performed by anyone in an organization, regardless of their role or department. This approach aims to foster greater collaboration and make the implementation of security measures more flexible and efficient.
Hardening Embedded Technology
As IoT devices often include embedded systems, hardening these systems against attack is crucial. This includes ensuring secure coding practices, applying firmware updates, and performing regular vulnerability assessments to reduce the risk of exploitation.
Focus on the Future
CIS Controls v8 also emphasizes the need to future-proof security measures. As the technology landscape evolves, organizations must anticipate new threats and adapt their security practices accordingly. The guide encourages staying informed about emerging risks and continuously updating security policies and tools.
Bringing the CIS Controls to Mobile Environments
With mobile devices becoming an integral part of the IoT ecosystem, CIS Controls v8 provides guidance on securing mobile environments. This includes managing mobile device inventories, implementing secure configurations, and using mobile threat defense solutions to safeguard personal and organizational data.
Device Management Styles
CIS Controls v8 introduces various device management approaches to accommodate different types of IoT deployments. This includes strategies like bring-your-own-device (BYOD) and corporate-owned, personally enabled (COPE) models. Each approach requires unique security measures tailored to the specific needs of the organization.
Security on the Go
As IoT devices increasingly enable mobility, securing them when they’re on the move presents unique challenges. CIS Controls v8 addresses these challenges by advocating for the use of secure communication protocols, encryption, and robust authentication mechanisms to protect data in transit.
CIS Critical Security Controls Version 8
The CIS Critical Security Controls Version 8 is a highly recommended framework for improving cybersecurity across organizations. By following these best practices, businesses can reduce their risk profile and improve their resilience to cyberattacks. It’s an essential resource for both traditional IT systems and IoT deployments.
Conclusion
In an increasingly connected world, the security of IoT devices has never been more critical. The CIS Controls v8 Internet of Things Companion Guide provides a comprehensive roadmap for organizations looking to strengthen their cybersecurity posture in the face of growing IoT risks. From defining IoT and highlighting security challenges to addressing the notable updates in the latest version of the CIS Controls, this guide offers practical advice for organizations of all sizes.
The emphasis on task-based controls, the integration of cloud security practices, and the new focus on securing mobile and embedded technologies ensure that CIS Controls v8 is a forward-thinking resource that keeps pace with the rapidly evolving threat landscape. By implementing these controls, organizations can better manage their IoT deployments, protect sensitive data, and reduce their vulnerability to cyberattacks.
As IoT continues to grow, adopting the CIS Controls v8 framework will help organizations stay ahead of cyber threats, future-proof their security measures, and ensure that their IoT environments are secure, resilient, and aligned with best practices. Embracing these controls is not just a strategic decision—it’s a necessity in maintaining the security and integrity of our increasingly interconnected digital world.
