CISA, FBI, DHS unveil cybersecurity tips for community organizations

TLDR:

• CISA, FBI, and DHS have released a comprehensive guide to bolster cybersecurity for civil society organizations facing state-sponsored cyber threats.
• The guide provides practical steps to enhance digital defenses for nonprofits, advocacy groups, academic institutions, journalists, and other high-risk groups.

Summary:

CISA, in coordination with DHS, FBI, and international cybersecurity entities, has unveiled a detailed guide aimed at strengthening cybersecurity for civil society organizations, particularly those at risk from state-sponsored cyber threats. The guide, titled “Mitigating Cyber Threats with Limited Resources: Guidance for Civil Society,” offers actionable steps to improve digital defenses for nonprofits, advocacy groups, academic institutions, journalists, and other high-risk organizations.

The security guide emphasizes proactive measures and best practices tailored to the unique challenges faced by civil society groups, such as regular software updates, multi-factor authentication, and implementing the principle of least privilege. It also stresses the importance of cybersecurity training, vendor selection diligence, and incident response planning.

The release of this security guidance highlights a broader initiative to empower high-risk communities with the knowledge and tools needed to combat cyber threats. Through international collaboration and partnerships with entities from Canada, Estonia, Japan, and the United Kingdom, the effectiveness of these initiatives is further enhanced.

Government agencies and cybersecurity organizations worldwide are joining forces to support civil society against online threats. By equipping organizations with the capacity to defend against cyber intrusions, entities dedicated to human rights and democracy can operate securely. The guide also provides valuable insights into the tactics and techniques employed by state-sponsored actors, enabling organizations to make informed decisions regarding cybersecurity investments and resource allocation.

In addition to the guidance document, a range of resources and tools are available to assist high-risk communities in enhancing their cyber defenses. Through collective efforts and ongoing collaboration, the global community can build a more resilient and secure cyber environment for all.