Understanding CISA’s New Cybersecurity Incident Reporting Framework

In an era where cyber threats loom large, the Cybersecurity Division (CSD) within the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is taking significant steps to enhance the nation’s cybersecurity posture. Recently, CISA issued a 60-day Federal Register notice regarding an Information Collection Request (ICR) aimed at refining how cybersecurity incidents are reported and managed across federal agencies and beyond. This initiative is not just a bureaucratic formality; it represents a critical evolution in how the federal government addresses cybersecurity challenges.

The Purpose of the Information Collection Request

The ICR serves multiple purposes, collecting cybersecurity incident reports related to federal agency information systems, mandatory reports on behalf of certain federal regulatory agencies, and voluntary reports from the public. This new collection request is a replacement for an existing framework and is authorized under the Federal Information Security Modernization Act of 2014 (FISMA) and the Homeland Security Act. It aims to streamline incident reporting processes and improve the quality of data collected, ultimately enhancing the federal government’s ability to respond to cyber threats.

Distinction from CIRCIA Reporting

It is essential to note that this ICR is distinct from the incident reporting requirements outlined in the Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act (CIRCIA). While both frameworks aim to bolster cybersecurity, they operate under different mandates and will utilize separate information collection instruments. CISA is committed to ensuring that the data collected under this ICR will enrich the analytical capabilities of incident reporting and information sharing, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the cybersecurity landscape.

Encouraging Public Participation

CISA is actively seeking input from the public regarding this ICR. Comments are encouraged and will be accepted until December 6, 2024. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is particularly interested in evaluating the necessity of the proposed information collection, the accuracy of the agency’s burden estimates, and ways to enhance the clarity and utility of the information collected. This open dialogue is crucial, as it allows stakeholders to contribute to the development of a more effective incident reporting framework.

CISA’s Role in Cybersecurity Incident Management

CISA plays a pivotal role in coordinating responses to cybersecurity incidents that may originate from within or outside the federal community. The agency utilizes information from incident reports to develop actionable intelligence, which is then disseminated to federal departments, state and local governments, critical infrastructure owners, and private industry. This collaborative approach is vital for effective incident management, as it fosters information sharing among various stakeholders.

According to FISMA, CISA operates the Federal Information Security Incident Center, where federal agencies are required to notify and consult with CISA regarding information security incidents. The agency provides technical assistance, guidance, and intelligence on current and potential threats, ensuring that federal entities are well-equipped to handle cybersecurity challenges.

The Incident Reporting Portal

CISA’s website serves as a primary platform for constituents to report incident information and access various resources. The current Incident Reporting Portal is designed to facilitate the submission of incident reports, with a dynamic question flow tailored to the characteristics of the reporting entity and the nature of the incident. This user-centric approach ensures that respondents are only prompted to answer relevant questions, streamlining the reporting process.

The new ICR will replace the existing Incident Reporting Form, introducing significant changes to the questions asked. The revised question set aims to enhance the quality of data collected, allowing for more effective analysis and response strategies.

Economic Impact and Burden Estimates

CISA has assessed that the collection of information will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. With an estimated 26,000 respondents, the burden hour estimate for initial reports is approximately 52,000 hours, with an additional 146,250 hours for subsequent updates. The annual burden cost is projected to be around $8.87 million, with the government incurring costs of approximately $4.35 million.

Aligning with Broader Cybersecurity Initiatives

This ICR is part of a broader strategy to enhance federal cybersecurity, as evidenced by CISA’s recent release of the Federal Civilian Executive Branch (FCEB) Operational Cybersecurity Alignment (FOCAL) Plan. This plan emphasizes operational cybersecurity, focusing on daily activities and processes that organizations use to defend their data and information systems. By aligning incident reporting with these broader initiatives, CISA aims to create a more cohesive and effective cybersecurity framework.

Conclusion

CISA’s new ICR represents a significant step forward in the federal government’s approach to cybersecurity incident reporting. By refining the collection process and encouraging public participation, CISA aims to enhance the quality and utility of the data collected, ultimately improving the nation’s cybersecurity posture. As cyber threats continue to evolve, initiatives like this are essential for fostering resilience and ensuring that both federal agencies and the public are equipped to respond effectively to incidents.

Anna Ribeiro
Industrial Cyber News Editor
Anna Ribeiro is a freelance journalist with over 14 years of experience in the areas of security, data storage, virtualization, and IoT.
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