## Navigating the Shifting Sands of Cybersecurity: What MSPs Need to Know About the CISA Reorg The cybersecurity landscape is in constant flux, and recent shifts in the US government’s approach are creating both challenges and opportunities for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). This week, we dissected the implications of these changes, specifically focusing on the potential impacts of CISA’s refocus and the broader cybersecurity industry. **The Changing Tide: CISA’s New Priorities and the “Department of Government Efficiency”** The current administration’s approach seems to be one of “cutting first, asking questions later.” This has led to potential funding cuts and reorganization within CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency), impacting programs like the Election Infrastructure ISAC and the MS-ISAC. While the stated goal is to eliminate overlapping efforts and increase efficiency, this refocusing could lead to: * **Uncertainty and Disruption:** As federal cybersecurity efforts shift, many are bracing for job changes and service disruptions, creating instability within the industry. * **Shifting Responsibility:** There’s a growing trend of pushing cybersecurity responsibilities towards state and local governments. This could result in a patchwork of different standards and requirements, increasing complexity for multi-state MSPs. * **Questions of Effectiveness:** Concerns are being raised about whether CISA can maintain its effectiveness with fewer resources, particularly in areas like incident reporting and collaboration. **CMMC and FAR: No Immediate Changes, But Vigilance Required** For MSPs, it’s crucial to understand the implications of these shifts on federal regulations. Scott, a seasoned expert in this space, shared insights into the following: * **CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification):** The certification aspect of CMMC is fully operational, with certifications being issued since January. Furthermore, Katie Arrington, a champion of CMMC, has been brought back into the DOD. Overall, this signals that the CMMC program is here to stay. * **FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation) Clauses:** The proposed FAR CUI (Controlled Unclassified Information) rule is moving forward, but there’s no immediate threat. **The Opportunity for MSPs: Stepping Up to the Challenge** These changes do present significant opportunities for MSPs who are willing to adapt and evolve. Here’s what your MSP needs to consider: * **Increased Demand:** The focus on critical infrastructure and the potential for increased threats will drive a higher demand for robust cybersecurity services. * **Upleveling Your Capabilities:** MSPs need to assess and upgrade their services to meet the increasing demands of a complex regulatory landscape. This includes a strong understanding of compliance frameworks like CMMC, NIST, and the evolving requirements in the federal sector. * **Embrace Public-Private Partnerships:** Engage with groups like the MSP Collective and CIS, which are crucial to navigating these changes. **Harmonization is Key: Building a Stronger Future** The discussion highlighted the importance of harmonization and standardization across agencies and sectors. * **Standardize Reporting:** The current situation, with multiple agencies requiring different data on different timelines for the same incident, creates a significant burden on MSPs. Efforts to streamline and harmonize reporting processes are needed. * **Support a Single Standard:** The long-term goal should be to reduce the burden of compliance and promote efficiency by pushing for a single baseline standard. **Key Takeaways and Actionable Steps for MSPs** 1. **Stay Informed:** Read articles about changes in CISA and the federal government. 2. **Strengthen Your Cybersecurity Posture:** Focus on providing robust, adaptable cybersecurity solutions. 3. **Build strong relationships:** Connect with the government and sector-specific communities to help stay ahead of any shifts in strategy. In a world of constant change, staying informed, and agile is essential. MSPs who embrace these challenges and proactively adapt will be best positioned to thrive and continue to safeguard our nation’s critical infrastructure.
