The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has taken an important step toward strengthening the cybersecurity of federal systems with the announcement of a software certification and artifact repository.
The platform allows software manufacturers affiliated with the federal government to upload software certification forms and related artifacts to ensure the integrity and security of software used in critical functions.
Last week, CISA worked with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to introduce a secure software development certification form. This form allows software manufacturers serving the federal government to certify their implementation of specific security practices, thereby protecting federal systems from malicious cyber attackers.
Eric Goldstein, Executive Assistant Director of Cybersecurity, said: “Software underpins nearly every service the government provides on behalf of the American people. That's why CISA and its partners are committed to advancing strong software development security practices for the software Americans depend on. We are committed to transforming federal cybersecurity practices.”
CISA Standard Process for Transparency
This repository aims to establish standardized processes for government agencies and software producers and provide transparency regarding the security of software development.
By promoting the adoption of software from manufacturers that demonstrate the use of sound and secure development practices, federal agencies can strengthen their cybersecurity posture and effectively mitigate potential threats.
“Software certification and artifact repositories enable agencies and software producers with a standardized process that provides transparency around the security of software development. We continue to ensure software security across the federal enterprise. We look forward to further refining the process to improve it,” added Goldstein.
OMB Memorandums M-22-18 and M-23-16 emphasize the importance of secure software development practices and restrict agency use of software that does not comply with these standards. The newly introduced certification form allows software producers to verify compliance with these practices, ensuring federal systems are protected from vulnerabilities.
Other CISA initiatives
Prior to this effort, CISA collaborated with SAFECOM and the National Council of Interoperability Coordinators (NCSWIC) to publish the 911 Cybersecurity Resource Hub. This centralized repository will empower emergency communications centers (ECCs) across the country by providing essential resources and expertise to strengthen cybersecurity resiliency.
In a further step toward strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructure, CISA, in collaboration with American Samoa's Department of Homeland Security, launched the Regional Resilience Assessment Program (RRAP). The program emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts to strengthen the resiliency of critical infrastructure and reduce cybersecurity risks.
Additionally, CISA collaborated with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Health Sector Coordinating Council (HSCC) Cybersecurity Working Group to implement the CISA Healthcare Cybersecurity Toolkit. This resource is tailored to empower healthcare IT security leaders to strengthen their organizations' resiliency against cyber threats, thereby protecting sensitive healthcare data and ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services. Guaranteed delivery.
The collaborative efforts of CISA and its partners highlight a proactive approach to strengthening cybersecurity across the federal system and critical infrastructure sectors, ultimately improving national cybersecurity in the face of evolving cyber threats. strengthens resilience.
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