What You Need to Know About Cybersecurity Executive Order 14028: An Overview
Cybersecurity Executive Order 14028 is a recent development that seeks to strengthen the security of federal networks and improve the government’s ability to respond to cyber threats. This article will provide an overview of the Executive Order and its implications for businesses, government agencies, and individuals.
Background
The Cybersecurity Executive Order was signed by President Biden on May 12, 2021, following a series of high-profile cyber attacks on government agencies and private businesses. The Executive Order aims to modernize the federal government’s cybersecurity defenses and ensure the security of critical infrastructure.
Key Provisions
The Executive Order contains several key provisions that businesses and government agencies should be aware of. These include:
1. Improving Information Sharing: The Executive Order seeks to improve collaboration and information sharing between government agencies and the private sector to better identify and respond to potential cyber threats.
2. Enhancing Software Security: The Executive Order requires federal agencies to develop and publish security guidelines for software purchased by the government. It also establishes a pilot program for a secure software development marketplace.
3. Increasing Incident Response Capabilities: The Executive Order requires all federal agencies to develop and implement a plan for identifying, assessing, and responding to cybersecurity incidents. It also establishes a Cybersecurity Safety Review Board to review significant incidents and make recommendations for improvement.
4. Strengthening Supply Chain Security: The Executive Order requires federal agencies to review and update their supply chain risk management practices. It also establishes a task force to develop standards and best practices for secure software development and procurement.
Implications for Businesses and Individuals
While the Cybersecurity Executive Order primarily focuses on the federal government’s cybersecurity defenses, it has important implications for businesses and individuals as well. For example:
1. Cybersecurity Standards: The development of cybersecurity standards for software development and procurement will likely have a significant impact on the private sector. Businesses that sell software to the government will need to ensure that their products meet these standards, and other businesses may choose to adopt them as well.
2. Information Sharing: The increased information sharing between government agencies and the private sector may help businesses better identify and respond to potential cyber threats. However, it also raises concerns about privacy and the protection of sensitive information.
3. Supply Chain Security: The focus on supply chain security is especially relevant to businesses that rely on third-party software vendors. These businesses will need to ensure that their vendors meet the new standards and improve their own supply chain risk management practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Cybersecurity Executive Order is an important step forward in improving the security of federal networks and critical infrastructure. However, it also has important implications for businesses and individuals. By staying informed about the Executive Order’s provisions and how they may impact their operations, businesses and individuals can better protect themselves against cyber threats.
