November 10, 2023 at 01:26PM
The US government has launched an initiative called “Shields Ready” to prepare critical infrastructure operators for disasters, physical attacks, and cyberattacks. The aim is to convince these operators to invest in strengthening their systems and services. The interconnectedness of critical infrastructure sectors makes preparedness crucial. The initiative provides voluntary recommendations and information to enhance resilience, but lacks regulatory enforcement. Sector-specific guidelines and requirements will be developed by each critical infrastructure sector’s designated agency. Holding executives liable for their companies’ performance during incidents may be necessary to ensure implementation.
Key Takeaways from Meeting Notes:
1. The US government has launched an initiative called “Shields Ready” to prepare critical infrastructure operators for disasters, physical attacks, and cyberattacks. The focus is on building resilience and the ability to recover from disruptions.
2. The initiative is led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
3. Interconnectedness among the 16 critical infrastructure sectors and their supply chains necessitates preparedness.
4. The dangers to critical infrastructure have increased in recent years due to severe disasters and cyberattacks.
5. Previous efforts like “Shields Up” focused on specific threat intelligence, while Shields Ready is about preparedness across the board.
6. Many of the current recommendations for critical infrastructure operators are voluntary and informational, lacking regulatory enforcement.
7. Each critical infrastructure sector has a designated Sector Risk Management Agency (SRMA) that will create sector-specific guidelines and requirements.
8. Some experts believe that punitive action may be necessary to ensure implementation of the recommendations, including holding executives liable for their company’s performance during disasters or cyberattacks.
9. The government’s approach is aiming to address executive negligence and gain attention in the industry.
Overall, Shields Ready is a government-led initiative to promote preparedness and resilience in critical infrastructure sectors, but it currently lacks regulatory enforcement and relies on voluntary recommendations. Sector-specific guidelines and potential punitive actions may be necessary to ensure implementation.