Flosum PSA: The newly announced “Zero Trust” Executive order requires agencies to adopt Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) and encryption to improve ability to detect and respond to cyber threats in real time. Cybersecurity threats are not just a concern for federal agencies but also for private sectors, and the adoptions of robust security approaches like Zero Trust will play a key role. Read more about it below and remember Flosum has been ahead of this for a long time and will continue to educate the market on best practices.
Cybersecurity threats have become increasingly prevalent in the last few years — making it crucial for government agencies to take proactive measures in order to protect sensitive data and networks. To that end, "Zero Trust Executive Order”: Improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity” includes a set of guidelines for implementing a Zero Trust security architecture across federal agencies.
The term itself ‘Zero Trust’ represents a security approach that requires users and systems to authenticate themselves before accessing any network or resources, regardless of their location or device. In a Zero Trust Environment, no user or device is inherently trusted, and all requests must be authenticated and authorized.
How does the Zero Trust Executive Order help?
The executive order mandates that all federal agencies implement Zero Trust principles and architectures within 180 days. This will help protect government networks, data, and systems against malicious actors who aim to steal sensitive information, launch cyber attacks or cause disruptions. The order also requires agencies to improve their ability to detect and respond to cyber threats in real time. Agencies are mandated to adopt Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), which can detect anomalies and stop malicious activities in endpoints. They are also required to deploy Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) and encryption, especially for privilege access.
Cybersecurity plays a critical role in national security, and the Zero Trust Executive Order administration has recognized the need for a comprehensive approach to protect against cyber threats. Zero Trust provides defense - in depth capabilities, along with improved monitoring and management. This holistic approach can reduce the cost of detection and response; to better improve the overall cybersecurity posture of federal agencies.
What are the implications?
The Zero Trust Executive Order has far-reaching implications for US government agencies and their stakeholders. Security teams will have to review, update and implement new policies, procedures, and technologies to align a Zero Trust framework. Vendors that provide cybersecurity solutions for federal agencies will also need to comply with Zero Trust principles to continue doing business with the government. The executive order also highlights the cybersecurity threats are not just concern for federal agencies but also for private sectors.
With this, the principles of Zero trust can also be applied to private companies, especially those that handle sensitive data, to improve their security postures. The Zero Trust Executive Order demonstrates the attention and priority the administration has given to improving the nation’s cybersecurity. As digital work continues to grow, cybersecurity will remain a top priority, and the adoption of robust security approaches like Zero trust will play a significant role.
Can Flosum help me achieve this?
Flosum is proud to be the only native DevOps solution on Appexchange, certified by Salesforce with a native badge. Our architecture helps you implement a zero trust strategy as we never have access to your data. This means you do not have to sign data processing agreements with Flosum, as Salesforce provides all the underlying data center services. Learn more about Flosum’s Trust Center framework here.
