Build a resilient security strategy with CIS Controls

• The CIS Critical Security Controls (CIS Controls) are a prioritized collection of safeguards designed to reduce the most common cyber threats targeting systems and networks. They align with and are referenced by various legal, regulatory, and policy frameworks.

• Organizations of any size (or budget) that are looking to enhance their cybersecurity posture, protect sensitive data, comply with regulations, and effectively mitigate risks can benefit from implementing the CIS Controls, an industry-accepted security framework.

The path to CIS Controls adoption starts with reviewing the 18 CIS Controls and conducting a gap analysis to identify areas for improvement. Next, develop a compliance strategy and implement the necessary controls, ensuring to document evidence of your efforts. Perform a self-assessment to verify alignment with the controls and address any findings. Finally, continuously monitor your security measures to maintain compliance.

While they are both industry-accepted security frameworks and do have overlap, there are several key differences. CIS provides a set of 18 best practices (CIS Controls) that any organization can implement to help their cybersecurity posture, and does not require a formal certification. By contrast, SOC 2 focuses on auditing the internal controls of service organizations in regards to managing customer data securely and is primarily relevant for service providers. SOC 2 also requires a formal audit conducted by a certified public accountant (CPA), which results in a detailed report assessing the effectiveness of the organization's controls.

With Strike Graph, an organization can easily implement SOC 2 after CIS if they need to in the future.