From Framework to Frontline: How NIST 2.0 and 4 Remote Desktop Security Practices Can Help Strengthen Organizational Cybersecurity
By Kevin Heineman, Chief Information Security Officer, Lyric
In the fast-paced digital world where innovation and technology evolve at lightning speed, cybersecurity stands as the silent guardian of our most valuable digital treasures. It's a realm where vigilance meets precision, and the stakes are perpetually high.
This narrative delves into the intricate dance of cybersecurity, guided by the recent revelations from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and underscored by pragmatic strategies for securing the gateways of remote access through desktop applications.
As organizations navigate through these developments, it's crucial for senior computer security and business leaders to stay informed and proactive in their cybersecurity measures.
Unveiling NIST 2.0: A Decade of Evolution
The release of NIST's updated Cybersecurity Framework (CSF 2.0) on February 26, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the journey towards enhanced cybersecurity. Building on the strengths of CSF 1.1, the new framework integrates critical improvements, making it more inclusive and applicable across diverse organizational landscapes.
One notable enhancement is the introduction of "Communities," tailored groupings that allow for more specific recommendations and cyber best practices. This approach acknowledges the unique security needs of different sectors, providing a more personalized and effective cybersecurity strategy.
Additionally, the integration of a sixth function, "Governance," into the original CSF model emphasizes the importance of establishing a coherent organizational strategy on cybersecurity risk management. This inclusion aims to ensure a unified understanding and commitment to cybersecurity across all levels of an organization, setting the stage for a more resilient security posture.
Best Practices for Securing Remote Desktop Applications
Here are four best practices to help secure and mitigate risks with remote desktop applications:
Continuous Review and Policy Compliance:
Regularly scan your environment to identify all remote desktop tools, ensuring they adhere to your cybersecurity policies. Unauthorized tools should be promptly removed to minimize potential vulnerabilities.
Patching:
Stay vigilant with updates, applying manufacturer patches as soon as they become available. In cases where a patch isn't available for a novel vulnerability, explore alternative remediation strategies, such as using different products or limiting external exposure.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):
Though not infallible, MFA significantly enhances security by reducing the likelihood of unauthorized access through common tactics like social engineering. Prioritizing MFA deployment can be a game-changer in safeguarding your systems.
Anomalous Activity Monitoring:
Given that remote desktop software is a prime target for cyberattacks, continuous monitoring for unusual activity is crucial. This proactive approach allows for the early detection of threats, enabling a timely and effective response.
The Road Ahead: Stronger Frameworks, Better Practices
In the constantly evolving domain of cybersecurity, maintaining vigilance and the capacity for adaptation are paramount. The release of NIST CSF 2.0, alongside enhanced security protocols for remote desktop applications, provides essential guidance toward achieving cybersecurity excellence. Facing a landscape marked by both significant challenges and the potential for groundbreaking innovation and collaboration, adherence to NIST's standards and best practices empowers us to proceed with greater assurance.
About Lyric
Lyric, formerly ClaimsXten, is a leading AI healthcare technology company, committed to simplifying the business of care. Over 30 years of experience, dedicated, expert teams, and top technologies help deliver up to $14 billion of annual savings to our many loyal and valued customers—including 9 of the top 10 payers across the country. Lyric’s solutions leverage the power of machine learning, AI, and predictive analytics to empower health plan payers with pathways to increased accuracy and efficiency, while maximizing value and savings. Lyric is investing in AI driven technology to ease implementation and speed to value for customer savings, while offering enhanced and newly available solutions through internal product development and strategic partnerships, including recently announced partnerships with Concert Genetics, Autonomize AI, and now, Codoxo. Discover more at Lyric.ai.
