by Michael Peters
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StateRAMP Announces CJIS Overlay for Improved Compliance

 To help limit compliance costs and support local adoption of stringent cybersecurity measures, the StateRAMP organization has announced that it is moving forward with a plan to map the Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) framework into StateRAMP. 

What does this mean for CSPs at the state level? So far, we don’t know much, but it could have big implications for agencies covering local and state law enforcement.

 

What Is the StateRAMP-CJIS Alignment Task Force?

The StateRAMP CJIS-Aligned Task Force is a new initiative to harmonize cloud security frameworks and ensure compliance with CJIS Security Policy. This task force will develop a CJIS-aligned overlay for StateRAMP’s Moderate Impact Level, providing guidelines for service providers to meet CJIS security requirements. 

The task force includes StateRAMP members, government representatives, and FBI CJIS advisors. The goal is to ensure that CSPs working with state and local governments can also work with law enforcement at any level due to how close they operate in the context of local administration and governance. 

The StateRAMP task force has already posted links for a survey so that participants can provide feedback on the overlap and the alignment of the two standards. 

 

What Is StateRAMP?

StateRAMP CJIS

StateRAMP is a cybersecurity initiative modeled after FedRAMP. Its goal is to ensure that these services meet rigorous security requirements, thus enhancing the overall cybersecurity posture of state and local governments.

Key components of StateRAMP include:

  • Standardized Security Framework: StateRAMP uses a standardized set of security controls and procedures based on established frameworks like NIST to assess the security of cloud services.
  • Authorization Process: Similar to FedRAMP, StateRAMP involves a comprehensive authorization process where cloud service providers (CSPs) must demonstrate their compliance with security requirements through documentation, testing, and independent audits.
  • Continuous Monitoring: CSPs must monitor their security posture and report any changes or incidents after authorization. This helps maintain the security integrity of the services over time.
  • Transparency and Trust: StateRAMP promotes openness and trust by providing a centralized repository of authorized CSPs and their security statuses, making it easier for state and local governments to select secure cloud services.

StateRAMP ensures state and local governments can leverage cloud technologies while maintaining strong security standards and protecting sensitive data.

 

What Is Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) Compliance?

CJIS is a branch of the FBI in the United States. CJIS provides various services and resources to support the law enforcement and criminal justice communities. Here are the key aspects of CJIS:

  • Criminal Justice Information: CJIS is responsible for managing and providing access to criminal justice information, including fingerprint records, criminal histories, and other data crucial for law enforcement operations.
  • NCIC: The National Crime Information Center (NCIC) is a component of CJIS. It is a centralized database that contains information on stolen property, missing persons, wanted persons, and other criminal justice data. Law enforcement agencies across the country use NCIC to share and retrieve information.
  • NICS: The National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is another key component of CJIS. It conducts background checks on individuals attempting to purchase firearms, ensuring that those prohibited by law from owning firearms are identified.
  • Biometric Services: CJIS provides biometric services, including fingerprint identification and facial recognition, to help law enforcement agencies identify individuals and solve crimes.
  • Security Policy: CJIS establishes security policies and guidelines for accessing and handling criminal justice information. These policies ensure that authorized personnel protect and use sensitive data appropriately.
  • The Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program: CJIS manages UCR, which collects and publishes crime statistics from law enforcement agencies nationwide. This data is used to understand crime trends and inform public policy.
  • Training and Support: CJIS offers training and technical support to law enforcement agencies to ensure they can effectively use CJIS services and comply with security policies.

Overall, CJIS is critical in enhancing public safety by providing essential information and tools to law enforcement agencies at all levels.

 

Why Is it Important to Align Different Security Frameworks?

Aligning different cybersecurity frameworks is crucial for enhancing security, ensuring compliance, and improving efficiency. 

More specifically, there are certain areas where framework alignment supports better IT and security:

  • Comprehensive Security Coverage: Different frameworks often address various aspects of cybersecurity. By aligning multiple frameworks, organizations can create a more thorough security posture.
  • Improved Compliance: Many industries are subject to multiple regulatory requirements. Aligning frameworks like PCI DSS for payment security, HIPAA for healthcare information protection, and GDPR for data privacy helps organizations streamline compliance efforts. 
  • Resource Optimization: Aligning frameworks allows organizations to leverage existing controls and processes across multiple requirements, optimizing resource use. 
  • Enhanced Risk Management: Different frameworks often provide unique insights and methodologies. Organizations can benefit from a more robust and nuanced risk management approach by integrating these frameworks.
  • Strategic Alignment with Shared Goals: When aligned, cybersecurity frameworks can be more effectively integrated into the organization’s overall strategy. This ensures that security measures support business objectives, enhancing security and operational efficiency. 
  • Collaboration: Different departments often follow different standards and practices. Aligning frameworks can foster better cooperation and understanding, ensuring that all departments work towards common security goals. 

Discover Cross-Framework Security and Compliance with Continuum GRC

Whether it’s CJIS, StateRAMP, ISO, NIST, or any other framework, the Continuum GRC Platform allows you to manage your compliance requirements through a centralized interface and a unified, automated environment. 

Continuum GRC is a cloud platform that stays ahead of the curve, including support for all certifications (along with our sister company and assessors, Lazarus Alliance). 

We are the only FedRAMP and StateRAMP-authorized compliance and risk management solution worldwide.

Continuum GRC is a proactive cyber security® and the only FedRAMP and StateRAMP-authorized cybersecurity audit platform worldwide. Call 1-888-896-6207 to discuss your organization’s cybersecurity needs and learn how we can help protect its systems and ensure compliance.

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