Revisiting the National Security Memorandum on Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience: Updates and Challenges Ahead

President Joe Biden Signs New Directive to Strengthen Critical Infrastructure Security

In a move to bolster the nation’s cybersecurity defenses, President Joe Biden recently signed a new National Security Memorandum (NSM) that reinforces the role of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) in protecting critical infrastructure from cyber threats. The directive, which builds upon the 2013 Presidential Policy Directive on Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience, aims to enhance the security and resilience of vital sectors such as energy, transportation, and communication.

While the NSM reaffirms CISA’s position as the national coordinator for critical infrastructure security and resilience, some experts have raised concerns about the lack of updates to the list of critical infrastructure industries. The original directive identified sixteen sectors as critical infrastructure, including industries such as Chemical, Emergency Services, and Financial Services. However, the NSM does not include newer sectors like space and bioeconomy, which have become increasingly important in the digital age.

Despite the exclusion of certain industries, the NSM outlines CISA’s responsibilities in assessing security priorities, identifying threats, and recommending cybersecurity measures for critical infrastructure agencies. CISA will also collaborate with other government agencies to share critical security information and enhance overall cybersecurity efforts.

The security of critical infrastructure has never been more crucial, especially in the face of growing cyber threats from nation-state actors and malicious entities. While the NSM may have missed the mark in addressing emerging industries, it serves as a vital tool in coordinating efforts to secure the nation’s critical infrastructure and protect against cyber attacks.

As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for government agencies and industry stakeholders to work together to safeguard critical infrastructure and ensure the resilience of essential services. The NSM represents a step in the right direction towards strengthening the nation’s cybersecurity defenses and safeguarding vital sectors from cyber threats.