The CIS Critical Security Controls are a globally recognised set of best practices designed to help organisations improve their cybersecurity and reduce the risk of cyberattacks. Developed by the Centre for Internet Security (CIS), these controls provide clear, prioritised steps that organisations can follow to strengthen their defences against the most common and dangerous cyber threats.
What Are CIS Critical Security Controls?
The CIS Controls consist of 18 key domains that focus on essential areas of cybersecurity, such as protecting sensitive data, managing access, and monitoring systems for vulnerabilities. These controls are based on their analysis of their data about how cybercriminals operate, making them highly practical and effective for mitigating risks.
How Do CIS Controls Work?
Each key domain in the framework is divided into three Implementation Groups (IGs) to cater to organisations of different sizes and cybersecurity maturity levels:
- IG1 – Basic Cyber Hygiene: Designed for small organisations or those with limited cybersecurity expertise, IG1 focuses on fundamental protections such as inventorying hardware and software, managing vulnerabilities, and controlling access.
- IG2 – Foundational Security: Suitable for mid-sized organisations handling more complex operations, IG2 builds on IG1 by adding additional safeguards like data recovery capabilities and secure configurations for network devices.
- IG3 – Advanced Security: Tailored for large organisations or those managing highly sensitive data, IG3 includes advanced measures to defend against sophisticated attacks, such as continuous monitoring and enhanced threat detection.
Key Benefits of CIS Controls
- Prioritised Guidance: The controls focus on the most critical actions that deliver the greatest security impact, helping organisations use their resources effectively.
- Scalability: The tiered approach (IG1, IG2, IG3) allows organisations to implement controls incrementally based on their size and risk profile.
- Improved Cyber Hygiene: By addressing common vulnerabilities, CIS Controls help organisations build a strong foundation for cybersecurity.
- Compliance Support: The framework aligns with industry regulations like GDPR and PCI DSS, making it easier for organisations to meet legal requirements.
Examples of CIS Controls
Some of the most important controls include:
- Inventory of Assets: Keeping track of all hardware and software connected to the network to prevent unauthorised devices or applications from posing risks.
- Access Control: Ensuring only authorised users can access sensitive systems or data by using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication.
- Data Protection: Encrypting sensitive information and regularly backing up data to prevent loss during cyber incidents.
- Vulnerability Management: Regularly scanning systems for weaknesses and applying updates to fix them promptly.
Why Are CIS Controls Important?
Cyber threats evolve rapidly, and many attacks exploit basic vulnerabilities like outdated software or weak passwords. The CIS Controls provide a structured approach to addressing these risks, enabling organisations to protect themselves from breaches while improving efficiency in managing security.
Conclusion
The CIS Critical Security Controls are an essential tool for organisations looking to enhance their cybersecurity posture. By following these prioritised best practices, businesses can reduce their attack surface, safeguard sensitive data, and build resilience against evolving cyber threats—all while ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Next Step
Engage with Somniac Security, we can help you build and maintain the appropriate strategies and processes for your organisation which enable you to effectively manage your cybersecurity risks. Contact us at info@somniacsecurity.com today to help safeguard your business against tomorrow’s challenges!
