Strengthening Cybersecurity with Awareness: Exploring NIST SP 800-171

Building Cyber Resilience Through Security Awareness

For government contractors, adhering to NIST SP 800-171 is not optional—it is a mandatory requirement. Ensuring compliance with these security standards is essential to maintaining operational continuity and safeguarding sensitive information.

Cybersecurity extends beyond technology—it relies on an informed and prepared workforce. Understanding and implementing NIST SP 800-171 guidelines are key to enforcing strong security measures. Awareness and training serve as a cornerstone in building cyber resilience by helping organizations proactively defend against evolving threats.

As cyber threats evolve, so must our awareness and approach to security vigilance. NIST SP 800-171 underscores the importance of cultivating a security-conscious workplace where every employee understands their role in cybersecurity. Transitioning from a reactive to a proactive security culture ensures that awareness and preparedness become ingrained in daily operations.

Compliance Relies on Awareness and Training

NIST SP 800-171’s Section 3.2.1 

• Mandates cybersecurity awareness training for staff.

• Includes interactive training sessions and simulated exercises.

• Actively engages employees in maintaining compliance.

• Fosters a shared training responsibility to protect sensitive information.

NIST SP 800-171 (3.2.2) 

• Provides security best practices.

• Includes role-specific training.

• Schedules training at set frequencies.

• Includes content that addresses the particular security duties of each role.

• Outlines policies, procedures, tools, and security best practices.

Identifying and Addressing Threats from Within

Impact of Insider Threats

• A surprisingly substantial number of security breaches come from insider threats.

• Discovering and reporting insider threats early can reduce damage, safeguard sensitive data, and prevent harm.

Categories of Insider Threats

1. Malicious: An employee or contractor who deliberately damages the organization for personal benefit.

2. Negligent: An employee or contractor who jeopardizes security due to recklessness, lack of knowledge, or improper practices.

3. Complicit: An employee or contractor who knowingly assists those planning to harm the organization.

Insider Threats Indicators

Be Aware of Behavioral Changes

• Abnormal work habits or ethics

• Excessive interest in confidential data

• Unauthorized attempts to access the system outside of business hours

• Large quantities of data being transferred or downloaded unexpectedly

Technology-Related and Financial Red Flags

• Abrupt and unforeseen wealth or lifestyle changes

• Efforts to circumvent security

• Unauthorized software installation

• Utilizing personal devices for work purposes

Best Practices for Reporting Insider Threats

• Donʻt confront the person you believe has done something wrong; report your concerns to the appropriate personnel.

• Adhere to company policies for reporting, such as a hotline or a designated reporting system.

• Be observant of the specific details. Make a note of information such as dates, times, actions taken, and your observations.

• Keep the information confidential; donʻt share it with anyone who is not authorized.

Stay Proactive, Stay Aware 

Cybersecurity resilience can be significantly improved through comprehensive awareness and training initiatives. Given that an organization's cybersecurity can either rise as a team or fall as a team, each team member must be aware of their role in safeguarding critical assets. By ensuring that all personnel can identify insider threat indicators, report suspicious activity, and adhere to security best practices, organizations can cultivate a proactive cyber environment capable of defeating impending threats now and in the future. 

At Total Assure, we design cybersecurity strategies that integrate seamlessly with business operations to detect and prevent cyber threats. Our expertise includes identifying vulnerabilities, managing risks to critical data, and ensuring compliance with key regulations such as DFARS, FISMA, FedRAMP, NIST SP 800-171 SSP, and privacy requirements.

Contact Total Assure today! We are just a phone call away for your free consultation on where to start building your organization's NIST SP 800-171 SSP.