In the past few blog posts, we've been going over the five NIST Framework functions. In the last blog post, we covered the Respond function. In this post, we'll be going over the last Framework function, Recover.
"The Framework Core then identifies underlying key Categories and Subcategories for each Function, and matches them with example Informative References such as existing standards, guidelines, and practices for each Sub category" - NIST CSF
According to NIST, Recover is defined as the need to "develop and implement the appropriate activities to maintain plans for resilience and to restore any capabilities or services that were impaired due to a cyber security event.
The Recover Function supports timely recovery to normal operations to reduce the impact of a cybersecurity incident. Examples of outcomes for this function include Recovery Planning, Improvements, and Communications."
Recover includes these areas:
- Recovery Planning: Recovery procedures are tested, executed, and maintained so that your program can mitigate the effects of an event sooner rather than later
- Improvement: Disaster recovery plans and processes are amended when security incidents occur. Areas for improvement are identified and recovery processes and solutions are put together
- Communication: Coordinate internally and externally for greater crisis management, recovery time, thorough planning, and execution
Cyber attack recovery from major events is important not only for your organization but also for your customers and market. Swift cyber security recovery, handled with grace and tactfulness, will allow you to end up in a much stronger position internally and externally than you would otherwise. Prioritizing these focus areas and knowing how to recover from a cyber attack with a cyber attack recovery plan will ensure that your organization has a business continuity and response plan that is up to date and matches your organization’s goals and objectives.