The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has released a factsheet containing free tools and guidance to secure digital assets after transitioning to the cloud.
Aimed at network defenders and cybersecurity professionals, the tools assist in mitigating risks such as information theft, data encryption attacks, and extortion attempts encountered in cloud-based or hybrid environments.
These tools complement the built-in security features of cloud service providers, reinforcing network infrastructures, promptly identifying compromises, mapping threat vectors, and pinpointing malicious activities post-breach.
While not exhaustive, the tools, including the Cybersecurity Evaluation Tool (CSET) and Untitled Goose Tool, significantly bolster resilience against cyberattacks and aid in remediation and investigation efforts.
CISA’s ongoing efforts to protect critical infrastructure include proactive alerts to entities about internet-exposed systems vulnerable to ransomware attacks, with more than 60 notifications sent since January 2023. In collaboration with partners, CISA developed a range of tools, like SCuBAGear and Decider, to enhance cloud security and address cyber threats.
The agency’s focus on safeguarding critical infrastructure also led to the creation of the Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative (JCDC) in August 2021, aiming to protect U.S. critical infrastructure from ransomware and other cyber threats. Furthermore, CISA’s comprehensive guidelines, released in August 2021, support at-risk private sector organizations and government entities in preventing data breaches stemming from ransomware attacks, reinforcing the commitment to timely warnings and essential guidance.
CISA encourages organizations to leverage the built-in security capabilities from cloud service providers while utilizing the free CISA-developed tools and applications to fill security gaps and complement existing features.
The tools mentioned in the factsheet, including SCuBAGear for comparing configurations, and Memory Forensic on Cloud, developed by Japan CERT, play crucial roles in detecting malicious activities and enhancing security measures in cloud environments.
By providing a comprehensive toolkit and proactive cyber defense capabilities, CISA aims to bolster the resilience of organizations operating in cloud environments and contribute to a more secure cyber landscape for critical infrastructure entities.
