On December 16, 2024, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released the first draft of the updated National Cyber Incident Response Plan (NCIRP), marking the first significant revision since the original plan was established in 2016. This 42-page document outlines the government's coordinated response to large-scale cyberattacks that threaten the national economy, detailing the roles and responsibilities of various government agencies and emphasizing the prioritization of key decisions during incidents. The update reflects the evolving landscape of cyber threats and the need for a more agile incident response framework. [5a052b5a]
CISA collaborated closely with the Office of the National Cyber Director and private sector representatives from the Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative to develop this draft. CISA Director Jen Easterly highlighted the importance of adaptability in responding to cyber incidents, which have become increasingly sophisticated and damaging. The draft is open for public comment until January 15, 2025, inviting feedback from stakeholders across the cybersecurity community. Over 150 experts from 66 different organizations contributed to the development of this updated plan. [5a052b5a]
This update was prompted by the National Cyber Strategy released last year, which called for a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. Notably, CISA faced bipartisan criticism in September 2023 for failing to create a specific Continuity of the Economy plan, which Congress mandated in 2021. In response to these concerns, CISA argued in August 2024 that existing plans were adequate, but the new NCIRP draft aims to address these criticisms by providing a clearer framework for incident response. [5a052b5a]
In conjunction with the NCIRP update, CISA and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) recently issued guidance to protect critical infrastructure from foreign cyber threats, emphasizing the need for robust security measures against adversaries exploiting vulnerabilities in essential services. This guidance, released on November 21, 2024, highlights the increasing cyber threats faced by critical infrastructure, including water and sewage systems, which have been targeted by foreign actors. [742e1eaf]
As cyber threats continue to evolve, the integration of the updated NCIRP with ongoing efforts to enhance critical infrastructure security reflects a comprehensive strategy to safeguard the nation against potential cyberattacks. The collaboration between government agencies and the private sector is crucial in developing effective responses to these threats, ensuring the resilience of the national economy and public safety. [5a052b5a]
