Two prominent frameworks, Zero Trust and Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC), offer approaches to bolster security. However, aligning these frameworks can be challenging, particularly for readers unfamiliar with Zero Trust or CSfC. In this blog post, we will explore how integrating Identity, Credential, and Access Management (ICAM) concepts can bridge the gap between Zero Trust and CSfC, enhancing overall security.

What is Zero Trust?

Zero Trust is a security approach that challenges the traditional notion of a trusted perimeter. It operates on the principle of "never trust, always verify." Rather than assuming trust based on network location, Zero Trust demands continuous verification of user identities, devices, and access requests.

What is CSfC?

Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC) is a framework developed by the National Security Agency (NSA) that enables the use of commercial off-the-shelf products to create secure communication solutions for classified environments. CSfC provides a standardized approach for leveraging commercial technologies to protect sensitive and classified information. It aims to streamline the acquisition and deployment process by pre-evaluating and approving specific configurations (called Capability Packages) of products and solutions that meet stringent security requirements. CSfC allows organizations to leverage the benefits of commercial technology while ensuring the necessary levels of security and protecting classified data. By following the CSfC guidelines, organizations can implement trusted and secure communication solutions that align with government standards and regulations for handling classified information. 

However, CSfC concepts often conflict with Zero Trust principles by assuming inherent trust within its boundaries. Below we will discuss CSfC gaps from the perspective of Zero Trust and how we can overcome them.

Overcoming Implicit Trust Boundaries.

To address the implicit trust boundaries of CSfC, organizations must integrate ICAM concepts such as continuous authentication and contextual access controls. By implementing these measures, users and devices are consistently verified and authenticated, ensuring trust is continuously validated regardless of their location within the CSfC boundary.

Mitigating Perimeter-Oriented Approaches.

CSfC's reliance on strong perimeter defenses conflicts with Zero Trust. Incorporating ICAM principles such as network segmentation and granular access controls help overcome this challenge. By implementing these concepts within the CSfC framework, organizations gain finer control over access, limiting lateral movement and reducing the impact of potential breaches.

Embracing Granularity

CSfC often focuses on securing the entire network, disregarding the Zero Trust principle of least privilege. By integrating ICAM concepts like identity-based access controls and attribute-based access control (ABAC), organizations can enhance CSfC. These measures grant users the minimum necessary access based on their attributes, roles, and responsibilities.

Addressing Lateral Movement Challenges.

To tackle the limitations of CSfC in addressing lateral movement, organizations can incorporate ICAM concepts. Implementing continuous monitoring, real-time analytics, and behavioral analysis within the CSfC infrastructure enhances visibility and control. This enables the detection of anomalous activities, swift response to potential threats, and containment of lateral movement.

Integrating ICAM concepts into the CSfC framework bridges the gap between Zero Trust and CSfC, enhancing overall security. By embracing continuous authentication, granular access controls, network segmentation, and behavioral analytics, organizations can align CSfC with Zero Trust principles. This integration helps reduce implicit trust, adopt a fine-grained access model, and enhance visibility and control over network activities. As organizations strive to fortify their cybersecurity defenses, understanding and implementing these concepts paves the way for a more resilient and secure environment.