Skip to content

Comparison between APRA CPS 234 and NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)

Explore some of our latest AI related thought leadership and research

6clicks has been built for cybersecurity, risk and compliance professionals.

Learn more about our Hub & Spoke architecture, Hailey AI engine and explore the other content in our platform here

The buyers guide for MSPs and advisors considering 6clicks

The buyer’s guide for MSPs and advisors considering 6clicks

Regulatory changes and their impact on GRC

Regulatory changes and their impact on GRC

Growing together: our partnership philosophy

Growing together: our partnership philosophy

Digital transformation for your MSP or advisory business

Digital transformation for your MSP or advisory business

Cyber incident response: A critical component of enterprise security planning

Cyber incident response: A critical component of enterprise security planning

6clicks on Azure Private Cloud for GRC managed services

6clicks on Azure Private Cloud for GRC managed services


Overview

APRA CPS 234 and NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) are two frameworks used to protect organizations from cyber threats. The APRA CPS 234 is a framework created by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) to protect financial institutions from cyber threats. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a voluntary framework created by the United States National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to help organizations manage cyber security risks. Both frameworks provide guidance on how to protect organizations from cyber threats, but the APRA CPS 234 is more tailored to financial institutions, while the NIST CSF is more generic and can be used by any organization. Both frameworks have similar components, such as risk assessment, incident response, and security controls, but the APRA CPS 234 has a more structured approach and includes more specific requirements.



What is APRA CPS 234?

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) CPS 234 is a policy document that provides guidance to all entities regulated by APRA on the management of cyber security risk. The policy document outlines the expectations for APRA-regulated entities to manage cyber security risks and outlines the minimum cyber security controls that must be in place. The policy document also details the responsibilities of APRA-regulated entities, the roles and responsibilities of the board and senior management, the roles and responsibilities of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), and the cyber security governance framework. The policy document also provides guidance on the reporting of cyber security incidents and the management of third-party cyber security risks.


What is NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)?

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a voluntary framework developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to help organizations manage cybersecurity risks. It provides a set of best practices and guidelines for organizations to use when developing, implementing, and managing their cybersecurity programs. The framework is designed to be flexible, so organizations can customize it to meet their specific needs. The CSF focuses on five core functions: identify, protect, detect, respond, and recover. These functions are further broken down into categories, such as asset management, access control, system and communication protection, and incident response. The framework also provides guidance on how to measure and monitor cybersecurity performance. The CSF is designed to be used in conjunction with other cybersecurity standards and guidelines, such as ISO 27001/27002, NIST 800-53, NIST 800-171, and HIPAA. The CSF can help organizations develop a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, improve their risk management practices, and improve their overall security posture.


A Comparison Between APRA CPS 234 and NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)

1. Both frameworks provide guidance on how to protect sensitive data and systems from cyber threats.

2. Both frameworks emphasize the importance of risk management and security controls.

3. Both frameworks provide a comprehensive set of best practices for organizations to follow.

4. Both frameworks emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and improvement of security posture.

5. Both frameworks include guidance on how to respond to security incidents.

6. Both frameworks provide guidance on how to develop a culture of security within the organization.

7. Both frameworks provide guidance on how to create a secure environment for the organization.


The Key Differences Between APRA CPS 234 and NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)

1. APRA CPS 234 is an Australian-specific cybersecurity standard, while NIST CSF is a global standard.

2. APRA CPS 234 is focused on the financial sector, while NIST CSF is applicable to any industry.

3. APRA CPS 234 is prescriptive and requires organizations to meet specific requirements, while NIST CSF is more flexible and provides guidance on how to achieve cybersecurity goals.

4. APRA CPS 234 requires organizations to complete an annual self-assessment, while NIST CSF does not.

5. APRA CPS 234 requires organizations to report data breaches and incidents, while NIST CSF does not.