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Comparison between APRA CPS 234 and NIST SP 800-53


Overview

APRA CPS 234 and NIST SP 800-53 are two different frameworks used to provide guidance on cyber security. APRA CPS 234 is an Australian framework that focuses on the protection of customer data and provides more specific guidance than NIST SP 800-53. It is tailored to the financial services sector and is designed to help protect against data breaches, cyber fraud, and other cyber threats. NIST SP 800-53 is a US framework that provides a comprehensive set of security controls and best practices for government agencies. It is more general in nature and covers a range of topics including system and information security, risk management, and privacy. Both frameworks are designed to help organizations protect their data and systems from cyber threats.



What is APRA CPS 234?

APRA CPS 234 is an Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) policy that sets out the standards for information and cyber security for all entities regulated by APRA. It outlines the requirements for the management of information and cyber security risks and the measures that entities must have in place to protect their information and systems. The policy applies to all APRA-regulated entities, including banks, insurers, superannuation funds, and other financial institutions. It sets out the security controls and processes that entities must implement to protect customer data, systems, and networks from unauthorized access, misuse, and manipulation. The policy also outlines the requirements for entities to report any security incidents to APRA and to maintain records of their information and cyber security activities.


What is NIST SP 800-53?

NIST SP 800-53, also known as Security and Privacy Controls for Federal Information Systems and Organizations, is a set of security and privacy controls issued by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). It provides a comprehensive set of security and privacy controls and guidelines for federal agencies and other organizations to protect their information systems and data. The controls range from physical security to access control, system and network security, incident response, and other areas. The controls are divided into 18 families, which are further divided into control categories. Each control includes a description, objectives, and implementation guidance. The SP 800-53 also provides a framework for organizations to assess their security posture and identify areas for improvement.


A Comparison Between APRA CPS 234 and NIST SP 800-53

1. Both provide a comprehensive set of security controls to help organizations protect their information and systems.

2. Both are based on the ISO/IEC 27000 family of standards.

3. Both provide guidance on how to assess, monitor, and report on the effectiveness of security controls.

4. Both provide guidance on how to respond to security incidents.

5. Both provide guidance on how to develop and implement an information security program.

6. Both provide a risk-based approach to security management.

7. Both provide guidance on how to manage third-party service providers.


The Key Differences Between APRA CPS 234 and NIST SP 800-53

1. APRA CPS 234 focuses specifically on the security of cloud-based systems, while NIST SP 800-53 covers a broader range of security topics.

2. APRA CPS 234 is tailored to the Australian financial sector, while NIST SP 800-53 is more widely applicable.

3. APRA CPS 234 is more prescriptive in its approach to security, while NIST SP 800-53 is more flexible.

4. APRA CPS 234 focuses on the security of the cloud environment, while NIST SP 800-53 focuses on the security of the systems and services within the cloud environment.

5. APRA CPS 234 focuses on the security of data stored in the cloud, while NIST SP 800-53 focuses on the security of applications and services.