I need to write 3 separate compatible reports from the Cybersecurity Authority, and the link to the Cybersecurity Authority is:
https://nca.gov.sa/en/legislation
1. A report explaining the identification and evaluation of the cybersecurity risk record during the life cycle of information and technology projects in the Technical Projects Office at the university.
I need to define risks, the risk matrix, and the method for calculating risks
I need a risk register for each stage of the project. Attached is an example in Excel
The project life cycle is located in the Word file that you sent previously
2. A report explaining the identification and evaluation of cybersecurity risks when planning and before launching new technical products and services on the production environment.
4. A report explaining the evaluation and treatment of cybersecurity vulnerabilities within the project management life cycle and changes to information and technical assets in the technical project’s office at the university.
Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!
Step 1: Understanding the Reports
You need to create three reports related to cybersecurity risks in the context of your university’s Technical Projects Office and product/service launches. Each report will address a specific aspect of cybersecurity management during the project and product lifecycle. Below are the key points to cover in each report:
1. Report on the Identification and Evaluation of Cybersecurity Risk During the Life Cycle of Information and Technology Projects
Key Elements to Include:
- Defining Risks: Start by defining what cybersecurity risks are in the context of your project lifecycle. Risks in IT projects could include potential data breaches, vulnerabilities in software, attacks on infrastructure, or human errors.
Example:
“Cybersecurity risks refer to threats that could compromise the integrity, confidentiality, or availability of information and technology systems. In the context of IT projects, these could be external attacks, internal weaknesses, or lapses in compliance with security standards.” - Risk Matrix: Introduce the risk matrix as a tool to evaluate the severity and likelihood of each identified risk. This is a key component of your evaluation. The matrix should show the relationship between risk likelihood (e.g., low, medium, high) and impact (e.g., low, medium, high).
Example:
- Likelihood: How probable is the risk? (Scale: Low, Medium, High)
- Impact: What would be the consequence if the risk occurs? (Scale: Low, Medium, High)
- Risk Level: This is the final level of risk, calculated using the likelihood and impact (e.g., Low, Medium, High).
Risk Matrix Example:
Impact / Likelihood Low Medium High Low Low Medium High Medium Medium High Very High High High Very High Critical - Risk Calculation Method: Discuss how risks are calculated. You could mention scoring based on a simple formula like:
Risk Score = Likelihood × Impact
A risk score of 1-3 is low, 4-6 is medium, and 7-9 is high. This would help to prioritize the risks. - Risk Register: Create a risk register for each stage of the project (initiation, planning, execution, closing). For each stage, identify potential risks, their likelihood, impact, risk score, and mitigation strategies.
Example risk register (for initiation stage):
Risk ID Risk Description Likelihood Impact Risk Score Mitigation Strategy R1 Data breach during requirements Medium High 6 Implement encryption R2 Inadequate security training High Medium 7 Conduct regular training
2. Report on the Identification and Evaluation of Cybersecurity Risks Before Launching New Technical Products and Services
Key Elements to Include:
- Planning and Pre-launch Evaluation: Explain how cybersecurity risks are identified and evaluated before launching new technical products or services. This phase includes risk assessments, security testing, and a vulnerability analysis of the product.
Example:
“Before a new product or service is launched in the production environment, an extensive cybersecurity risk evaluation is performed, including penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, and reviewing compliance with cybersecurity standards.” - Evaluation of Vulnerabilities: Discuss how vulnerabilities are assessed, possibly including the use of tools like vulnerability scanners or penetration tests, which help identify weaknesses in the product before launch.
- Pre-launch Risk Register: Similar to the first report, create a register for risks identified during the planning phase.
Example risk register (for pre-launch):
Risk ID Risk Description Likelihood Impact Risk Score Mitigation Strategy R1 Unsecured API access High High 9 Use OAuth and encryption R2 Incompatibility with security software Medium Medium 4 Run integration tests
3. Report on the Evaluation and Treatment of Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities Within the Project Management Lifecycle
Key Elements to Include:
- Evaluating Vulnerabilities: Discuss the ongoing process of vulnerability evaluation within the project management lifecycle. This includes continuous assessment of risks and implementing changes when vulnerabilities are discovered.
Example:
“Vulnerabilities discovered during the project lifecycle are promptly evaluated and addressed through security patches, software updates, and regular audits. All changes to information and technical assets are evaluated for potential impact on cybersecurity.” - Treatment of Vulnerabilities: Explain how vulnerabilities are addressed, such as through patching systems, updating software, or adopting new security measures.
- Changes to Technical Assets: When changes are made to assets, such as updating software or adding new hardware, cybersecurity implications must be considered.
Example risk register (for vulnerabilities):
Risk ID Risk Description Likelihood Impact Risk Score Treatment Action R1 Old version of a software package Medium High 6 Update software package R2 Insecure data storage High Very High 8 Encrypt data storage
Step 2: Formatting and Structuring the Reports
- Formatting: Follow appropriate academic formatting, including a title page, in-text citations, and references in APA format.
- Include Data and Examples: Use the provided Excel sheet as a template for creating risk registers for the different stages of the project lifecycle. Make sure to include real-world examples or data where appropriate.
Step 3: Review and Submission
- Review your Reports: Double-check for clarity, relevance, and accuracy. Ensure that you’ve followed all guidelines and included all necessary components.
- References: Use appropriate references, including the link to the Cybersecurity Authority and any other relevant sources.