EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

For the first time last week, the Department of Homeland Security’s cyber security agency (CISA) put a new subpoena power into effect, reaching out to at least one US internet service provider with vulnerable software.

This DHS action permitted smooth communication all-around. Previously, agency officials have struggled to reach technology firms ahead of vulnerability exploitation by nefarious groups.

DHS, CISA notification

A new law passed in January of 2021 gives CISA subpoena power, which enables the agency to better protect organizations and their clients from cyber attacks. One notable effect is that it cuts out third-party communications. The process of relying on a third-party could result in timewasting delays that embolden hackers.

“CISA’s new subpoena authority has empowered the agency to notify vulnerable entities before they’re hacked, rather than waiting until they are already victims,” says congressional representative, Jim Langevin (D-RI). Will the CISA boot camp style verve for becoming even more “cyber-fit” last in the long-term?

CISA boot camp

“The information sought will allow CISA to identify and contact critical infrastructure entities with specific security vulnerabilities exposed on the open internet,” says acting agency director of CISA, Brandon Wales.

In the wake of suspected nation-state hacking attempts that have harmed the public and private sectors, a reassessment of CISA’s cyber crime communication, detection and prevention methodologies ensued. Authorities outlined key steps. For instance, groups agreed upon the need to provide CISA with more money and more muscle.

The Biden administration and lawmakers aim to rapidly scale up support for CISA. This initial subpoena power moves everyone towards this larger goal.

“Our government got hacked last year and we didn’t know about it for months,” stated Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, in March.

Support for CISA

For the 2022 fiscal year, the White House requested for congress to provide an additional $110 million on behalf of cyber security initiatives. This would complement the $650 million that CISA received in relation to coronavirus relief measures.

Two representatives, Jim Langevin (D-RI) and Mike Gallagher (R-WI) aim to cajole House appropriators into offering $400 million in further funding for CISA.

For more on the CISA boot camp style efforts, making the organization more “cyber-fit” than ever before, visit CyberScoop.com.