AUSCERT launches new service to enhance cybersecurity posture

AUSCERT, Australia's first computer emergency response team (CERT), has announced the launch of its new Maturity Assessment Service. This initiative aims to help organisations assess and improve their cybersecurity posture amidst an increasingly threatening cyber environment.

The Maturity Assessment Service is designed to assist organisations in enhancing their cybersecurity stance by providing a comprehensive evaluation based on the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cyber Security Framework. Dr Ivano Bongiovanni, General Manager of AUSCERT, explained the purpose behind this new service. "For many organisations, the hardest step to take when trying to combat the rising tide of cybercrime is the first one. We have simplified the process by creating a model that guides organisations through the 20 most important security controls covering people, processes and technology," he said.

AUSCERT's new service involves assessing an organisation's cybersecurity posture and determining their current maturity ranking against these 20 critical controls. The results are compiled in a report that outlines the organisation's existing maturity level and offers actionable steps to enhance their security measures. This approach aims to make the process manageable and practical for organisations of all sizes.

"Australian organisations are facing an escalating threat environment and many are confused about what they should do and how to start. We have simplified the process, providing them with an assessment of their current cybersecurity posture and the opportunities to improve, bolster, and adapt," noted Dr Bongiovanni. He emphasized that the service focuses on actionable advice, enabling organisations to achieve quick wins without incurring unnecessary complexity or cost.

After the initial assessment, organisations have the option to collaborate with AUSCERT for a complimentary follow-up assessment. This follow-up includes a new Maturity Gap Report, allowing organisations to track their progress after implementing the initial recommendations. According to Dr Bongiovanni, this continued engagement ensures that organisations can maintain and further develop their cybersecurity capabilities over time.

"AUSCERT is a not-for-profit, member organisation that provides best practice advice without vested vendor interest. As such, we provide an impartial assessment and advice," Dr Bongiovanni said. The impartiality of the service is highlighted as a key benefit, offering organisations a trustworthy evaluation of their cybersecurity posture without any commercial bias.

The Maturity Assessment Service is available to all organisations, with AUSCERT members entitled to a discount.