Challenge:

The Smithsonian Institution needed to evaluate the security and effectiveness of legacy systems, infrastructure and environment to ensure compliance with current NIST standards and address potential vulnerabilities.

Solution:

Symposit conducted a comprehensive assessment using CIS Controls as the foundational framework, which aligns closely with NIST 800-53 standards. Key steps included:

  • Leadership & Team Collaboration: We engaged leadership and staff to gather insights on the effectiveness of existing systems and processes.
  • Holistic Systems Review: Symposit assessed all systems and controls to determine compliance and identify areas requiring immediate attention.
  • Prioritization of Vulnerabilities: Recommendations were provided to address high-priority gaps, ensuring a clear roadmap for improved security posture.
  • Immediate Mitigation: Urgent vulnerabilities were directly mitigated to reduce immediate risk exposure.

 

Results:

  • Enhanced Security Posture: The Smithsonian achieved a more mature and robust security environment by implementing Symposit’s recommendations.
  • Improved Communication: The audit bridged feedback gaps between staff on the ground and leadership, fostering better alignment on priorities.
  • Guided Compliance Efforts: The assessment provided actionable steps for ongoing compliance with industry standards, ensuring sustained security improvements.

 

Metrics:

  • Comprehensive Control Assessment: Evaluated all systems against CIS Controls and NIST 800-53 to guide compliance strategies.
  • Leadership Briefings: Delivered detailed feedback sessions, equipping leadership with actionable insights for decision-making.
  • Immediate Action: Implemented mitigations to resolve critical vulnerabilities promptly.

 

Symposit’s targeted approach empowered the Smithsonian Institution to future-proof its systems, plan for future investments, and tighten its cybersecurity processes on time and budget creating a secure and compliant infrastructure.




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