Which risk management framework is tailored for U.S. federal agencies ensuring cybersecurity risk management?

The NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF) is specifically designed to support the federal government's efforts in managing cybersecurity risks. It provides a comprehensive process for integrating security and risk management activities into the system development life cycle. The framework is grounded in compliance with federal laws and guidelines, particularly those outlined by the Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA), making it particularly suited for U.S. federal agencies.

The NIST RMF emphasizes continuous monitoring, which ensures that security controls remain effective over time and adapts to changing threats. It consists of steps that include categorizing information systems, selecting appropriate security controls, implementing those controls, assessing their effectiveness, authorizing system operation based on risk assessment, and continuously monitoring the systems for vulnerabilities and threats.

This framework offers a structured approach that aligns with the unique requirements of federal agencies while facilitating compliance with governmental regulations, thus making it distinct in its design for managing cybersecurity risks specifically within that context.