Meta-Study: Catalogue Paper

Meta-Study: A Catalogue of Canadian Cybersecurity Frameworks, Standards, and Practices

TODO: PUBLICATION INFORMATION

1. Abstract

Canada lacks a unified federal cybersecurity regulatory framework. As a consequence, Canada's cybersecurity landscape is characterized by a patchwork of regulations, policies, frameworks, standards, and practices. Numerous stand-alone cybersecurity standards and practices across Canada have developed, often to deal with relatively specific needs. This paper presents the results of a meta-study examining and cataloging the current state of Canadian cybersecurity frameworks, standards, and practices.

2. Introduction

The current state of Canadian cybersecurity regulations is decentralized, fragmented, and complex (Cram 2023, Marcovitch 2024, Pomerleau 2020). Further, there are overlaps in jurisdiction overlaps, and significant challenges in coordination and cooperation (Fan 2024, Marcovitch 2024).

This paper presents the results of a meta-study to catalogue the Canadian cybersecurity frameworks and standards. The study did not attempt to catalogue all of the Canadian cybersecurity policies. However, portions of this paper reference Canadian cybersecurity policies, as some of these are closely linked to frameworks or standards, and difficult to disentangle.

Next: Characterization of standards and practices.

Next: Model / structure for standards and practices.

3. Methodology

3.1 Objective

The purpose of this meta-study is to create a catalog of Canadian cybersecurity regulations, including frameworks, standards, and practices. Due to the lack of a federal cybersecurity governance body, there is no index or repository of cybersecurity regulations. The development of such a catalogue represents a first step towards a long-term goal of identifying gaps in Canadian cybersecurity regulations.

3.2 Scope

The scope of this meta-study is Canadian Cybersecurity regulations, including frameworks, standards, and practices. This includes regulations developed by Canadian government bodies, industry-specific standards, and any relevant international standards that have been adopted in Canada. This meta-study will not specifically be examining Canadian cybersecurity policies, but the study does reference cybersecurity policies where they are closely linked to cybersecurity regulations.

3.3 Research Framework

3.3.1 Sources

  • Canadian Centre for Cyber Security
  • Standards Council of Canada
  • Government publications.
  • Official websites of Canadian cybersecurity authorities.
  • Industry-specific regulatory bodies and publications (FINTRAC, PIPEDA, etc.).
  • Academic journals.
  • White papers and industry reports.
  • Existing literature reviews and meta-studies.
  • International standards adopted within Canada (ISO/IEC 27001, NIST frameworks, etc.).

3.3.2 Catalogue Data Model

  1. Regulation Name and Version.
  2. Date of Publication/Last Update.
  3. Governing Body or Issuer.
  4. Target Sector or Domain.
  5. Key Features/Requirements.
  6. Level of Adoption
  7. Certification, Assessment, or Enforcement Mechanisms.

4. Synthesis and Analysis

  • Types of frameworks or standards (technical, procedural, etc.).
  • Distribution of frameworks or standards.
  • Thematic identification and/or analysis of focus areas (e.g., data protection, risk management).

4.1 Frameworks

TODO: DESCRIPTION

4.2 Standards

TODO: DESCRIPTION

4.3 Practices

TODO: DESCRIPTION

4.4 Themes and Focus Areas

  1. Information Security Management (Examples: ISO/IEC 27001, NIST SP 800-53)
  2. Data Protection and Privacy (Examples: GDPR - General Data Protection Regulation, ISO/IEC 27701 Privacy Information Management System)
  3. Network Security (Examples: NIST Cybersecurity Framework, IEC 62443 Industrial Automation and Control Systems Security)
  4. Endpoint and Device Security (Examples: NIST SP 800-124 (Mobile Device Security, ETSI EN 303 645 IoT Device Security)
  5. Application Security (OWASP Top Ten, ISO/IEC 27034 Application Security)
  6. Incident Response and Recovery (Examples: NIST SP 800-61 Incident Handling Guide, ISO/IEC 27035 Incident Management)
  7. Risk Management (Examples: ISO 31000 Risk Management, NIST SP 800-30 Risk Assessment)
  8. Cryptography and Key Management (Examples: FIPS 140-3 Cryptographic Module Validation, ISO/IEC 19790 Cryptographic Techniques)
  9. Access Control and Identity Management (Examples: NIST SP 800-63 Digital Identity Guidelines, ISO/IEC 24760 Identity Management)
  10. Supply Chain Security (Examples: NIST SP 800-161 Supply Chain Risk Management, ISO 28000 Security in Supply Chains)
  11. Governance and Compliance (Examples: COBIT Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies, ISO/IEC 38500 IT Governance)
  12. Physical Security (Examples: ISO/IEC 27011 Physical Security Controls)
  13. Cybersecurity Awareness and Training (Examples: NIST Special Publication 800-50 Awareness and Training, ISO/IEC 27014 Awareness and Training Programs)

5. Catalog

TODO: DESCRIPTION

Canadian Cybersecurity Frameworks and Standards

Canada has several federal cybersecurity standards and frameworks aimed at protecting information and critical infrastructure. Key standards and guidelines include:

  1. Canadian Cyber Security Strategy

This strategy outlines the government's approach to enhancing cybersecurity across sectors, emphasizing collaboration, resilience, and protection of sensitive information. The strategy is a comprehensive framework developed by the Government of Canada to enhance the country's cyber resilience and security. Launched in 2018, the strategy outlines key priorities and initiatives aimed at protecting Canadians, critical infrastructure, and government operations from cyber threats. Key components of the strategy include:

  • Cyber Defense: Strengthening defenses against cyber attacks by improving the security of government networks and critical infrastructure.
  • Collaboration: Fostering partnerships between government, private sector, and international allies to share information and best practices.
  • Public Awareness and Education: Increasing awareness among Canadians about cyber threats and promoting safe online practices.
  • Research and Innovation: Supporting research and development in cybersecurity technologies and practices.
  • Incident Response: Establishing mechanisms for responding to cyber incidents, including the creation of a national cyber incident response team.
  1. IT Security Risk Management Framework (ITSG-33)

Developed by the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (CCCS), this framework provides guidance on identifying and managing IT security risks within government organizations. The Canadian IT Security Risk Management Framework, known as ITSG-33, is a guideline developed by the Canadian government to help organizations manage information technology security risks effectively. It is particularly relevant for federal government departments and agencies but can also be applied by private sector organizations. Key Features of ITSG-33 include:

  • Risk Management Approach: ITSG-33 emphasizes a risk management approach to cybersecurity, encouraging organizations to identify, assess, and mitigate risks based on their specific contexts.
  • Security Controls: The framework outlines a set of security controls that organizations should implement to protect their IT assets. These controls are designed to be flexible and scalable, allowing organizations of various sizes and types to adopt them.
  • Continuous Improvement: ITSG-33 promotes a cycle of continuous improvement, encouraging organizations to regularly review and update their security practices based on evolving threats and vulnerabilities.
  • Integration with Other Frameworks: It aligns with other cybersecurity frameworks and standards, facilitating compatibility with international best practices.
  • Guidance and Support: The framework provides guidance on establishing security policies, conducting risk assessments, and implementing effective security measures.
  1. Security Assessment and Authorization (SA&A)

This process ensures that systems used by federal agencies meet established security requirements before they can be authorized for use.

  1. Cyber Security Assessment Program (CSAP)

The Canadian Cyber Security Assessment Program (CSAP) is designed to help organizations evaluate their cyber security posture and enhance their resilience against cyber threats. It provides a framework for assessing the maturity of an organization's cyber security practices and helps identify vulnerabilities and areas for improvement.

The CSAP involves a structured assessment process that includes:

  • Evaluation: Analyzing existing security measures, policies, and procedures.
  • Risk Assessment: Identifying potential risks and threats specific to the organization.
  • Recommendations: Offering guidance on best practices and improvements based on the assessment findings.
  • Continuous Improvement: Encouraging ongoing evaluation and updates to security measures.
  • The program is aimed at both public and private sector organizations and aligns with national and international cyber security standards and frameworks. By participating in CSAP, organizations can strengthen their defenses and better protect against cyber incidents.
  1. Directive on Security Management

This directive sets out the requirements for security management in federal organizations, including information technology security measures. This Directive replace the Directive on Departmental Security Management, the Operational Security Standard - Business Continuity Planning (BCP) Program, the Operational Security Standard on Physical Security, the Operational Security Standard - Readiness Levels for Federal Government Facilities, and the Operational Security Standard: Management of Information Technology Security (MITS).

Key components of the DSM include:

  • Risk Management: Organizations are required to identify, assess, and manage security risks to their operations and assets.
  • Governance: Establishing clear roles and responsibilities for security management within the organization, including senior leadership involvement.
  • Security Planning: Developing and implementing security policies, procedures, and plans that align with the organization's objectives.
  • Training and Awareness: Ensuring that all employees are aware of security policies and procedures, and providing necessary training.
  • Incident Management: Establishing processes for responding to and managing security incidents effectively.
  • The directive aims to foster a culture of security awareness and resilience across federal organizations, ultimately enhancing the security posture of the Canadian government as a whole.
  1. Operational Standard for the Security of Information Act

The Canadian Operational Standard for the Security of Information Act (SOIA) provides guidance for federal organizations on safeguarding sensitive information and managing security effectively. The SOIA is designed to ensure that government information is protected from unauthorized access, disclosure, and misuse.

Key aspects of the Operational Standard include:

  • Classification of Information: Establishing criteria for classifying information based on its sensitivity and the potential impact of unauthorized disclosure.
  • Security Controls: Implementing appropriate physical, administrative, and technical controls to protect classified and sensitive information.
  • Access Management: Defining who can access sensitive information and under what conditions, ensuring that access is limited to authorized personnel.
  • Incident Reporting: Establishing procedures for reporting and responding to security incidents or breaches involving sensitive information.
  • Training and Awareness: Promoting security awareness among employees through training programs to ensure they understand their responsibilities in protecting information.
  • Overall, the Operational Standard aims to enhance the security of government information, aligning with broader national security objectives and frameworks.
  1. Canadian Centre for Cyber Security Publications

The CCCS publishes various guidelines and best practices, including the Top 10 Cyber Security Actions to help organizations improve their cybersecurity defenses.

6. Conclusion

TODO: SUMMARY

7. References

  • Cram, W. Alec, and Jonathan Yuan. "Out with the old, in with the new: examining national cybersecurity strategy changes over time." Journal of Cyber Policy 8.1 (2023): 26-47.](#)
  • Dalal, Aryendra, and Farhana Mahjabeen. "Securing Critical Infrastructure: Cybersecurity for Industrial Control Systems in the US, Canada, and the EU." International Journal of Machine Learning Research in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence 4.1 (2013): 18-28.
  • Fan, Xing. "Between fragmentation and integration: the United Nations and global cybersecurity regulation." (2024).
  • Marcovitch, Inbal, and Fraser Moffatt. "Information Management Standards in Canadian Public Safety and Security: Enhancing Interoperability, Collaboration and Resilience." Information Management Capabilities in Public Safety and Security: Challenges, Strategies and Frameworks. Cham: Springer Nature Switzerland, 2024. 37-59.
  • Pomerleau, Pierre-Luc, et al. "Major Themes in the Literature of Cybersecurity and Public–Private Partnerships; A Focus on Financial Institutions." Countering Cyber Threats to Financial Institutions: A Private and Public Partnership Approach to Critical Infrastructure Protection (2020): 87-122.