Insights

In 2025, owners and operators of critical infrastructure will have new security and information sharing obligations to consider under the National Security Memorandum 22 (“NSM-22” or the “Memorandum”). NSM- 22 replaces the Obama-era Presidential Policy Directive 21: Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience (PPD-21).

After years of anticipation and a series of delays, implementation of the U.S. Department of Defense’s Cyber Maturity Model Certification Program (CMMC) is rapidly approaching. Though CMMC is not expected to enter into effect until early-to- mid 2025, DOD contactors can start taking steps now to ensure a smooth transition into this new regulatory era.

Protecting critical infrastructure is paramount to today’s digital age. Critical infrastructure includes physical and virtual systems essential for the functioning of our society, economy, and national security. Such a definition may include power grids, communication networks, and financial institutions, among other networks that heavily rely on interconnected computer systems. These systems are also considered critical infrastructure, as they are used to protect critical cybersecurity infrastructure. 

Every day, organizations face a barrage of attacks from cybercriminals looking to do harm by gaining access to IT systems and sensitive data. Repercussions from these attacks can be significant—lost business data, legal liability, regulatory scrutiny, and a damaged reputation. To prepare for potential attacks, companies need a robust incident response plan that can be quickly and effectively deployed against cyber threats as they arise.