“The Department of Veterans Affairs’ newly released cybersecurity strategy provides a foundation highlighting what VA considers when making cybersecurity decisions. It addresses safeguarding of data, information and information systems, incorporating new technologies to be responsive and agile in supporting the mission, and places importance on partnerships with other federal agencies.”
“In an interview with GovernmentCIO Media & Research, VA’s Deputy Assistant Secretary and Chief Information Security Officer Paul Cunningham discussed the main themes within the strategy around securing VA and veteran information, health records and electronic data exchanges. This will necessitate shifting how VA looks at cybersecurity as a business value supporting the VA mission.”
“Cybersecurity, Cunningham said, is an enabler to VA’s mission in an environment that is prioritizing digital and mobile access to benefits.”
“’That’s why we’re doing cybersecurity — not because it’s a federal requirement, that’s important, but we also need to know that it enriches the value of the benefits,’ Cunningham said. ‘Most veterans want to be able to access VA data much like they do with their phone and their banking. They want to have that confidence that the numbers are right; it’s a secure communication, and it’s seamless. That’s where we need to be driving toward.'”
“VA’s cybersecurity strategy is a department-wide, five-year effort that aligns with federal cybersecurity requirements, supports new technology developments and adapts to a changing IT landscape…” Read the full article here.
Source: VA CISO Unpacks Top Priorities for 2022 and Beyond – By Sarah Sybert, November 30, 2021. GovernmentCIO.
