RMF Control SR-11: Component Authenticity requires organizations to develop and implement anti-counterfeit policy and procedures that include the means to detect and prevent counterfeit components from entering the system; and report counterfeit system components to [Assignment: organization-defined source of counterfeit component].

Supplemental Guidance

The Risk Management Framework (RMF) is a cybersecurity framework that provides a process for managing cybersecurity risk to systems and organizations. RMF Control SR-11: Component Authenticity is one of the controls in the SR family, which addresses supply chain risk management.

Counterfeit components are components that have been fraudulently manufactured or altered to appear as if they are from a legitimate source. Counterfeit components can pose a significant security risk to organizations, as they may be vulnerable to exploits or may not meet the same quality standards as legitimate components.

Benefits of Implementing RMF Control SR-11

There are a number of benefits to implementing RMF Control SR-11, including:

  • Reduced risk of security incidents: Counterfeit components can pose a significant security risk to organizations. By implementing RMF Control SR-11, organizations can reduce the risk of security incidents caused by counterfeit components.
  • Improved compliance: Many regulations require organizations to have controls in place to prevent counterfeit components from entering their systems. By implementing RMF Control SR-11, organizations can improve their compliance with these regulations.
  • Reduced costs: The cost of repairing or replacing a system that has been damaged by a counterfeit component can be significant. By implementing RMF Control SR-11, organizations can reduce the costs associated with counterfeit components.

How to Implement RMF Control SR-11

To implement RMF Control SR-11, organizations should:

  1. Develop and implement anti-counterfeit policy and procedures. This policy and procedures should include the means to detect and prevent counterfeit components from entering the system.
  2. Train employees on the anti-counterfeit policy and procedures.
  3. Regularly review and update the anti-counterfeit policy and procedures.

Examples of Anti-Counterfeit Controls

Some examples of anti-counterfeit controls include:

  • Source verification: Organizations should verify the authenticity of their suppliers and the components that they supply.
  • Component inspection: Organizations should inspect components for signs of counterfeiting, such as poor workmanship, incorrect markings, or tampering.
  • Component testing: Organizations should test components to ensure that they meet the performance and security requirements of the system.

Conclusion

RMF Control SR-11: Component Authenticity is an important control that can help organizations to reduce the risk of security incidents, improve compliance, and reduce costs. By implementing RMF Control SR-11, organizations can develop and implement anti-counterfeit policy and procedures that include the means to detect and prevent counterfeit components from entering the system; and report counterfeit system components to [Assignment: organization-defined source of counterfeit component].

Additional Tips for Implementing RMF Control SR-11

  • Involve stakeholders in the development and implementation of the anti-counterfeit policy and procedures: Organizations should involve stakeholders, such as procurement, IT, and security staff, in the development and implementation of the anti-counterfeit policy and procedures. This will help to ensure that the policy and procedures are comprehensive and effective.
  • Use a variety of anti-counterfeit controls: Organizations should use a variety of anti-counterfeit controls, such as source verification, component inspection, and component testing, to reduce the risk of counterfeit components entering the system.
  • Regularly review and update the anti-counterfeit policy and procedures: Organizations should regularly review and update the anti-counterfeit policy and procedures to ensure that they are effective and up-to-date.