DHS Can Stregthen its Cyber Million Coordination Efforts

We audited the DHS components’ coordination in performing their cyber missions. We sought to determine whether their cyber roles and responsibilities have been well delineated and a process is in place for department-wide information sharing and coordinated response to cyber incidents and criminal investigations. We also evaluated the components’ compliance with applicable DHS information security requirements. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) components have strengthened coordination in performing their cyber missions. For example, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and United States Secret Service (USSS) have enhanced relationships with the National Protection and Programs Directorate’s (NPPD) National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center to improve information sharing and coordination on incident response and investigation. Despite these positive steps, the Department can take additional actions to improve its cyber mission coordination. For example, the Office of Policy has not developed a cyber strategic implementation plan due to its recent establishment and limited staff. Without a strategic plan, DHS cannot effectively align the components’ cyber responsibilities and capabilities with DHS’ overall mission.