Which OMB guidance requires federal agencies to review security controls for each system at least every three years?

Which OMB guidance requires federal agencies to review security controls for each system at least every three years?

• A. OMB Circular No. A-123
• B. OMB Circular No. A-130, Appendix III
• C. OMB Circular No. A-127
• D. OMB Circular No. A-136

Answer: (B)

OMB Circular No. A-130, Appendix III is the accurate guidance that mandates federal agencies to conduct reviews of security controls for each information system at least every three years. This requirement is part of a broader framework aimed at ensuring the protection of federal information systems, promoting responsible management of federal information resources, and maintaining vigilance over security measures. The guidance emphasizes the importance of ongoing assessment and monitoring of security controls, which is fundamental for maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of federal information systems. By establishing a regular review cycle, OMB Circular No. A-130 reinforces accountability and helps agencies adapt to evolving threats and vulnerabilities in the cybersecurity landscape. In contrast, OMB Circular No. A-123 focuses mainly on management accountability and internal control for federal programs and does not specifically address the frequency of security control reviews for individual systems. OMB Circular No. A-127 is concerned with financial management, and OMB Circular No. A-136 deals with financial reporting and does not pertain to information systems security controls. Therefore, the specific requirement for a triennial review of security controls is clearly articulated within OMB Circular No. A-130, Appendix III.

OMB Circular No. A-130, Appendix III is the accurate guidance that mandates federal agencies to conduct reviews of security controls for each information system at least every three years. This requirement is part of a broader framework aimed at ensuring the protection of federal information systems, promoting responsible management of federal information resources, and maintaining vigilance over security measures.

The guidance emphasizes the importance of ongoing assessment and monitoring of security controls, which is fundamental for maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of federal information systems. By establishing a regular review cycle, OMB Circular No. A-130 reinforces accountability and helps agencies adapt to evolving threats and vulnerabilities in the cybersecurity landscape.

In contrast, OMB Circular No. A-123 focuses mainly on management accountability and internal control for federal programs and does not specifically address the frequency of security control reviews for individual systems. OMB Circular No. A-127 is concerned with financial management, and OMB Circular No. A-136 deals with financial reporting and does not pertain to information systems security controls. Therefore, the specific requirement for a triennial review of security controls is clearly articulated within OMB Circular No. A-130, Appendix III.