Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT): What is it?

Data protection and information systems security have become top priorities for companies. Security auditing represents a fundamental approach to evaluating and strengthening the security of an IT infrastructure. Discover why and how to implement this essential practice.

What is a CERT?

A CERT (or CSIRT for Computer Security Incident Response Team) is a specialized team in managing cybersecurity incidents. These teams are responsible for preventing, detecting, and responding to cyberattacks while coordinating efforts to mitigate damage. The first CERT was created in 1988 following the Morris worm attack, one of the first large-scale computer viruses. Since then, CERTs have multiplied across the globe, becoming key players in cybersecurity. In France, the CERT-FR is the governmental and national CERT. It is supported by the ANSSI (National Cybersecurity Agency of France) and primarily intervenes with public agencies and operators of vital importance.

What are the missions of CERT-FR?

The goal of CERT-FR is to protect French information systems against cyber threats. Its missions are varied and cover all aspects of incident response:

Responding to security incidents:

• Analyze the symptoms of incidents.
• Identify correlations with other similar attacks.
• Propose solutions to restore affected systems.

Handling alerts and reacting to attacks:

• Conduct a technical analysis of attacks.
• Participate in information exchanges with other CERTs.
• Contribute to technical studies on specific topics.

Detecting attacks and vulnerabilities:

• Continuously monitor the security of governmental systems.
• Conduct technology watch to identify vulnerabilities in IT products.

Contributing to prevention:

• Disseminate information on good security practices.
• Raise awareness among users about cyber risks.

Coordinating actions:

• Collaborate with other national and international CERTs.
• Mobilize key actors (operators, internet service providers, etc.) in case of a crisis.

Who benefits from CERT-FR?

CERT-FR primarily intervenes with public agencies including ministries, institutions, local authorities, etc. The operators of vital importance (OIV) can also benefit from this as these public or private actors manage critical infrastructures (energy, transport, health, etc.) whose disruption would have a major impact on the nation. Operators of Essential Services (OSE) provide crucial services to the economy or society, such as banks or communication networks, and also benefit from CERT-FR’s services. CERT-FR does not directly address private individuals, very small enterprises (VSEs), or SMEs. These groups are directed to the site cybermalveillance.gouv.fr, a governmental platform dedicated to cybersecurity assistance.

What is the C4?

To strengthen responses to cyber threats, France has established the C4 (Cyber Crisis Coordination Center). This structure, originating from the 2018 strategic review of cyberdefense, aims to pool skills and resources to better anticipate and react to attacks. The C4 is divided into C4 TECHOPS, a permanent body that coordinates technical actions among ANSSI, COMCYBER, DGA, DGSI, and DGSE. Meanwhile, C4 STRAT operates at a strategic level, tasked with proposing global responses to cyber threats and monitoring their implementation.

Does CERT-FR work alone?

CERT-FR does not work alone. It is a member of several CERT networks, allowing it to share information and coordinate actions on a global scale:

• InterCERT France: A network of active CERTs in the French territory.
• EU CSIRTs Network: The network of CERTs of the European Union member states.
• FIRST: An international organization bringing together more than 600 public and private CERTs.
• TF-CSIRT: An initiative promoting the sharing of experiences between incident response teams.

CERT-FR is recognized for its expertise, with a level 2 accreditation by TF-CSIRT since 2002.

Why are CERTs essential?

CERTs play a crucial role in combating cyber threats due to their reactivity, as they allow for quick responses to incidents, thereby limiting damage. They also facilitate collaboration between public and private actors, acting as coordinators. They also have a preventive role and work to raise user awareness and strengthen system security. In a context where cyberattacks are increasingly developed, CERTs are indispensable fortresses to protect critical infrastructures and sensitive data.

How to collaborate with a CERT?

If you are an eligible organization, here is how to collaborate with CERT-FR:

1. Report an incident: Contact CERT-FR via its official website.
2. Share information: Contribute to the community by sharing threat data.
3. Benefit from resources: Use guides, alerts, and tools provided by CERT-FR.

Conclusion

CERTs, and particularly CERT-FR, are major players in cybersecurity. Their missions of prevention, detection, and incident response make them indispensable partners for both public and private organizations. By understanding their role and collaborating with them, you can enhance your system’s security and better face cyber threats. To learn more, visit the CERT-FR website or explore resources available on cybermalveillance.gouv.fr. Starting a cybersecurity training course