Government Security Audit
State Government Agency
Industry
Government
Category
Security Auditing
Duration
15 months
Team Size
6 security auditors
Overview
Full-scope security audit and NIST framework implementation for state government systems requiring Authorization to Operate (ATO).
The Challenge
The agency needed to achieve NIST 800-53 compliance and obtain Authorization to Operate for systems handling sensitive citizen data, with strict federal oversight requirements.
- Complex NIST 800-53 compliance requirements
- Legacy systems requiring security controls
- Sensitive citizen data protection requirements
- Federal oversight and audit scrutiny
- Limited budget and technical resources
Our Solution
We conducted comprehensive security assessment, implemented NIST 800-53 controls, and guided the agency through the ATO process with successful authorization.
Implementation Approach
Phase 1: NIST Gap Assessment
3 monthsComprehensive audit against NIST 800-53 moderate baseline. Identified 156 control gaps requiring remediation.
Phase 2: Control Implementation
8 monthsImplemented technical, administrative, and physical controls. Developed security policies and procedures.
Phase 3: Evidence Collection
3 monthsCollected and organized evidence for all 325+ NIST controls. Prepared System Security Plan and supporting documentation.
Phase 4: ATO Support
1 monthSupported formal security assessment and Authorization to Operate process. Achieved successful authorization.
Results
325+
NIST controls implemented
100%
Authorization to Operate granted
0
Federal audit findings
Annual
Recertification support ongoing
Technologies Used
Southern Solve guided us through the complex ATO process with expertise and patience. We now have a sustainable compliance program.
Chief Information Security Officer
State Government Agency
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