NERC CIP Cybersecurity Audit Checklist

A comprehensive checklist for auditing compliance with NERC CIP standards in energy and utilities companies, focusing on cybersecurity measures for critical infrastructure protection.

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About This Checklist

The NERC CIP Cybersecurity Audit Checklist is an essential tool for energy and utilities companies to ensure compliance with critical infrastructure protection standards. This comprehensive checklist addresses the complex requirements of NERC CIP, helping organizations identify vulnerabilities, assess risks, and implement robust cybersecurity measures. By utilizing this checklist, companies can streamline their audit processes, enhance their security posture, and avoid costly non-compliance penalties.

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Industry

Energy and Utilities

Standard

NERC CIP - Critical Infrastructure Protection

Workspaces

Control Centers
Power Plants
Utility Facilities
Data Centers

Occupations

Cybersecurity Auditor
Compliance Officer
IT Security Specialist
Energy Systems Manager
Risk Assessment Professional
1
Is there a documented incident response plan in place?
2
Are vulnerability assessments conducted regularly?
3
What is the average time taken to respond to incidents?
Min: 0
Target: 2
Max: 48
4
Is the organization compliant with NERC CIP standards?
5
Describe the key security controls implemented.
6
How often are risk assessments conducted?
7
Is there a documented risk management policy?
8
What is the total number of identified vulnerabilities in the last assessment?
Min: 0
Target: 10
Max: 1000
9
Are employees trained on cybersecurity best practices?
10
Describe any recent cybersecurity incidents and responses.
11
Is there a dedicated cybersecurity governance committee in place?
12
Is there regular reporting on cybersecurity issues to senior management?
13
How many cybersecurity policies are currently in effect?
Min: 0
Target: 5
Max: 50
14
Describe how stakeholders are engaged in cybersecurity governance.
15
What is the current status of resolving cybersecurity audit findings?
16
Is there a formal mechanism for reporting cybersecurity incidents?
17
Is the incident response team available 24/7?
18
What is the average time taken to resolve incidents?
Min: 0
Target: 4
Max: 72
19
Describe the post-incident review process.
20
How often is the incident response plan tested?
21
Is cybersecurity training mandatory for all employees?
22
Describe the content and curriculum of the cybersecurity training program.
23
What is the average completion rate of the cybersecurity training program?
Min: 0
Target: 90
Max: 100
24
Is the organization compliant with applicable cybersecurity regulatory standards?
25
How many cybersecurity training sessions have been conducted in the last year?
Min: 0
Target: 12
Max: 100

FAQs

The primary purpose is to ensure energy and utilities companies comply with NERC CIP standards and maintain robust cybersecurity measures for critical infrastructure protection.

NERC CIP audits are typically conducted every three years, but companies should perform regular self-assessments using this checklist to maintain ongoing compliance.

NERC CIP audits are conducted by certified auditors from NERC or regional entities, but internal teams should use this checklist for self-assessments and preparation.

The checklist covers all aspects of NERC CIP standards, including electronic security perimeters, systems security management, incident reporting, and recovery plans for critical cyber assets.

Regular use of this checklist helps companies maintain continuous compliance, identify and address gaps proactively, and stay prepared for formal audits, reducing stress and potential non-compliance issues.

Benefits of NERC CIP Cybersecurity Audit Checklist

Ensures comprehensive coverage of NERC CIP requirements

Streamlines the audit process and improves efficiency

Helps identify and address potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities

Facilitates consistent and thorough documentation of compliance efforts

Reduces the risk of non-compliance penalties and security breaches