How to Build a Robust Digital Identity Program

Cyber intrusions have increased with the rise of public sector technology concerns, and one of the most effective ways to prevent them is through a robust digital identity program. This includes two-factor authentication (2FA) and single sign-on (SSO). Building these programs can be difficult, but there are some essential steps that can make the process much smoother.

Authenticating the identities of government employees, contractors, and citizens is essential to the mission of any government agency. In recent years, high-profile cyber intrusions have underscored the importance of strong authentication measures. The Office of Personnel Management hack in 2015 was a stark reminder of how weak authentication methods can leave an organization vulnerable. In this article, we’ll discuss what digital identity is, the benefits of a robust digital identity program, and how you can go about building one.

What Is a Digital Identity in the Public Sector?

Your digital identity is the set of data points that identify you online. This can include everything from your name and address to your social media activity and browsing history. Collectively, this information can be used to confirm your identity. 

In the public sector, digital identity is often used for authentication purposes. When accessing a government website or application, your digital identity is verified to ensure you are who you say you are.

Digital Identity in the public sector is managed through an identity management system. This platform stores, manages, and authenticates the digital identities of employees, contractors, and citizens. In the wake of high-profile cyber breaches, many government agencies have been working to strengthen their identity management systems. 

The Department of Homeland Security’s Continuous Diagnostics and Mitigation (CDM) program is one example of an identity management initiative designed to help government agencies improve their cybersecurity posture. 

The following are examples of data points that may be used to establish a digital identity:

  • Username and password
  • Purchasing behavior or history
  • Date of birth
  • Social security number
  • Online search activities, such as electronic transactions
  • Medical history

What Are the Best Ways to Authenticate the Identities of Gov. Employees Continuously?

GSA’s Login.gov is the primary digital identity platform for the federal government. Login.gov allows users to sign into multiple government websites and applications with one set of credentials. The platform also offers 2FA and SSO capabilities to authenticate employees’ identities.

There are a few key steps that you need to take to build a robust digital identity program to authenticate government employee identities, including implementing:

  • Unique passwords
  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  • Cryptographic-based authentication 
  • Single sign-on (SSO)

 

Organizations must implement strong authentication measures to ensure that a digital identity program is effective. This includes using unique passwords, multi-factor authentication, and cryptographic-based authentication. But what are these features, and how do they work together to create a strong digital identity program?

Unique Passwords

One of the most important steps that you can take to improve the security of your digital identity program is to implement unique passwords. This means that each user will have a different password for each government website or application that they need to access.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Another important step that you can take to improve the security of your digital identity program is to implement multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two or more pieces of evidence to authenticate their identity. 

Common types of MFA include: (1) Something you know (a password or PIN) (2) Something you have (a smartphone or security token) (3) Something you are (your fingerprint or iris scan).

Cryptographic-Based Authentication

Cryptographic-based authentication is another strong authentication measure that you can implement to improve the security of your digital identity program. This type of authentication uses digital signatures and public key infrastructure (PKI) to verify the identity of users.

Single Sign-On (SSO)

Another way to make it easier for users to access government systems and applications is to implement single sign-on (SSO). SSO allows users to authenticate their identity once and then access multiple systems and applications with that one set of credentials.

How Can We Authenticate the Identities of Gov. Employees Securely and Efficiently?

Safety and efficiency are two important factors to consider when implementing a digital identity program. As more organizations embrace the cloud, they seek security solutions to validate and authorize internal and external users without disrupting the user experience with complicated authentication approaches.

Authenticating government employees’ digital identity can be done in various ways, but some methods, like PACS or Personal Identity Verification (PIV) cards, are stronger than others. These cards are issued to government employees and contractors and used to verify their identity when accessing government systems.

Who’s responsible for these standards within Federal Facilities?

The Interagency Security Committee, commonly known as the ISC, is responsible for security and safety standards for federal facilities.  To ensure that a facility meets these standards, the security staff must have a way to verify the identities of everyone who enters the building.

What does authentication look like?

One way to do this is through using PAC or PIV cards. These cards are issued to government employees and contractors and used to verify their identity when accessing government systems.

PAC or PIV cards are the strongest forms of digital identity authentication because they use Multi-Factor Authentication, or a combination of something you know (a PIN), something you have (the card), and something you are (biometrics) to verify your identity.

Another way to verify the identity of government employees is through the use of cryptographic-based authentication. This type of authentication uses digital signatures and public key infrastructure (PKI) to verify the identity of users.

Cryptographic-based authentication is a strong authentication measure that can be used to improve the security of your digital identity program. This type of authentication uses digital signatures and public key infrastructure (PKI) to verify the identity of users.

PKI is a system of digital certificates and corresponding private keys that can be used to verify the identity of a user. A digital certificate contains information about the user, such as their name, email address, and public key. The private key is used to sign electronic documents and messages to prove that they came from the user.

Conclusion

Regarding digital identity, safety and efficiency are two important factors to consider. To ensure your program is secure, you must implement strong authentication measures. 

There are a variety of ways that you can authenticate the identities of government employees. Some methods, like PACS or PIV cards, are stronger than others. However, all of the methods discussed in this article are effective ways to verify government employees’ identity.

When building your digital identity program, OnFrontiers’ network of cybersecurity experts can provide guidance and best practices. To connect with one of these experts, please click here.

7 Productivity Tools for Freelance Knowledge Workers

If you’re a freelance knowledge worker, chances are you’re always looking for ways to increase your productivity and eliminate administrative tasks.

Seven of the best tools to increase productivity for freelance knowledge workers include:

 

  • Xero
  • Slack
  • Freshbooks
  • OnFrontiers
  • PayPal
  • Boomerang
  • Trello

 

From project management to invoicing and payments, these tools can help you streamline your workflows and free up time to focus on what you do best. This article will explore each of these productivity tools and how they can benefit freelance knowledge workers.

1. Xero

Xero is online accounting software that can save you a ton of time on bookkeeping and other back-office tasks. It’s easy to use and can be accessed from anywhere, which makes it ideal for freelance knowledge workers who need to stay agile. 

 

With Xero, you can store documents online, automate invoicing, reconcile transactions, and track your expenses. This can all be done from a single platform, making things simpler and more streamlined.

2. Slack

Slack is a messaging app that helps you stay connected with your team, no matter where you are. It’s perfect for freelance knowledge workers who need to collaborate with others on projects. 

 

With Slack, you can easily search for documents and files, create to-do lists, and set up reminders. You can also join channels to discuss specific topics with other users.

3. Freshbooks

Freshbooks is an invoicing and accounting platform that makes it easy to manage your finances. With Freshbooks, you can create and send invoices, track expenses, and stay on top of your bookkeeping. Freshbooks offers three versions of this invoicing software:

  • Lite 
  • Plus, and 
  • Premium

These three versions will cost you $4.50, $7.50, and $15.00, respectively. Additionally, Freshbooks offers a custom setting that allows you to customize your features for a unique price. Freshbooks also offers a mobile app so that you can manage your finances on the go.

4. OnFrontiers

OnFrontiers is a platform that connects businesses with expert consultants from around the world. This can be a great resource for freelance knowledge workers who need to find experts in specific fields. 

 

OnFrontiers allows you to easily search for consultants based on their skills and experience. For knowledge contributors, OnFrontiers also allows you to find meaningful projects and connect with new clients.

5. PayPal

PayPal is an online payment platform that makes sending and receiving payments easy. This can be a great tool for freelance knowledge workers who need to get paid quickly and easily. Using PayPal, you can create invoices, track expenses, and request payments. You can also set up automatic payments to get paid on time, every time.

6. Boomerang

Boomerang is an email management tool that can help you stay on top of your inbox. With Boomerang, you can schedule emails to be sent at a later date, snooze emails until you’re ready to deal with them, and set up reminders. Boomerang is a great tool for freelance knowledge workers who need to stay organized and on top of their email communications.

7. Trello

Trello is a project management tool that can be used to organize and track projects. With Trello, you can create boards to track specific projects, add tasks and subtasks, and assign team members to specific tasks. 

 

Trello offers a variety of features that can be customized to fit your specific needs. For knowledge workers, Trello can be a great tool for staying organized and on top of your projects.

Conclusion

There are a variety of tools available to help freelance knowledge workers increase their productivity. From accounting and invoicing to project management and email management, these tools can help you streamline your workflows and free up time to focus on what you do best. By using these tools, you can eliminate the back-office burden and focus on the tasks that matter most. 

Sources

Is the Cloud More Secure? | Cloud Migration in the Public Sector

There are many factors to consider when making the decision to move your IT systems to the cloud, especially in the public sector. One of those vital factors is security. The security of your data is important, and you need to weigh the risks and benefits of moving to the cloud before making a decision. 

The cloud is a great option for many organizations because it can provide increased security and flexibility. When data is stored in the cloud, it is more difficult for hackers to access. Cloud providers also have robust security measures in place, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems. 

However, there are also some risks associated with moving to the cloud. One of those risks is that you may not have control over where your data is stored. In this article, we will look at the risks and benefits of moving your IT systems to the cloud so that you can make an informed decision. 

Public Sector Benefits of Moving IT Systems to the Cloud 

Federal government IT organizations are responsible for managing large amounts of data and ensuring that this data is secure. The cloud can provide many benefits for these organizations, especially in the areas of security and flexibility. The cloud offers a ton of advantages over traditional on-premises solutions. However, one of the key considerations for public sector organizations when moving to the cloud is security.

There are pros and pitfalls of cloud security, particularly in a multi-cloud environment. By understanding these before making a decision to move to the cloud, you can be sure that your data is as secure as possible. Some of the most significant benefits of moving IT systems to the cloud for public sector organizations include: 

  • Increased security: One of the main benefits of moving to the cloud is that it can provide increased security for your data. When data is stored in the cloud, it is more difficult for hackers to access. Cloud providers also have robust security measures in place, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems. 
  • Connectivity & Accessibility: With anytime, anywhere access, users are always connected. Users may access files from any device at any time. That eliminates the chance of data being saved on any computer, which is a significant security risk.
  • Improved collaboration: Another benefit of moving to the cloud is improved collaboration. With cloud-based solutions, multiple users can access and edit files in real time from anywhere in the world. This can be a great advantage for public sector organizations that have employees working in different locations. 
  • Faster Deployment: Cloud-based solutions may be deployed in hours rather than weeks, months, or years as it takes to carefully plan, acquire, develop, and implement an internal IT infrastructure with inside personnel.
  • Cost savings: One of the biggest benefits of moving to the cloud is cost savings. Cloud-based solutions are often more cost-effective than on-premises solutions since you only pay for what you use. In addition, there is no need to invest in hardware or software upfront, which can also save you money. 

Despite the fact that cloud-based technologies offer a lot of promise, public-sector organizations considering migrating to the cloud frequently confront a variety of organizational and operating-model problems. Despite the new pressure, many businesses still struggle to gain access to the required resources for migration. 

Furthermore, there are concerns about perceived privacy and security—including over compliance with the US Clarifying Lawful Overseas Use of Data or CLOUD Act and the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation or GDPR.

Public Sector Risks of Moving to the Cloud

While there are many benefits of moving to the cloud, there are also some risks that need to be considered. One of those risks is that you may not have control over where your data is stored. When you store data in the cloud, it is often stored in multiple locations. This can make it more difficult to track and manage data. 

Some pitfalls of moving your systems to the cloud can include: 

  • Unavoidable security risks: One of the biggest risks of moving to the cloud is security. While the cloud can provide increased security, there is also a risk that your data could be hacked or leaked. It’s important to weigh the risks and benefits of moving to the cloud before making a decision. 
  • Vendor lock-in: Another risk of moving to the cloud is vendor lock-in. When you use a cloud-based solution, you may be reliant on that particular vendor for support and updates. This can be a problem if the vendor goes out of business or raises their prices. 
  • Workforce Training: The public sector workforce is not accustomed to working in the cloud and may need additional training to be able to use cloud-based applications effectively. Migrating to the cloud can add new levels of complexity to IT operations. 
  • Lack of Cloud Expertise: The public sector often lacks the in-house expertise needed to effectively manage a cloud environment.
  • Data Sovereignty: The public sector often deals with sensitive data that must be kept within the country of origin. 

The public sector workforce is not accustomed to working in the cloud and may need additional training to be able to use cloud-based applications effectively. The operational complexity of migrating to the cloud can add new levels of complexity to IT operations. 

The public sector also often lacks the in-house expertise needed to effectively manage a cloud environment. All of these risks need to be mitigated and managed in order to have a secure and successful cloud deployment in the public sector. 

Conclusion

When done correctly, moving IT systems to the cloud can offer many benefits, such as increased security, improved collaboration, and cost savings. However, there are also some risks that need to be considered, such as vendor lock-in and security risks. 

To move your IT systems to the cloud in a secure manner, OnFrontiers’ network of cybersecurity experts can provide guidance and best practices. To connect with one of these experts, please click here.

 

How To Automate Cybersecurity and Cyber Defenses

It’s no secret that cybersecurity is a huge issue these days. With more and more businesses and organizations going online, the risk of cyber attacks is increasing exponentially in both the private and public sectors. And while there are many steps that businesses and government organizations can take to protect themselves, one of the most effective ways to combat cybercrime is to automate cybersecurity and cyber defenses.

Automating cybersecurity and cyber defenses can take many different forms, but the most common and effective method is to use artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to detect and defend against threats.

AI and ML can be used in several ways to automate cybersecurity. For example, they can identify new and emerging threats and automatically deploy countermeasures against attacks. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how AI and ML can be used to automate cybersecurity.

 

How Cybersecurity and Cyber Defense Automation Works

Cybersecurity and cyber defense automation are two of the most important tools that businesses and government organizations can use to protect themselves from cyber-attacks. Automated systems can help to improve the efficiency of security measures, as well as provide cost savings. 

To automate cybersecurity and defense, businesses and government organizations can use data analytics, AI, and machine learning. These technologies can help to quickly identify and respond to threats. In addition, automated systems can help businesses to stay up to date with the latest security threats and trends.

Data science has become one of the most important tools for businesses and government organizations to protect themselves from cyber-attacks. By analyzing data sets, organizations can identify trends and patterns that can be used to improve their overall security. In addition, data science can help businesses to optimize their resources and improve their efficiency.

Machine learning is another important tool for automating cybersecurity. Machine learning algorithms are constantly monitoring network traffic for anomalous activity. This information is then used to identify potential threats. Some examples of machine learning in network defense include: 

  • Intrusion detection systems, and
  • Malware detection systems

AI is another important tool for automating cybersecurity. AI can be used to constantly monitor network traffic and identify potential threats. In addition, AI can help businesses to stay up to date with the latest security trends. By using AI, the federal government is able to quickly identify and respond to cyber-attacks. 

Key Reasons to Consider Automating Cybersecurity

One of the most important functions of automated cybersecurity is monitoring and analyzing network traffic for anomalous activity. This can be done using AI and ML to identify patterns in network traffic data that may indicate malicious activity. 

For example, if there is a sudden spike in traffic from a particular IP address, this could be an indication of a denial of service attack. By identifying these anomalous activities, businesses can take steps to protect themselves before an attack can cause serious damage.

Some of the most important reasons to consider automating cybersecurity in the private sector include:

  1. Complex Threat Detection
  2. Rapid Response
  3. Improved Efficiency
  4. Cost Savings
  5. Advanced Security Awareness

The public sector is another area where automated cybersecurity can have a major impact. In many cases, government organizations are even more complex than businesses and face even greater cybersecurity challenges. By automating cybersecurity, government organizations can improve their ability to detect and respond to threats, as well as optimize their resources and save money. 

1. Complex Threat Detection

Federal organizations are under constant attack from a variety of sophisticated cyber threats. Automated cybersecurity can help identify these threats quickly and effectively before they can cause any damage.

Complex threats can come from various sources, including:

  • Insider threats
  • Nation-state actors, and 
  • Organized criminal groups 

2. Rapid Response

Once a threat has been identified, automated cybersecurity can deploy countermeasures immediately, before the attacker has a chance to do any serious damage. Data analytics, AI, and machine learning are all critical components of automated cybersecurity. Without these technologies, detecting and responding to threats would be impossible. 

Data analytics is used to examine data sets to identify trends or patterns. This information can then be used to improve the effectiveness of cybersecurity measures. 

3. Improved Efficiency

Automated cybersecurity can help businesses to optimize their resources and improve their overall efficiency. This is because automated systems can often detect and respond to threats more quickly and effectively than humans. 

Efficiency is particularly important in the cybersecurity field because businesses are often dealing with a limited number of resources. By automating cybersecurity, organizations can ensure that their resources are being used as effectively as possible.

4. Cost Savings

Perhaps the most obvious benefit of automating cybersecurity is the cost savings that it can provide. Automated systems require less manpower to operate, which can significantly reduce operating costs. In addition, automated systems often have a lower rate of false positives, which can also lead to cost savings.

5. Advanced Security Awareness

Automated cybersecurity can help businesses to stay up to date with the latest security threats and trends. This is because automated systems are constantly monitoring for new and emerging threats. The federal government utilizes many automated cybersecurity systems, including the National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center (NCCIC) and the Automated Indicator Sharing (AIS) system. 

The NCCIC is a 24/7 cyber threat monitoring and analysis center that the Department of Homeland Security operates. The AIS system is a DHS program that allows businesses to share cyber threat information with each other in order to improve their overall security. 

Conclusion

Cyber defense automation is a critical tool for businesses and government organizations to protect themselves from cyber-attacks. Automated systems are necessary in order to improve the efficiency of security measures, as well as provide cost savings. Data science, machine learning, and AI are all important tools for automating cybersecurity.

When automating your security measures, OnFrontiers’ network of cybersecurity experts can provide guidance and best practices. To connect with one of these experts, please click here.

 

5 Books For Freelancers To Read This Summer

The good thing about freelance work is that there is never enough content shining new light on the topic. The downside, it can be a bit overwhelming to find a medium that works for you. 

You’ve tried podcasts, YouTube videos, Instagram infographics – and the list goes on. But after your research, you’ve realized you like learning the old-fashion way: reading a good ol’ book. Lucky for you, we whittled the choices down to the 5 that we determined will be the most impactful for first time freelancers and knowledge workers. 

Without further ado, let’s get started.

Here are 5 Books For Freelancers to Read this Summer:

 

1. The Freelancer’s Bible:  Everything You Need to Know to Have the Career of Your Dream On Your Terms by Sara Horowitz

#1 Book For Freelancers: The Freelancer’s Bible

The Freelancer’s Bible is a one-stop, all-inclusive guide for new and experienced freelancers alike. This book is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about freelancing, from setting up your business to marketing your services and landing clients. It also covers important topics like:

  • Financial planning
  • Time management
  • Dealing with the ups and downs of freelancing.

More about the Author: In 1995, Sara Horowitz launched the Freelancers Union and later founded the Freelancers Insurance Company in 2008. She is a Forbes’ Top 30 Social Entrepreneurs and a MacArthur “Genius” Fellow.

Watch Sara Horowitz explain how to be a “Freelance Winner.”

 

2. Creative, Inc.: The Ultimate Guide to Running a Successful Freelance Business by Joy Deangdeelert Cho and Meg Mateo Ilasco

#2 Book For Freelancers: Creative, Inc.

Creative, Inc. is a must-read for any freelancer in the creative field. This book offers practical advice on everything from pricing your services and finding clients to building a strong portfolio and dealing with creative blocks. It also includes interviews with successful creative professionals who share their insights on what it takes to run a successful freelance business.

More about the Author: From the author of Craft, Inc., Meg Mateo Ilasco, a freelance writer and the author of several books on creative business, and Joy Deangdeelert Cho, the founder of Oh Joy!, a lifestyle brand and design studio, Creative, Inc. is a must-read for any freelancer in the creative field.

 

 

 

3. The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Timothy Ferriss

 

#3 Book For Freelancers: The 4-Hour Workweek

The 4-Hour Workweek is a modern classic when it comes to books on time management, productivity, and lifestyle design. In this book, Timothy Ferriss shares his unconventional methods for getting the most out of life by working less. 

He shows readers how to outsource and automate tasks, set boundaries, and eliminate distractions so they can focus on what’s truly important to them.

4. Freelance To Freedom: The Roadmap for Creating a Side Business to Achieve Financial, Time, and Life Freedom by Vincent Pugliese

 

#4 Book For Freelancers: Freelance to Freedom

In Freelance to Freedom, Vincent Pugliese shares his journey from struggling freelancer to successful business owner and provides actionable steps for others who want to follow in his footsteps. He covers everything from creating a niche offering and pricing your services to building a marketing plan and scaling your business. 

By the end of this book, you’ll have a roadmap for creating your own freelance business that can provide financial, time, and lifefreedom.

 

 

5. Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity by David Allen

#5 Book For Freelancers: Getting Things Done: The art of stress-free productivity

In Getting Things Done, David Allen shares his revolutionary system for stress-free productivity. He shows readers how to capture, clarify, and organize their thoughts and tasks so they can confidently take action. This book is a must-read for any freelancer who wants to learn how to get moredone in less time without feeling overwhelmed.

 

 

 

 

Conclusion

Whether you’re a beginner looking for a platform or a seasoned knowledge contributor on established platforms like OnFrontiers, these books will give you the insights and actionable steps you need to level up your freelance career.

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Guidelines For Sharing Knowledge on OnFrontiers

OnFrontiers established simple rules to ensure a consulting environment that prioritizes confidentiality and security.  These rules recognize the existing constraints on information that experts can share with clients on consultations and opportunity calls. Our compliance framework allows experts to be valued for their knowledge and experience as well as it helps navigate our client’s information confidentiality requirements. 

Review the complete Expert Participation Agreement here.

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4 Tips for Growing Your Independent Consulting Business

Independent consulting is a career that involves a lot of autonomy and responsibility. You are your own boss, which can be both exhilarating and stressful. Growing your independent consulting business takes time, energy, and focus, but it can be an immensely rewarding experience both professionally and personally.

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The U.S. Government Needs an Army of Cybersecurity Specialists.

A cyberattack occurs in the United States every 39 seconds – a frightening statistic that affects everyone from small businesses to major government agencies.

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