Free CIS Controls 7.1 Security Questionnaire Template

The Center for Internet Security (CIS) Controls version 7.1 provides a set of best practices for cyber defense, offering a prioritized path to improve an organization's cybersecurity posture. This template aims to help organizations assess their alignment with these controls through a series of targeted questions.

Introduction

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This questionnaire is designed to evaluate your organization's implementation of the CIS Controls 7.1. It covers all 20 control areas, with questions tailored to each control's key aspects. Use this template as a starting point, and customize it as needed to fit your specific requirements.

Questionnaire Structure

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For each CIS Control, we provide:
1. A brief description of the control
2. Several yes/no questions addressing key aspects
3. A space for additional comments or explanations

Template:

CIS Control 1: Inventory and Control of Hardware Assets

Description: Actively manage (inventory, track, and correct) all hardware devices on the network so that only authorized devices are given access, and unauthorized and unmanaged devices are found and prevented from gaining access.

Questions:

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1.1 Do you maintain an up-to-date inventory of all hardware assets?
  □ Yes □ No

1.2 Is there an automated process for discovering new hardware connected to your network?
  □ Yes □ No

1.3 Do you have a process to ensure only authorized devices can connect to your network?
  □ Yes □ No

Comments:

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[Space for additional information]

[Continue with similar sections for each of the 20 CIS Controls]

CIS Control 20: Penetration Testing and Red Team Exercises

Description: Test the overall strength of an organization's defense (the technology, the processes, and the people) by simulating the objectives and actions of an attacker.

Questions:

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20.1 Do you conduct regular penetration testing of your network and systems?
   □ Yes □ No

20.2 Are red team exercises performed to test your organization's detection and response capabilities?
   □ Yes □ No

20.3 Are the results of penetration tests and red team exercises used to improve security controls?
   □ Yes □ No

Comments:

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[Space for additional information]

Conclusion

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This template provides a framework for assessing alignment with the CIS Controls 7.1. Remember that security is an ongoing process, and regular reassessment is crucial. Use the results of this questionnaire to identify areas for improvement and to track progress over time.

Best Practices for Using This Template:

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1. Customize the questions to fit your organization's specific needs and environment.
2. Involve relevant stakeholders from different departments when completing the questionnaire.
3. Use the comments sections to provide context and additional information where necessary.
4. Review and update your responses regularly, ideally at least annually or when significant changes occur in your IT environment.
5. Use the results to create an action plan for addressing any gaps or areas of improvement identified.

By systematically working through this questionnaire, organizations can gain valuable insights into their cybersecurity posture and identify areas where they can strengthen their defenses in line with industry-recognized best practices.

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