Cybersecurity Maturity Model (CMM)
Level 1: Initial - Ad Hoc
Characteristics: Basic, reactive security measures; limited cybersecurity awareness; minimal policies or procedures.
Capabilities
Some employees may be aware of security risks, but no formal training.
Incident response is reactive, often only after incidents occur.
Goal: Establish foundational security measures.
Level 2: Developing - Defined Policies
Characteristics: Defined security policies exist, but implementation is inconsistent across the organization.
Capabilities
Basic training for employees on cybersecurity practices.
Patch management and basic vulnerability scanning are in place.
Goal: Consistently implement security policies and conduct basic monitoring.
Level 3: Managed - Proactive Practices
Characteristics: Security practices are standardized, and proactive risk management is in place.
Capabilities
Advanced endpoint protection and multi-factor authentication (MFA) are implemented.
Incident response plans exist, with roles and responsibilities defined.
Regular employee training on phishing and security awareness.
Goal: Shift from reactive to proactive security practices and establish a strong security culture.
Level 4: Optimized - Quantitative Risk Management
Characteristics: Quantitative metrics guide cybersecurity, with active risk assessments and continuous improvement.
Capabilities
Detailed incident response with periodic drills and simulated attacks.
Compliance tracking for regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).
Advanced threat detection, response, and automated incident management.
Goal: Use metrics and analytics to drive security decisions and maintain resilience against evolving threats.
Level 5: Advanced - Adaptive and Self-Improving
Characteristics: Cybersecurity is integrated across all operations, with adaptive and continuously improving security strategies.
Capabilities
Continuous red-teaming and blue-teaming exercises.
Fully automated incident response and threat mitigation.
Continuous compliance monitoring and adaptation to new regulations.
Goal: Achieve a resilient, adaptive security posture that evolves with the threat landscape.
Using the CMM for Assessment
Organizations can assess their current level and work toward the next level by identifying gaps and implementing practices that match higher maturity requirements. This model helps teams focus on prioritized, achievable steps to strengthen their security posture.
