A cybersecurity risk management framework is a structured approach that organizations use to identify, assess, and mitigate risks to their digital assets. As cyber threats grow in complexity and frequency, having a reliable framework is essential to prioritize security investments, align security practices with business goals, and ensure compliance with industry standards.
At CRF, we understand the challenge of navigating countless cybersecurity frameworks and regulations. That’s why we developed the CRF Safeguards (CRF-S) — a practical, streamlined framework designed to help organizations of all sizes implement effective risk-based cybersecurity programs.
Risk management in cybersecurity isn’t just about checking boxes — it’s about understanding the threats your organization faces and applying appropriate safeguards. A strong cybersecurity risk management framework helps:
Identify vulnerabilities and threat scenarios
Map controls to specific risks
Establish governance policies and procedures
Track implementation progress across teams
Demonstrate compliance and accountability
The challenge is choosing a framework that’s both comprehensive and practical. That’s where the CRF-Safeguards stand out.
The CRF Safeguards (CRF–S) are a prioritized set of cybersecurity best practices designed to help organizations protect their systems, data, and operations. Consolidated from over 80 globally recognized standards and frameworks — including NIST, ISO, CIS, and more — the CRF–S eliminates the confusion of overlapping requirements by offering a single, unified approach to cybersecurity risk management.
Each safeguard in the CRF–S is mapped to a specific maturity level, giving your organization a clear path from foundational security measures to advanced, strategic capabilities. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining an existing program, the CRF–S provides a structured roadmap you can trust.
Many organizations face increasing pressure to comply with multiple cybersecurity standards — yet most frameworks don’t make it easy to manage controls across them. The CRF–S solves this by serving as a central safeguard catalog that aligns requirements from the world’s leading frameworks into one system. This not only reduces duplication but also streamlines audits, reporting, and internal assessments.
With the CRF–S, you can:
Align with NIST, ISO, CIS, and other major standards
Identify quick wins based on your current maturity level
Track implementation progress and demonstrate due diligence
Scale your program over time with confidence
Strengthen your governance around emerging risks like AI
Each safeguard in the CRF–S is mapped to a specific maturity level, giving your organization a clear path from foundational security measures to advanced, strategic capabilities. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining an existing program, the CRF–S provides a structured roadmap you can trust.
The latest version of the CRF–S includes enhanced features to support modern security needs, including:
A brand-new AI Management category for safe and responsible use of AI tools
Expanded framework mappings and updated safeguard language
Clearer maturity groupings for easier implementation
Real-world examples and improved usability for teams of any size
The CRF–S is trusted by small businesses, enterprises, and public sector organizations alike for its clarity, structure, and real-world applicability. If you’re looking for a cybersecurity risk management framework that’s practical, scalable, and built for today’s threats — this is it.
Download the CRF Safeguards (CRF–S) for free and start strengthening your cybersecurity posture today.
