CRF

Safeguards

What Are the CRF Safeguards?

The CRF – Safeguards (CRF–S) are a prioritized collection of cybersecurity best practices designed to help organizations protect their systems, data, and operations. Drawn from over 80 globally recognized standards and frameworks, the safeguards are methodically organized by maturity level, making it easier to understand where your organization stands and how to improve. Whether you’re building a security program from scratch or refining an existing one, the CRF–S offers a clear, actionable roadmap to stronger cybersecurity.

Why You Need a Structured Safeguard Catalog

Regulatory expectations are growing, but most organizations still struggle to align their cybersecurity controls across multiple standards. The CRF–Safeguards solve this problem by consolidating requirements from over 80 globally recognized frameworks—transforming fragmented compliance efforts into a unified strategy. Instead of managing overlapping controls across ISO, NIST, CIS, PCI, and others separately, organizations can use the CRF–S as a single reference point to guide implementation, track progress, and demonstrate due diligence. This structured approach not only streamlines audits and assessments but also strengthens your ability to manage cybersecurity risk holistically.

Click here to see the current list of standards in our database.

What You’ll Get

The CRF–S brings together globally recognized cybersecurity standards, frameworks, and regulations into a single, unified safeguard catalog. Each safeguard is mapped to a specific maturity level, so whether your organization is just getting started or already operates a robust security program, you’ll know exactly where to begin and what comes next. The 2025 edition introduces a brand-new AI Management category, guiding you through the safe deployment and oversight of AI tools in your environment.

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritized list of safeguards across five maturity levels
  • Covers foundational to advanced cybersecurity practices
  • Aligned with leading frameworks like ISO, NIST, and CIS
  • Designed to scale with your organization’s needs
  • New AI Management safeguards for responsible AI governance

Who Is This For?

This resource is ideal for cybersecurity leaders, compliance professionals, and IT teams looking to:

  • Establish or refine a structured security program
  • Align with major standards and regulations
  • Identify quick wins and long-term strategic goals
  • Strengthen AI oversight and governance

What’s New in v2025?

  • AI Management Category: New safeguards focused on AI governance, ethical usage, and risk mitigation
  • Expanded Framework Coverage: Improved mapping to the latest versions of ISO, CIS Controls, and NIST
  • Clearer Maturity Pathways: Enhanced grouping of safeguards by implementation complexity
  • Updated Language & Examples: Modernized for clarity and real-world application

Frequently Asked Questions

Begin with a thorough assessment of your current cybersecurity posture, identify critical assets and potential vulnerabilities, and prioritize safeguards based on your specific risk profile.

Regularly, at least annually or whenever significant changes occur in your operational environment or the threat landscape.

Yes, many foundational and hygiene-level safeguards are cost-effective and scalable, making them accessible for organizations of all sizes.

Through continuous education, awareness programs, and clear policies that emphasize the importance of cybersecurity and outline individual responsibilities.

Experts can provide strategic guidance, help identify and prioritize safeguards, assist with implementation, and offer ongoing support to ensure your cybersecurity measures are effective and up-to-date.

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