CIP-007 R5.6 requires passwords to be changed at least once every how many months?

CIP-007 R5.6 specifies that passwords must be changed at least once every 15 months. This requirement is in place to enhance security measures and reduce the risks associated with unauthorized access to critical Cyber Assets, which can be targeted by malicious entities. By mandating a regular password change, the standard helps ensure that even if a password is compromised, it will not remain valid indefinitely, thus limiting the potential for exploitation.

In the context of the NERC CIP standards, maintaining up-to-date passwords is a crucial component of an organization's overall cybersecurity strategy. Ensuring that passwords are changed within this timeframe allows entities to mitigate the risk of stale credentials being used by individuals who may no longer be authorized to access certain systems. Following this requirement helps organizations comply with best practices in cybersecurity, ultimately contributing to the protection of the critical infrastructure that is vital for reliable operations.