What overarching theme do the security management controls under CIP-003-7 address?

The security management controls outlined in CIP-003-7 primarily focus on establishing and maintaining effective cybersecurity policies within an organization. This includes setting requirements for the development of robust, documented cybersecurity policies that govern how the organization manages and protects its critical infrastructure. The intent is to ensure that there is a structured approach to cybersecurity that incorporates risk management, incident response, and the roles and responsibilities of personnel regarding cybersecurity measures.

The emphasis on cybersecurity policies is crucial, as these policies serve as the foundation for implementing various security controls and practices needed to protect assets from cyber threats. By having comprehensive cybersecurity policies in place, organizations can enhance their resilience against unauthorized access and attacks while ensuring compliance with NERC CIP regulations.

While corporate governance practices, physical infrastructure security, and software application management are important aspects of an overall security strategy, they are not the primary focus of CIP-003-7. Instead, the standard specifically targets the foundational principles of cybersecurity management, which include the establishment of clear policies that drive security practices throughout the organization.