Malware, viruses and worms are only a few of the cybersecurity threats that affect your online security, privacy and personal information. Learn what is U.S. Cybersecurity Emergency Response Team (US-CERT), a tool that protects you every day.
History of the U.S. Cybersecurity Emergency Response Team
The US-CERT began in early 2000. The federal government noticed an increase in cyber breaches and began investigating ways to respond to these threats. Congress cooperated and created the Federal Computer Incident Response Center (FedCIRC).
In 2002, Congress transferred FedCIRC duties to the newly created Department of Homeland Security. The FedCIRC was renamed US-CERT in 2003, and its mission also expanded. The organization now coordinated and shared information and provided boundary protection for the government and cybersecurity leaders.
Over time, US-CERT developed into an authoritative source and trusted security partner for the federal government and international organizations. Private industries like banks and businesses use US-CERT resources, too.
What Does the U.S. Cybersecurity Emergency Response Team Do?
The U.S. Cybersecurity Emergency Response Team performs several critical mission activities. They:
- Analyze data about emerging cyber threats.
- Collaborate with foreign governments and international entities to improve the U.S.’s cybersecurity position.
- Detect intruders and prevent cybersecurity attacks for civilian executive branches of the federal government.
- Develop actionable tips, actions and information for a variety of agencies including international organizations, federal departments, critical infrastructure owners and operators and private industries.
- Respond to emerging cyber threats and incidents.
How Does US-CERT Handle Potential Threats?
When the US-CERT receives a threat report from any source, including civilians, they act quickly. The team must assess the threat, determine its viability and take steps to stop it.
The department partners with several international and national organizations to ensure security of the infrastructure, systems and assets that are critical to United States security. These partners include federal agencies, international entities, research communities and private sector organizations.
Find Out About US-CERT Threats
Stay updated on potential and founded cybersecurity threats with several resources.
- Weekly Vulnerability Bulletins – summaries of new vulnerabilities and any available patch information
- Technical Alerts – information about incidents, vulnerabilities and trends that pose significant risk and the actions taken to minimize information loss or service disruption
- Current Activity entries – concise descriptions of any issues and associated actions that help consumers and other entities remain safe
- Tips – details about issues US-CERT’s constituents may find valuable, helpful or interesting
- NVD – data that manages standards-based vulnerability
What is U.S. Cybersecurity Emergency Response Team? In a nutshell, it’s the organization that keeps you, your bank, businesses and the country safe from computer attacks that threaten our national security and your personal information. You can sleep peacefully at night because US-CERT does their job behind the scenes every day.
