13 Cybersecurity Requirements for CTPAT Compliance (and How to Meet Them)

There are numerous benefits to becoming CTPAT certified. Shorter border wait times, skipped inspection lines, and fewer CBP examinations are just a few. 

Many potential clients now require CTPAT certification. But even if it’s not required, certification can inspire confidence in your business and help you secure more lucrative opportunities.

However, earning and maintaining your CTPAT certification often requires changing various processes and procedures within your organization, including your cybersecurity. That’s because, as cybercrime threats continue to mount, the global supply chain is becoming increasingly committed to fending off cyber criminals and protecting digital assets. 

Today, we’re delving into why cyber security is relevant to CTPAT, plus several cyber security requirements you’ll need to meet to earn (and keep) your certification.

What Does Cybersecurity Have to Do With CTPAT Compliance?

CTPAT was developed to secure the U.S. and international supply chains from potential terrorist activity. And, in our increasingly digital and technology-reliant society, the definition of terrorism now includes various types of cybercrime. Organized, state-sponsored hackers can pose substantial security risks to manufacturers, transportation and logistics companies, and other businesses involved at any level of the global trade community.

To cover all bases, CTPAT requires organizations to take several steps to mitigate the risk of a cyber security breach. Fortunately, if you’re currently dedicating resources to staving off cybercrime, there’s a good chance you’ve already satisfied at least some of the criteria.

The 13 Cybersecurity Requirements for CTPAT Compliance (and How to Meet Them)

According to the CTPAT minimum security criteria, there are thirteen cyber security requirements an organization must meet to become certified or retain its existing CTPAT status:
Comprehensive written cybersecurity policies and procedures

If you haven’t already, you’ll need to create a written cybersecurity policy based on industry standards. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has a cyber security framework with guidance to help organizations create their policies.

1. Comprehensive written cybersecurity policies and procedures
   If you haven’t already, you’ll need to create a written cybersecurity policy based on industry standards. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has a cyber security framework with guidance to help organizations create their policies.
2. Sufficient software and hardware protection
   You must have sufficient IT infrastructure to protect against cyber security threats, including software (like antivirus tech) and hardware solutions (like proxy servers). You’ll also need to develop procedures to quickly recover or replace IT systems should you experience data loss or equipment damage.
3. Regular testing of IT infrastructure
   You’ll need to regularly test your IT infrastructure’s security and take corrective actions if you discover any vulnerabilities.
4. Clear policies around reporting threats
   Ensure your policies communicate how to share information or report threats with government entities and business partners.
5. Identify and act upon unauthorized IT access
   You must put a system in place that identifies unauthorized access to your IT systems or data, as well as abuse of your policies and procedures. Employees who violate your policies should be subject to disciplinary action.
6. Annual cybersecurity review
   You must review your cyber security policies at least once per year and update procedures as necessary.
7. Restrictions based on job description and duties
   Your organization must restrict access to sensitive data and systems based on employee job roles and responsibilities. If someone leaves the organization, you must remove their access immediately.
8. Individually assigned accounts for IT system access
   Ensure each employee who has access to IT systems has their own assigned account and isn’t sharing it with others. Each account should be protected by a strong password or another form of authentication. If an account is compromised, the user should change their password as soon as possible.
9. Secure remote access
   Make sure any remote team members use a secure connection to engage with sensitive systems and data, like a virtual private network.
10. Personal device cyber security compliance
    If your organization allows employees to use their own devices for work purposes, make sure all devices are regularly updated with the latest security software and adhere to your cybersecurity requirements.
11. Counterfeit tech product prevention
    You must take all necessary measures to prevent counterfeit or illegitimate tech products from entering your IT environment, as software that isn’t correctly licensed is more likely to contain malware.
12. Regular data backup
    Back up all data at least once a week or as often as appropriate. Ensure you encrypt all data and keep it stored offsite.
13. Sensitive import/export information protection
    Account for all media, hardware, or other tech that contains sensitive data related to the import/export process in your regular inventories. Additionally, make sure you use NIST-approved sanitization or destruction processes when disposing of these items.

Of course, strengthening your cyber security protections is just one aspect of CTPAT requirements. You’ll also need to implement security education, training, and awareness, perform risk assessments, meet physical security criteria, and much more. For time-pressed operations pros like you, this can be an extremely resource-intensive endeavor, and pull you away from other critical duties. 

That’s precisely why we designed a comprehensive CTPAT certification and renewal program. Our team of experts will take the burden off your shoulders and ensure you’re doing everything necessary to get your application accepted. With our all-in-one CTPAT management software, you’ll enjoy real-time data visibility to help manage your CTPAT status and retain your certification over time.

 

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