COBIT
Framework for enterprise IT governance and management
GLBA
U.S. regulation for financial privacy notices and safeguards
Quick Verdict
COBIT provides comprehensive I&T governance framework for enterprises worldwide, while GLBA mandates privacy notices and security programs for US financial institutions handling NPI. Organizations adopt COBIT for tailored EGIT; GLBA ensures regulatory compliance and consumer protection.
COBIT
COBIT 2019 Framework: Governance and Management Objectives
Key Features
- 11 design factors enable tailored governance systems
- 40 objectives across 5 domains from EDM to MEA
- CMMI-based performance management with 0-5 capability levels
- Goals cascade links stakeholder needs to IT outcomes
- Explicit separation of governance from management roles
GLBA
Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA)
Key Features
- Privacy notices and opt-out rights for NPI sharing
- Comprehensive written information security program
- Qualified Individual with annual board reporting
- 30-day FTC breach notification for 500+ consumers
- Mandatory service provider oversight and risk assessments
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
COBIT Details
What It Is
COBIT 2019 is ISACA's comprehensive framework for enterprise governance and management of information and technology (EGIT). It translates stakeholder needs into actionable objectives via a tailored, risk-optimized approach using design factors and goals cascade.
Key Components
- 40 governance/management objectives grouped in 5 domains: EDM (governance), APO, BAI, DSS, MEA (assurance).
- 6 governance system principles and 7 components (processes, structures, culture, etc.).
- CMMI-based performance management (levels 0-5); no formal certification but capability assessments.
Why Organizations Use It
- Aligns IT with business value, optimizes resources, manages risks.
- Supports compliance (SOX, GDPR) via mappings; builds audit-ready assurance.
- Enhances decision-making, digital transformation; boosts stakeholder trust.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: assess maturity, design via 11 factors, pilot objectives, monitor via MEA.
- Suits enterprises any size/industry; requires training, change management; voluntary with ISACA credentials.
GLBA Details
What It Is
The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) is a U.S. federal regulation enacted in 1999 for financial modernization. It mandates privacy protections and data security for nonpublic personal information (NPI) handled by financial institutions. GLBA uses a risk-based approach via the Privacy Rule and Safeguards Rule.
Key Components
- **Privacy Rule (16 C.F.R. Part 313)Initial/annual notices, opt-out for nonaffiliated sharing.
- **Safeguards Rule (16 C.F.R. Part 314)Written security program with administrative, technical, physical safeguards; Qualified Individual, risk assessments, board reporting, breach notification.
- **Pretexting ProvisionsAnti-social engineering protections. No certification; enforced by FTC for non-banks.
Why Organizations Use It
- Legally required for covered entities to avoid $100,000+ penalties.
- Builds customer trust, mitigates breach risks, strengthens vendor oversight.
- Enhances reputation, operational resilience in financial sectors.
Implementation Overview
Phased: scoping, risk assessment, policies, controls, testing. Applies broadly to banks, non-banks (tax firms, auto dealers). Requires documentation, audits, annual reporting.
Key Differences
| Aspect | COBIT | GLBA |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Enterprise I&T governance and management across 40 objectives | Privacy notices and security safeguards for consumer financial data |
| Industry | All industries worldwide, any organization size | Financial institutions including non-banks, primarily US |
| Nature | Voluntary governance framework with tailoring | Mandatory US federal regulation with FTC enforcement |
| Testing | Capability assessments (0-5 levels), self or third-party | Risk assessments, pen tests, vulnerability scans required |
| Penalties | No legal penalties, certification loss possible | Civil fines up to $100K/violation, criminal penalties |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about COBIT and GLBA
COBIT FAQ
GLBA FAQ
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