FISMA
U.S. federal law for risk-based cybersecurity programs
UAE PDPL
UAE federal regulation for personal data protection.
Quick Verdict
FISMA mandates risk-based cybersecurity for US federal systems via NIST RMF, while UAE PDPL enforces privacy rights and data protection for UAE residents. Organizations adopt FISMA for federal contracts; PDPL for UAE market compliance and trust.
FISMA
Federal Information Security Modernization Act of 2014
Key Features
- Mandates 7-step NIST Risk Management Framework
- Requires continuous monitoring and diagnostics
- Enforces FIPS 199 system impact categorization
- Demands annual independent IG assessments
- Oversees agencies, contractors via OMB-DHS-CISA
UAE PDPL
Federal Decree-Law No. 45/2021 on Personal Data Protection
Key Features
- Extraterritorial scope for foreign processors targeting UAE
- Mandatory DPO for high-risk new technologies processing
- Risk-based DPIAs for sensitive data and profiling
- Comprehensive data subject rights including portability
- Mandatory detailed records of processing activities
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
FISMA Details
What It Is
Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) of 2014 is a U.S. federal law establishing a risk-based framework for protecting federal information and systems. It mandates agency-wide information security programs using the NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF), covering confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Key Components
- **7-step RMFPrepare, Categorize (FIPS 199), Select (NIST SP 800-53), Implement, Assess, Authorize, Monitor.
- NIST SP 800-53 controls (20 families), continuous monitoring (SP 800-137), annual IG evaluations.
- Oversight by OMB, DHS/CISA, IGs; maturity models aligned to NIST CSF functions.
Why Organizations Use It
Mandatory for federal agencies/contractors; reduces breach risks, enables market access (e.g., FedRAMP). Builds resilience, executive risk decisions, stakeholder trust; avoids noncompliance penalties like contract loss.
Implementation Overview
Phased RMF lifecycle: inventory, categorize, controls, ATO, continuous monitoring. Applies to agencies, contractors, cloud providers; requires SSPs, POA&Ms, audits. Scalable for large/small orgs via automation.
UAE PDPL Details
What It Is
UAE Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL), or Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 Concerning the Protection of Personal Data, is a comprehensive federal regulation for onshore UAE. It governs personal data processing with a risk-based approach, embedding GDPR-like principles for privacy, security, and accountability.
Key Components
- Principles: fairness, purpose limitation, minimization, accuracy, security, storage limitation, accountability.
- Obligations: DPO for high-risk, DPIAs, records of processing, breach notification.
- Rights: access, portability, correction, erasure, objection, automated decisions safeguards. Built on statutory articles; compliance via measures, pending executive regulations.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for onshore controllers/processors and extraterritorial entities targeting UAE residents.
- Mitigates fines, breach risks; builds digital trust.
- Enables global alignment, competitive edge in data-driven economy.
Implementation Overview
Phased: assess gaps, map data, remediate controls, operationalize DSRs/breaches, monitor. Targets private sector; excludes free zones, government, sectoral data. UAE Data Office oversight; no certification.
Key Differences
| Aspect | FISMA | UAE PDPL |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Federal info systems security via RMF | Personal data protection and privacy rights |
| Industry | US federal agencies, contractors | UAE onshore private sector entities |
| Nature | Mandatory US federal law | Mandatory UAE federal privacy law |
| Testing | Continuous monitoring, IG audits | DPIAs for high-risk, security testing |
| Penalties | Contract loss, debarment, oversight | Administrative fines, enforcement actions |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about FISMA and UAE PDPL
FISMA FAQ
UAE PDPL FAQ
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