Federal Agencies Embrace AI, Face Increased Data Vulnerability at the Tactical Edge
As federal agencies and defense programs rapidly adopt artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency, the data residing on devices deployed at the tactical edge becomes increasingly valuable and vulnerable. This shift to edge computing, driven by security concerns, requires a new approach to Data at Rest (DAR) protection.
AI at the Edge: Balancing New Capabilities with New Risks
AI-driven capabilities at the edge, such as real-time analytics and automated decision-making, have revolutionized operations. However, they also heighten the risks associated with losing physical control of devices, unauthorized access, and insider threats. Attackers, empowered by AI tools, are becoming more adept at exploiting vulnerabilities and compromising sensitive data, even on devices within secure facilities.
Data at Rest Security: The NSA’s CSfC Mandate
Recognizing these challenges, the National Security Agency (NSA) has established the Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC) program, which defines standards for securing classified data using commercial solutions. CSfC for DAR mandates the implementation of two independent, certified encryption layers to protect sensitive information on devices that are powered down or in an unauthenticated state. This dual-layer model typically combines hardware-based encryption with Pre-Boot Authentication (PBA) and Software Full Drive Encryption (SW FDE) protected by authentication.
Why Traditional Encryption Falls Short
Standard operating system (OS) encryption or standalone software encryption solutions are often insufficient against sophisticated adversaries. Attackers can leverage advanced techniques such as brute force attacks, firmware manipulation, hardware-level exploits, and side-channel attacks to bypass conventional protections. These techniques often target credentials or encryption keys stored within the operating system environment.
The Importance of Pre-Boot Authentication (PBA)
Implementing PBA alongside a Self-Encrypting Drive (SED) provides critical protection by securing devices before the operating system loads. Because PBA operates independently of the OS, it cannot be bypassed by software vulnerabilities, zero-day exploits, or OS-level CVEs. However, only rigorously tested and validated PBA solutions can truly assure agencies that encryption methods and key management practices meet stringent federal cybersecurity demands.
Layered Protection: SWFDE and PBA
Deploying Software Full Drive Encryption (SWFDE) as a separate inner encryption layer interrupts the OS boot process, requiring independent authentication. Combined with PBA, these two independent layers significantly reduce the attack surface compared to traditional OS-level encryption alone.
Cigent’s Mission-Ready Data Protection
Cigent offers federal agencies a full-stack, CSfC-aligned data protection solution that ensures sensitive mission data remains secure throughout its lifecycle. Cigent’s approach leverages hardware-embedded security measures and dedicated software solutions, providing superior resilience against advanced threats.
Key Capabilities of Cigent Secure Storage:
- Hardware Full Drive Encryption (Outer Layer): Provides robust AES-256 encryption, securely managed independently of the operating system.
- Pre-Boot Authentication (Outer Layer): Prevents unauthorized access by requiring valid credentials before the operating system loads.
- Software Full Drive Encryption (Inner Layer): Delivers a secondary encryption layer requiring separate authentication.
- Enterprise Administration: Supports efficient deployment, configuration, and management across fleets of devices.
- Tamper-Resistant Security Controls: Protects data from cloning, unauthorized extraction, and wiping attempts.
- Verified Sanitization: Ensures secure data wiping, complying with end-of-life or emergency destruction requirements.
Trusted Across Federal Agencies
Cigent’s security solutions are widely deployed and trusted across numerous federal and defense programs, ensuring compliance and protecting sensitive data in any environment.
Mission-Ready: Today and Tomorrow
The growth of AI-driven operational capabilities demands a new standard for DAR protection. Federal agencies must adopt integrated solutions that deliver security, compliance, and operational flexibility at scale. With Cigent, agencies can ensure that mission data is protected at every stage, on every device, and in every environment.
