Which NIST special publication is focused on the assessment of security and privacy controls?

The appropriate NIST special publication that focuses on the assessment of security and privacy controls is NIST SP 800-53A. This publication provides guidelines for the assessment of security and privacy controls in federal information systems and organizations. It details how to develop a comprehensive assessment plan, how to conduct assessments of those controls, and how to document the results.

By emphasizing a structured approach to control assessment, NIST 800-53A helps organizations ensure that their security and privacy controls are effectively implemented and functioning as intended, which is a critical component in risk management and compliance. Additionally, it aligns with the risk management framework by promoting continuous monitoring, allowing organizations to evaluate and understand their risk posture more effectively.

This focus on assessments is vital in today’s evolving threat landscape, where confirming the effectiveness of security controls is necessary for maintaining data integrity and privacy.