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US-CERT

United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team for national cybersecurity.

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About

The United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) operates as the nation's primary cybersecurity coordination center within the Department of Homeland Security. Established to strengthen cybersecurity posture across critical infrastructure sectors, US-CERT serves as the central hub for cybersecurity information sharing and incident coordination.

US-CERT provides comprehensive threat intelligence services including vulnerability assessments, security bulletins, and real-time threat notifications. The organization maintains the National Vulnerability Database and publishes regular security advisories covering emerging threats and attack vectors. Their incident response capabilities include coordinating responses to major cyber incidents affecting critical infrastructure and government systems.

The platform offers several key services that distinguish it within the cybersecurity landscape:

  • Automated Indicator Sharing (AIS) - Real-time sharing of cyber threat indicators between government and private sector participants
  • Enhanced Cybersecurity Services (ECS) - Network monitoring and intrusion detection for federal agencies
  • Continuous Diagnostics and Mitigation (CDM) - Ongoing security assessment tools and capabilities
  • Industrial Control Systems Cyber Emergency Response Team (ICS-CERT) - Specialized support for critical infrastructure operators

Federal agencies, state and local governments, and critical infrastructure operators across sectors including energy, healthcare, and financial services rely on US-CERT resources. The organization facilitates information sharing between public and private sectors through established partnerships and formal information sharing agreements.

US-CERT maintains strong relationships with international cybersecurity organizations and participates in global threat intelligence sharing initiatives. The team coordinates with law enforcement agencies, intelligence communities, and private sector security vendors to provide comprehensive situational awareness.

Within the broader cybersecurity ecosystem, US-CERT functions as both a coordination point and authoritative source for national-level cyber threat information. The organization's role becomes particularly critical during major cyber incidents affecting multiple sectors or involving nation-state actors targeting American interests.