Which level of the CSA STAR framework focuses on continuous monitoring?

The third level of the CSA STAR (Cloud Security Alliance Security, Trust & Assurance Registry) framework emphasizes continuous monitoring, which is a critical component for maintaining an organization’s security posture. This level requires cloud service providers to not only conduct periodic assessments but also implement ongoing oversight and monitoring to identify and mitigate risks in real-time.

Continuous monitoring is vital because it allows organizations to detect and respond to security threats and vulnerabilities as they arise, rather than relying solely on periodic audits or reviews. By doing so, organizations can ensure that they are actively managing their security controls and complying with regulatory requirements in a dynamic cloud environment.

The focus at this level shifts toward a more proactive approach to security management, enabling agile responses to emerging threats. It aligns with industry best practices that advocate for resilience through constant vigilance, which is crucial given the evolving nature of cyberspace threats.