Source: Packet Storm Security Author: unknown URL: https://www.scworld.com/news/cisa-director-jen-easterly-will-step-down-jan-20-security-community-reacts

ONE SENTENCE SUMMARY:

CISA Director Jen Easterly will resign on January 20, 2025, leaving behind a significant cybersecurity legacy.

MAIN POINTS:

1. Jen Easterly confirmed her resignation as CISA Director on Inauguration Day, Jan. 20, 2025.
2. Easterly served previously in the U.S. Army and helped establish USCYBERCOM in 2009.
3. She was appointed CISA Director in July 2021 after Chris Krebs was fired by Trump.
4. Easterly promoted public-private partnerships, enhancing collaboration between CISA and technology companies.
5. Under her leadership, the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog was established for cybersecurity.
6. She addressed significant cyber incidents, including the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack response.
7. Easterly reassured the public about election infrastructure security amidst foreign influence risks.
8. She has been recognized as an inspiration for women in cybersecurity careers.
9. Potential candidates for successor include Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, but details are unclear.
10. Leadership changes may impact CISA’s initiatives, including Secure by Design and Cyber Incident Reporting regulations.

TAKEAWAYS:

1. Easterly’s departure marks a significant transition for CISA and U.S. cybersecurity efforts.
2. Her legacy includes fostering strong industry partnerships and advancing cybersecurity measures.
3. Future leadership will influence CISA’s ongoing initiatives and collaborative efforts.
4. Maintaining and enhancing cybersecurity defense requires teamwork and transparency between public and private sectors.
5. Continued engagement with technology companies is crucial for strengthening the nation’s cyber defenses.