Protecting mission data in the AI era

Federal agencies and defense programs are rapidly embracing artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate decision-making, enhance situational awareness, and improve operational efficiency. As AI workloads become more embedded in devices deployed to the tactical edge, whether on unmanned vehicles, mobile command systems, or field-deployed laptops, the data residing on these devices is becoming both increasingly valuable and vulnerable.

This shift to edge computing is driven in large part by security concerns. Sending sensitive mission data back to centralized cloud systems or data centers can introduce unacceptable risks. Instead, agencies are pushing computing closer to the mission, where data processing can occur locally, without risking exposure through network transmissions. While this approach mitigates one set of threats, it introduces another: securing mission-critical data at rest, wherever it resides.

AI at the Edge: New Capabilities, New Risks

AI-driven capabilities at the edge have revolutionized operations. Real-time analytics, automated decision making, and enhanced sensor processing have significantly increased mission effectiveness. However, these same advancements have heightened the risk associated with losing physical control of devices, unauthorized access, or insider threats. Attackers, aided by AI tools themselves, are becoming more adept at quickly exploiting vulnerabilities and compromising sensitive data.

Moreover, these threats are not limited to traditional edge scenarios. Even devices within secure facilities, including laptops, servers, and workstations, remain vulnerable. A misplaced device, compromised insider, or targeted intrusion can expose sensitive information, underscoring that comprehensive Data at Rest (DAR) protection is critical for all endpoints, not just those deployed remotely.

Data at Rest Security: NSA’s CSfC Mandate

Recognizing these challenges, the National Security Agency (NSA) has established the Commercial Solutions for Classified (CSfC) program. This program defines standards and guidelines for securing classified data through commercial, off-the-shelf solutions. Specifically, CSfC for DAR requires agencies to implement two independent, certified encryption layers to secure sensitive information stored on devices that are powered down or in an unauthenticated state.

The dual-layer model typically includes an outer encryption layer provided by hardware-based encryption solutions combined with Pre-Boot Authentication (PBA), alongside an inner layer consisting of approved Software Full Drive Encryption (SW FDE) protected by authentication. This layered approach significantly reduces the likelihood of compromise, even if one layer is breached.

Why Traditional Encryption Isn’t Enough

Standard operating system (OS) encryption or standalone software encryption solutions often fall short against sophisticated adversaries. Attackers increasingly leverage advanced techniques such as brute force attacks, firmware manipulation, hardware-level exploits, and side-channel attacks to bypass conventional protections. Many of these techniques specifically target the weakest link, often credentials or encryption keys stored within the operating system environment itself.

Implementing Pre-Boot Authentication (PBA) alongside a Self-Encrypting Drive (SED) provides critical protection by securing devices before the operating system even loads. Because PBA operates independently of the OS, it cannot be bypassed by software vulnerabilities, zero-day exploits, or operating-system-level CVEs. While PBA solutions offer a critical layer of defense, it’s essential to recognize that not all PBAs provide equal protection. Only those rigorously tested and validated by independent Common Criteria Testing Laboratories (CCTLs) against NIAP-defined security standards can truly assure agencies that encryption methods and key management practices meet the stringent demands of federal cybersecurity.

Additionally, deploying Software Full Drive Encryption (SWFDE) as a separate inner encryption layer interrupts the OS boot process, requiring independent authentication. Together, these two independent layers significantly reduce the available attack surface compared to traditional OS-level encryption alone.

For sensitive government operations, relying solely on OS-level encryption approaches is insufficient. Federal programs must adopt robust, comprehensive solutions that offer multiple, independent layers of security and built-in defenses against advanced threats.

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. Rather than relying on OS-based encryption alone, Cigent’s approach leverages hardware-embedded security measures and dedicated software solutions that provide superior resilience against advanced threats. Cigent’s hardware and software solutions are NIAP-listed, NSA-approved, or currently undergoing rigorous validation in accredited testing labs.

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): Ensures that encrypted drives remain inaccessible until valid credentials are provided, preventing unauthorized access from compromised OS environments.
• Software Full Drive Encryption (Inner Layer): Delivers a secondary encryption layer requiring separate authentication, significantly increasing protection even if the hardware layer is compromised.
• Enterprise Administration: Supports efficient deployment, configuration, and management across fleets of devices through existing federal enterprise management tools.
• Tamper-Resistant Security Controls: Protects data from cloning, unauthorized extraction, and wiping attempts, even if adversaries have physical access.
• Verified Sanitization: Ensures that data can be securely wiped, 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, including within the Department of Defense (DoD), intelligence community (IC), and federal civilian agencies. Built for real-world operations, Cigent technology ensures that federal programs can maintain compliance and protect sensitive data, no matter where the mission takes them.

Mission-Ready: Today and Tomorrow

The continued growth of AI-driven operational capabilities and the inherent sensitivity of mission data demand a new standard for DAR protection. Federal agencies must adopt integrated solutions capable of delivering security, compliance, and operational flexibility at scale. With Cigent, agencies gain the assurance that mission data is protected at every stage, on every device, and in every environment.

To learn more about securing your data and ensuring mission success, visit Cigent.com.