What is the focus of the SP 800-63A, B, C Digital Identity Guidelines?

The focus of the SP 800-63A, B, C Digital Identity Guidelines is on Identification and Authentication. This framework is designed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to provide a comprehensive approach for managing digital identities in a secure manner. It emphasizes the importance of establishing a reliable and secure means of verifying the identities of individuals, entities, or devices within the context of accessing government services and systems.

These guidelines address various aspects of identity proofing and authentication processes, including the different levels of assurance that can be applied depending on the sensitivity of the information being accessed and the potential risks involved. By providing detailed recommendations on the factors involved in identity verification and the measures required to authenticate users, the SP 800-63 guidelines help to ensure that organizations implement strong identity management practices.

This emphasis on Identification and Authentication plays a crucial role in protecting sensitive data and maintaining the integrity of systems by preventing unauthorized access. The guidelines do not focus on aspects like Media Protection, Network Security, or Application Security specifically; instead, they lay the foundational principles for securely managing digital identities, which can impact these areas indirectly.