Understanding the FedRAMP Rev 5 PS-4 Update: A 4-Hr Limit for Access Revocation

Meeting tighter deadlines for revoking terminated employee access can be stressful, especially with the new four-hour FedRAMP and StateRAMP requirement.

Paramify has helped many organizations overcome these challenges with streamlined solutions – we want to share what we've learned with you.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to stay compliant effortlessly and protect your organization from potential risks.

Rev5 PS-4 Update: A Stricter Deadline for Revoking Terminated Employee Access

One of the more intriguing shifts in FedRAMP and StateRAMP compliance regulations is how fast you're required to revoke a terminated employee's access to sensitive systems.

Not too long ago, the requirement was that an organization had to revoke this access within one day of termination.

Now, the rule has been tightened – mandating that access be revoked within four hours.

Why Must Terminated Employee Access be Revoked in 4 Hours?

This strict timeline reflects the growing risks and vulnerabilities organizations face, especially with federal data and regulated environments.

The shift from 24 hours to 4 underscores the urgency that governing bodies are placing on closing potential security loopholes as fast as possible.

Procedure Pitfall Executing the 4-Hour Rule

The rule itself seems straightforward, but executing it is often challenging. This is often due to internal communication issues.

One expert points out that he has observed failures in this aspect time and again during his auditing career.

This is particularly true for organizations that don't have their systems streamlined and integrated, such as those lacking an integration between their Single Sign-On (SSO) tool and their Human Resources Information System (HRIS).

The Role of Technology

Fortunately, technology has come to the rescue, offering easier ways to adhere to this new requirement.

Organizations that have an SSO tool integrated with their HRIS can automate the revocation process to effortlessly meet the 4-hour timeline.

When the HRIS system is updated to reflect an employee's termination, a single click can cascade the change across all platforms, effectively locking out the employee.

The Consequences of Non-Compliance

Though failing to meet this requirement won't necessarily lead you to lose your federal credentials or accreditation, it's not something to be taken lightly.

This issue might seem minor, but could actually be a complicated problem to solve, especially for organizations without modern, integrated systems.

This four-hour requirement is not just a rule but a reflection of the overall shift towards more stringent security protocols. Organizations that aim to stay compliant must take heed and adapt accordingly, implementing the technologies and practices that can help them meet this new standard.

Kenny Scott
Oct 2024
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