The Common Criteria (CC) is an internationally recognized standard for evaluating information technology security products, ensuring they meet established security standards, particularly for high-security environments like government agencies. Formally known as Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation, it was established in the late 1990s to provide guidelines and specifications for product evaluation.
Key components of the Common Criteria standard include Protection Profiles and Evaluation Assurance Levels. Protection Profiles define security requirements tailored for specific product categories, such as firewalls, encryption modules, or authentication systems, to ensure consistency in security expectations and alignment with industry and government standards. Evaluation Assurance Levels range from EAL1 to EAL7, representing different levels of security assurance based on the depth and rigor of the product evaluation.
To achieve Common Criteria certification, vendors must follow a structured process. This process includes preparing a Security Target document outlining the product’s security functions and intended operational environment, undergoing laboratory evaluation by an accredited testing facility, and receiving certification after a successful evaluation. This certification provides customers with independent verification of the product’s security claims.
The Common Criteria Recognition Arrangement (CCRA) is an international agreement among over 30 nations, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany, to recognize Common Criteria-certified products up to EAL2. This global acceptance streamlines the certification process for product vendors seeking internationally recognized security certifications.
While the Common Criteria framework offers advantages such as international recognition, consistency in security standards, and independent validation, it also has limitations. Achieving certification, especially at higher EAL levels, can be costly and time-intensive, making it challenging for smaller companies to participate. Moreover, the misinterpretation of EAL levels and challenges in updating certified products present additional hurdles for vendors seeking certification.
As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, the importance of Common Criteria in establishing trust in IT security products remains significant. With ongoing support from member countries and updates to the standards, Common Criteria is adapting to address emerging security challenges in next-generation technologies like cloud security, AI, and IoT. This evolution ensures that the Common Criteria standard remains relevant and effective in evaluating the security of cutting-edge IT products.
In the era of sophisticated cyber threats, the Common Criteria standard plays a crucial role in enhancing security and building trust among users of information technology products. By providing a standardized approach to evaluating security features, Common Criteria contributes to the overall resilience of both government and commercial sectors in the face of evolving security threats.