7,500 Cyberattacks Stopped — Global Protection for U.S. Diplomatic Missions

Client

Department of State – Diplomatic Security Bureau (DS-CTO)

Summary

CRG partnered with the Bureau of Diplomatic Security’s Chief Technology Office (DS-CTO) to secure over 400 embassies in 120+ countries, protect sensitive systems from sophisticated cyber threats, and ensure mission continuity in hostile international environments.

Incident Response

Cyber Resilience

Executive Reporting

quick stats

7,500+ cyberattacks defended

400+ embassies secured in 120+ countries

The Challenge

The U.S. Department of State faced a constant barrage of cyber threats targeting its global diplomatic network:

Over 400 embassies and consulates worldwide required secure operations in often hostile international environments.

Threats included advanced persistent attacks aimed at disrupting missions and breaching sensitive systems.

Legacy policies and controls required modernization to address evolving cyber risks and international exposure.

The stakes were high: operational disruption or data compromise could undermine diplomatic security and national interests.

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security needed a trusted partner to provide end-to-end cybersecurity support — protecting mission-critical assets and ensuring business continuity across its global footprint.

Our Approach

CRG delivered as the prime contractor under the DS-CTO IT Support Services contract, providing comprehensive ISSO/ISSE support, risk management, and global cybersecurity leadership.

Cybersecurity Vulnerability Management

Delivered vulnerability scans, risk assessments, and prioritized remediation plans.

Awareness & Training

Implemented phishing simulations and enterprise-wide security awareness training to reduce human error.

Policy & Governance Support

Updated policies, procedures, and standards for global application, ensuring alignment with FISMA, NIST, and CIS controls.

Framework Development

Designed and rolled out a new global cybersecurity framework tailored for diverse, high-risk international operating environments.

Infrastructure Security

Oversaw enterprise network tuning, upgrades, and monitoring tools to enhance resilience.

Business Continuity

Developed Business Impact Analyses (BIA), Risk Assessments, and Continuity of Operations (COOP) plans to ensure uninterrupted diplomatic operations.

Mission Assurance Exercises

Supported field exercises to validate readiness of COOP plans and critical software assets in alternative locations.

Incident Response Leadership

Played a key role in mitigating a major coordinated cyberattack, preventing breaches and ensuring operational continuity.

The Results

Measurable Outcomes:

7,500+ cyberattacks defended across global diplomatic systems.

400+ embassies secured in over 120 countries.

Zero breaches during a major cyberattack attempt.

Successful implementation of a new global cybersecurity framework.

Strengthened compliance with FISMA, NIST, CIS, and Department of State standards.

Increased resilience of mission-critical IT systems worldwide.

The State Department achieved a stronger, more proactive cybersecurity posture — securing embassies globally, protecting sensitive diplomatic data, and ensuring mission continuity under constant cyber threat.

Skyline of Kuala Lumpur with the Petronas Towers at sunset.

Why It Matters

Diplomatic missions operate in some of the world’s most hostile cyber environments. By partnering with CRG, the State Department gained:

Assured Global Coverage

Embassies and consulates worldwide secured against advanced threats.

Mission Continuity

Reliable COOP strategies ensured uninterrupted diplomatic operations.

Proven Resilience

Thousands of attacks stopped with no breaches of sensitive systems.

Strategic Advantage

A cybersecurity framework designed for global, high-risk operating contexts.

Client Perspective

While direct quotes remain confidential, client leadership highlighted CRG’s impact in:

Enhancing the Department’s global security posture.

Proactively defending against thousands of attempted attacks.

Delivering a framework that raised confidence among senior leadership and stakeholders.

Lessons Learned & Best Practices

Context Matters

Cybersecurity strategies must adapt to diverse and hostile international environments.

Human Element is Critical

Phishing training and awareness programs reduced risk from insider errors.

Frameworks Drive Resilience

A tailored cybersecurity framework ensures consistency and adaptability worldwide.

Preparedness Pays Off

Regular mission assurance exercises validated readiness and avoided disruption.

Is your global mission at risk from advanced cyber threats?

CRG has proven expertise securing high-stakes international operations, delivering results that are audit-ready, secure-by-design, and resilient worldwide.

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