What is SP 800-53?

NIST Special Publication 800-53, "Security and Privacy Controls for Information Systems and Organizations," provides a catalog of security and privacy controls for federal information systems and organizations. It is used to select appropriate security controls to protect organizational operations (including mission, functions, image, and reputation), organizational assets, individuals, other organizations, and the Nation from a broad range of threats including hostile cyber attacks, natural disasters, structural failures, and human errors. It is widely adopted beyond the US Federal Government as a comprehensive cybersecurity framework.