Is the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) the Cognizant Security Office (CSO) for the DoD?

The statement that the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is the Cognizant Security Office (CSO) for the Department of Defense (DoD) is false. The Cognizant Security Office typically refers to entities within the DoD responsible for the security oversight and management of classified national security information for contractors. These responsibilities can often fall to individual agencies or components rather than a single office.

DISA primarily focuses on providing communications and information technology support for the DoD, particularly in the areas of cybersecurity and information systems, rather than serving as the overarching CSO. The CSO functions are more accurately associated with other offices in the DoD or specific agencies designated for particular programs or projects. This delineation clarifies the distinct roles and responsibilities within the security landscape of the DoD, emphasizing the importance of understanding the specific functions of various organizations in maintaining security protocols.