In an Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) cloud model, such as SWIFT’s Alliance Cloud, the cloud provider is responsible for the underlying infrastructure (e.g., hardware, virtualization layer, network) while the customer manages the applications and data. The SWIFT CSP, particularly the "Outsourcing Agents - Security Requirements Baseline v2025" and "Swift Customer Security Controls Framework v2025," outlines the responsibilities of cloud providers. Let’s evaluate each option:
•Option A: The cloud provider must cover all CSCF controls applicable to the related in-scope components for which the cloud provider is responsible (such as the underlying infrastructure in line with appendix G)
This is correct. In an IaaS model, the cloud provider is responsible for securing the underlying infrastructure (e.g., physical servers, network, virtualization layer) that hosts the SWIFT components. Appendix G of the CSCF (or related outsourcing guidelines) specifies the controls the provider must implement, such as those under CSCF Control "1.1 SWIFT Environment Protection" and "2.3 System Hardening." The provider must ensure these controls are met for the infrastructure it manages.
•Option B: The cloud provider must give comfort of control implementation effectiveness on the virtualization layer hosting the SWIFT users' components
This is correct. The virtualization layer (e.g., hypervisors) is part of the IaaS provider’s responsibility, and the provider must provide assurance (e.g., through audits or reports) that security controls are effectively implemented. This aligns with CSCF requirements for outsourcing agents, ensuring the virtualization layer supports the SWIFT secure zone, as noted in the "Independent Assessment Framework."
•Option C: The cloud provider must give full assurance on the change management process of the SWIFT-users' components/applications deployed by the user
This is incorrect. Change management for the SWIFT-users' components (e.g., Alliance Access configurations) is the customer’s responsibility in an IaaS model. The cloud provider is not accountable for the applications deployed by the user, only for the underlying infrastructure. The "Outsourcing Agents - Security Requirements Baseline v2025" clarifies this boundary.
•Option D: The cloud provider must give comfort regarding the resiliency put in place to ensure continuity of SWIFT connectivity service
This is incorrect as a primary key element. While resiliency is important (e.g., CSCF Control 1.1), it is a broader operational concern rather than a specific IaaS responsibility. The provider ensures infrastructure availability, but continuity of SWIFT connectivity is a shared responsibility, with the customer managing the communication interface (e.g., Alliance Gateway).
Summary of Correct Answers:
The key elements for a cloud provider in an IaaS model are covering applicable CSCF controls for the infrastructure (A) and providing comfort on the effectiveness of controls on the virtualization layer (B).
References to SWIFT Customer Security Programme Documents:
•Swift Customer Security Controls Framework v2025: Defines responsibilities in cloud models (Control 1.1, Appendix G).
•Outsourcing Agents - Security Requirements Baseline v2025: Outlines provider responsibilities in IaaS.
•Independent Assessment Framework: Requires assurance on virtualization layer security.
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