Update documentation on FIPS compliance

[v0lkan]

I received a request for clarification on the VSecM FIPS-complaint modules.

Below is a draft to be added to the documentation:

A Note on FIPS Compliance with VMware Secrets Manager (VSecM)
Current Compliance Features of VMware Secrets Manager

VMware Secrets Manager (VSecM) is designed with security and compliance in mind, providing a robust platform for managing secrets and sensitive information in a FIPS-compliant manner. Here are key features and practices already implemented in VSecM that contribute to its FIPS compliance:

FIPS-Compliant Cryptographic Modules: VSecM utilizes cryptographic modules that are either FIPS-certified or comply with FIPS standards for encryption algorithms and key management practices. This ensures that cryptographic operations within VSecM adhere to the rigorous requirements set forth by FIPS standards.
Encryption at Rest and In Transit: VSecM ensures that all secrets and sensitive data are encrypted both at rest and in transit using FIPS-approved algorithms. This safeguards the data against unauthorized access and exposure during storage and transmission.
Secure Key Management: VSecM implements secure key management practices, including the secure generation, storage, and handling of cryptographic keys. This minimizes the risk of key compromise and ensures the integrity of cryptographic operations.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): VSecM employs strict RBAC policies to control access to secrets and cryptographic keys. This allows for fine-grained access control, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information based on their roles.
Ongoing Enhancements for Improved Compliance

To further enhance its compliance and security capabilities, VSecM is actively working on the following initiatives:

Hardware Security Module (HSM) Integration: Integration with HSMs is underway to provide an additional layer of security for cryptographic key management. HSMs offer hardware-based key storage and cryptographic operations, providing superior protection against key compromise and enhancing the overall security of cryptographic practices within VSecM.
Cloud Key Management Service (KMS) Integration: VSecM is also working on integrating with cloud-based KMS solutions. This allows for the centralized management of cryptographic keys in the cloud, offering scalability, high availability, and the convenience of cloud-based key management, while still adhering to FIPS standards.
Recommendations for End-Users to Enhance Practical Compliance

End-users of VSecM can take additional steps to improve their practical compliance with FIPS standards, including:

Encrypt Kubernetes Secrets: For applications deployed in Kubernetes environments, ensure that Kubernetes Secrets used for storing root keys and other sensitive information are encrypted at rest using a KMS provider that is FIPS-compliant.
Implement Audit Logging and Monitoring: Establish comprehensive audit logging and monitoring for access to secrets and cryptographic operations. This helps in identifying unauthorized access attempts and ensuring compliance with security policies.
Regular Security Assessments: Conduct regular security assessments of your applications and infrastructure to identify and address potential vulnerabilities. This includes penetration testing and vulnerability scanning.
Disaster Recovery and Key Rotation: Develop and maintain disaster recovery plans and implement key rotation policies to minimize risks associated with key compromise. Regular key rotation and having a robust disaster recovery plan in place are critical for maintaining a secure and resilient cryptographic infrastructure.
Document Compliance Efforts: Maintain detailed documentation of your security controls, policies, and procedures, including how you use VSecM and other tools in a manner that aligns with FIPS standards. This documentation is invaluable for internal review and compliance audits.
By leveraging the FIPS-compliant features of VSecM and adopting these recommended practices, end-users can significantly enhance the security and compliance of their secret and key management practices, ensuring the protection of sensitive information and adherence to FIPS standards.

[v0lkan]

Done.