DOS - Consular Affairs Cyber Security Services BPA - MRAS

The General Services Administration (GSA), acting on behalf of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs Office of Consular Systems and Technology (DoS CA/CST), is conducting market research to establish a Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) for cybersecurity services. This initiative aims to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information systems and associated data managed by CA/CST. The BPA will be issued under the Federal Supply Schedule, specifically utilizing the Highly Adaptive Cybersecurity Services (HACS) Special Item Number (SIN) 54151 HACS. This SIN is part of the Multiple Award Schedule Information Technology Category, designed to provide government entities with access to qualified cybersecurity vendors.

The scope of work under this BPA involves a comprehensive security program that encompasses five key subcategories: High Value Asset Assessments, Risk and Vulnerability Assessment, Cyber Hunt, Incident Response, and Penetration Testing. Vendors participating in this solicitation are expected to have capabilities across all these subcategories as they have passed technical evaluations specific to each area within the GSA eLibrary. The BPA will allow for flexibility in contracting types based on the nature of work required for individual call orders.

Rather than providing a detailed Statement of Work (SOW), CA/CST is employing a Statement of Objectives (SOO) approach. This method outlines essential requirements and constraints necessary for meeting business, technical, security, and privacy obligations while allowing for innovative solutions from industry partners. The GSA is seeking responses from qualified vendors through their RFI process to identify experienced businesses capable of fulfilling these cybersecurity needs.

Overall, this effort supports the Bureau of Consular Affairs' mission by safeguarding critical information systems that facilitate vital services such as passport issuance and visa processing while ensuring robust protection against cyber threats. Through this BPA, CA/CST aims to enhance its cybersecurity posture effectively while maintaining efficient consular operations both domestically and internationally.