Which government entity is responsible for ensuring electronic systems protect PII?

The correct answer is the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) because it plays a crucial role in developing standards and guidelines for federal information systems to safeguard sensitive information, including Personally Identifiable Information (PII). NIST's framework outlines policies related to the management of cybersecurity risks, providing organizations with the necessary practices to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.

NIST's Special Publication 800 series specifically addresses security and privacy controls, which are essential for protecting PII in electronic systems. These publications help entities implement effective security measures and are widely adopted across government agencies to ensure compliance with federal regulations.

Other entities mentioned have different roles; for instance, the General Service Administration (GSA) focuses on federal procurement processes and managing government-wide policies, while the Center for Best Practices of the NGA emphasizes effective governance and management practices. The Department of Justice primarily handles legal matters and law enforcement, which does not specifically involve the development of technical standards for electronic systems. Thus, NIST stands out as the key organization responsible for establishing the necessary protocols to protect PII effectively.