Why the Department of Defense Created CMMC?
The Department of Defense (DOD) established the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program to strengthen its supply chain’s security. The impetus came partly from a DOD Inspector General report highlighting a lack of adherence to existing security requirements within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB).
This initiative addresses the critical need to protect sensitive information, such as Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), from escalating cyber threats, recognizing contractors as prime targets for malicious actors
The DOD aims to ensure that all defense contractors and subcontractors implement adequate cybersecurity practices to protect this sensitive data1. The DOD developed CMMC to mitigate risks and safeguard sensitive data, a proactive approach needed to ensure robust security standards.
Protecting Sensitive Data in the defense supply chain
The core objective of CMMC is to secure FCI and CUI that resides within or transits through a contractor’s internal information systems and networks.
CMMC program requirements are applicable to all DOD solicitations and contracts where a defense contractor or subcontractor will process, store, or transmit FCI or CUI on its unclassified information systems. The program mandates the implementation of specific security standards to effectively protect sensitive information from cyber threats, including Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs).
CMMC compliance is designed to ensure that defense contractors are protecting sensitive information at a level that is commensurate with the risk of cyber threats. This is not just about checklist compliance; it’s about building a robust framework that can adapt to evolving risks.
All contractors, must now achieve CMMC certification. The aggregate loss of intellectual property and controlled unclassified information from the DOD supply chain can undermine U.S. technical advantages and national security. This requirement applies to contractors and subcontractors.
Understanding CMMC 2.0
CMMC 2.0 is a revised framework built upon the original CMMC model. It features three levels, each with progressively more stringent security requirements
- Level 1 mandates basic security standards for FCI protection
- Level 2 aligns with NIST SP 800-171 for CUI protection
- Level 3 uses a subset of NIST SP 800-172 for enhanced CUI protection with DOD-approved parameters
The framework includes 14 security domains, like Access Control (AC), Awareness and Training (AT), and Configuration Management (CM). The CMMC Model incorporates requirements from FAR 52.204-21, NIST SP 800-171, and NIST SP 800-1726.
Defense contractors need to understand their required level to achieve the correct CMMC certification. This tiered approach makes sure that defense contractors implement relevant CMMC controls based on the type of information they handle CMMC 2.0 is more than just a standard; it is becoming a crucial requirement for defense contractors and subcontractors. The security standards are applicable to all levels.
How to Achieve CMMC 2.0 Compliance. Check Practical Steps
Achieving CMMC 2.0 certification and cybersecurity standards involves several key steps:
- First, contractors must identify their required CMMC level based on contract specifications.a) Contractors at Level 1 perform self-assessments.
b) For Level 2, contractors may have a self-assessment or a certification assessment
c) Defense contractors at Level 3 must be assessed by DIBCAC. - Next, they should conduct a gap analysis to identify areas that need improvement for CMMC compliance.
- Creating and maintaining a System Security Plan (SSP) is also essential; this plan should document how security requirements are implemented within the organization’s system.
- Organizations must have all requirements marked as “MET” or “NOT APPLICABLE” to pass and CMMC controls must be fully implemented. There are “Enduring Exceptions” for systems like “medical devices, test equipment, OT, and IoT”, where full compliance is not always achievable.
- Organizations must also establish media protection policies and ensure that access to media is restricted. CMMC compliance requires CMMC support to keep up with the evolving security standards. Contractors should also implement procedures for media disposal.
- Finally, contractors must submit annual compliance affirmations to SPRS and flow down requirements to subcontractors/ Defense contractors who prioritize cybersecurity and obtain CMMC certification will improve their chances of working on future DOD projects.
The implementation of CMMC controls ensures greater security within the DOD’s supply chain.
Looking for a CMMC Partner? Contact Us!
Achieving CMMC 2.0 certification is a crucial step in ensuring compliance with the U.S. Department of Defense requirements and protecting sensitive data. If you need support with compliance analysis, documentation preparation, or implementing necessary security measures, we are here to help. Contact us to learn how we can assist your company in achieving CMMC compliance and increasing your chances of participating in DOD projects.
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