Critical Update: Navigating DoD Cybersecurity Compliance

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Key Focus Areas for DoD Cybersecurity Compliance:
 

• NIST SP 800-171:

  • NIST Special Publication 800-171, "Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information in Nonfederal Systems and Organizations," establishes a set of security requirements for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). CUI is information that, while not classified, requires safeguarding due to its sensitivity. This standard is foundational for any organization that handles, stores, or transmits CUI on behalf of the DoD. Compliance involves implementing 110 security controls across 14 families, ranging from access control to incident response. This standard is the base for CMMC level 2.  

• Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC):

  • CMMC is a verification framework designed to ensure that DoD contractors have implemented adequate cybersecurity practices. It moves beyond self-attestation by requiring independent assessments for certain levels.

    • The CMMC final rule is now in effect: This means the DoD has published the rule that governs how CMMC will be implemented, and it is now able to be put into action.

    • The DoD is rolling out CMMC in phases, with increasing requirements in upcoming years: This phased approach allows contractors time to adapt and implement necessary security measures. The DoD will start with high-priority contracts and gradually expand the requirements to all applicable contracts. This helps to not overwhelm the DIB (Defense Industrial Base).

    • CMMC level 1 and CMMC level 2 self-assessments will begin to be added to solicitations in early to mid 2025: This is the beginning step of the CMMC 2.0 roll out. This allows for the DoD to begin to gather data on the security posture of the DIB.

• Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS):

  • SPRS is a DoD system used to track contractors' compliance with NIST SP 800-171 requirements. Contractors are often required to submit their self-assessment scores into SPRS, demonstrating their progress toward compliance. This score is used by the DoD to evaluate the risk associated with awarding contracts to specific organizations.
     

Why DoD Cybersecurity Compliance Matters:
 

• Maintaining eligibility for DoD contracts:

  • Non-compliance with cybersecurity requirements can disqualify a contractor from bidding on or receiving DoD contracts. As the DoD prioritizes security, demonstrating compliance becomes a competitive advantage.

• Protecting sensitive information from cyber threats:

  • Cyberattacks can compromise sensitive information, leading to financial losses, reputational damage, and national security risks. Compliance with cybersecurity standards helps mitigate these risks.

• Strengthening the overall security of the DoD supply chain:

  • The DoD supply chain is a complex network of organizations. Weaknesses in one organization's security posture can create vulnerabilities for the entire chain. CMMC aims to strengthen the security of the entire DIB.

• Increased trust from the DOD:

  • By demonstrating a commitment to cybersecurity, contractors build trust with the DoD, fostering stronger partnerships and long-term relationships.
     

Actionable Steps for Your Organization:
 

• Conduct a thorough NIST SP 800-171 assessment:

  • This assessment involves evaluating your organization's current security controls against the requirements outlined in NIST SP 800-171. This helps identify any gaps that need to be addressed.

• Develop and implement a System Security Plan (SSP) and Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M):

  • The SSP documents your organization's security controls and how they are implemented. The POA&M outlines the steps you will take to address any identified gaps, including timelines and responsible parties.

• Prepare for CMMC assessments:

  • Familiarize yourself with the CMMC requirements for your desired level and begin implementing the necessary controls. Consider a pre-assessment to identify any areas that need improvement.

• Ensure accurate SPRS reporting:

  • Regularly update your SPRS scores to reflect your current security posture. Ensure that the information you provide is accurate and complete.

• Stay informed:

  • Cybersecurity is a constantly evolving field. Regularly monitor DoD and NIST websites for updates, guidance, and best practices. Attend industry events and webinars to stay up-to-date on the latest trends.
     

How We Can Help:
 

It's tempting to postpone CMMC, waiting for a bigger budget or more resources. But that delay is a dangerous and costly approach. The longer you wait, the greater the financial and resource burden. Let's shift from reactive to proactive and get this project underway (to the satisfaction of some of your customers). 

Bluestreak Compliance™ uses specialized compliance tools and revolutionary software designed to streamline and simplify your NIST SP 800-171 and CMMC implementation. Leveraging our proven platform of processes and productivity tools, we can significantly reduce your implementation costs and effort.

At Bluestreak Compliance™, we recognize the challenges you may encounter on your journey to compliance. Download our Free Compliance eBook to gain more insights about compliance achievement, management, and assurance. 

 

Bluestreak Compliance™ provides affordable and effective compliance solutions for businesses with our services delivered by CMMC Registered Practitioners (RPs) and CMMC Registered Practitioners Advanced (RPAs). Bluestreak Compliance™ is a CMMC Registered Practitioners Organization (RPO) designed to help your company achieve compliance through our proven methods. Support can be tailored to your unique requirements, whether leading your project or collaborating with your Project Manager. Partner with Bluestreak Compliance™ for answers to your cybersecurity, DFARS, NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2, and CMMC 2.0 questions.

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Contact Ron Beltz, Director of Strategic Accounts (262.955.5662) or visit www.go-bluestreak.com

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