Cybersecurity has become a crucial aspect of modern-day businesses, especially with the ever-growing threat of cyber-attacks and hacking attempts. The world has witnessed a significant rise in cybercrime, and companies must take proactive measures to protect their sensitive information.
This of course is especially important for businesses doing business with the Department of Defense. There is a specific protocol that the DoD requires their contractors to take called CMMC.
The interim DFARS rule established a five-year phase-in period, during which CMMC compliance is only required in select pilot contracts, but the latest iteration, CMMC 2, has changed the requirements.
This article will delve into what CMMC 2.0 is, its three levels, and which companies require CMMC certification.
What is CMMC?
CMMC stands for “Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification.” It’s a certification framework that’s designed to assess the cyber hygiene of organizations that work with the Department of Defense (DoD). The CMMC 1.0 was released in early 2020 and was designed to protect Federal Contract Information (FCI) and controlled unclassified information (CUI) that is shared and handled by third-party DoD contractors.
Recently the latest iteration, CMMC 2.0, has been released. The primary objective of CMMC 2.0 is to ensure that DoD contractors maintain the highest standards of cybersecurity, thereby safeguarding DoD’s critical information.
The Three Levels of CMMC 2.0: A Deep Dive
CMMC 2.0 is divided into three levels – Basic, Medium, and Advanced. Each level has its set of specific requirements that organizations must meet. Let’s take a closer look at each level.
- Level 1: Basic Cybersecurity Hygiene – Foundational
The Basic level of CMMC 2.0 is the foundation of cyber hygiene, hence the name‚ foundational ‘. It includes basic practices outlined in FAR 52.204-21. This level aims to provide basic protection for an organization’s information systems. It’s a great starting point for organizations looking to implement baseline cybersecurity measures.
- Level 2: Intermediate Cybersecurity Hygiene – Advanced
The second level of CMMC 2.0 focuses on more advanced cybersecurity practices. It includes implementing firewalls, network segmentation, and access controls, and other security practices outlined in NIST SP 800-171. Organizations must comply with this level if they handle sensitive information, such as Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
- Level 3: Good Cybersecurity Hygiene – Expert
The expert level of CMMC 2.0 requires organizations to have robust cybersecurity practices in place. It includes practices such as encryption, continuous monitoring, and incident response. Organizations that handle highly sensitive information, such as National Security Systems (NSS), must comply with this level. All practices are outlined in NIST SP800-172.
Which Companies Need CMMC Certification?
All organizations that work with the DoD and handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) must obtain CMMC certification. This includes prime contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers that provide goods and services to the DoD. The certification level required will depend on the type and sensitivity of the information being handled. You can learn more here: What types of companies need CMMC certification.
What is CMMC Assessment?
CMMC Assessment evaluates an organization’s cybersecurity practices against the standards set forth in the CMMC 2.0 framework.
CMMC 2.0 includes a tiered assessment process with requirements based on the sensitivity of the information shared with a contractor.
Self-assessment will suffice for any organization looking to receive CMMC Level 1 certification. Organizations that want to be certified on level 2 or level 3 are assessed by a third-party assessor, who will review the organization’s policies, procedures, and security controls.
The results of the CMMC 2.0 Assessment will determine whether the organization has met the requirements for the desired level of certification. If the organization is found to be compliant, it will receive a certificate of CMMC certification. If the organization is found to be non-compliant, it will receive a report outlining the areas where they need to improve.
The Importance of CMMC 2.0: Protecting Your Business and the DoD’s Information
The Department of Defense (DoD) holds a vast amount of critical information that must be protected, and it’s essential that its contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers adhere to the highest standards of cyber hygiene. That’s where CMMC 2.0 comes in. Here are just a few benefits of becoming CMMC compliant
- Trust: Obtaining CMMC certification is not just about protecting the DoD’s information but also the contracting business. By complying with CMMC 2.0, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to cybersecurity and show potential customers that their information is secure. This can lead to increased trust and credibility, which can translate into increased business opportunities.
- Security: CMMC 2.0 also helps organizations stay ahead of the ever-evolving threat landscape. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and organizations must adapt their cybersecurity practices to stay ahead of them. CMMC 2.0 provides a framework that organizations can follow to ensure they are implementing the latest and most effective cybersecurity practices.
- Costs: Moreover, complying with CMMC 2.0 can help organizations save money in the long run. Implementing cybersecurity measures can be costly, but by following the CMMC 2.0 framework, organizations can ensure they are only implementing the necessary measures and not wasting money on unnecessary practices. Additionally, by implementing effective cybersecurity measures, organizations can reduce the risk of a data breach, which can be even more costly.
The Future of Cybersecurity: Embracing CMMC 2.0
CMMC 2.0 is a vital step in the right direction for ensuring the security of sensitive information. By implementing CMMC 2.0, organizations can ensure that their information systems are secure and meet the highest standards of cyber hygiene. The three levels of CMMC 2.0 provide a roadmap for organizations to follow, and by embracing it, they can ensure the protection of their information and the integrity of the DoD’s critical information. The future of cybersecurity is here, and it’s time for organizations to embrace it!
