The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a comprehensive program for protecting sensitive information across the Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain. Utah-based companies that work with or aim to secure DoD contracts should pursue CMMC compliance to gain a competitive advantage and operational efficiency.
The Utah business landscape is characterized by growing technology and innovation. A 2023 Utah Public Radio report shows that Utah has a 4.9% technology job growth rate, the second-fastest high-tech job growth in the United States. The explosive growth comes with the rising risk of cyber-attacks.
Utah businesses that handle Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), particularly those in the manufacturing, aerospace, and technology sectors, and those seeking to work on Department of Defense (DoD) contracts, should align with Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) standards. Compliance with CMMC is crucial for safeguarding sensitive information and maintaining eligibility for DoD contracts.
Success Insights
“Aero-Glen International, an aerospace hardware distributor, implemented comprehensive cybersecurity measures to enhance its IT infrastructure and successfully passed a CMMC 2.0 Level 2 Joint Surveillance Voluntary Assessment Program (JSVAP). This achievement expanded their Department of Defense (DoD) contracting opportunities, streamlined operations, and strengthened data protection protocols."
Mirroring this effective approach, Utah-based businesses should work with a reliable local CMMC expert, such as those at iMpact Utah, to bridge the gap between compliance and business growth. That way, they can enhance their cybersecurity measures, gain a competitive position, and attain operational reliability.
Visit iMpact Utah’s assessment services to learn more about tailored CMMC consulting services in Utah.
Getting CMMC Certified
The CMMC program, developed by the Department of Defense (DoD), is a tiered system designed to ensure cybersecurity resilience.
Level 1: Basic Cyber Hygiene
- Aim: Safeguard Federal Contract Information (FCI)
- Requirement: Adhere to 15 basic security controls aligned with FAR 52.204-21
Level 2: Intermediate Cyber Hygiene
- Aim: Bridge Level 1 and Level 3, Safeguard Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)
- Requirement: Follows the 110 security requirements in NIST SP 800-171
Level 3: Good Cyber Hygiene
- Aim: emphasis on the protection of CUI
Scope:
- Includes the 110 security requirements from NIST SP 800-171
- Includes a subset of the NIST SP 800- 172 security requirements - DoD-approved parameters.
Key Risks of Non-Compliance
The long-term risks of non-compliance far outweigh the perceived short-term benefits, as detailed below:
- Lack of cybersecurity compliance for DoD contractors makes them ineligible for contract award, or maintain DoD contracts resulting in missed business opportunities
- Increased vulnerability to data breaches and cyber threats
- Exposure to financial penalties, including lawsuits, hefty fines, and recovery costs after a cyber incident
- Operational disruptions following a cyberattack and related crippling financial losses
- Risk of reputational damage to clients, partners, and government agencies
- Non-compliance with the False Claims Act can result in civil penalties and potential exclusion from federal programs.
Benefits of CMMC Compliance
CMMC compliance minimizes business exposure to cyber threats while positioning it to tap into growth opportunities in the competitive defense sector. A CMMC-compliant organization:
- Maintains a robust cyber security policy that secures CUI, guards against cyber-attacks and espionage, and ensures operational continuity
- Becomes eligible for lucrative DoD contract opportunities
- Complies with federal contracts during and after the bidding process
- Demonstrates its commitment to security, resulting in a competitive advantage in a crowded marketplace
- Ensures security when operating as part of larger supply chains
- Signals its commitment to security, fostering trust with clients, partners, and stakeholders regarding the safety of their data and systems
Steps to Achieving the CMMC Certification
Achieving and maintaining CMMC compliance comprises six strategic steps for a secure and competitive organization in the defense sector.
Step 1: Assess Your Required CMMC Level
First, examine your current or prospective DoD contracts to identify the target CMMC certification level. Identify if you are handling FCI or CUI. For example, the Basic Cyber assessment is sufficient for a small IT company handling baseline FCI email communications as a DoD subcontractor.
In contrast, a defense manufacturer tasked with military equipment blueprints will need a Level 2 CMMC certification to handle CUI.
Seek clarification from your Contracting Officer when handling defense projects.
Step 2: Carry Out a CMMC Gap Analysis
A CMMC Gap analysis entails hiring a cybersecurity consultant or using internal resources to conduct an internal cybersecurity assessment that draws your current systems against CMMC requirements and security controls. The gap analysis report shall reveal deficiencies like outdated firewalls, weak password policies, and a lack of multi-factor authentication (MFA) and recommend areas for improvement.
Step 3: Develop a Cybersecurity Plan
Develop a Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M) that addresses the findings from the CMMC Gap Analysis and aligns with specific controls for your target CMMC Level. For example, if the gap analysis report reveals unsecured endpoint devices, your cybersecurity plan should include tools for endpoint protection such as antivirus and when and how you will implement them.
Step 4: Perform a CMMC readiness check
To ensure readiness for the official Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) assessment, organizations should conduct a comprehensive readiness check. This involves performing a gap analysis at the NIS SP 800-171A level to identify discrepancies between current practices and CMMC requirements, followed by implementing necessary remediation measures. Engaging with a CMMC Practitioner in the Salt Lake City area can provide valuable guidance in preparing documentation, such as System Security Plans (SSPs) and Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms). Additionally, conducting internal audits or mock assessments can help evaluate the effectiveness of security controls and ensure alignment with CMMC standards.
Step 5: Engage an authorized CMMC Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO)
Check out and hire a C3PAO listed in the Cyber AB, Market place. Such an assessor has relevant experience and understanding of your industry and compliance needs. For example, when bidding for DoD contracts, opt for a C3PAO with CMMC certification experience for local defense contractors in your industry.
Once you find the C3PAO you like, schedule the CMMC assessment process.
Step 6: Maintain Compliance
Organizations must re-certify their Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) every three years and conduct annual self-assessments, reporting their scores to the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS). Maintaining an up-to-date System Security Plan (SSP) is essential to address evolving cyber threats and comply with CMMC requirements. Designating a compliance officer or team to regularly review CMMC documentation, provide employee cybersecurity training, and update IT infrastructure ensures ongoing adherence to standards.
Choosing the Right CMMC Compliance Partner
Then, what do you look for when selecting the right CMMC compliance partner for your Utah-based business? Hiring a CMMC compliance partner ensures you have a reliable professional for expert guidance while minimizing the risk of setbacks throughout the process.
Here is a checklist to evaluate and select a reliable CMMC compliance partner, especially for businesses operating in Salt Lake City, Utah:
- Opt for a CMMC partner with in-depth knowledge of current CMMC standards and DoD regulations. The partner should be part of the CMMC Accreditation Body, the Cyber AB ecosystem as a Registered Practitioner (RP), Registered Practitioner Advance (RPA), CMMC Certified Professional (CCP), or a Certified CMMC Assessor (CCA).
- Ensure your choice CMMC partner is familiar with Utah industries and challenges. Moreover, the partners should be able to tailor solutions to your company’s size, industry needs, and CMMC-level requirements. For example, the CMMC partner should have a track record of assisting local defense contractors in meeting NIST SP 800-171 requirements.
- Does the prospective CMMC pattern have a track record of guiding businesses through successful compliance journeys? For example, they should have proven success working with companies that handle Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
Consultation, Scope, and Conclusion
Collaborating with iMpact Utah
At iMpact Utah, we leverage our local expertise and hands-on support to tailor solutions to meet the unique needs of Utah businesses. Whether you are a small DoD subcontractor navigating Level 1 compliance or a contractor pursuing Level 2 certification, we are the trusted partner to guide you through every step of the process.
Your Path to Compliance with iMpact Utah
Achieving your Salt Lake City CMMC certification with iMpact Utah takes four straightforward steps.
1. Initial Consultation and Scope Assessment
Book a session with our experts to evaluate your current cybersecurity posture, identify your needs, and determine the appropriate CMMC level for your organization.
2. Gap Analysis and Risk Assessment Preparation
We shall perform a detailed gap analysis to reveal any missing pieces in your compliance. Then, create an actionable implementation plan to address these challenges.
3. Implementation and Documentation Support
We assist you every step of the way in the implementation process. It includes assistance in cybersecurity plan development, documentation preparation, and audit readiness.
4. Ongoing Compliance Maintenance
Our support goes beyond certification. We provide valuable guidance on maintaining your compliance and addressing your annual internal self-assessment to keep your SPRS score up to date with affirmation, and any emerging threats.
We ensure your organization achieves the necessary CMMC certification fast, secures DoD contracts, and implements cybersecurity best practices to reduce system vulnerabilities.
Ready to unlock your potential? Schedule your free consultation today at iMpact Utah.
