The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, or CMMC, is something every contractor and subcontractor who does business with the Department of Defense needs to learn about. It is not yet another checklist but a set of regulations to guard sensitive information.
Compliance with these regulations is not voluntary if you do business with the DoD. It is something that you must do to keep the business going. Initially, CMMC can seem gigantic and confusing since the jargon sounds technical and the process seems long.
But the truth is that it becomes much easier to handle when you tackle it step by step. You can break it down into bits rather than trying to understand everything simultaneously. Imagine it’s like a trip you are on, each step gets you closer to where you are going, and the next thing you know, you are there.
This article explores steps that you can take to seek CMMC compliance.
1. Understand What CMMC Means for Your Business
The first thing to do is to understand what CMMC does to your company. Most companies proceed and hasten without stopping to see precisely what the regulations require in detail; this is where problems are likely to begin.
Essentially, CMMC aims to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). It is classified information that should not be shared freely. The government wants all the people in its supply chain to securely and reliably manage this information at all times. The smallest subcontractors are thus expected to be subject to the same laws as big corporations.
To make this possible, CMMC is segmented into different levels. Each level suggests how safe your cybersecurity practices need to be. Some businesses will only be required to comply with a lower level, while others, especially those with more sensitive projects, must comply with higher security levels.
In the revamped standard, CMMC 2.0, there are three levels in total. These levels are cumulative, beginning with common practices and moving toward higher-level demands. With this infrastructure in mind, the second step is identifying which level will apply to your organization.
It is impossible to effectively prepare without having this aspect clearly defined. For this reason, hiring experts, such as a C3PAO (Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization), is typically worth the expense. They can analyze your situation, determine the proper level, and give you the steps to secure compliance.
2. Find the Gaps in Your Current System
Once you know your target level, the next step is to look at your current system closely and honestly. You can think of it as holding up a mirror; you want to reflect on the reality of where you are now.
This is typically referred to as a gap assessment. Essentially, you compare your existing security processes to what CMMC expects. When comparing, you are likely to identify some areas where you are already performing adequately. At the same time, you will also be able to identify areas where your company does not align.
Most of all, a gap assessment is not about judgment but honesty. The only solution is to recognize the weak spots. These gaps may appear in your technology, such as a lack of appropriate security software.
3. Build a Plan That Matches the Requirements
After establishing the gaps, the next step is creating a plan. A good plan is better than a to-do list. This guide will drive you from your current position to complete compliance.
To be successful with your plan, it must address three broad areas. The first is technology, where you rely on tools like firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption. The second is processes, which include restricting access to sensitive files or responding to a cyber attack. The third is people, because training your employees is equally important to purchasing new equipment or software.
4. Put the Plan into Action Step by Step
Once you have your plan, it’s time to implement it. This section requires patience, as change does not happen overnight. But steady and determined progress will build up over time and move you closer to being compliant.
The most effective solution is to work on eliminating the biggest risks first. For example, if your system has open doors that would be an easy target for intrusion by hackers, they must be closed first.
Next, move on to work on the medium-priority risks. Finally, tackle the small gaps. Addressing the issues in this order helps keep your business more secure while you continue to work towards full compliance.
5. Get Ready for Your Official Assessment
After you have carried out your plan and implemented the necessary changes, the final phase is to prepare for your official assessment. That is where an approved C3PAO reviews your system to ensure you comply with the required standards.
Preparation is a big deal. Before the assessment begins, take a moment to review everything one more time. Double-check policies and security tools, and ensure that all documentation is up to date and in order. Think of this step as preparing for a final test. You already know the material; now you are ensuring it is together and prepared to present.
Final Thought
It may seem scary to get CMMC compliant at first. But if you break it down into steps, it is logical and doable. First, you need to clearly understand what CMMC means to your organization. Second, know your gaps. Develop a plan that references the requirements. Execute the plan in stages. Finally, build the courage to prepare for your evaluation.
You don’t need to do this all by yourself. With a trustworthy C3P0 to help you, you can do it and make the process easier. They are experienced enough to make the process less stressful and more bearable.