IsI Enterprises’ Post

Here's some good background on a pressing topic for companies supporting the Government. We can help Small/Medium businesses meet these requirements.

For the latest development in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity requirements, read DoD's recent announcement linked below. To summarize, DoD contractors can breathe a (temporary) sigh of relief. The class deviation from DFARS 252.204-7012 staves off immediate compliance with the requirements of NIST 800-171 Revision 3, which is meant to be released later this month, and instead maintains NIST 800-171 Revision 2 as the operable version.  

As the CMMC program continues through the comment review period, NIST and DOD have been progressing in their efforts to plan for the near future. On May 14th NIST released Revision 3 to the Special Publication 800-171, Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information in Nonfederal Systems and Organizations. Revision 2 of the document is the basis for the CMMC security requirements and the wording of DFARS 252.204-7012 specifies that defense contractors are required to comply with the SP 800-171 version “in effect at the time the solicitation.” Anticipating the conflict between the new revision and the existing regulations, on May 2nd the DOD issued Class Deviation 2024-O0013 which specifies that Revision 2 is the version to be implemented by contractors until the Class Deviation is rescinded. Chess Consulting regularly assists defense contractors to understand their contractual obligations and to evaluate their security controls in relation to the NIST and DFARS requirements. Reach out if you have any questions. https://lnkd.in/gVZs-Cz9 https://lnkd.in/gAg-fX6k #NIST #cybersecurity #chess

📢 ALERT 📢 Indefinite Class Deviation for DFARS Clause 7012 issued by DoD!   It appears the DoD has decided to draw a line in the proverbial sand, in that the new pending NIST 800-171 Rev 3 is paused from a DFARS standpoint and will exclusively use NIST 800-171 Rev 2.    This is both good and bad.   Good in that it answers the question we've all been asking as to how the different versions will be addressed as it relates to CMMC. It's bad, in that Rev 3 includes better security alignment which now could be considered "optional" for the time being. While there's nothing stopping anyone from implementing what's in Rev 3 once its officially published, the "law" says use Rev 2 now. #Cybersecurity #NIST #IT #ResilientIT #DoD https://lnkd.in/eierpmyw

In resharing my team at Quadrant Four’s pivotal guide on DFARS compliance, I’m reminded of the intricate balance defense contractors must maintain between operational integrity and national security. This guide not only highlights the importance of cybersecurity and regulatory adherence but also serves as a beacon for navigating the complexities of defense contracts. A must-read for professionals committed to upholding the highest standards in defense and security.

Understanding Compliance: CMMC 2.0 and ITAR for Defense Contractors For those in the defense contracting sector, navigating through regulatory requirements is crucial for maintaining operational integrity. The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) stand as key pillars within this landscape, aimed at protecting sensitive data and upholding national security interests. These frameworks present a complex set of guidelines that defense contractors must understand and adhere to. This post delves into the specifics of both CMMC 2.0 and ITAR, shedding light on their unique features and assisting defense contractors in determining their compliance obligations with either or both regulations. Discover more: https://lnkd.in/dUMimJFG #cybersecurity #compliance #CMMC #ITAR #defensecontracting

"Furthermore, the requirement is implemented in the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement DFARS through the solicitation provision of NIST SP 800-171 DoD Assessment Requirement, and the contract clause within the NIST SP 800-171 DoD Assessment Requirements." https://lnkd.in/dmYHAzsS #cybersecurity #defensecontractor #DFARS #compliance #industrialcyber #icssecurity #ics

"Furthermore, the requirement is implemented in the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement DFARS through the solicitation provision of NIST SP 800-171 DoD Assessment Requirement, and the contract clause within the NIST SP 800-171 DoD Assessment Requirements." https://lnkd.in/gpYDDihS #cybersecurity #defensecontractor #DFARS #compliance #industrialcyber #icssecurity #ics

The proposed rule for the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program, released by the Defense Department, closely aligns with industry expectations, maintaining a three-level framework and emphasizing prime contractor accountability. It reflects the DoD's commitment to bolstering cybersecurity resilience within the defense industrial base (DIB), with a clear timeline set for full implementation by October 2026. Despite this clarity, questions remain regarding which version of NIST standards contractors must meet and how requirements apply to managed service providers (MSPs), highlighting the need for ongoing clarification and refinement. Overall, the proposed rule signifies a significant step forward in strengthening cybersecurity across the DIB, demonstrating the DoD's seriousness about protecting sensitive information and enhancing the security posture of defense contractors and subcontractors. How do you think the DoD will address these uncertainties to ensure a smooth transition to CMMC compliance?

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (#CMMC) rule, a requirement for defense contractors managing controlled unclassified information, is drawing attention with an anticipated finalization possibly in early 2025. A draft rule has been released and the comment period ended February 26, with an extensive review process ongoing involving the Defense Department and the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, before it will eventually move to Congress under the Congressional Review Act. Given the election year pressures and procedural timelines, finalization could occur between January and March 2025, with full implementation required on all defense contracts by October 1, 2026. For industry leaders and #cybersecurity decision-makers, the message is clear: do not delay in preparing for CMMC updates. Early preparation will be crucial to maintaining competitive advantage and ensuring compliance when the CMMC requirements become a staple in defense contracts. Begin your prep now to ensure readiness!