The cybersecurity maturity model certification (CMMC) has become the standard for assessing and measuring the safety levels of an organization’s cybersecurity. The protocols and processes a contractor puts in place in order to attain compliance are critically important for securing sensitive data within the DoD.
This is why it is so important to make sure the Third-Party Assessment Organization you choose has experience with CMMC and can provide a comprehensive report that will help your company improve its cybersecurity posture.
The CMMC 2.0
As companies realize the need for better cybersecurity protocols, many are turning to the CMMC for guidance. CMMC is a cybersecurity maturity model that provides organizations with a proven framework for assessing and improving their cybersecurity posture.
The CMMC 2.0 is the latest version of the CMMC cybersecurity maturity model. It was released in October 2019 and replaces the original version of the CMMC. The CMMC 2.0 is based on the ISO/IEC 27001:2013 standard for information security and includes new features and updates to reflect the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices. The main improvements implemented in this new approach maximize efficiency and update self-assessment rules.
The CMMC 2.0 includes five maturity levels: Foundation, Awareness, Proficiency, Excellence and Leader. Each level includes a set of requirements that organizations must meet in order to achieve that level based on the type of data they house. The CMMC 2.0 also includes a risk-based approach, which allows organizations to focus on areas that are most important to them and that present the greatest risk.
Some of the key changes in CMMC 2.0 include:
- A new requirement for organizations to conduct a self-assessment of their cybersecurity posture
- A revised requirement for risk management, including the identification of cyber threats and vulnerabilities
- New requirements for incident response and business continuity planning
The CMMC 2.0 updates are intended to improve the cybersecurity posture of defense contractors and federal agencies and help them meet the increasing demand for cybersecurity solutions.
What is a Third-Party Assessment Organization?
Organizations that want to achieve CMMC certification must first undergo a Third-Party Assessment (TPA). A TPA is conducted by an organization that has been accredited by the Defense Cybersecurity Agency (DCA) to assess organizations against the CMMC cybersecurity maturity model. There are a number of TPA organizations accredited by DCA, so companies have a lot of choices when it comes to selecting one.
The CMMC 2.0 updates are focused on improving the cybersecurity maturity model for defense contractors and federal agencies. The updates include new requirements and revisions to existing requirements, as well as changes to the governance and management of the CMMC program.
What To Look For in a CMMC Assessment Organization
A third-party cybersecurity assessment organization is an entity that provides independent verification of a company’s cybersecurity posture and maturity. Such organizations can provide invaluable insights into a company’s cybersecurity readiness and help identify any areas of weakness that may need improvement.
The process of achieving compliance is not always straightforward or simple. In many cases, this process can be very difficult to grasp and understand what real-world actions need to be taken in order to ensure compliance.
Third-Party Assessment Organizations play a key role in this process, providing assessment and certification services to organizations seeking to comply with the CMMC standard. When choosing a third-party cybersecurity assessment organization, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Qualifications and experience. Make sure the organization has a proven track record of conducting rigorous assessments and providing actionable recommendations. They should also have experience working with companies of all sizes and industries.
- Independence. Make sure the organization is not affiliated with or beholden to any specific vendor or technology solution.
- Fees. Make sure the fees are reasonable and reflect the value of the services provided.
- Resources. The assessor should have the resources necessary to conduct assessments quickly and efficiently. This includes a team of cybersecurity experts and the tools and knowledge necessary to deliver.
- Compliance. The TPA should be compliant with relevant standards, such as ISO/IEC 17020 and ISO/IEC 17025
The Value of a TPA For Achieving CMMC 2.0 Compliance
Third-party assessors (TPAs) can be a valuable resource for organizations who are not sure what steps to take to achieve CMMC 2.0 compliance. By leveraging the expertise of a TPA, companies can save time and resources while ensuring that their cybersecurity program meets the stringent requirements of CMMC 2.0.
A TPA can be an invaluable resource for achieving CMMC 2.0 compliance. By selecting an experienced organization with a proven track record, you can trust that your organization is on the right path to meeting the stringent requirements of CMMC 2.0. For more information on how to find the right TPA for your unique needs, contact SeaGlass technology today or visit our website to schedule a consultation.