It’s no secret that in the current digital landscape, cyberattacks are one of the most dangerous threats many organizations face. The growing prevalence and availability of new technologies, such as cloud computing and mobile devices, increase organizations’ vulnerability to security breaches and data theft.
Thus, it’s becoming increasingly important for organizations and businesses to attract qualified cybersecurity professionals and effectively manage the security risks they face. This is particularly important to government agencies responsible for national security.
What Is The CMCC?
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) was created by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) to assess an organization’s security, management, risk mitigation, and workforce practices prior to working with them. Thus, any organization interested in entering a contract with the said agency is suggested to have a CMMC checklist so standards can be complied with accordingly.
Several certification systems have been developed to help organizations benchmark their cybersecurity efforts and identify areas where improvements can be made in response to threats and breaches. When used together with guidelines such as those provided by cybersecurity documents like the NIST 800-171, many contractors can identify and implement the most effective strategies for managing security risks.
How Complying With The CMMC Can Help Your Organization?
Security is an industry that is constantly evolving. Organizations need to stay ahead of the curve by advancing and honing their security practices in such a rapidly changing landscape.
In the industrial sector, cybersecurity is a growing issue that many businesses have responded to. Cyberattacks aren’t seen to just be a distraction of daily operations, they’re also recognized to be a problem that needs a tremendous amount of money to solve. Therefore, aside from getting tech solutions, obtaining CMMCs may also equip organizations with skills and knowledge to effectively manage cyber risks and withstand attacks.
Other reasons why being CMCC-compliant matters to any organization are:
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It Is A Good Business Decision
By making cybersecurity a top priority for your organization, you achieve the security and risk mitigation benefits of adopting proper data protection measures and gaining reputation points amongst potential clients.
Individuals trying to make wise business decisions will be more likely impressed with an organization that boasts CMMC compliance. It’s because it demonstrates the organization’s commitment to adopting safe practices and protecting their sensitive data. Not only are you arming yourself with the knowledge that ensures safety from threats and cybercrimes, but you’ll also be making a positive impact on your company’s future. Thus, not only will your company enjoy a good reputation, but it might also be an organic way of attracting future clients.
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It Shows Your Commitment To Cybersecurity
Several training programs and certifications are created to help individuals and organizations understand and manage information technology (IT) risks and security threats in today’s digital landscape. There are many certifications that companies can obtain, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) programs.
However, the CMMC is one of the only programs focusing on information protection from a holistic perspective. Because being compliant with it demonstrates your comprehensive understanding of various cybersecurity principles and practices. These include risk assessment, risk management strategy development, continuous monitoring, and information protection, making it an excellent choice for your organization.
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It Provides You With A Technical Verification Of Your Security Measures
By achieving CMMC, it ensures that your organization can withstand new and emerging threats. But more than that, it provides the necessary requirements so other businesses know what your organization can offer them.
There are five different levels of CMMC compliance currently offered: Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, Level 4, and Level 5.
- Level 1: Organizations that complete this level are considered CMMC compliant. However, they haven’t reached the highest levels of security measures for protecting sensitive data. They’re usually only compliant in the performance of essential IT security standards indicated in 48 CFR 52.204-21.
- Level 2: This level is similar to Level 1, except that Level 2 organizations have achieved not only just a performance but also an establishment and documentation of practices related to security standards.
- Level 3: Once an organization attains CMMC Level 3 compliance, they’re considered excellent in the technical and managerial practices in establishing, maintaining, and resourcing a security plan. To achieve this level, organizations may implement and document additional internal controls, among others.
- Level 4: Organizations that have achieved CMMC Level 4 have gone above and beyond to ensure optimal levels of security for their organization’s sensitive data. These organizations have reviewed the controls established in Level 3 and instituted additional mechanisms to measure effectiveness to achieve this level.
- Level 5: The highest level of CMMC certification is Level 5 compliance. This level requires an organization to demonstrate outstanding levels of IT security technology and excellent standardization and monitoring of its operational procedures.
Having these specific levels can help promote your organization when marketing yourself as an expert government contractor. Moreover, they can help in attracting top talent as each level demonstrates your commitment to cybersecurity’s best practices within an organization.
Conclusion
CMMC certification can offer benefits for your organization and provide value to the entire cybersecurity field. By achieving it, you can demonstrate a commitment to upholding the best practices and industry standards to protect sensitive data and information.
