6 Key Things to Look for in Your CMMC Audit
You’re preparing for your CMMC audit. But let’s be realistic. Not only is it an extremely comprehensive maturity model, but there are different tiers — and the tiers and requirements have been changing. In broad scope, precisely what does “Uncle Sam” want to see in your CMMC audit?
It’s less complicated than you might think. Most organizations working on their security should pass most of the CMMC audit checklist — provided they have, truthfully, been working on their security. But they will not pass all of them because the controls are rigorous and specific. After a CMMC audit, you can fix the issues you noticed — the CMMC certification process providers for correction.
What is a CMMC audit testing for?
On a broad level: The government is looking for compliance with industry regulations, processes and procedures, security policies, documentation, auditing and more — in other words, things that you really should already have. But the CMMC audit has very rigorous, strict and (importantly) specific controls. You should be interested in pursuing CMMC audit testing not only to pass the certification (which you absolutely need to work with the Department of Defense, even peripherally), but also to shore up your own security.
Key things Uncle Sam wants to see on your CMMC audit
Now, let’s get a little more specific regarding your CMMC auditing. What does the government want to see within your system? Largely, they need to know that you can control sensitive data — even data that isn’t classified. It isn’t just about not losing that data; it’s about avoiding system disruption.
Your plans for maintaining the necessary security controls
This is a key component of your CMMC audit. It covers how you plan to ensure that all the necessary cybersecurity measures identified in the assessment are properly maintained over time. You should include information about any tools you plan to use, such as automated monitoring or logging systems, and an overview of the training and user education processes you have in place. Your audit should also include details on how you plan to respond if any security issues or vulnerabilities are discovered.
How you’re testing your security and controls
Uncle Sam wants to see that your organization is taking appropriate steps to ensure compliance with its cyber security policies, procedures and practices. Your CMMC audit should include a testing component which will confirm whether controls are operating as intended, allowing for the identification and resolution of any potential weaknesses or vulnerabilities. Additionally, make sure to maintain a documented history of all testing efforts, as this will be important to demonstrate compliance.
How you’re training your team
Uncle Sam will also want to ensure that personnel within your organization are adequately trained on the requirements and best practices for safeguarding your cyber systems. This should include providing training on topics such as how to detect suspicious activity, how to respond to security incidents and how to properly use the organization’s cyber policies and procedures. Additionally, Uncle Sam wants to see evidence that personnel are regularly trained on any changes or updates in policy so they can stay ahead of the curve.
Your documents and document enforcement
Uncle Sam wants to see that violations of cyber security policies are appropriately addressed, including any necessary disciplinary action taken. This should be clearly documented so it is clear how the organization is enforcing its security standards. Additionally, ensure that your organization has a method for tracking and reporting on all incidents involving possible violations of policy rules or regulations. Every organization is going to experience some issues with their document management, backups and other data; that’s unavoidable. How you react to these issues is most important.
Your other findings and recommendations
Your audit should include a detailed list of findings along with any recommendations for corrective action. The goal is to identify weaknesses in the system, which could lead to data breaches or other security problems. It’s important that you provide an accurate assessment of your organization’s current security postures as well as a road map for improvement. Uncle Sam wants to ensure that you’re taking the necessary steps to protect our data and keep it safe from potential threats. A well-written report with actionable recommendations is essential in ensuring your organization continues to meet security requirements.
Your disaster preparedness plans
It’s important to have a plan in place in case something goes wrong. This should include details on how you would handle data breaches, system malfunctions and other potential disasters. Your audit should also include an overview of any backup plans and redundancy measures that you’ve put into place. Uncle Sam wants to make sure that your organization is prepared for any unexpected issues that may arise.
By implementing these key areas, your organization will be well on its way to meeting Uncle Sam’s expectations for a successful CMMC audit. Many organizations choose to hire an experienced cybersecurity consultant to assist with the preparation and implementation of their audit plans.
How to audit your organization with the help of an MSP
When it comes to conducting a CMMC audit, it’s important to have the right resources and expertise on hand. Managed service providers (MSPs) can help organizations with their security needs by providing secure solutions, as well as performing assessments, audits and other services that are required for compliance.
An MSP can help you identify any potential risks that may be present, as well as provide guidance on how to manage and mitigate them. Additionally, they can conduct regular reviews of your system to ensure compliance with CMMC requirements. This allows you to have peace of mind that your organization is following the necessary steps to protect our data and stay in compliance.
Contact Red River to begin your journey to CMMC certification today.
We offer a full-service solution for CMMC audit preparation, implementation and maintenance. Our team of certified security professionals will work closely with you to ensure your organization’s compliance meets all applicable standards and will work with you throughout the audit process.
We won’t just help you with CMMC compliance. We’ll help you with all your security needs. Contact us today to find out more.
