A framework published by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) that defines 110 security requirements for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in non-federal systems and organizations. This information security framework, officially titled “Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information in Nonfederal Systems and Organizations,” was developed to help contractors meet the obligations outlined in DFARS 252.204-7012. These data security standards are essential for maintaining compliance and ensuring the protection of sensitive information.
The requirements are organized into 14 control families, including access control, incident response, system integrity, and personnel security. These NIST SP 800-53 control families, along with NIST SP 800-171 compliance, establish a baseline for safeguarding sensitive government data that is not classified but still requires protection. Following NIST guidance, these security controls are crucial for any organization handling Controlled Unclassified Information.
NIST SP 800-171 compliance is central to the Department of Defense’s cybersecurity expectations and forms the foundation of CMMC Level 2 certification. Contractors must implement, document, and maintain these controls in order to continue doing business with the DoD. Adhering to NIST requirements for government contractors ensures that all necessary cyber NIST protocols are followed, providing a robust defense against potential cybersecurity threats.
