What is a C3PAO?
An Authorized Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO) is a key entity in the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) process. Accredited by the Cyber AB (Accreditation Body), C3PAOs are responsible for conducting formal assessments of organizations seeking CMMC certification. These assessments evaluate an organization’s adherence to specific CMMC practices and requirements, ensuring compliance with Department of Defense (DoD) standards for protecting sensitive information.
The role of a C3PAO is pivotal to maintaining the integrity and objectivity of the certification process. Once the assessment is complete, the C3PAO submits their findings to the Cyber AB, which reviews the results and issues the appropriate CMMC certification level.
This framework is designed to enhance the overall security posture of the DIB and protect sensitive government data.
Monarch ISC became the 7th Authorized C3PAO in the country in 2022.
As your cybersecurity professionals, we strive to be one step ahead of the rapid changes digital environments create for businesses like yours. Most of all, we love what we do.
The Role of C3PAOs in CMMC Certification
C3PAOs play an essential role in helping organizations achieve CMMC certification. Their responsibilities include:
- Conducting Assessments: Evaluating an organization’s compliance with CMMC practices and standards.
- Providing Objectivity: Ensuring an unbiased and thorough review to maintain the certification’s integrity.
- Submitting Results: Reporting findings to the Cyber AB, which grants the final certification.
Engaging with a C3PAO is a critical step for organizations aiming to meet CMMC requirements and maintain eligibility for DoD contracts. With the guidance of a qualified C3PAO, businesses can ensure their cybersecurity measures align with CMMC standards and protect the sensitive information they manage.
What is CMMC?
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a framework established by the DoD to safeguard Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). By implementing a structured set of cybersecurity practices, CMMC ensures contractors and subcontractors maintain robust defenses against cyber threats.
Who Needs to Be CMMC Certified?
Any contractor or subcontractor within the DIB that handles FCI or CUI is required to achieve CMMC certification. Certification ensures that all entities in the DoD supply chain implement appropriate cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive data.
CMMC certification requirements are being phased into DoD contracts, with full implementation expected in the coming years. Organizations must achieve certification at the level corresponding to the sensitivity of the data they handle to remain eligible for DoD contracts.
CMMC is organized into three levels of certification:
Level 1:
Self-attestation to compliance with 15 basic cybersecurity practices protecting Federal Contract Information (FCI) first required by the Federal Acquisition Regulation.
Level 2:
C3PAO-conducted assessment to ensure compliance with 110 cybersecurity practices protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), including Level 1 requirements.
Level 3:
Successful C3PAO-conducted L2 Certification, followed by Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC) assessment of 24 additional enhanced cybersecurity practices.
