What is a C3PAO?
A C3PAO, or CMMC Third-Party Assessor Organization, is critical in the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) ecosystem. These organizations are vital. They ensure that DIB supply chain companies meet DoD cybersecurity standards.
C3PAOs are accredited by the CyberAB, the accreditation body for CMMC, and exist independently of the U.S. Department of Defense. To become a C3PAO, an organization must pass a strict accreditation process. This involves both the CyberAB and DIBCAC. This process ensures that C3PAOs have the necessary expertise, tools, and impartiality to assess other companies accurately.
Certified CMMC assessors lead the assessment teams. They are necessary to ensure organizations meet the CMMC cybersecurity standards.
The primary responsibility of a C3PAO is to conduct official CMMC assessments for Organizations Seeking Certification (OSCs). These assessments are crucial. They determine if a company meets the cybersecurity requirements of the CMMC framework. The framework is a complete assessment of various levels of cybersecurity practices and processes.
C3PAOs have several important functions in the CMMC certification process:
Conducting formal CMMC assessments
Submit assessment findings and certifications to the DoD’s CMMC eMASS.
Assisting contractors in navigating the CMMC certification process
Guiding on improving cybersecurity posture
C3PAOs must comply with the highest cybersecurity measures and practices before assessing others. This requirement ensures that the assessors maintain a high-security standard.
C3PAOs are the only entities authorized to conduct formal CMMC assessments and issue CMMC certifications.
What is CMMC?
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a unified cybersecurity standard designed to protect controlled unclassified information (CUI) and federal contract information (FCI) from cyber threats. The DoD developed the CMMC framework. It integrates various cybersecurity practices, standards, and procedures into a cohesive model. This approach aims to improve the DIB’s cybersecurity. It provides clear guidelines and best practices for contractors to follow.
CMMC Certification Levels
The CMMC framework has three certification levels. Each represents a different degree of cybersecurity maturity.
Level 1: This basic level requires contractors to implement fundamental cybersecurity practices to protect federal contract information (FCI). It focuses on safeguarding against common cyber threats.
Level 2: The intermediate level demands a more advanced cybersecurity posture, including additional practices to protect controlled unclassified information (CUI). Contractors must demonstrate a higher degree of cybersecurity awareness and implementation.
Level 3: The advanced level requires contractors to have a highly sophisticated cybersecurity infrastructure. This level is for organizations with the most sensitive data. It requires strict cybersecurity practices and controls.
Contractors must achieve the right level of CMMC certification to be eligible for DoD contracts. This ensures they meet the required cybersecurity standards.
The Importance of C3PAOs in CMMC
C3PAOs, or Certified Third-Party Assessor Organizations, are pivotal in the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) ecosystem. These organizations are central to protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and ensuring the cybersecurity of the Defense Industrial Base (DIB).
CMMC 2.0 is a framework with levels of cybersecurity maturity. It emphasizes that contractors must achieve specific certification levels to qualify for government contracts.
One of the key aspects of C3PAOs is their exclusive authority to conduct formal CMMC assessments for defense contractors. As the only entities the Cyber AB Accreditation Body (CMMC-AB) authorized to perform these evaluations, C3PAOs serve as the gatekeepers of CMMC compliance. This exclusivity ensures a standardized and rigorous assessment process across the defense supply chain.
The importance of C3PAOs extends beyond mere assessment. They are critical for DIB contractors seeking to maintain their eligibility for Department of Defense (DoD) contracts. Without C3PAO certification, contractors can’t prove CMMC compliance. This could jeopardize their ability to bid on or retain DoD contracts.
C3PAOs contribute significantly to protecting sensitive data, such as CUI, which is a primary goal of the CMMC framework. C3PAOs help ensure that sensitive information is safe in the defense supply chain. They do this by evaluating an organization’s cybersecurity practices and controls. This is crucial, as the loss of aggregated CUI has been identified as one of the most significant risks to national security.
Benefits of Working with a C3PAO
Contractors seeking CMMC certification can benefit from a C3PAO. A C3PAO is a Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization. C3PAOs bring a wealth of expertise and experience in conducting comprehensive cybersecurity assessments. They offer valuable guidance. It helps contractors improve their cybersecurity and find weaknesses. Trained to pinpoint cybersecurity risks, C3PAOs offer effective recommendations for mitigating these risks. Additionally, they assist contractors in preparing for CMMC assessments, ensuring compliance with the CMMC framework.
Joint Surveillance Voluntary Assessment (JSVA)
The Joint Surveillance Voluntary Assessment (JSVA) is a joint effort. It involves a C3PAO, the Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center, and an organization seeking certification. The JSVA program is designed to streamline the path toward CMMC compliance by providing a thorough evaluation of an organization’s cybersecurity posture. Conducted by a C3PAO, the JSVA assesses the organization’s adherence to DoD cybersecurity requirements.
The C3PAO Assessment Process
The C3PAO Assessment Process is a comprehensive approach to evaluating an organization’s cybersecurity posture for CMMC certification. This process consists of four key phases: pre-assessment, assessment planning gap analysis, on-site evaluation, and post-assessment review.
Pre-assessment Phase
The pre-assessment phase begins when a C3PAO receives a request for assessment from an Organization Seeking Certification (OSC). During this initial engagement, the C3PAO aims to understand the OSC’s general readiness and preparedness, requested timeframes, and geographic locations for the CMMC Level 2 assessment. The C3PAO will review the OSC’s most recent self-assessment, a preliminary list of anticipated evidence, the System Security Plan, and other relevant documentation.
Assessment Planning
This phase may take several days, depending on the OSC’s ability to provide the required information. The Lead Assessor works with the OSC to develop an approach for evidence collection, which includes methods such as gathering artifacts, conducting interviews, testing or observing the environment, and making requests for information. CMMC assessors from C3PAOs evaluate compliance with the CMMC framework.
During this planning phase, the C3PAO and OSC agree on specific terms and conditions of the contractual agreement, including pricing and payment. They also identify assessment locations, OSC staff who will provide evidence and support the actual assessment itself, and the CMMC Assessment Scope. The Lead Assessor selects Assessment Team members, including a certified assessor, considering factors such as conflicts of interest, availability, cost, experience, and specialization.
On-site Evaluation
The on-site evaluation, or assessment phase, is where the C3PAO Assessment Team verifies the evidence. They check if it is enough to determine if the practices meet the required standard. This phase begins with an assessment kickoff meeting, where the Lead Assessor provides a timeline of scheduled events and locations to conduct assessments. The Assessment Team then collects and examines evidence. They use various methods, including document reviews, interviews, and observing tests or demos.
Throughout the assessment, the team records if assessment objectives are implemented by the organization, usually marking them as MET, NOT MET, or N/A, which is only applicable under special circumstances and with permission. These statuses are recorded daily and presented during daily checkpoint meetings with the OSC. The OSC has the opportunity to present additional evidence that may result in modifications to the preliminary findings.
Post-Assessment Review
The post-assessment review involves generating and delivering the final recommended findings to the OSC. The Lead Assessor provides a summary of the recorded MET and NOT MET status for each practice during a Final Findings Briefing. If the OSC achieves an overall score of at least 80% (88 out of 110 practices “MET”), they may receive a conditional certification, provided they correct any remaining deficiencies within a specified timeframe of 180 days. These deficiencies are commonly recorded in a Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M), which serves as a record of the remediation activities the OSC will perform.
After the assessment, the C3PAO submits the assessment results package into the DoD’s Enterprise Mission Assurance Support Service (eMASS) system. This package includes a Final Report detailing practice scores with traceability to each finding, including elements relevant to the supplier performance risk system. The C3PAO must retain and protect the Assessment Results Package for three years, while the OSC is responsible for retaining hashed artifacts for the same period.
CMMC Readiness (Mock) Assessment
A CMMC Readiness (Mock) Assessment is an unofficial yet comprehensive evaluation that mirrors the official CMMC C3PAO assessment. This mock assessment helps organizations gauge their preparedness and predict the likely outcome of an official CMMC assessment. By identifying areas for improvement, the mock assessment provides a clear roadmap for achieving CMMC certification. A mock assessment lets organizations fix problems before a certification test. This boosts their chances of success.
Choosing a C3PAO
Selecting the right Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) is crucial for organizations seeking CMMC certification. Several factors should be considered to ensure a successful assessment process.
Factors to Consider
When choosing a C3PAO, organizations should evaluate the following:
Experience: Look for C3PAOs with a proven track record in conducting CMMC assessments. Consider how long the organization has been in operation and their experience with similar assessments.
Industry Expertise: Select a C3PAO that understands your specific industry and the unique challenges it faces. This knowledge can be invaluable during the assessment process.
Additional Certifications: Some C3PAOs offer other certifications beyond CMMC. This can be beneficial if your organization needs multiple certifications or plans to expand its compliance efforts.
Competence and Cultural Fit: Ensure the C3PAO has the necessary skills and expertise to conduct the assessment effectively. Additionally, consider how well the C3PAO’s culture aligns with your organization’s mission and values.
Cost: While not the sole determining factor, the cost of the assessment should be considered in relation to the value and quality of services provided.
Avoiding Conflicts of Interest
The Cyber-AB has strict rules regarding conflicts of interest between C3PAOs and their clients. When selecting a C3PAO, consider the following:
A C3PAO cannot provide consulting or cybersecurity IT work before conducting an assessment for the same company.
Ensure the C3PAO can maintain objectivity throughout the assessment process.
Verify that the C3PAO has no financial interest in the outcome of your assessment beyond the agreed-upon fee for their services.
The C3PAO’s willingness to listen and their professionalism matter. They can show their ability to conduct an impartial assessment.
Current C3PAO Landscape
The C3PAO landscape for CMMC is changing fast as the certification process matures. Here’s an overview of the current situation:
Number of Authorized C3PAOs
The number of authorized C3PAOs remains limited:
Only 54 C3PAOs have been fully authorized to conduct CMMC assessments.
This number is relatively small compared to the approximately 77,000 Defense Industrial Base (DIB) companies that require CMMC Level 2 certification.
The limited number of authorized C3PAOs suggests that there may be significant demand for their services as more organizations seek CMMC certification.
Finding an Up-to-Date C3PAO List
To find the most current list of authorized C3PAOs, follow these steps:
Visit the Cyber AB Marketplace (formerly CMMC-AB Marketplace).
Look for organizations listed as “Authorized C3PAOs”.
The C3PAO landscape is dynamic, with organizations at various stages of the authorization process:
Applicants: Organizations that have applied to become C3PAOs.
Candidates: C3PAOs that have progressed in the authorization process but are not yet fully authorized.
Authorized: C3PAOs that can conduct official CMMC assessments.
Accredited: The highest authorization level (though this term is not explicitly defined in the provided sources).
With few authorized C3PAOs and many groups needing certification, demand for C3PAO consulting is expected to be high. This situation may lead to potential bottlenecks in the certification process for DIB companies seeking CMMC compliance.
Becoming a C3PAO
Becoming a Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO) for CMMC is rigorous and involves meeting several eligibility criteria, completing an accreditation process, and fulfilling specific requirements.
Certified CMMC professionals, including CCAs and CCPs, must lead and join assessment teams. They ensure organizations meet the CMMC standards.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible as a C3PAO, an organization must:
Be 100% U.S. citizen-owned or complete a Foreign Ownership Control or Interest (FOCI) background investigation if the company is public an ESOP, or a global partnership.
Have an active DUNS number and be registered in the CMMC-AB Marketplace.
Maintain an association with at least one Registered Practitioner (RP), Certified CMMC Professional (CCP), Provisional Assessor (PA), or Certified CMMC Assessor (CCA).
Accreditation Process
The accreditation process involves several steps:
Applying the CMMC Accreditation Body (CMMC-AB).
Paying initial fees, including application ($1,000), pre-assessment (starting at $300), and activation ($2,000) fees.
Undergoing an organizational background check via Dun & Bradstreet.
Signing a license agreement with the CMMC-AB.
CMMC assessment costs vary based on factors such as the CMMC level, the complexity of the organization’s network, and other market dynamics.
Completing a CMMC Level 3 assessment conducted by the Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC).
Requirements
C3PAOs must meet several requirements, including:
Achieving CMMC Level 3 compliance themselves.
Obtaining ISO 17020 certification (with a grace period of 27 months from registration).
Carrying appropriate insurance coverage, including:
General liability insurance with CMMC-AB as the named insured
Errors and Omissions Insurance
Cybersecurity breach insurance
Ensuring any third-party cloud services used meet FedRAMP requirements, with any gaps between FedRAMP and CMMC requirements addressed.
Assessment team members should have active NAC, DHS Suitability, or other DoD Accepted Clearance status.
Possessing one of the following: ISO 9001, ISO 27001, or CMMI Maturity Level 2 or 3 certification.
The accreditation process can be lengthy. As of 2021, there was a significant backlog of organizations waiting for DIBCAC assessment, with estimates suggesting it could take up to two years or more for new applicants to become fully accredited C3PAOs.
Conclusion
C3PAOs are the only groups authorized to conduct formal CMMC assessments. They link the DoD’s cybersecurity requirements to the DIB contractors seeking certification.
C3PAOs are necessary to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in the defense supply chain. By rigorously evaluating an organization’s cybersecurity information systems, practices, and controls, they help safeguard sensitive information that, if compromised, could pose significant risks to national security. Their assessments verify compliance. They also identify areas to improve cybersecurity.
With only 54 C3PAOs to assess 77,000 companies needing CMMC Level 2 certification, demand for their services will be high. This limited availability underscores the need for contractors to start their preparation process early.
FAQs
What are the Level 2 standards of CMMC?
CMMC Level 2, also known as “Advanced,” focuses on protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and encompasses 110 security requirements specified in NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2. Here are some key points about CMMC Level 2:
Requirements: Level 2 requires organizations to implement all 110 security controls from NIST SP 800-171.
Assessment: Compliance is determined via third-party assessments conducted by Certified Third Party Assessment Organizations (C3PAOs).
Certification validity: The certification remains valid for 3 years, with annual re-affirmation required.
Domains: The 110 practices are spread across 14 domains, including Access Control, Awareness and Training, Audit and Accountability, and others.
Target organizations: Approximately 80,000 organizations in the Defense Industrial Base are expected to need CMMC Level 2 certification.
Data protection: Level 2 is required for contractors handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), Controlled Technical Information (CTI), or ITAR-controlled data.
Cloud services: Organizations must ensure their cloud services are FedRAMP Baseline Moderate Equivalent or have an Authorization to Operate (ATO).
Encryption: CUI must be encrypted using FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic modules.
Incident reporting: Contractors must comply with DFARS 7012 (c-g) requirements for cyber incident reporting and handling.
What is a C3PAO in CMMC?
A C3PAO (Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization) in CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) is an independent entity certified by the Cyber Accreditation Body (Cyber-AB) that conducts assessments of defense contractors and subcontractors to determine their compliance with the cybersecurity requirements specified in the CMMC framework. A C3PAO evaluates an organization’s cybersecurity practices and maturity. It then certifies the organization based on its adherence to CMMC standards. To get CMMC certified, organizations must be assessed by authorized C3PAOs. This will show their cybersecurity maturity and compliance with the CMMC model’s security controls.
What Is the Process of Selecting a C3PAO?
The process of selecting a C3PAO (Certified Third-Party Assessor Organization) involves several key steps:
Identify your organization’s specific needs and requirements for CMMC compliance.
Research and identify potential C3PAOs that meet your criteria and have the necessary accreditation from the CMMC Accreditation Body (CMMC-AB).
Contact the selected C3PAOs. Discuss your needs, get quotes, and assess their experience with CMMC assessments.
Consider factors such as cost, timeline, availability, and past client reviews when making your decision.
After selecting a C3PAO, work closely with them. Schedule the assessment, provide the needed documents, and ensure a smooth evaluation to achieve your desired CMMC-level certification.
