Nexeris: Your Partner in DFARS 7012 Compliance
At Nexeris, we understand the critical importance of cybersecurity for defense contractors. Compliance with the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) Clause 252.204-7012, Safeguarding Covered Defense Information and Cyber Incident Reporting, is not just a contractual obligation – it's essential for protecting sensitive national security information and maintaining your eligibility for Department of Defense (DoD) contracts.
Understanding DFARS 7012: Protecting Covered Defense Information (CDI)
DFARS 7012 mandates specific cybersecurity standards and incident reporting procedures for defense contractors who handle Covered Defense Information (CDI). CDI is unclassified controlled technical information or other information, as described in the Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) Registry, that requires safeguarding or dissemination controls pursuant to and consistent with law, regulations, and Government-wide policies.
Implementation of NIST SP 800-171
Contractors must implement the security requirements outlined in the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication 800-171, Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information in Nonfederal Systems and Organizations. This framework encompasses 110 security controls across 14 families, addressing areas such as access control, audit and accountability, configuration management, identification and authentication, incident response, and more.
Subcontractor Flow-Down
Prime contractors are responsible for ensuring that their subcontractors who handle CDI also comply with the requirements of DFARS 7012. This necessitates including specific clauses in subcontracts and verifying subcontractor compliance.
Cyber Incident Reporting
Contractors are required to rapidly report cyber incidents that affect CDI or the contractor's ability to perform contract requirements. This reporting must be done within 72 hours of discovery to the DoD through the designated reporting mechanism.
System Security Plan (SSP)
Contractors must develop and maintain a System Security Plan (SSP) that describes the system boundaries, the system environment, how the NIST SP 800-171 security requirements are implemented, and the responsibilities of individuals operating the system.
Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M)
For any NIST SP 800-171 security requirements that are not fully implemented at the time of assessment, contractors must develop and maintain a Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M) outlining how and when these deficiencies will be addressed.
How Nexeris Can Help You Achieve and Maintain DFARS 7012 Compliance
Navigating the complexities of DFARS 7012 and NIST SP 800-171 can be challenging. Nexeris offers comprehensive services designed to help defense contractors understand, implement, and maintain compliance, ensuring the security of your systems and your continued eligibility for DoD contracts.
Our DFARS 7012 Compliance Services
Comprehensive Compliance Review
Comprehensive Compliance Review
- Gap Analysis: Identifying areas where your current security controls fall short of the required standards.
- Documentation Review: Evaluating your existing security policies, procedures, and system documentation.
- Technical Assessment: Examining your IT infrastructure and security controls to identify vulnerabilities.
Remediation Planning and Implementation
- Policy and Procedure Development: Creating or updating security policies and procedures to meet DFARS 7012 requirements.
- Technical Control Implementation: Assisting with the configuration and deployment of security technologies.
- System Security Plan (SSP) Development: Creating a comprehensive SSP that accurately reflects your security environment and compliance efforts.
- Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M) Development: Developing a detailed POA&M to track and manage the implementation of outstanding security requirements.
Subcontractor Compliance Management:
- Contractual Language Review: Ensuring appropriate flow-down clauses are included in subcontracts.
- Subcontractor Assessment Support: Assisting with the evaluation of your subcontractors’ security posture.
Cyber Incident Response Planning:
We can help you develop and document a robust cyber incident response plan that aligns with DFARS 7012 reporting requirements, enabling you to effectively manage and report security incidents.
Ongoing Compliance Support:
Cybersecurity is an ongoing process. Nexeris can provide continuous monitoring, regular assessments, and updates to your security posture to ensure sustained compliance with evolving DFARS requirements.
Why Choose Nexeris for DFARS 7012 Compliance?
- Deep Understanding of DFARS and NIST SP 800-171
- Experience Working with Defense Contractors
- Tailored Solutions
- Practical and Actionable Guidance
- Commitment to Your Success
Ensure your organization is compliant with DFARS 7012. Contact Nexeris today for a consultation and learn how we can help you strengthen your cybersecurity posture and meet your contractual obligations.
"Nexeris provides risk and compliance support for our growing IT services company. Nexeris is sharp in every respect, from technical competence to communication and presentation. Their work is excellent."
"Nexeris helped our company to rapidly meet cybersecurity and compliance requirements during the due diligence process of a potential customer. The speed of delivery and quality of the work was exceptional. I highly recommend Nexeris for cybersecurity and compliance support."
