What is Considered CUI in CMMC?

Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is a category of unclassified information that requires protection or dissemination controls according to and consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and government-wide policies. The designation of CUI was established to standardize the handling and protection of sensitive information across federal agencies and affiliated organizations, ensuring that it is appropriately safeguarded while still being accessible to those who need it.

Types of CUI

CUI can encompass a wide range of information, including but not limited to:

1. Personally Identifiable Information (PII): Information that can be used to identify an individual, such as social security numbers, addresses, and birth dates.
2. Proprietary Business Information: Sensitive business information, including trade secrets and confidential business strategies.
3. Law Enforcement Information: Information pertinent to law enforcement activities, investigations, and operations.
4. Export Control Information: Information related to the export of controlled technologies and products.
5. Critical Infrastructure Information: Information related to the security of critical infrastructure systems.

CUI Assets and Their Functions

CUI Assets refer to the systems, hardware, software, and procedures used to process, store, or transmit CUI. Proper management and safeguarding of these assets are crucial to prevent unauthorized access and ensure compliance with federal regulations.

Here's What is Considered CUI Assets in CMMC

Processing CUI

Processing CUI involves any action that manipulates the data, such as creating, modifying, printing, or analyzing it. This can occur on various platforms, including:

• Workstations and Personal Computers: Securely configured to ensure only authorized personnel can access CUI.
• Servers: Centralized systems that handle the storage and processing of large amounts of CUI.
• Applications: Software specifically designed to handle CUI, often including built-in security features like encryption and access controls.

Storing CUI

Storage of CUI must ensure the information remains protected from unauthorized access, both physically and digitally. Storage methods include:

• Physical Storage: Locked cabinets or secure rooms with controlled access for physical paper documents containing CUI.
• Digital Storage: Encrypted databases and secure cloud storage solutions that comply with federal security standards. This includes ensuring that data at rest is encrypted and access is restricted based on roles and responsibilities.

Transmitting CUI

Transmitting CUI requires secure methods to prevent interception or unauthorized access during transfer. Secure transmission methods include:

• Encrypted Email: Emails containing CUI should be encrypted using federal-approved encryption standards.
• Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP): Utilized for transmitting files securely over the internet.
• Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): Ensuring secure communication channels for remote access to CUI.

Compliance and Best Practices

CMMC 2.0 mandates stringent controls and practices for handling CUI to ensure its protection. Some best practices include:

• Access Controls: Implementing robust access control mechanisms to ensure that only authorized users can access CUI.
• Encryption: Using encryption to protect CUI during storage and transmission.
• Auditing and Monitoring: Regularly auditing systems and monitoring access to detect and respond to unauthorized access attempts.
• Training and Awareness: Providing continuous training for personnel handling CUI to ensure they understand and comply with handling procedures and security measures.

Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) represents a critical aspect of information management within the Department of Defense. Properly processing, storing, and transmitting CUI is essential to safeguarding sensitive national security information and ensuring compliance with CMMC. By adhering to established guidelines and best practices, DIB organizations in Idaho can protect CUI effectively, maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of this vital information.