NIST 800-171, a critical resource for securing Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), mandates risk assessments through requirement 3.11. This requirement ensures organizations systematically identify and address security risks to their CUI.

The first part of 3.11 focuses on conducting periodic assessments. These evaluations analyze the potential harm to organizational operations, assets, and individuals if CUI is mishandled. This includes assessing risks from system operations, storage, processing, and transmission. The assessments also consider external parties like contractors or service providers who handle CUI.

Following the initial assessment, 3.11 outlines two additional requirements. Organizations must regularly scan their systems for vulnerabilities and develop a plan to address them. This helps ensure that identified weaknesses are patched or mitigated to minimize the risk of exploitation. By implementing these NIST 800-171 requirements, organizations can proactively manage cybersecurity risks and protect sensitive CUI.