Benefits:

Reduced data breach risk: Implementing security measures at alternate work sites, like employee homes, minimizes unauthorized access and potential leaks of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

Enhanced compliance: Fulfilling control 3.10.6 demonstrates adherence to NIST 800-171, a critical requirement for organizations handling CUI and participating in government contracts.

Improved remote work security: Safeguarding measures protect CUI while enabling a secure and productive remote work environment.

Accountability:

Senior Management: Establish clear policies and procedures outlining acceptable use of CUI at alternate work sites, access control protocols, and incident reporting mechanisms. Allocate resources for implementing and maintaining secure remote work environments. Monitor compliance with established security controls and hold individuals accountable for breaches.

IT Security Team: Develop and implement technical safeguards like encryption, multi-factor authentication, and secure access solutions for remote CUI access. Provide guidance and training to users on secure remote work practices and reporting suspicious activity. Monitor and audit system activity to detect and respond to potential security threats at alternate work sites.

System Owners: Identify and classify CUI residing on their systems and ensure appropriate security controls are applied for remote access. Configure systems to enforce access controls and restrict unauthorized access to CUI. Participate in risk assessments and work with the IT security team to mitigate vulnerabilities associated with remote CUI access.

Individual Users: Comply with established policies and procedures for handling CUI at alternate work sites. Utilize approved security controls like strong passwords, encryption, and VPNs when accessing CUI remotely. Report any suspicious activity or security incidents to ensure timely investigation and mitigation.

Implementation:

Develop a policy: Establish clear guidelines for handling CUI at alternate work sites, outlining acceptable devices, access controls, encryption requirements, and data transfer protocols.

Employee training: Educate employees on the policy, potential security risks, and best practices for protecting CUI while working remotely.

Technical safeguards: Implement secure remote access solutions like Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and strong encryption for data storage and transmission.

Monitoring and auditing: Regularly monitor and audit access logs to identify suspicious activity and ensure compliance with the policy.