Benefits:

Reduced Risk of Data Breaches: Screening helps identify individuals who may pose a threat to CUI, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access, misuse, or disclosure.

Enhanced Compliance: Implementing this control demonstrates adherence to NIST 800-171, a requirement for organizations handling CUI and a key element of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) for defense contractors.

Improved Security Posture: By ensuring only trustworthy individuals access CUI systems, organizations strengthen their overall security posture and build stakeholder confidence.

Accountability:

Senior Management: Sets clear policy: Define screening procedures, access levels, and consequences for non-compliance. Allocate resources: Provide proper funding and personnel for effective screening programs. Monitor compliance: Conduct periodic reviews to ensure adherence to the control.

IT Security Team: Develop and implement screening procedures: Establish a process for evaluating individuals based on defined criteria. Maintain screening records: Securely store and manage individual screening documentation. Collaborate with system owners: Provide guidance and support for access authorization decisions.

System Owners: Identify access needs: Determine appropriate access levels for specific systems and roles. Recommend access requests: Submit requests for individuals requiring access to their systems. Review user activity: Monitor system usage and report any suspicious behavior.

Individual Users: Complete required screenings: Participate honestly and accurately in the screening process. Maintain data security: Use CUI responsibly and adhere to all security policies. Report suspicious activity: Immediately report any potential security breaches or vulnerabilities.

Implementation:

Develop Screening Policy: Define the types of checks required based on the sensitivity of CUI and access level needed. This may include background investigations, reference checks, and fingerprinting.

Establish Screening Process: Designate a team for conducting screenings and maintaining records. Integrate screening with the onboarding process for new hires and periodically review access for existing personnel.

Utilize Available Resources: Leverage government resources and existing personnel security programs when possible. Partner with trusted background screening companies for efficient and compliant execution.

Ongoing Training and Awareness: Educate employees on the importance of CUI protection and the screening process. Foster a culture of security where individuals understand their responsibility in safeguarding sensitive information.