CMMC-CCP Certified CMMC Professional (CCP) Exam Questions and Answers

Understanding Affirmations in a CMMC AssessmentAffirmations are a type ofevidencecollected during aCMMC assessmentto confirm compliance with required practices. Affirmations are typically collected from:

✅Interviews– Conversations with personnel implementing security practices.

✅Demonstrations– Observing the practice in action.

✅Emails and Messaging– Written communications confirming compliance efforts.

✅Presentations– Documents or briefings explaining security implementations.

✅Screenshots–Visual evidenceof system configurations and security measures.

TheCMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Guidestates that assessors may collectaffirmations via various communication methods, including emails, messaging, and presentations.

Screenshotsare an additional valid form ofobjective evidenceto confirm compliance.

Options A and B are incorrectbecause emails and messaging are explicitlyallowedforms of affirmation.

Option C is incompletebecause it does not mention screenshots, which are also considered valid evidence.

Why "Yes, the affirmations collected by the assessor are all appropriate, as are screenshots" is Correct?Breakdown of Answer ChoicesOption

Description

Correct?

A. No, emails are not appropriate affirmations.

❌Incorrect–Emailsarea valid affirmation method.

B. No, messaging is not an appropriate affirmation.

❌Incorrect–Messagingisallowed for collecting affirmations.

C. Yes, the affirmations collected by the assessor are all appropriate.

❌Incorrect–Screenshots should also be considered valid evidence.

D. Yes, the affirmations collected by the assessor are all appropriate, as are screenshots.

✅Correct – Screenshots are also a valid form of affirmation.

CMMC Assessment Process Guide (CAP)– Defines allowable evidence collection methods, including affirmations through written communication.

Official References from CMMC 2.0 DocumentationFinal Verification and ConclusionThe correct answer isD. Yes, the affirmations collected by the assessor are all appropriate, as are screenshots.This aligns withCMMC 2.0 assessment proceduresfor collecting affirmations.

Understanding the Definition of an Agreement in the CMMC-AB Code of Professional ConductTheCMMC-AB Code of Professional Conductdefines anagreementasany contract between two legal entities. This includes:

✔Contracts between an OSC and a C3PAOfor CMMC assessments.

✔Service agreements between cybersecurity providers and defense contractors.

✔Any formal, legally binding arrangement related to CMMC compliance.

A. Union → Incorrect

Auniontypically refers to anorganization representing workersand is not used to describe acontractual relationship.

B. Accord → Incorrect

While anaccordcan mean an agreement, it isnot the standard legal term for a binding contractin CMMC documentation.

C. Alliance → Incorrect

Analliancerefers to astrategic partnership, but does not necessarily imply alegally binding contract.

D. Agreement → Correct

TheCMMC-AB Code of Professional Conductdefines anagreementas anylegally binding contract between two entities.

Why is the Correct Answer "D. Agreement"?

CMMC-AB Code of Professional Conduct

Defines"Agreement"as alegally binding contract between two parties.

CMMC-AB Licensed Training and Assessment Provider Guidelines

Requires that all engagementsbe governed by a formal agreement (contract) between the parties.

DFARS and CMMC Certification Contracts

States thatOSC-C3PAO relationships must be formalized through a legal agreement.

CMMC 2.0 References Supporting This Answer:

Step 1: Define CUI (Controlled Unclassified Information)CUI is information thatrequires safeguarding or dissemination controlspursuant to and consistent with applicable law, regulations, and government-wide policies, butis not classifiedunder Executive Order 13526 or the Atomic Energy Act.

✅Step 2: Authority over CUI — NARA’s RoleNARA – National Archives and Records Administration, specifically theInformation Security Oversight Office (ISOO), is thegovernment-wide executive agentresponsible for implementing the CUI program.

Source:

32 CFR Part 2002 – Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)

Executive Order 13556 – Controlled Unclassified Information

CUI Registry – https://www.archives.gov/cui

NARA:

Maintains theCUI Registry,

Issuesmarking and handling guidance,

DefinesCUI categoriesand their authority under law or regulation,

Trains and informs Federal agencies and contractors on CUI policy.

B. NIST✘ NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) developstechnical standards(e.g., SP 800-171), but it doesnot define or mark CUI. It helps secure CUI once it’s identified.

C. CMMC-AB (now Cyber AB)✘ The Cyber AB is theCMMC ecosystem’s accreditation body, not a government agency, and hasno authority over CUI classification or marking.

D. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)✘ While DHS mayhandle and protect CUI internally, it is not the executive agent for the CUI program.

❌Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

NARAis theofficial U.S. government authorityresponsible for defining, categorizing, and marking CUI via theCUI Registryand associated policies underExecutive Order 13556.

CCP (Certified CMMC Professional):

Entry-level certification in the CMMC ecosystem.

Supports assessment activities under the supervision of a CCA.

May assist in consulting roles outside of formal assessments.

CCA (Certified CMMC Assessor):

Certified tolead assessmentsunder the CMMC model.

Requiredfor conductingLevel 2 formal assessments.

Can be part of a C3PAO assessment team or lead it.

Step 1: Define Roles – CCP and CCASource: CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) v1.0, Section 2.3 – Assessment Team Composition

“Level 2 assessments must be led by a Certified CMMC Assessor (CCA), who may be supported by one or more CCPs.”

✅Step 2: Citizenship RequirementsCAP v1.0 – Appendix B: Team Composition and Clearance Requirements

“All team members performing Level 2 assessments must be U.S. citizens when handling CUI, regardless of role.”

But forsupporting team members who do not handle CUIor inFCI-only scoping, there is no automatic exclusion based on citizenship.

So:

TheCCA leadsthe team.

CCPs can be team membersregardless of citizenship,unless restricted by contract or CUI handling needs.

A. The CCP leads the Level 2 Assessment Team…✘ Incorrect. CCPscannot leadLevel 2 assessments.

B. The CCA leads… includes 3 CCP with US Citizenship.✘ Incorrect. Citizenship is requiredonly when handling CUI, not a universal requirement.

D. The CCP leads…✘ Again, CCPs donot have the authority to leadformal CMMC assessments.

❌Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

Only aCertified CMMC Assessor (CCA)may lead aLevel 2 Assessment Team, and theymay include CCPs, evennon-U.S. citizens, if citizenship is not a requirement based on contractual or data sensitivity scope.

Understanding Restricted Information Systems (IS) in CMMC ScopingInCMMC 2.0,Specialized Assetsrefer to assets that do not fit traditional IT system categories but still play a role inprocessing, storing, or transmitting Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). The four categories ofSpecialized Assetsin theCMMC Scoping Guideinclude:

Internet of Things (IoT) Devices– Smart or network-connected devices.

Restricted Information Systems (Restricted IS)– Systems that arecontractually requiredto beconfigured to government specifications.

Test Equipment– Devices used for specialized testing or measurement.

Government Property– Equipment owned by theU.S. Governmentbut used by contractors.

The contractor-owned systems in question areconfigured based on government requirementsandused to support a DoD contract.

Restricted ISassets arecontractually requiredto meet government security requirements andhandle DoD-related information.

These systemsdo not fall under general IT assets but instead require special handling, making them a Restricted ISper theCMMC Scoping Guide.

A. IoT (Incorrect)

IoT devices includesmart devices, sensors, and embedded systems, but the contractor's business systems are not classified as IoT.

C. Test Equipment (Incorrect)

The contractor’s systems areused for handling FCI, not for testing or measurement.

D. Government Property (Incorrect)

The systems arecontractor-owned, not owned by theU.S. Government, so they do not qualify asGovernment Property.

The correct answer isB. Restricted IS, as the systems arecontractor-owned but must follow DoD security requirements.

Does a File Cabinet Containing Paper FCI Fall Within CMMC Scope?CMMConly applies to digital systems and assetsthatprocess, store, or transmitFederal Contract Information (FCI)andControlled Unclassified Information (CUI).Physical storage (such as paper documents) is not included in CMMC scoping.

Step-by-Step Breakdown:✅1. CMMC Scope Covers Only Digital Systems and Assets

According to theCMMC Scoping Guide (Level 1),only digital assetsthat handleFCIarein scopefor aLevel 1 Self-Assessment.

Afile cabinetisnot a digital system; therefore, it isnot in scopefor CMMC compliance.

✅2. Why the Other Answer Choices Are Incorrect:

(A) In scope, because it is an asset that stores FCI❌

Incorrect:While the file cabinetdoes store FCI,CMMC only applies to digital systems.

(B) In scope, because it is part of the same physical location❌

Incorrect:CMMCdoes notconsiderphysical proximitywhen determining scope—only digital data handling matters.

(D) Out of scope, because it does not process or transmit FCI❌

Partially correct, but incomplete: Themain reasonit is out of scope is that itcontains only paper documents, not that it doesn’t process/transmit data.

TheCMMC Level 1 Scoping Guideexplicitly states thatpaper-based storage of FCI does not fall within scope.

Final Validation from CMMC Documentation:Thus, the correct answer is:

✅C. Out of scope, because they are all only paper documents.

Scoping Requirements in CMMC AssessmentsTheCMMC 2.0 Scoping GuideandCMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Documentclearly define what should be included in the scope of an assessment.

The assessment scope must cover:

All assets that process, store, or transmit FCI/CUI

Security Protection Assets (ESP)– these assets help protect FCI/CUI, such as firewalls, endpoint detection systems, and encryption mechanisms.

Thus, thecorrect scope includes both:

✅FCI/CUI Assets(Data storage, processing, or transmission assets)

✅Security Protection Assets (ESP)(Firewalls, security tools, etc.)

A. All assets documented in the business plan❌Incorrect.Business plans may include assets unrelated to FCI/CUI, making this scopetoo broad. Only assets relevant to FCI/CUI should be assessed.

B. All assets regardless if they do or do not process, store, or transmit FCI/CUI❌Incorrect. CMMC doesnotrequire organizations to include assets thathave no connection to FCI/CUI.

C. All entities, regardless of the line of business, associated with the organization❌Incorrect.Only the assets relevant to FCI/CUI or security protection should be assessed. Unrelated business divisions (like a non-federal commercial division) areout-of-scope.

Why the Other Answers Are Incorrect

CMMC 2.0 Scoping Guide – Level 1 & Level 2

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Document

CMMC Official ReferencesThus,option D (All assets processing, storing, or transmitting FCI/CUI and security protection assets) is the correct answeras per official CMMC assessment scoping requirements.

CMMC 2.0 Level 2 is directly aligned withNIST Special Publication (SP) 800-171, "Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in Nonfederal Systems and Organizations."Organizations seeking certification (OSC) at Level 2 must demonstrate compliance with the 110 security requirements specified inNIST SP 800-171, as mandated byDFARS 252.204-7012.

Defines the Security Requirements for Protecting CUI:

NIST SP 800-171 outlines 110 security controls that contractors must implement to protectControlled Unclassified Information (CUI)in nonfederal systems.

These controls are categorized under14 families, including access control, incident response, and risk management.

Establishes the Baseline for CMMC Level 2 Compliance:

CMMC 2.0 Level 2 assessments areentirely based on NIST SP 800-171requirements.

Every practice assessed in a Level 2 certification maps directly to a requirement fromNIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2.

Provides Guidance for Implementation & Assessment:

TheNIST SP 800-171A "Assessment Guide"provides detailed assessment objectives that guide OSCs in preparing for CMMC evaluations.

It helps define the scope of an assessment by clarifying how each control should be implemented and verified.

Referenced in CMMC and DFARS Regulations:

DFARS 252.204-7012requires contractors to implementNIST SP 800-171security requirements.

TheCMMC 2.0 Level 2modeldirectly incorporates all 110 requirementsfromNIST SP 800-171, ensuring consistency with DoD cybersecurity expectations.

A. NIST SP 800-53 ("Security and Privacy Controls for Federal Information Systems and Organizations")

This documentapplies to federal systems, not nonfederal entities handling CUI.

While it is the foundation for other security standards, it isnot the basis of CMMC Level 2assessments.

B. NIST SP 800-88 ("Guidelines for Media Sanitization")

This documentfocuses on secure data destructionand media sanitization techniques.

While data disposal is important, this standarddoes not define security controls for protecting CUI.

D. NIST SP 800-172 ("Enhanced Security Requirements for Protecting CUI")

This documentbuilds on NIST SP 800-171and applies to systems needingadvanced cybersecurity protections(e.g., targeting Advanced Persistent Threats).

It isnot required for standard CMMC Level 2 assessments, which only mandateNIST SP 800-171 compliance.

NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2(NIST Official Site)

NIST SP 800-171A (Assessment Guide)(NIST Official Site)

CMMC 2.0 Level 2 Scoping Guide(Cyber AB)

Why NIST SP 800-171 is Essential for Level 2 Scoping:Explanation of Incorrect Answers:Key References for CMMC Level 2 Scoping:Conclusion:SinceCMMC 2.0 Level 2 assessments are based entirely on NIST SP 800-171, this document is the most relevant resource for scoping Level 2 assessments. Therefore, the correct answer is:

✅C. NIST SP 800-171

Understanding the Assessment Results Package SubmissionAfter completing aCMMC Level 2 Assessment, theCertified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO)mustsubmit the final assessment results packageto theEnterprise Mission Assurance Support Service (eMASS)system.

TheFinal Reportis themandatory documentthatcontains all assessment details, findings, and scoring.

It serves as theofficial record of the assessmentanddetermines certification eligibility.

Key Required Document: Final Report

A. Final Report → Correct

TheFinal Report is requiredin the submission package todocument assessment results officially.

It includes asummary of findings, scoring, and recommendations.

B. Certification rating → Incorrect

The C3PAO does not issue certification ratings—theDoDandCMMC-ABdetermine certification status after reviewing the Final Report.

C. Summary-level findings → Incorrect

While the Final Reportincludessummary findings, astandalone summary-level findings document is not a required upload.

D. All Daily Checkpoint logs → Incorrect

Checkpoint logsare part of the internal assessment process butare not required in the final eMASS submission.

Why is the Correct Answer "Final Report" (A)?

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Document

Specifies that theFinal Report must be submitted to eMASSafter a Level 2 assessment.

CMMC-AB Guidelines for C3PAOs

States that theFinal Report is the key document used to determine certification status.

DFARS 252.204-7021 (CMMC Requirements Clause)

Requires the assessment results to be documented in an official report and submitted via eMASS.

CMMC 2.0 References Supporting This Answer:

Final Answer:✔A. Final Report

Understanding Access Control (AC) in CMMC Advanced (Level 3)TheCMMC Advanced Level (Level 3)is designed for organizations handlinghigh-value Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)and aligns with a subset ofNIST SP 800-172for advanced cybersecurity protections.

Access Control (AC) Practices in CMMC Level 3✅CMMC Level 1 includesbasic AC practices fromFAR 52.204-21(e.g., restricting access to authorized users).

✅CMMC Level 2 includesallAccess Control (AC) practices from NIST SP 800-171(e.g., managing privileged access).

✅CMMC Level 3 expands on Levels 1 and 2, incorporatingadditional protections from NIST SP 800-172, such as enhanced monitoring and adversary deception techniques.

CMMC Level 3 builds upon all previous levels, includingAccess Control (AC) practices from Levels 1 and 2.

Options A, B, and C are incorrectbecause Level 3 includesallprevious AC practices fromLevels 1 and 2, plus additional ones.

Why "Levels 1, 2, and 3" is Correct?Breakdown of Answer ChoicesOption

Description

Correct?

A. Level 1

❌Incorrect–Level 3 includes AC practices fromLevels 1 and 2, not just Level 1.

B. Level 3

❌Incorrect – Level 3 builds onLevels 1 and 2, not just Level 3 practices.

C. Levels 1 and 2

❌Incorrect–Level 3 containsadditionalAC practices beyond Levels 1 and 2.

D. Levels 1, 2, and 3

✅Correct – Level 3 contains all AC practices from Levels 1 and 2, plus additional ones.

CMMC Model Framework– Outlines howLevel 3 builds upon Level 1 and 2 practices.

NIST SP 800-172– Definesadvanced cybersecurity controlsrequired inCMMC Level 3.

Official References from CMMC 2.0 DocumentationFinal Verification and ConclusionThe correct answer isD. Levels 1, 2, and 3, as CMMC Level 3 includesAccess Control (AC) practices from all previous levels plus additional enhancements.

In Phase 3 (Post-Assessment), the assessor’s responsibility is to archive or dispose of assessment artifacts according to the C3PAO’s policies and retention requirements. By this point, final findings and results have already been delivered, so the only remaining step is ensuring proper handling of assessment materials.

Supporting Extracts from Official Content:

CAP v2.0, Post-Assessment Activities (§3.17): “The assessor must archive or dispose of any assessment artifacts in accordance with the C3PAO’s retention and destruction policy.”

Why Option D is Correct:

Determining practice pass/fail results and level recommendations occurs earlier in Phases 2 and 3.

The final step left for the assessor is the proper archiving or destruction of artifacts.

References (Official CMMC v2.0 Content):

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) v2.0, Phase 3: Post-Assessment (§3.17).

===========

Step 1: Understand the Assessment Phases (CAP v1.0)TheCMMC Assessment Process (CAP)outlines a structured lifecycle for assessments, including:

Plan and Prepare Phase– Develop the assessment plan (before the assessment starts).

Conduct Assessment Phase– Execute the actual assessment activities.

Report Results Phase– Finalize and deliver the assessment outcomes.

CAP v1.0 – Section 3.5 (Conduct Assessment):

“The assessment team collects, examines, and evaluates evidence to determine if practices are MET or NOT MET.”

During the“Conduct Assessment” phase, the main activity is to:

Collect evidence(documentation, interviews, testing),

Validate adequacy and sufficiency,

Score practicesas MET/NOT MET.

✅Step 2: Why “Collect and Examine Evidence” Is the Primary ActivityThis is thecore responsibilityof assessorswhile conductingan assessment.

A. Develop assessment plan✘ This occurs in thePlan and Preparephasebeforeconducting the assessment.

C. Verify readiness to conduct assessment✘ Readiness verification is part ofpre-assessment activities, not during the assessment itself.

D. Deliver recommended assessment results✘ This is done during theReport Resultsphase after the assessment has been conducted.

❌Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

Theprimary activity performed during the actual executionof a CMMC assessment iscollecting and examining evidenceto determine compliance with practices.

CMMC Level 1 includes 17 practices derived fromFAR 52.204-21. Among them, theMedia Protection (MP) practicerequires organizations to ensure thatmedia containing FCI is sanitized or destroyed before disposal or release for reuseto prevent unauthorized access.

This requirement ensures that any storage devices, hard drives, USBs, or physical documents containingFederal Contract Information (FCI)areproperly disposed of or sanitizedto prevent data leakage.

The evidence collected for this practice should demonstrate that an organization has established and followed propermedia sanitization or destruction procedures.

Why the Correct Answer is "B. Adequate"?TheCMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Guideoutlines that for an assessment to be considered complete, all submitted evidence must meet the standard ofadequacybefore it is accepted by the Lead Assessor.

Definition of "Adequate" Evidence in CMMC:

Evidence isadequatewhen itfully demonstrates that a practice has been performed as requiredby CMMC guidelines.

TheLead Assessorevaluates whether the submitted documentation meets the CMMC 2.0 Level 1 requirements.

If the evidenceaccurately and completely demonstrates the sanitization or destruction of media containing FCI, then it meets the standard ofadequacy.

Why Not the Other Options?

A. Official– While the evidence may come from an official source, the CMMCdoes not require evidence to be "official", only that it beadequateto confirm compliance.

C. Compliant– Compliance is the final result of an assessment, but before compliance is determined, the evidence must first beadequatefor evaluation.

D. Subjective– CMMC evidence isobjective, meaning it should be based on verifiable documents, policies, logs, and procedures—not opinions or interpretations.

CMMC 2.0 Scoping Guide (Nov 2021)– Specifies that Media Protection (MP) at Level 1 applies only to assets that process, store, or transmit FCI.

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Guide– Definesadequate evidenceas documentation that completely and clearly supports the implementation of a required security practice.

FAR 52.204-21– The source of the Level 1 requirements, which includessanitization and destruction of media containing FCI.

Relevant CMMC 2.0 References:Final Justification:The CCP’s statement that the evidence"fully reflects the performance of the practice"aligns with the definition ofadequate evidenceunder CMMC. Since adequacy is the key standard used before final compliance decisions are made, the correct answer isB. Adequate.

Understanding DFARS Clause 252.204-7012TheDefense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) clause 252.204-7012is a mandatory cybersecurity clause required inall DoD contracts and solicitationsthat involveControlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

Key Requirements of DFARS 252.204-7012✅Implements NIST SP 800-171security controls for contractors handlingCUI.

✅Requirescyber incident reportingto theDoD Cyber Crime Center (DC3)within72 hours.

✅Mandatesadequate security measuresto protectDoD information systems.

✅Applies toall DoD contracts, except for those exclusively acquiring COTS items.

Option A (Correct):DFARS 252.204-7012must be included in all DoD contracts and solicitationswhen CUI is involved.

Option B (Incorrect):FAR Part 12 procedures apply tocommercial item acquisitions, but DFARS 7012 appliesregardless of procurement procedures.

Option C (Incorrect):Contractssolely for COTS (Commercial Off-the-Shelf) productsare exemptfrom DFARS 7012.

Option D (Incorrect):COTS itemssold without modificationsarenot requiredto include DFARS 7012.

DFARS Clause 252.204-7012 (Safeguarding Covered Defense Information and Cyber Incident Reporting)

NIST SP 800-171– The required cybersecurity standard for contractors under DFARS 7012.

Why "All DoD Solicitations and Contracts" is Correct?Official References from DoD and DFARS DocumentationFinal Verification and ConclusionQUESTION NO: 128

A C3PAO Assessment Plan document captures the names of the interviewees, the facilities that will utilized, along with estimated costs and schedule of the assessment. What part of the assessment plan is this?

A. Identify resources and schedule.

B. Select Assessment Team members.

C. Identify and manage assessment risks.

D. Select and develop the evidence collection approach.

Answer: A

ACertified Third-Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO)is responsible for conductingCMMC Level 2 Assessments. Before the assessment begins, the C3PAO must develop anAssessment Plan, which includes several key elements.

The part of the plan that captures:

✅Names of interviewees

✅Facilities to be utilized

✅Estimated costs

✅Assessment schedule

falls under the"Identify Resources and Schedule"section of the plan.

Step-by-Step Breakdown:✅1. Identify Resources and Schedule

This section of theCMMC Assessment Planoutlines:

Thepersonnelinvolved (e.g., interviewees, assessors).

Thelocationswhere the assessment will take place.

Thetimeline and scheduling details.

Theestimated costsassociated with the assessment.

This ensures that all necessaryresourcesare allocated and that the assessment proceeds as planned.

✅2. Why the Other Answer Choices Are Incorrect:

(B) Select Assessment Team Members❌

This section focuses onchoosing the assessorswho will conduct the evaluation, not listing interviewees and facilities.

(C) Identify and Manage Assessment Risks❌

This part of the plandocuments risks(e.g., scheduling conflicts, data access issues), but it doesnot outline names, facilities, or costs.

(D) Select and Develop the Evidence Collection Approach❌

This step defineshowevidence will be gathered (e.g., document reviews, interviews, system testing) but doesnot focus on logistics.

Final Validation from CMMC Documentation:TheCMMC Assessment Process Guidestates thatresource identification and schedulingare essential for organizing the assessment. Since this sectioncaptures interviewees, facilities, costs, and the schedule, the correct answer is:

✅A. Identify resources and schedule.

nderstanding Objectivity in CMMC-AB ActivitiesObjectivityin CMMC-AB activities refers to therequirement that assessors and C3PAOs remain impartial, unbiased, and free from conflicts of interestwhile conducting assessments and providing CMMC-related services.

Key Aspects of Objectivity in CMMC Assessments:✔No conflicts of interest—Assessors must not assess organizations they havefinancial, professional, or personal ties to.

✔Unbiased reporting—Findings must bebased solely on evidence, with no external influence.

✔Avoiding even the appearance of a conflict—If there isany perception of bias, it must be addressed.

A. Ensuring full disclosure → Incorrect

Full disclosure is importantbut doesnot define objectivity. Objectivity meansremaining neutral and free from conflicts.

B. Reporting results of CMMC services completely → Incorrect

Whileaccurate reporting is required,objectivity focuses on impartiality, not just completeness.

C. Avoiding the appearance of or actual, conflicts of interest → Correct

Objectivity in CMMC-AB activities is primarily about preventing bias and ensuring fair assessments.

Avoiding conflicts of interest ensures thatassessments are credible and trustworthy.

D. Demonstrating integrity in the use of materials as described in policy → Incorrect

Integrity is important, butobjectivity is specifically about avoiding bias and conflicts of interest.

Why is the Correct Answer "C. Avoiding the appearance of or actual, conflicts of interest"?

CMMC-AB Code of Professional Conduct

Requiresassessors and C3PAOs to avoid conflicts of interestand maintainimpartiality.

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Document

Emphasizes that assessments must befree from external influence and conflicts of interest.

ISO/IEC 17020 Requirements for Inspection Bodies

Definesobjectivity as avoiding conflicts of interest in the assessment process.

CMMC 2.0 References Supporting This Answer:

Understanding the CMMC Readiness Review ProcessALead Assessorconducting aCMMC Readiness Reviewevaluates whether anOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC)is prepared for a formal assessment.

After recording theassessment risk statusandoverall assessment feasibility, theminimum remaining criteriato be verified include:

Logistics Planning– Ensuring that the assessment timeline, locations, and necessary resources are in place.

Assessment Team Preparation– Confirming that assessors and required personnel are available and briefed.

Evidence Readiness– Ensuring the OSC has gathered all required artifacts and documentation for review.

Breakdown of Answer ChoicesOption

Description

Correct?

A. Determine the practice pass/fail results.

Happensduringthe formal assessment, not the readiness review.

❌Incorrect

B. Determine the preliminary recommended findings.

Findings are only madeafterthe full assessment.

❌Incorrect

C. Determine the initial model practice ratings and record them.

Ratings are assigned during theassessment, not readiness review.

❌Incorrect

D. Determine the logistics, Assessment Team, and the evidence readiness.

✅Essential readiness criteria that must be confirmedbeforeassessment starts.

✅Correct

TheCMMC Assessment Process Guide (CAP)states that readiness review ensureslogistics, assessment team availability, and evidence readinessare verified.

Official Reference from CMMC 2.0 DocumentationFinal Verification and ConclusionThe correct answer isD. Determine the logistics, Assessment Team, and the evidence readiness.This aligns withCMMC readiness review requirements.

In the context of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0, the remediation review process is a critical phase where identified deficiencies from an initial assessment are addressed. The Lead Assessor, representing a Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO), plays a pivotal role in this process.

Role of the Lead Assessor in Remediation Reviews:

Validation of Remediation Efforts:

Objective:Ensure that the Organization Seeking Certification (OSC) has effectively addressed and corrected all deficiencies identified during the initial assessment.

Process:The Lead Assessor reviews the evidence provided by the OSC to confirm that each previously unmet practice now meets the required standards. This involves examining updated policies, procedures, system configurations, and other relevant artifacts.

Delta Assessment Remediation Package Submission:

Definition:A delta assessment focuses on evaluating only the components or practices that were previously found non-compliant or deficient.

Responsibility:After validating the remediation efforts, the Lead Assessor compiles a remediation package that includes:

Detailed documentation of the deficiencies identified in the initial assessment.

Evidence of the corrective actions taken by the OSC.

Findings from the reassessment of the remediated practices.

Internal Quality Review:This remediation package is then submitted for the C3PAO's internal quality review process. The purpose of this review is to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and consistency of the assessment findings before finalizing the certification decision.

Rationale for Selecting Answer C:

Alignment with CMMC Assessment Process:The submission of a delta assessment remediation package for internal quality review is a standard procedure outlined in the CMMC Assessment Process. This step ensures that all remediated items are thoroughly evaluated and validated, maintaining the integrity of the certification process.

Clarification of Incorrect Options:

Option A:"Help OSC to complete planned remediation activities."

The Lead Assessor's role is to assess and validate the OSC's compliance, not to assist in the implementation or completion of remediation activities. Providing such assistance could lead to a conflict of interest and compromise the objectivity of the assessment.

Option B:"Plan two consecutive remediation reviews for an OSC."

The standard process involves conducting a single remediation review after the OSC has addressed the identified deficiencies. Planning multiple consecutive remediation reviews is not a typical practice and could indicate a lack of proper remediation planning by the OSC.

Option D:"Validate that practices previously listed on the POA&M have been removed on an updated Risk Assessment."

While it's essential to ensure that deficiencies are addressed, the primary focus of the Lead Assessor during a remediation review is to validate the implementation of remediated practices. Updating the Risk Assessment is the responsibility of the OSC's internal risk management team, not the Lead Assessor.

TheU.S. Department of Defense (DoD)determines the requiredCMMC Levelbased on thesensitivity of the information involved in a contract.

The required CMMC Level isspecified in Requests for Information (RFIs) and Requests for Proposals (RFPs).

In aCMMC Level 2 assessment, theOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC)is responsible for identifying theassessment scopebased on theCMMC Scoping Guidanceprovided by theCyber AB (Cyber Accreditation Body) and DoD.

The OSC must determine which assets and systems handleControlled Unclassified Information (CUI)and categorize them accordingly.

Understanding Specialized Assets in a CMMC Self-AssessmentDuringCMMC Level 1 Self-Assessments, organizations must classify theirassetsin theSystem Security Plan (SSP).

Operational Technology (OT)includesmachine controllers, industrial control systems (ICS), and assembly machines.

Thesesystems control physical processesin manufacturing, energy, and industrial environments.

OT assets are distinct from traditional IT systemsbecause they haveunique security considerations(e.g., real-time control, legacy system constraints).

Specialized Asset Type: Operational Technology (OT)

A. IoT (Internet of Things) → Incorrect

IoT devicesinclude smart home systems, connected sensors, and networked appliances, butmachine controllers and assembly machines fall under OT, not IoT.

B. Restricted IS → Incorrect

Restricted Information Systems (IS) refer to classified or highly controlled systems, whichdoes not apply to standard industrial machines.

C. Test Equipment → Incorrect

Test equipment includes diagnostic tools or measurement devicesused forquality assurance, not industrial machine controllers.

D. Operational Technology → Correct

Machine controllers and assembly machinesare part ofindustrial automation and control systems, which are classified asOperational Technology (OT).

Why is the Correct Answer "D. Operational Technology"?

CMMC Scoping Guidance for Level 1 & Level 2 Assessments

DefinesOperational Technology (OT) as a category of Specialized Assetsthat requirespecific security considerations.

NIST SP 800-82 (Guide to Industrial Control Systems Security)

Identifiesmachine controllers and assembly machinesas part ofOperational Technology (OT).

CMMC 2.0 Asset Classification Guidelines

Specifies thatOT systems should be documented separately in an organization's SSP.

CMMC 2.0 References Supporting This Answer:

Interview Selection in CMMC AssessmentsDuring aCMMC assessment, theLead Assessormust work with theOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC)to select personnel for interviews. The goal is to:

✅Verify that personnel understand andperform security-related practices.

✅Ensure that individuals canexplain how they implement CMMC requirements.

✅Gain insight intoactual cybersecurity operationsrather than just documented policies.

The best interviewees are those whodirectly engage with security practicesand canclearly explain how they perform their duties.

CMMC assessmentsrely on interviewsto validate that security practices areimplemented effectively.

Themost valuable intervieweesare those who canexplainhow security measures are appliedin day-to-day operations.

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP)emphasizes that assessors should speak tothose actively involved in security practicesrather than just senior management or policy owners.

Why "Providing Clarity and Understanding" Is KeyThus,option D is the correct choicebecause the Lead Assessor should prioritizeinterviewing personnel who can clearly explain how CMMC practices are implemented.

A. Have a security clearance.❌Incorrect.Security clearance is not a requirementfor CMMC assessments. The focus is onpractical implementation of security controls, not classified work.

B. Be a senior person in the company.❌Incorrect. Senior executives may not be involved in theactual implementation of security controls. The best interviewees are those whoperform the work, not just oversee it.

C. Demonstrate expertise on the CMMC requirements.❌Incorrect. Whileunderstanding CMMC is important, expertise alonedoes not guarantee practical knowledgeof security controls. The key is thatinterviewees must provide clarity on how they perform security tasks.

Why the Other Answers Are Incorrect

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Document– Guides interview selection based on personnel who perform security functions.

NIST SP 800-171 & CMMC 2.0– Emphasize that cybersecurity controls must beactively implemented, not just documented.

CMMC Official ReferencesThus,option D (Provide clarity and understanding of their practice activities) is the correct answeras per official CMMC assessment guidelines.

Understanding SI.L2-3.14.6: Monitor Communications for AttacksThe practiceSI.L2-3.14.6fromNIST SP 800-171(aligned with CMMC Level 2) requires an organization tomonitor organizational communications for indicators of attack. This typically includes:

✅Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)andIntrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)

✅Log analysis and network monitoring

✅Incident response planningfor detected threats

As part of aCMMC Level 2 assessment, theCertified CMMC Assessor (CCA)must ensure that theOSC (Organization Seeking Certification)hasproperly implemented and documenteditsmonitoring capabilities.

TheCCA must collect sufficient objective evidenceto determine compliance.

Reviewing anartifact(such as system configurations, IDS/IPS logs, or security policies)helps validatethat intrusion detection is properly implemented.

Configuration settings providedirect evidenceof whethermonitoring for attacksis effectively applied.

Why "Review an artifact to check key references for the configuration of the IDS or IPS" is Correct?Breakdown of Answer ChoicesOption

Description

Correct?

A. Conduct a penetration test

❌Incorrect–Penetration testing isnot requiredfor CMMC Level 2 assessments and falls outside an assessor's responsibilities.

B. Interview the intrusion detection system's supplier.

❌Incorrect–Thesupplier does not determine compliance; the assessor needs evidence from theOSC’s implementation.

C. Upload known malicious code and observe the system response.

❌Incorrect–This would beinvasive testing, which isnot part of a CMMC assessment.

D. Review an artifact to check key references for the configuration of the IDS or IPS practice for additional guidance on intrusion detection and prevention systems.

✅Correct – Reviewing system artifacts provides direct evidence of compliance with SI.L2-3.14.6.

NIST SP 800-171 SI.L2-3.14.6– Requires monitoring communications for attack indicators.

CMMC Assessment Process Guide (CAP)– Describesartifact reviewas an essential assessment method.

Official References from CMMC 2.0 and NIST SP 800-171 DocumentationFinal Verification and ConclusionThe correct answer isD. Review an artifact to check key references for the configuration of the IDS or IPS practice for additional guidance on intrusion detection and prevention systems.

This aligns withCMMC 2.0 Level 2 assessment requirementsandSI.L2-3.14.6 compliance verification.

1. Understanding the Validation of Findings in CMMC AssessmentsValidation of findings is an essential part of theCMMC assessment process, ensuring that observations and preliminary conclusions drawn by the assessment team are accurate, fair, and based on complete evidence. This process occurs iteratively during theDaily Checkpointsand is fundamental in determining the overall compliance status of theOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC).

2. The Role of Preliminary Findings in the Assessment ProcessPreliminary findings arenot finalbut rather a mechanism for ensuring transparency, accuracy, and fairness. These findings serve several key purposes:

Allows for OSC Input & Clarification: The OSC has an opportunity to review andprovide additional evidencethat may address deficiencies identified by the assessment team.

Prevents Misinterpretations: By allowing the OSC to comment, the assessment team can refine or correct their understanding of the OSC's implementation of CMMC practices.

Supports Fair and Informed Ratings: Before finalizing MET or NOT MET determinations, the assessment team ensures they have considered all relevant evidence.

Encourages a Collaborative Assessment Process: This validation activity fosters open communication between assessors and the OSC, reducing disputes and misunderstandings.

The primary purpose of preliminary findings is to allow theOSC to comment and provide additional evidencebefore final determinations are made.

This aligns withCMMC Assessment Process guidance, which emphasizes iterative validation of findings throughDaily Checkpoints and Final Outbriefdiscussions.

The validation of findings ensures thatOSC responses and supplementary evidence are considered, making the assessment process more accurate and fair.

3. Why Answer Choice "A" is Correct4. Why Other Answer Choices Are IncorrectOption

Reason for Elimination

B. It determines whether the OSC will be rated MET or NOT MET on their assessment.

Incorrect: Preliminary findings do not directly determine the final rating. The assessment team reviews all collected evidence before making a final decision.

C. It confirms that the Assessment Team's findings are right and cannot be changed.

Incorrect: Findings arenot finalat the preliminary stage. The OSC has the opportunity to challenge findings by providing new or clarifying evidence.

D. It corroborates the Assessment Team's understanding of the CMMC practices and controls.

Partially Correct but Not the Best Answer: While validation helps refine understanding, itsprimary function is to allow OSC input, making optionA the most accurate choice.

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Document:

Section 5.3 – Validation of Findings: "The OSC is given the opportunity to provide additional evidence and comments to clarify or supplement preliminary assessment results."

Section 5.4 – Daily Checkpoints: "The assessment team discusses preliminary findings with the OSC, allowing the organization to address concerns in real time."

CMMC 2.0 Level 2 Scoping & Assessment Guide:

Confirms that the assessment process includes continuous dialogue with the OSC before final determinations are made.

5. Official CMMC References Supporting This Answer6. ConclusionPreliminary findings are acrucial validation stepin CMMC assessments, ensuring that organizations have the opportunity toprovide additional evidence and clarify potential misunderstandings. This iterative process improves accuracy and fairness in determining compliance with CMMC requirements. Therefore, the correct answer is:

A. It allows the OSC to comment and provide additional evidence.

TheCybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0is primarily based on two key National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publications:

NIST SP 800-171– "Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in Nonfederal Systems and Organizations"

NIST SP 800-172– "Enhanced Security Requirements for Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information: A Supplement to NIST Special Publication 800-171"

NIST SP 800-171

This document is thecore foundationof CMMC 2.0 and establishes the security requirements for protectingControlled Unclassified Information (CUI)in non-federal systems.

The 110 security controls fromNIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2are mapped directly toCMMC Level 2.

NIST SP 800-172

This supplement includesenhanced security requirementsfor organizations handlinghigh-value CUIthat faces advanced persistent threats (APTs).

These enhanced requirements apply toCMMC Level 3under the 2.0 model.

B. DFARS, FIPS 100, and NIST SP 800-171→Incorrect

WhileDFARS 252.204-7012mandates compliance withNIST SP 800-171,FIPS 100 does not existas a relevant cybersecurity standard.

C. DFARS, NIST, and Carnegie Mellon University→Incorrect

CMMC is aligned with DFARS and NIST but isnot developed or directly influenced by Carnegie Mellon University.

D. DFARS, FIPS 100, NIST SP 800-171, and Carnegie Mellon University→Incorrect

Again,FIPS 100 is not relevant, andCarnegie Mellon Universityis not a defining entity in the CMMC framework.

CMMC 2.0 Scoping Guide (2023)confirms thatCMMC Level 2 is entirely based on NIST SP 800-171.

CMMC 2.0 Level 3 Draft Documentationexplicitly referencesNIST SP 800-172for enhanced security requirements.

DoD Interim Rule (DFARS 252.204-7021)mandates that organizations meetNIST SP 800-171 for CUI protection.

Reference and Breakdown:Eliminating Incorrect Answer Choices:Official CMMC 2.0 References Supporting the Answer:Final Conclusion:The CMMC 2.0 model is derivedsolely from NIST SP 800-171 and NIST SP 800-172, makingAnswer A the only correct choice.

According to the CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) v2.0, assessors are required to conduct Daily Checkpoint Meetings at the end of each day to summarize progress with the OSC (Organization Seeking Certification). The final Daily Checkpoint is where preliminary practice ratings are shared, before the quality assurance review and Out-Brief. The Out-Brief is reserved for the presentation of final results. Additionally, Department of Defense regulations (32 CFR §170.17(c)(2)) provide a 10-business-day re-evaluation window for requirements marked NOT MET before the final report is delivered, which necessitates that the OSC see preliminary ratings during the assessment process itself.

Supporting Extracts from Official Content:

CAP v2.0, §2.23: “The assessment team shall host a Daily Checkpoint Meeting with the OSC at the end of each assessment day to summarize progress.”

CAP v2.0, §3.7: “The C3PAO shall conduct the quality assurance review… prior to the conduct of the Out-Brief Meeting.”

CAP v2.0, §3.10: “The purpose of the Out-Brief Meeting is to convey the results of the assessment to the OSC.”

32 CFR §170.17(c)(2): “A security requirement assessed as NOT MET may be re-evaluated… for 10 business days… if the CMMC Assessment Findings Report has not been delivered.”

Why Option A is Correct:

The CAP specifies that Daily Checkpoint Meetings are the formal, structured mechanism for assessors to communicate progress and preliminary findings to the OSC.

The final Daily Checkpoint provides the OSC with visibility into the preliminary practice ratings before they are finalized, ensuring transparency and alignment.

The Out-Brief is explicitly for conveying the final assessment results after the C3PAO has completed QA.

Federal regulation (32 CFR §170.17(c)(2)) requires the OSC to have access to preliminary results so they can provide additional evidence for re-evaluation before the report is locked, further confirming that this exchange must occur at the final Daily Checkpoint.

References (Official CMMC v2.0 Content):

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) v2.0: Sections 2.23 (Daily Checkpoints), 3.7–3.10 (QA and Out-Brief).

32 CFR §170.17(c)(2): Security Requirement Re-evaluation Window.

DoD CMMC Assessment Guide – Level 2 (v2.13): Guidance on MET/NOT MET determinations and findings.

Who Should Be Interviewed During a CMMC Assessment?During assessment planning, theOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC)may suggest personnel for interviews. However, the person interviewedmustbe someone who:

✅Implementsthe practice (directly responsible for executing it).

✅Performsthe practice (carries out day-to-day security operations).

✅Supportsthe practice (provides necessary resources or oversight).

Theassessor needs direct insightsfrom individuals actively involved in the practice.

Funding (Option A)does not providetechnical or operationalinsight into practice execution.

Auditing (Option B)focuses on compliance checks, but auditorsdo not implementthe practice.

Supporting, auditing, and performing (Option C)includesauditors, who arenot necessarily the right interviewees.

Why "Implements, Performs, or Supports That Practice" is Correct?Breakdown of Answer ChoicesOption

Description

Correct?

A. Funds that practice.

❌Incorrect–Funding is important but doesnot mean direct involvement.

B. Audits that practice.

❌Incorrect–Auditors check compliance but donot implementpractices.

C. Supports, audits, and performs that practice.

❌Incorrect–Auditing isnot a requirementfor interviewees.

D. Implements, performs, or supports that practice.

✅Correct – The interviewee must have direct involvement in execution.

CMMC Assessment Process Guide (CAP)– Requires that interviewees bedirectly responsiblefor implementing, performing, or supporting the practice.

Official References from CMMC 2.0 DocumentationFinal Verification and ConclusionThe correct answer isD. Implements, performs, or supports that practice, as the interviewee mustactively contribute to the execution of the practice.

1. Understanding Basic Safeguarding Requirements for FCI in CMMC Level 1

Federal Contract Information (FCI) is defined as information provided by or generated for the government under a contract that isnot intended for public release.

CMMCLevel 1is designed to ensurebasic safeguardingof FCI, aligning with15 security requirementsfound inFAR 52.204-21 (Basic Safeguarding of Covered Contractor Information Systems).

Contractors handlingonly FCImust meetCMMC Level 1, which alignsdirectlywith the safeguarding requirements set inFAR 52.204-21.

2. FAR 52.204-21 and Its Role in CMMC Level 1 Compliance

FAR 52.204-21establishes the baseline cybersecurity controls that contractors must implement to protectFCI.

The15 basic safeguarding requirementsinclude:

Limiting information accessto authorized users.

Identifying and authenticating usersbefore allowing system access.

Protecting transmitted FCIfrom unauthorized disclosure.

Monitoring and controlling connectionsto external systems.

Applying boundary protectionand cybersecurity measures.

Sanitizing mediabefore disposal.

Updating security configurationsto reduce vulnerabilities.

Providing physical securityprotections.

Controlling physical accessto systems that process FCI.

Enforcing multi-factor authentication (MFA) where applicable.

Patching vulnerabilitiesin software and hardware.

Limiting the use of removable media.

Creating and retaining system audit logs.

Performing risk-based security assessments.

Developing an incident response plan.

These 15 practices form thefoundationof CMMCLevel 1 Self-Assessment, ensuring contractorsmeet minimum cybersecurity expectationsfor handling FCI.

3. Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

B. 22 CFR 120-130:

This refers toInternational Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which controls the export of defense-related articles and services,notFCI safeguarding requirements.

C. DFARS 252.204-7011:

This clause refers toalternative line item structuresand does not pertain to cybersecurity or safeguarding FCI.

D. DFARS 252.204-7021:

This clause enforcesCMMC requirementsbut doesnot definebasic safeguarding controls. It requires compliance with CMMC but does not specify the foundational requirements (which come fromFAR 52.204-21for Level 1).

4. Official CMMC 2.0 Reference & Study Guide Alignment

TheCMMC 2.0 model documentationconfirms that Level 1 is focused on the15 practices from FAR 52.204-21.

TheDoD’s official CMMC Assessment Guidefor Level 1 explicitly states that meeting FAR 52.204-21 is therequirement for passing a Level 1 Self-Assessment.

TheCMMC 2.0 Scoping Guideclarifies that contractors handling onlyFCIand seekingLevel 1 certificationmust implementonly FAR 52.204-21security controls.

Final Confirmation:The correct answer isA. FAR 52.204-21, as it directly governs the basic safeguarding ofFCIand is the foundational requirement for aLevel 1 Self-Assessmentin CMMC 2.0.

During aCMMC assessment, organizations must provide evidence to demonstrate compliance with requiredpractices and processes. Assessors evaluate this evidence based on two key criteria:

Adequacy– Does the evidence meet the intent of the security requirement?

Sufficiency– Is there enough evidence to reasonably conclude that the practice/process is effectively implemented?

These principles are outlined in theCMMC Assessment Process Guide, which provides a structured approach for evaluating compliance.

Step-by-Step Breakdown:✅1. Adequacy – Does the evidence fully meet the requirement?

Adequacyrefers to whether the evidence properly demonstrates that the security practice has been implemented as required.

Example: If an organization claims to enforceMulti-Factor Authentication (MFA), an assessor would checksystem configurations, login policies, and user authentication logsto confirm that MFA is actually in use.

✅2. Sufficiency – Is there enough evidence to support the claim?

Sufficiencymeans that there isenough supporting evidenceto prove compliance.

Example: If an organization providesonly one screenshot of an MFA login screen, that alone may not besufficient—additional logs, policies, and user records would help strengthen the case.

(B) Adequacy and Thoroughness❌

Thoroughnessis not a defined metric in CMMC evidence evaluation.

The focus is onwhether the evidence meets the requirement (adequacy)and if there isenough of it (sufficiency).

(C) Sufficiency and Thoroughness❌

Thoroughnessis not a recognized term in CMMC compliance validation.

Evidence must beadequate and sufficient, not just thorough.

(D) Sufficiency and Appropriateness❌

Appropriatenessis not a CMMC-defined criterion.

Thecorrect terms used in CMMC assessmentsareAdequacy(Does it meet the requirement?) andSufficiency(Is there enough proof?).

Why the Other Answer Choices Are Incorrect:

CMMC Assessment Process Guideexplicitly states that evidence must be evaluated based onadequacyandsufficiencyto confirm compliance with security practices.

Final Validation from CMMC Documentation:

Key References for a Lead Assessor in a CMMC AssessmentALead Assessorconducting aCMMC assessmentmust rely onofficial CMMC guidance documentsto evaluate whether anOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC)meets the required cybersecurity practices.

TheCMMC Assessment Guideprovidesdetailed descriptionsof eachpractice and processat the specificCMMC level being assessed.

It defines:✔Theassessment objectivesfor each practice.✔Therequired evidencefor compliance.✔Thescoring criteriato determine if a practice isMET or NOT MET.

Most Relevant Reference: CMMC Assessment Guide

A. DoD adequate security checklist for covered defense information → Incorrect

TheDoD adequate security checklistis related toDFARS 252.204-7012 compliance, butCMMC assessmentsfollow theCMMC Assessment Guide.

B. CMMC Model Overview as it provides assessment methods and objects → Incorrect

TheCMMC Model Overviewprovideshigh-level guidance, butdoes not contain specific assessment criteria.

C. Safeguarding requirements from FAR Clause 52.204-21 for a Level 2 Assessment → Incorrect

FAR 52.204-21is relevant toCMMC Level 1 (FCI protection), butCMMC Level 2 follows NIST SP 800-171and requiresCMMC Assessment Guidesfor validation.

D. Published CMMC Assessment Guide practice descriptions for the desired certification level → Correct

TheCMMC Assessment Guideis theofficial documentused to determine if anOSC meets the required security practices for certification.

Why is the Correct Answer "D. Published CMMC Assessment Guide practice descriptions for the desired certification level"?

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Document

Specifies thatLead Assessors must use the CMMC Assessment Guidefor official scoring.

CMMC Assessment Guide for Level 1 & Level 2

Providesdetailed descriptions, assessment methods, and scoring criteriafor each practice.

CMMC-AB Guidance for Certified Third-Party Assessment Organizations (C3PAOs)

Confirms thatCMMC assessments must follow the Assessment Guide, not general DoD security policies.

CMMC 2.0 References Supporting This Answer:

Final Answer:✔D. Published CMMC Assessment Guide practice descriptions for the desired certification level.

During aCMMC assessment, assessors rely on interviews to validate the implementation of cybersecurity practices within anOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC). Ensuringconfidentiality and non-attributionallows employees to speak freely without fear of retaliation or bias, leading to more accurate and candid responses.

CMMC Assessment Process and the Role of Interviews

TheCMMC Assessment Guide(Level 2) states thatinterviews are a key methodto verify compliance with security controls.

Employees may hesitate to provide truthful information if they fear negative consequences.

To obtain accurate information, assessors must create an environment where team members feel safe.

Ensuring Non-Attribution for Accurate Responses

DoD Assessment Methodologyhighlights thatinterviewees should remain anonymousin reports.

Non-attribution reduces the risk of OSC leadership influencing responses or retaliating against employees.

Employees are more likely to provideaccurateandhonestdescriptions of their responsibilities when confidentiality is guaranteed.

Why the Other Answer Choices Are Incorrect:

(A) Interview groups of people to get collective answers:

Group interviews may limit honest responses due topeer pressure or management presence.

Employees mayhesitate to contradictsupervisors or peers in a group setting.

(B) Understand that testing is more important than interviews:

While testing (e.g., reviewing logs, configurations, and security settings) is crucial, interviews providecontexton how security practices are implemented and followed.

Interviewscomplementtesting rather than being less important.

(D) Let team members know the questions prior to the assessment:

Advanced notice may allow employees toprepare rehearsed answers, which might not reflect actual practices.

This couldreduce the effectivenessof the interview process.

Step-by-Step Breakdown:Final Validation from CMMC Documentation:TheCMMC Assessment Process Guideand DoDAssessment Methodologyemphasize the importance of confidentiality in interviews to ensure accuracy.Non-attribution protects employees and ensures assessors get honest, unfiltered answers.

Thus, the correct answer is:

C. Ensure confidentiality and non-attribution of team members.

Per the CMMC Assessment Process (CAP), the Assessment Team is responsible for determining the adequacy and sufficiency of evidence collected during the assessment. The team validates whether practices and components for each in-scope Host Unit, Supporting Organization, or enclave meet the target CMMC level. The OSC (Organization Seeking Certification) provides evidence, but only the Assessment Team makes the verification and scoring determination.

Reference Documents:

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP), v1.0

TheU.S. Department of Defense (DoD)is the entity thatrequiresorganizations handlingFederal Contract Information (FCI)orControlled Unclassified Information (CUI)to undergo an assessment to determine their required level ofcybersecurity maturityunderCMMC 2.0.

This requirement stems from theDFARS 252.204-7021 clause, which mandates CMMC certification for contractors handling FCI or CUI.

Understanding the "Examine" Assessment Method in CMMC 2.0CMMC 2.0 usesthree assessment methodsto evaluate security compliance:

Examine– Reviewing, inspecting, observing, studying, or analyzing assessment objects (e.g., policies, system documentation).

Interview– Speaking with personnel to verify knowledge and responsibilities.

Test– Performing technical validation to check system configurations.

TheCMMC Assessment Process (CAP)definesExamineas the method used toreview or analyze assessment objects, such as policies, procedures, configurations, and logs.

Relevant CMMC 2.0 Reference:

A. Test → Incorrect

"Test" involvesexecutinga function to validate its security (e.g., verifying access controls through a live system test).

B. Assess → Incorrect

"Assess" is a broad term; CMMC explicitly defines "Examine" as the method for reviewing documentation.

C. Examine → Correct

"Examine" is the official term forreviewing policies, procedures, configurations, or logs.

D. Interview → Incorrect

"Interview" involvesverbal discussions with personnel, not document analysis.

Why is the Correct Answer "Examine" (C)?

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Document

Defines "Examine" asanalyzing assessment objects (e.g., policies, procedures, logs, documentation).

NIST SP 800-171A

Specifies "Examine" as a method toreview security controls and configurations.

CMMC 2.0 References Supporting this Answer:

Understanding CMMC Asset CategorizationTheCMMC 2.0 Scoping Guidedefines how assets are categorized based on their involvement withFederal Contract Information (FCI)andControlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

In this scenario:

Thegovernment services divisioninteracts withfederal clientsandreceives FCI, making its assetsin-scopefor CMMC Level 1.

Thecommercial services divisioninteractsonly with non-federal clientsanddoes not handle FCI—this means its assets arenot subject to CMMC Level 1 requirementsand should be classified asOut-of-Scope Assets.

CMMC 2.0 Definition of Out-of-Scope AssetsAs per theCMMC Scoping Guide, assets that:

✅Do not store, process, or transmit FCI/CUI

✅Do not directly impact the security of in-scope assets

✅Are completely segregated from the FCI/CUI environment

are classified asOut-of-Scope Assets.

Since thecommercial services divisiononly processespublicly available information and has no interaction with FCI, its assets areout-of-scopefor CMMC Level 1 assessment.

A. FCI Assets❌Incorrect. FCI assets areonly those that store, process, or transmit FCI. The commercial services division doesnothandle FCI, so its assets donotqualify.

B. Specialized Assets❌Incorrect. Specialized assets refer toInternet of Things (IoT), Operational Technology (OT), and test equipment. These donot applyto a general commercial services division.

D. Operational Technology Assets❌Incorrect.Operational Technology (OT) Assetsinvolveindustrial control systems, SCADA, and manufacturing equipment—which are not relevant to this scenario.

Why the Other Answers Are Incorrect

CMMC 2.0 Scoping Guide – Level 1 & Level 2

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Document

CMMC Official ReferencesThus,option C (Out-of-Scope Assets) is the correct answerbased on official CMMC scoping guidance.

Understanding the Role of a CCP in CMMC AssessmentsACertified CMMC Professional (CCP)is responsible for assistingCertified CMMC Assessors (CCA)in evaluating anOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC)during a CMMC assessment. One key aspect of this process isconducting interviewswith Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to verify security practices.

Ensuring that interviewees canspeak freely without fear of retaliationiscriticalto obtainingaccurate and unbiased informationabout the implementation of security controls.

CMMC Assessment Process and the Role of Interviews

TheCMMC Assessment Guide (Level 2)outlines that interviews are conducted to confirm that security practices are effectively implemented.

Interviewees mustfeel comfortable sharing candid responseswithout concern that their statements will lead tonegative consequenceswithin the organization.

Ensuring Confidentiality and Non-Attribution

DoD Assessment Methodologyspecifies that interviews should be conductedconfidentiallytoprotect the identity of interviewees.

TheCMMC Code of Professional Conduct (CoPC)for assessors and professionals reinforces the requirement to maintain theconfidentialityof assessment participants.

Non-attributionensures that responses are used for evaluation purposeswithout linking statements to specific individuals.

Why the Other Answer Choices Are Incorrect:

(A) Performed in groups for more efficient use of resources:

Group interviews may prevent individuals from speaking openly.

Employees might be hesitant to contradict leadership or peers.

(B) Recorded for inclusion in the Final Recommended Findings report:

Interviews arenot directly recorded or attributedin assessment reports.

Instead, findings are documentedwithout identifying specific individuals.

(D) Mapped to specific CMMC practices to clearly delineate which practice is being evaluated:

While responsesinformwhich practices are being assessed, theprimary goalof an interview is to ensure accurate,unbiased information gathering.

Step-by-Step Breakdown:Final Validation from CMMC Documentation:According to theCMMC Assessment Guide and DoD Assessment Methodology, interview confidentiality iscrucialto gatheringaccurateandunbiasedresponses. This makesconfidentiality and non-attributionthe correct answer.

Thus, the correct answer is:

C. Confidential and non-attributable so interviewees can speak without fear of reprisal.

Step 1: Understand the “CA” Domain – Security AssessmentTheCA (Security Assessment)domain includes practices related to:

Planning security assessments,

Performing periodic reviews,

Managing plans of action and milestones (POA&Ms).

These practices derive fromNIST SP 800-171, specifically:

CA.2.157– Develop, document, and periodically update security plans,

CA.2.158– Periodically assess security controls,

CA.2.159– Develop and implement POA&Ms.

Level 1 (Foundational):

Implements only the17 practicesfromFAR 52.204-21

Doesnot include the CA domain

Level 2 (Advanced):

Implements110 practicesfromNIST SP 800-171, including CA.2.157–159

First levelwhereSecurity Assessment (CA)practices are required

Level 3:

Not yet finalized but intended to include selected controls fromNIST SP 800-172

✅Step 2: Review CMMC Levels

A. Level 1✘ No CA domain practices are present at Level 1.

C. Level 3 / D. Level 4✘ These levels build on CA practices but do not represent thestarting point.

❌Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

TheSecurity Assessment (CA)domain practices begin atCMMC Level 2, as part of the implementation ofNIST SP 800-171.

NIST SP 800-88 Rev. 1 is the authoritative guide for media sanitization. It defines three categories of data disposal: Clear, Purge, and Destroy.

Supporting Extracts from Official Content:

NIST SP 800-88 Rev. 1: “Media sanitization techniques are divided into three categories: Clear, Purge, and Destroy.”

Why Option A is Correct:

“Clear, Purge, Destroy” are the exact three categories named.

Redact and Overwrite are not categories; Overwriting is a technique that may fall under Clear.

References (Official CMMC v2.0 Content and Source Documents):

NIST SP 800-88 Rev. 1, Guidelines for Media Sanitization.

===========

Federal Contract Information (FCI) is defined inFAR 52.204-21as information provided by or generated for the government under contract but not intended for public release. UnderCMMC 2.0, organizations handling FCI must implementFAR 52.204-21 Basic Safeguarding Requirements, ensuring proper protection inprocessing, storing, and transmittingFCI.

Analyzing the Given OptionsThe question involves an email system that is used tosendFCI to a subcontractor. Let’s break down the possible answers:

A. Manage FCI→ Incorrect

Managing FCI involves activities like organizing, storing, and maintaining access to FCI. Sending an email does not fall under management; it is an act of transmission.

B. Process FCI→ Incorrect

Processing refers to actively using FCI for operational or analytical purposes, such as analyzing, modifying, or computing data. Simply sending an email does not constitute processing.

C. Transmit FCI→ Correct

Transmission refers to the act of sending FCI from one entity to another. Since the contractor issendingFCI via email, this falls undertransmittingthe data.

In the context of a Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) assessment, the roles and responsibilities of individuals involved are clearly delineated to ensure a structured and effective evaluation process. The term "applicable staff" refers to personnel within the Organization Seeking Certification (OSC) who possess specific knowledge or expertise pertinent to the assessment. These individuals are integral to the assessment process as they provide essential information, demonstrate the implementation of security practices, and facilitate the assessment team's understanding of the organization's cybersecurity posture.

In this scenario, the employee serving as the primary system administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining the organization's systems. Given their comprehensive understanding of the system configurations, security controls, and operational procedures, this individual is best categorized as "applicable staff." Their involvement is crucial during the assessment, as they can provide detailed insights, demonstrate compliance measures, and address technical inquiries from the assessment team.

The other options can be delineated as follows:

Analyzer:Typically refers to individuals who analyze data or security incidents, often as part of a security operations center. This role is not specifically defined within the CMMC assessment context.

Inspector:Generally denotes a person who examines or inspects systems and processes, possibly as part of an internal audit or compliance check. This term is not a standard designation within the CMMC assessment framework.

Demonstration staff:While this could imply personnel responsible for demonstrating systems or processes, it is not a recognized role within the CMMC assessment process.

Therefore, the primary system administrator, by virtue of their role and responsibilities, aligns with the "applicable staff" category, playing a pivotal role in facilitating a successful CMMC assessment.

The CAP specifies that the C3PAO is responsible for assigning the Lead Assessor to an OSC’s assessment. While the OSC contracts with the C3PAO, the authority to appoint the Lead Assessor resides solely with the C3PAO.

Supporting Extracts from Official Content:

CAP v2.0, Assessment Team Composition (§2.10): “The C3PAO shall designate a qualified Lead Assessor to lead the assessment.”

Why Option B is Correct:

Only the C3PAO has the authority to select and assign the Lead Assessor.

The OSC may influence scheduling and planning but cannot appoint assessors.

Options A, C, and D are inconsistent with CAP requirements.

References (Official CMMC v2.0 Content):

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) v2.0, Assessment Team Roles and Responsibilities (§2.10).

Understanding Evidence Sufficiency in CMMC Level 2 AssessmentsDuring aCMMC Level 2 Assessment, theLead Assessormust determine whether the evidence collected for each practice issufficientto support an assessment finding. This aligns with theCMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Guide, which requires assessors to evaluate:

Examinations– Reviewing documents, configurations, and system records.

Interviews– Speaking with personnel to confirm implementation and understanding.

Testing– Observing security controls in action to validate effectiveness.

To determine whether evidence issufficient, the assessor ensures that it:

Directly supports the assessment objective.

Demonstrates that the practice is consistently implemented.

Can be independently verified.

Sufficiencyrefers to whetherenoughevidence has been collected to make an accurate determination about compliance.

Option A (Adequacy)is incorrect because adequacy relates tothe qualityof evidence, while sufficiency focuses on whetherenoughevidence exists.

Option C (Process Mapping)is incorrect because process mapping is used for understanding workflows but is not an assessment verification method.

Option D (Assessment Scope)is incorrect because defining the scope happensbeforeevidence collection, during the planning phase.

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Guide – Section 3.6 (Determining Sufficiency of Evidence)

CMMC Level 2 Assessment Guide – Evidence Collection and Evaluation

Why Option B (Sufficiency) is CorrectOfficial CMMC Documentation ReferencesFinal VerificationSince theLead Assessor is ensuring enough evidence is available to verify compliance, the correct answer isOption B: Sufficiency.

PerDFARS 252.204-7021, contractors must achieve the requiredCMMC certification levelbefore contract awardif the solicitation specifies it.

Key Requirements:✔Contractorsmust be certified at the required CMMC levelprior to contract award.

✔Thecertification must be conducted by a C3PAO(for Level 2) orthrough self-assessment(for Level 1).

✔The certification must bevalid and registered in the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS)before award.

A. At the time of award → Correct

DFARS 252.204-7021requires CMMC certification before a contract can be awardedif the solicitation includes CMMC requirements.

B. Upon solicitation submission → Incorrect

Contractorsdo notneed to be CMMC-certified at thetime of bid submission, only by the time of award.

C. Thirty days from the award date → Incorrect

Contractorsmust already be certified before the award is granted. There isno grace period.

D. Before the due date of submission → Incorrect

While compliance planning is important,CMMC certification is only required before contract award, not before bid submission.

Why is the Correct Answer "At the Time of Award" (A)?

DFARS 252.204-7021 (CMMC Requirement Clause)

CMMC certification is required prior to contract awardif specified in the solicitation.

CMMC 2.0 Program Overview

States that certificationis not needed at bid submission but is required before award.

DoD Interim Rule & SPRS Guidance

Contractors must havea valid CMMC certification recorded in SPRSbefore award.

CMMC 2.0 References Supporting This Answer:

Understanding the Principle of Least Functionality in the CM DomainTheConfiguration Management (CM) domainin CMMC 2.0 focuses on maintaining the security and integrity of an organization’s systems through controlled configurations and restrictions on system capabilities.

The principle ofLeast Functionalityrefers to limiting a system’s features, services, and applications to only those necessary for its intended purpose. This principle reduces the attack surface by minimizing unnecessary components that could be exploited by attackers.

CMMC Practice CM.L2-3.4.6 (Use Least Functionality)explicitly states:"Employ the principle of least functionality by configuring organizational systems to provide only essential capabilities."

Thegoalis to prevent unauthorized or unnecessary applications, services, and ports from running on the system.

Examples of Implementation:

Disabling unnecessary services, such as remote desktop access if not required.

Restricting software installation to approved applications.

Blocking unused network ports and protocols.

A. Least Privilege

This principle (associated with Access Control) ensures that users and processes have only the minimum level of access necessary to perform their jobs.

It is relevant to CMMC PracticeAC.L2-3.1.5 (Least Privilege)but does not define system capabilities.

B. Essential Concern

There is no officially recognized cybersecurity principle called "Essential Concern" in CMMC, NIST, or related frameworks.

D. Separation of Duties

This principle (covered under CMMCAC.L2-3.1.4) ensures that no single individual has unchecked control over critical functions, reducing the risk of fraud or abuse.

While important for security, it does not define essential system capabilities.

CMMC 2.0 Level 2 Assessment Guide – Configuration Management (CM) Domain

CM.L2-3.4.6 mandatesleast functionalityto enhance security by removing unnecessary features.

NIST SP 800-171 (which CMMC is based on) – Requirement 3.4.6

States:"Limit system functionality to only the essential capabilities required for organizational missions or business functions."

NIST SP 800-53 – Control CM-7 (Least Functionality)

Provides detailed recommendations on configuring systems to operate with only necessary features.

Justification for the Correct Answer: Least Functionality (C)Why Other Options Are IncorrectOfficial CMMC and NIST ReferencesConclusionTheprinciple of Least Functionality (C)is the basis for defining essential system capabilities in theConfiguration Management (CM) domainof CMMC 2.0. By applying this principle, organizations reduce security risks by ensuring that only the necessary functions, services, and applications are enabled.

What is Required in the CMMC Assessment Kickoff and Opening Briefing?Before starting aCMMC assessment, theLead Assessormust present anopening briefingto ensure that theOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC)understands the assessment process.

Step-by-Step Breakdown:✅1. Overview of the Assessment Process

The Lead Assessormust explain the CMMC assessment methodology, including:

Theassessment objectives and scope

How theassessment team will review security controls

What to expectduring interviews, testing, and document review

This ensurestransparency and alignmentbetween the assessors and the OSC.

✅2. Why the Other Answer Choices Are Incorrect:

(A) Gathering Evidence❌

Evidence collection is part of the assessment butnot the primary topic of the opening briefing.

(B) Review of the OSC's SSP❌

While theSSP is a key document, reviewing it is part of the assessment,not the kickoff briefing.

(D) Examination of the artifacts for sufficiency❌

Artifact review happens laterin the assessment process,not during the kickoff.

TheCMMC Assessment Process Guidestates that theopening briefing must include an overview of the assessment process, ensuring the OSC understands the expectations and methodology.

Final Validation from CMMC Documentation:Thus, the correct answer is:

✅C. Overview of the assessment process.

AC.L1-3.1.22states:"Control information posted or processed on publicly accessible systems."

This control requires organizations toensure that FCI (Federal Contract Information) is not publicly postedor made accessible in an uncontrolled manner.

FCI must beprotected from unauthorized disclosure, even if it is not classified or CUI.

Understanding the C3PAO Assessment MethodologyACertified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO)is an entity authorized by theCMMC Accreditation Body (CMMC-AB)to conduct officialCMMC Level 2 assessmentsfor organizations seeking certification.

C3PAOs must follow theCMMC Assessment Process (CAP), which outlines:✅Theassessment methodologyfor evaluating compliance.✅Evidence collectionprocedures (interviews, artifacts, testing).✅Assessment scoring and reportingrequirements.✅Guidance for assessorson executing standardized assessments.

ISO 27001 (Option A)is an international standard forinformation security managementbut isnot the basis for CMMC assessments.

NIST SP 800-53A (Option B)providessecurity control assessments for federal systems, but CMMC assessments arebased on NIST SP 800-171.

GAO Yellow Book (Option D)is agovernment auditing standardused forfinancial and performance audits, not cybersecurity assessments.

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) (Option C) is the correct answerbecause it defines how C3PAOs conduct CMMC assessments.

CMMC Assessment Process Guide (CAP)– GovernsC3PAO assessment execution.

CMMC 2.0 Model Documentation– RequiresC3PAOs to follow CAP proceduresfor assessments.

Key Requirement: CMMC Assessment Process (CAP)Why "CMMC Assessment Process" is Correct?Official References from CMMC 2.0 DocumentationFinal Verification and ConclusionThe correct answer isC. CMMC Assessment Process, as it is theofficial methodology all C3PAOs must follow when conducting CMMC assessments.

Understanding FCI and Asset CategorizationFederal Contract Information (FCI)is any informationnot intended for public releasethat is provided by or generated for thegovernmentunder aDoD contract.

Acompany-issued laptopused by a sales representative to enter FCI into aspreadsheetis considered anFCI assetbecause it:

✅Stores FCI– The spreadsheet contains sensitive information.

✅Processes FCI– The representative is entering data into the spreadsheet.

✅Organizes FCI– The spreadsheet helps structure and manage FCI data.

Processing (Option B and C)is occurring, but since the laptop is primarily being used toorganize data,Option D is the most comprehensive.

Transmission (Option A and C)is not explicitly mentioned, soOption D is the best fit.

Why "Store, Process, and Organize FCI" is Correct?Breakdown of Answer ChoicesOption

Description

Correct?

A. Process and transmit FCI.

❌Incorrect–No indication oftransmissionis provided.

B. Process and organize FCI.

❌Incorrect–Storage is also a key function of the laptop.

C. Store, process, and transmit FCI.

❌Incorrect–Transmission is not confirmed in the scenario.

D. Store, process, and organize FCI.

✅Correct – The laptop is used to store, process, and organize FCI in a spreadsheet.

CMMC Asset Categorization Guidelines– DefinesFCI assetsbased onstorage, processing, and organization functions.

Official References from CMMC 2.0 DocumentationFinal Verification and ConclusionThe correct answer isD. Store, process, and organize FCI, as the laptop is used tostore information, enter (process) data, and structure (organize) FCI within a spreadsheet.

Understanding Specialized Assets in CMMCASpecialized Assetis defined asa system, device, or infrastructure component that is not a traditional IT system but still plays a role in cybersecurity or business operations.

Types of Specialized Assets (as per CMMC guidance):✔Operational Technology (OT)– Industrial control systems, SCADA systems.

✔Security Operations Centers (SOCs)– Dedicated cybersecurity monitoring and response centers.

✔IoT Devices– Smart sensors, embedded systems.

✔Restricted IT Systems– Systems with highly controlled access.

A. SOCs → Correct

Security Operations Centers (SOCs) are specialized cybersecurity environmentsused forthreat monitoring, detection, and response.

They oftenoperate outside standard IT infrastructureand are classified asspecialized assetsunder CMMC.

B. Hosted VPN services → Incorrect

VPN services are standard IT infrastructureanddo not qualify as specialized assets.

C. Consultants who provide cybersecurity services → Incorrect

Consultants are personnel, not specialized assets. Specialized assets refer tosystems, devices, or infrastructure.

D. All property owned or leased by the government → Incorrect

Government property is not automatically considered a specialized assetunder CMMC. Specialized assets refer tospecific IT or cybersecurity-related infrastructure.

Why is the Correct Answer "SOCs" (A)?

CMMC 2.0 Assessment Process (CAP) Document

DefinesSpecialized Assetsand includesSOCsin its examples.

CMMC-AB Guidelines

Listssecurity infrastructure like SOCsasSpecialized Assetsdue to their unique cybersecurity function.

NIST SP 800-171 & CMMC 2.0 Security Domains

Recognizesdedicated security monitoring environmentsas part of an organization's cybersecurity posture.

CMMC 2.0 References Supporting This Answer:

Final Answer:✔A. SOCs (Security Operations Centers)

TheRisk Assessment (RA) domainaligns withNIST SP 800-171 control family 3.11 (Risk Assessment)and is designed to help organizationsidentify, assess, and manage cybersecurity risksthat could impact their operations.

TheRA.3.144 practice(which is a CMMC Level 2 requirement) explicitly states:

"Periodically assess therisktoorganizational operations (including mission, functions, image, or reputation), organizational assets, and individualsresulting from the operation of organizational systems and the associated processing, storage, or transmission of CUI."

This means that OSCs (Organizations Seeking Certification) should regularly evaluate risks to:

✅Organizational operations(e.g., mission, business continuity, functions)

✅Organizational assets(e.g., data, IT systems, intellectual property)

✅Individuals(e.g., employees, contractors, customers affected by security risks)

Thus, the correct answer isC. Organizational operations, organizational assets, and individuals.

A. Organizational operations, business assets, and employees❌Incorrect."Business assets"is not the correct terminology used in CMMC/NIST SP 800-171. Instead,"organizational assets"is the proper term.

B. Organizational operations, business processes, and employees❌Incorrect."Business processes"is not a part of the formal risk assessment requirement. The correct scope includesorganizational assetsandindividuals, not just processes.

D. Organizational operations, organizational processes, and individuals❌Incorrect. While processes are important,organizational assetsmust be considered in the assessment, not just processes.

Why the Other Answers Are Incorrect

CMMC 2.0 Model (Level 2 - RA.3.144)– Specifies that risk assessments must coverorganizational operations, organizational assets, and individuals.

NIST SP 800-171 (3.11.1)– Reinforces the same risk assessment scope.

CMMC Official ReferencesThus,option C (Organizational operations, organizational assets, and individuals) is the correct answerbased on official CMMC risk assessment requirements.

Understanding the Official CUI RegistryTheControlled Unclassified Information (CUI) Registryis theauthoritative sourcefor all federal agencies'CUI categories and indices. It is maintained by theNational Archives and Records Administration (NARA)and provides:

✅Acomprehensive listof CUI categories and subcategories.

✅Details onwho can handle, store, and share CUI.

✅Guidance onCUI marking and safeguarding requirements.

TheOfficial CUI Registryis theonly federal resourcethat listsall CUI categories and agencies that use them.

32 CFR Section 2002(Option A) definesCUI policiesbut doesnotprovide a full listing of CUI categories.

Executive Order 13556(Option C) established theCUI Programbut doesnotmaintain an active list of categories.

The "Official CMMC Registry" (Option D) does not exist—CMMC is a security framework, not a CUI classification system.

Why "Official CUI Registry" is Correct?Breakdown of Answer ChoicesOption

Description

Correct?

A. 32 CFR Section 2002

❌Incorrect–Defines CUI program rules butdoes not listcategories.

B. Official CUI Registry

✅Correct – The registry contains the full list of CUI categories.

C. Executive Order 13556

❌Incorrect–Established the CUI program butdoes not maintain a category list.

D. Official CMMC Registry

❌Incorrect–No such registry exists; CMMC is a cybersecurity framework, not a CUI classification system.

National Archives (NARA) CUI Registry– The authoritative source forall federal agency CUI categories.

32 CFR 2002– Provides CUIpolicy guidancebut refers agencies to theOfficial CUI Registryfor classification.

Official References from CMMC 2.0 and Federal DocumentationFinal Verification and ConclusionThe correct answer isB. Official CUI Registry, as it is theonly official source listing all federal agencies' CUI indices and categories.

Understanding the Definition of a "Practice" in CMMC 2.0In CMMC 2.0, the term"practice"refers to specific cybersecurity activities that organizations must implement to achieve compliance with defined security objectives.

Definition from CMMC Documentation:

According to theCMMC Model Overview, apracticeis defined as:

Step-by-Step Breakdown:"An activity or activities performed to meet defined CMMC objectives."

This means that practices are theactions and implementations required to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI).

How Practices Fit into CMMC 2.0:

CMMC 2.0 Level 1 consists of17 practices, which align withFAR 52.204-21 (Basic Safeguarding of Covered Contractor Information Systems).

CMMC 2.0 Level 2 consists of110 practices, aligned directly withNIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2.

Each practice has anobjectivethat must be met to demonstrate compliance.

Official CMMC 2.0 References:

TheCMMC 2.0 Model Documentationdefines practices as "the fundamental cybersecurity activities necessary to achieve security objectives."

TheCMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Guideoutlines how assessors verify the implementation of these practices during an assessment.

TheNIST SP 800-171A Guideprovidesassessment objectivesfor each practice to ensure they are implemented effectively.

Comparison with Other Answer Choices:

A. A business transaction→ Incorrect. CMMC practices focus on cybersecurity activities, not financial or operational transactions.

B. A condition arrived at by experience or exercise→ Incorrect. While practices evolve over time, they are defined activities, not just experience-based conditions.

C. A series of changes taking place in a defined manner→ Incorrect. A practice is a set of security actions, not just a process of change.

Conclusion:ACMMC practicerefers to specificcybersecurity activities performed to meet defined CMMC objectives. This makesOption Dthe correct answer.

Contractors that handle Covered Defense Information (CDI) are required to report cyber incidents to the Department of Defense within 72 hours of discovery.

Supporting Extracts from Official Content:

DFARS 252.204-7012(c)(1): “When the Contractor discovers a cyber incident that affects a covered contractor information system or the covered defense information residing therein, the Contractor shall conduct a review… and rapidly report the cyber incident to DoD within 72 hours of discovery.”

Why Option C is Correct:

The regulation explicitly specifies 72 hours.

Options A (24 hrs), B (48 hrs), and D (96 hrs) do not align with DFARS requirements.

References (Official CMMC v2.0 Content and Source Documents):

DFARS 252.204-7012, Safeguarding Covered Defense Information and Cyber Incident Reporting.

CMMC v2.0 Governance – Source Documents list includes DFARS 252.204-7012.

===========

Federal Contract Information (FCI)is any informationnot intended for public releasethat is provided or generated under aU.S. Government contracttodevelop or deliver a product or service.

Enhanced Security Personnel (ESP)refers to employees, contractors, or third parties whohave access to FCIwithin anOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC).

UnderCMMC 2.0 Scoping Guidance, anypersonnel, system, or asset with access to FCI is considered in scopefor a CMMC Level 1 assessment.

Since theESP employee has access to FCI, theymustbe included in the assessment scope.

Option B (Out of scope)is incorrect because anyone with access to FCI is automatically considered part of theCMMC Level 1 boundary.

Option C (OSC point of contact)is incorrect because thepoint of contactis typically an administrative or compliance representative, not necessarily someone with FCI access.

Option D (Assessment Team Member)is incorrect because anESP employee is not part of the assessment team but rather a subject of the assessment.

CMMC Level 1 Scoping Guide, Section 2 – Defining Scope for FCI

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Guide – Roles and Responsibilities

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.204-21(Basic Safeguarding of FCI)

Understanding Scoping in CMMC Level 1 Self-AssessmentsWhy Option A (In scope) is CorrectOfficial CMMC Documentation ReferencesFinal VerificationSince theESP employee has access to FCI, they are consideredin scopefor the CMMC Level 1 self-assessment, makingOption A the correct answer.

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) and CMMC Code of Professional Conduct emphasize that conflicts of interest (COI) must be disclosed and managed transparently. A Certified CMMC Professional (CCP) is required to:

Inform their organization,

Disclose the COI to the affected stakeholders, and

Take reasonable steps to minimize the impact.

What they must NOT do is conceal it from the Assessment Team Lead or others. Concealing a COI violates the CMMC Code of Professional Conduct and compromises the integrity of the assessment.

Reference Documents:

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP), v1.0

CMMC Code of Professional Conduct, CMMC-AB

For a practice to beadequately implementedin aCMMC Level 2 assessment, theresponsible personnel must demonstrate knowledge of deployment, maintenance, and operationof security tools such asantivirus programs. Simply having the tool in place isnot sufficient—there must be evidence that it isproperly configured, updated, and monitoredto protect against threats.

Step-by-Step Breakdown:✅1. Relevant CMMC and NIST SP 800-171 Requirements

CMMC Level 2 aligns with NIST SP 800-171, which includes:

Requirement 3.14.5 (System and Information Integrity - SI-3):

"Employautomatedmechanisms toidentify, report, and correctsystem flaws in a timely manner."

Requirement 3.14.6 (SI-3(2)):

"Employautomated toolsto detect and prevent malware execution."

These requirements imply that theperson responsible for antivirus must understand how it is deployed and maintainedto ensure compliance.

✅2. Why the Team Member’s Knowledge is Insufficient

Antivirus tools requireregular updates,configuration adjustments, andmonitoringto function properly.

The responsible team member must:

Knowhow the antivirus was deployedacross systems.

Be able toconfirm updates, logs, and alerts are monitored.

Understand how torespond to malware detectionsand failures.

If the team member lacks this knowledge, assessors maydetermine the practice is not fully implemented.

✅3. Why the Other Answer Choices Are Incorrect:

(A) Yes, the antivirus program is available, so it is sufficient.❌

Incorrect:Just having antivirus softwareinstalleddoes not prove compliance. It must bemanaged and maintained.

(B) Yes, antivirus programs are automated to run independently.❌

Incorrect:While automation helps, security toolsrequire oversight, updates, and configuration.

(D) No, the team member's interview answers about deployment and maintenance are insufficient.❌

Partially correct but incomplete:Themain issueis that the team membermust have sufficient knowledge, not just that their answers are weak.

Final Validation from CMMC Documentation:TheCMMC Assessment Guide for SI-3 and SI-3(2)states that personnel mustunderstand the function, deployment, and maintenance of security toolsto ensure proper implementation.

Thus, the correct answer is:

Understanding CUI Protection ResponsibilitiesControlled Unclassified Information (CUI)is sensitive butnot classifiedinformation that requires protection underDoD Instruction 5200.48andDFARS 252.204-7012.

Theprimary responsibilityfor handling CUIis safeguardingit against unauthorized access, disclosure, or modification.

TheCUI Program (as per NARA and DoD)mandatessafeguarding measuresto protectCUI in both digital and physical forms.

CMMC 2.0 Level 2 (Advanced) practices align with NIST SP 800-171, which focuses on safeguarding CUIthrough access controls, encryption, and monitoring.

DFARS 252.204-7012requires DoD contractors to implementcybersecurity safeguardsto protect CUI.

A. Shielding (Incorrect)–Shieldingis not a cybersecurity term associated with CUI protection.

B. Governing (Incorrect)–Governing refers to policy-making, not direct protection.

C. Correcting (Incorrect)–Correcting implies remediation, but the primary responsibility is tosafeguardCUI proactively.

The correct answer isD. Safeguarding, asCUI protection focuses on implementing cybersecurity safeguards.

Who Do DoD Contractors Report CUI Breaches To?PerDFARS 252.204-7012, all DoD contractors handlingControlled Unclassified Information (CUI)must report cyber incidents to theDoD Cyber Crime Center (DC3).

Key Reporting Requirements✅Cyber incidents involving CUI must be reported toDC3 within 72 hours.

✅Reports must be submitted via theDoD's Cyber Incident Reporting Portal.

✅Contractors mustpreserve forensic evidencefor potential investigation.

The FBI (Option A) handles criminal investigations, but DoD contractorsmust report cyber incidents to DC3.

NARA (Option B) oversees the CUI Registry, butis not responsible for breach reporting.

The Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security (Option D) is responsible for intelligence operations, not incident reporting.

Why "DoD Cyber Crime Center" is Correct?Breakdown of Answer ChoicesOption

Description

Correct?

A. FBI

❌Incorrect–The FBI handlescriminal cases, not CUI breach reporting.

B. NARA

❌Incorrect–NARA manages theCUI Registry, butdoes not handle breaches.

C. DoD Cyber Crime Center

✅Correct – Per DFARS 252.204-7012, cyber incidents involving CUI must be reported to DC3.

D. Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security

❌Incorrect–This office doesnothandle cyber incident reports.

DFARS 252.204-7012– Requires DoD contractors to report CUI-related cyber incidents toDC3.

DoD Cyber Crime Center (DC3) Website– The official platform forcyber incident reporting.

Official References from CMMC 2.0 and DFARS DocumentationFinal Verification and ConclusionThe correct answer isC. DoD Cyber Crime Center, as perDFARS 252.204-7012, which mandates that all DoD contractors reportCUI breaches to DC3 within 72 hours.