How SOC 2 Compliance Can Prepare Your Business for CMMC 2.0

SOC 2. PCI DSS. CMMC. GDPR. HIPAA. Compliance regulations can pile up quickly, and keeping track of them all can feel overwhelming. Luckily, many requirements often complement each other, and businesses can use their existing compliance certifications as a stepping stone to achieving more stringent standards.

Today, we're examining the intersection of SOC 2 and CMMC 2.0 compliance, highlighting how SOC 2 can serve as a strategic foundation for meeting the rigorous requirements of the CMMC. By understanding this connection, you can successfully streamline your compliance efforts and enhance your readiness for future challenges.

What Are SOC 2 and CMMC 2.0?

Let's start by reviewing the basics of SOC 2 and CMMC 2.0.

SOC 2

SOC 2 is the second version of System and Organization Controls developed by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). Regulations are designed to ensure the proper handling of sensitive customer data and are based on the Trust Services Criteria (TSC), which are security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.

SOC 2 compliance is voluntary, but the practices included in the regulations serve as a good foundation for protecting client information and preparing to meet other compliance standards.

CMMC 2.0

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 includes a set of controls that organizations must implement to align with NIST regulations, protect controlled unclassified information (CUI), and maintain Department of Defense (DoD) contracts. Businesses hoping to secure new contracts generally have to meet CMMC 2.0 specifications.

The model includes three different levels of security, depending on what kind of data a business works with:

• Level 1: Foundational includes basic cybersecurity practices and qualifies organizations to work with federal contract information (FCI).

• Level 2: Advanced allows businesses to work with CUI and involves controls that align with NIST 800-171.

• Level 3: Expert focuses on protecting against APTs and includes some aspects of NIST 800-172 regulations.

How SOC 2 Compliance Sets the Stage for CMMC 2.0

Although SOC 2 compliance isn't required by law, taking those first steps and implementing key controls will set your business on a solid path to achieving CMMC 2.0 compliance.

Establishing a Security-First Culture

Both SOC 2 and CMMC 2.0 include cybersecurity best practices such as protecting sensitive data in storage, in transit, and during analysis. These basics create a security-first culture within your business, as well as a strong foundation of controls. So when it comes time for your CMMC 2.0 certification, you'll be able to transition seamlessly into the detailed requirements.

Streamlining Documentation and Audits

SOC 2 compliance is confirmed by producing detailed reports about data handling practices and receiving an audit from a certified CPA. This habit of keeping rigorous documentation, as well as preparing for third-party audits, sets businesses up well for applying for their CMMC 2.0 certification, where comprehensive documentation and external evaluations are also required.

Enhancing Customer and Stakeholder Trust

Demonstrating SOC 2 compliance shows customers, stakeholders, and contracting officers a proactive approach to cybersecurity and a dedication to protecting sensitive information. A high level of diligence builds credibility, improves customer trust and loyalty, and prepares your team to meet the stringent CMMC requirements for securing a DoD contract.

Saving Time and Money

Because of their intense documentation and careful security controls, businesses that are already SOC 2 compliant may find preparing for their CMMC 2.0 certification less costly and time-intensive. Many of the foundational practices required for SOC 2 align closely with CMMC standards, which reduces the need for extensive additional investments.

Take the Next Steps Toward Compliance with ICS

When it comes to the complications of compliance, there's no better place to start than by partnering with ICS. We take your security seriously, and you can count on us for proactive and forward-thinking solutions, expertise in compliance regulations, and a skilled team that cares about you and your success.

Whether you're just getting started with SOC 2 compliance, hoping to make the jump to CMMC 2.0, or looking for strategies to maintain existing certifications, you'll find the tools, knowledge, and experience you need with us. To set up your complimentary compliance consultation, just send us a message.

 

Get started today with the right managed service provider for your business! Schedule a free assessment for your business today!