The Charles IT Blog

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How Can the NIST Cybersecurity Framework Help Small Businesses?

How Can the NIST Cybersecurity Framework Help Small Businesses?

September, 2021 | Foster Charles

Many small businesses do not consider themselves worthy enough targets for more advanced attacks, such as advanced persistent threats (APTs). As such, they often have only minimal cybersecurity [...]

What is NIST Cybersecurity Framework?

What is NIST Cybersecurity Framework?

September, 2021 | Foster Charles

The NIST cybersecurity framework is a globally recognized standard that offers guidance on how organizations can mitigate information security risks. It is updated regularly to reflect the most [...]

Do You Know Which of the CMMC Levels You Should Choose?

Do You Know Which of the CMMC Levels You Should Choose?

August, 2021 | Foster Charles

Prior to the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, defense contractors were responsible for implementing, maintaining, and assessing their own cybersecurity practices in accordance with the [...]

CMMC Compliance Checklist: 4 Things Not To Overlook

CMMC Compliance Checklist: 4 Things Not To Overlook

August, 2021 | Sal Marino

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) replaces the current DFARS 252.204-7012 clause that defense contractors currently have to when entering into a contract with the Department of [...]

How Can Gaps in Your IT Security Affect CMMC Compliance?

How Can Gaps in Your IT Security Affect CMMC Compliance?

July, 2021 | Foster Charles

By now, most business leaders understand the importance of achieving adequate IT security standards, especially if they have contracts with the US Department of Defense. The CMMC program aims to [...]

How Can a Gap Assessment Prepare You for CMMC Compliance?

How Can a Gap Assessment Prepare You for CMMC Compliance?

July, 2021 | Aaron Bandzes

It may be tempting to put off your journey towards CMMC compliance, given that the regulation is not due to be fully implemented until October 1, 2025, but this would be a mistake. Earning a CMMC [...]

How Does the CMMC Accreditation Body Qualify Assessors?

How Does the CMMC Accreditation Body Qualify Assessors?

July, 2021 | Sal Marino

Although there have been several delays since the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification was first announced, 101 experienced professionals have now been chosen to become future CMMC auditors. [...]

Mistakes to Avoid When Looking for a CMMC Auditor

Mistakes to Avoid When Looking for a CMMC Auditor

July, 2021 | Foster Charles

The cybersecurity maturity model certification (CMMC) is a unified framework that is intended to regulate and enforce information security standards across the entire defense supply chain. Unlike [...]

The Basics of Designing A System Security Plan

The Basics of Designing A System Security Plan

July, 2021 | Foster Charles

The DFARS 252.204-7012 clause requires that all contractors and subcontractors of the US Department of Defense maintain an up-to-date system security plan (SSP). You will likely be asked to provide [...]

What Are the Consequences of Noncompliance?

What Are the Consequences of Noncompliance?

June, 2021 | Foster Charles

Navigating DFARS 252.204.7012 compliance requirements can be challenging. It requires tightening DFARS-specific security controls, an area in which the expertise of compliance experts who can help [...]

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