As the Department of Defense (DoD) prepares to enforce the long-anticipated Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), time is running out for defense contractors to become CMMC compliant. With the final rule soon to be published in the Federal Register and contract requirements expected to take effect in early 2025, many contractors across the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) are still unprepared — and the clock is ticking.
A recent study by Merrill Research, commissioned by CyberSheath, sheds light on just how far behind many companies are when it comes to CMMC readiness. According to the report, a startling 4% of defense contractors are fully prepared to meet CMMC certification requirements. For small to mid-sized companies with revenue between $10M and $50M, the challenge is particularly pressing.
A Glimpse Into the Current CMMC Readiness
The report, titled “Defense on the Brink”, reveals several concerning trends:
- Only 4% of defense contractors are fully prepared for CMMC.
- 41% have submitted an SPRS score, with an average score of -12, far below the score of 110 needed to meet CMMC compliance requirements.
- 52% reported having a System Security Plan (SSP)
- 42% have conducted an annual Incident Response Exercise
Despite these alarming statistics, 75% of contractors claim to be CMMC compliant through self-assessment. This disconnect between perception and reality presents a serious risk as non-compliance with CMMC will soon mean the difference between winning new contracts or missing out on crucial business opportunities with the DoD.
The Challenge Ahead
With CMMC set to become a contractual requirement in 2025, many defense contractors are left wondering how they can get on the right track in time. Becoming CMMC compliant typically takes anywhere from 9 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of a company’s operations and its current cybersecurity posture. This means companies that have yet to begin their compliance journey are already cutting it close.
What’s more concerning is the wide range of gaps uncovered in the report. Only 15% of contractors have deployed patch management solutions, 21% have adopted MFA, and 27% have implemented endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions — all basic cybersecurity practices required by CMMC. These gaps put many companies at risk, not just from a compliance standpoint, but also in terms of vulnerability to cyberattacks.
Tailored Support to Meet CMMC Compliance Requirements
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by CMMC compliance requirements, you’re not alone. The good news is that it’s not too late to begin your compliance journey, and it doesn’t have to be a one-size-fits-all approach. At Alluvionic we specialize in helping companies like yours navigate the complexities of CMMC and tailor a compliance strategy that fits your environment, priorities, and budget.
As a Cyber Accreditation Body (AB) Registered Practitioner organization (RPO) Our team of cybersecurity experts has supported over 125 companies in CMMC readiness since 2020. We offer a full suite of services to guide you through every stage of the process, including:
- FCI/CUI Scoping: Determine what information you handle that falls under CMMC’s scope.
- Gap Assessment: Identify where your current cybersecurity posture falls short of CMMC compliance requirements.
- Remediation Support: We provide flexible, right-sized remediation strategies designed to meet your specific needs, whether you’re looking for full hands-on support or higher-level guidance based on your budget.
- Documentation Support: From System Security Plans (SSPs) to Incident Response Plans (IRPs), to policies, process documents and procedures, we help ensure all required documentation is in place.
- Certification Preparation: We’ll prepare you for a successful CMMC assessment, so you’re ready when the time comes.
Act Now, Don’t Wait
The publication of the final CMMC rule is imminent, and 2025 is just around the corner. With compliance taking up to 9-18 months, the window to act is rapidly closing. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
If you’re unsure where to start or need expert guidance to ensure you’re on the path to becoming CMMC compliant, contact us today. Our tailored, supportive approach will ensure your business is prepared — without the headache.
