CMMC
DoD certification framework protecting FCI and CUI
ISO 37001
International standard for anti-bribery management systems
Quick Verdict
CMMC mandates cybersecurity certification for DoD contractors protecting FCI/CUI via tiered assessments, ensuring contract eligibility. ISO 37001 provides voluntary anti-bribery management for all organizations, mitigating corruption risks through risk-based controls and due diligence.
CMMC
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0
Key Features
- Three cumulative maturity levels for tiered assurance
- Third-party C3PAO assessments verify Level 2 compliance
- Direct mapping to 110 NIST SP 800-171 controls
- Mandatory certification for DoD FCI/CUI handling
- Limited POA&Ms with strict 180-day closure
ISO 37001
ISO 37001: Anti-Bribery Management Systems
Key Features
- Risk-based bribery risk assessment and controls
- Third-party due diligence and monitoring requirements
- Leadership commitment and compliance function
- Financial and non-financial anti-bribery controls
- PDCA cycle for continual improvement and audits
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
CMMC Details
What It Is
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 is a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) certification framework verifying cybersecurity protections for Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). It uses a tiered, risk-based model with three cumulative levels: Level 1 (basic FCI safeguards), Level 2 (NIST SP 800-171 for CUI), and Level 3 (NIST SP 800-172 enhancements against APTs).
Key Components
- 14 domains (e.g., Access Control, Incident Response) with 17 Level 1, 110 Level 2, and 134 Level 3 practices.
- Built on FAR 52.204-21, NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2, and NIST SP 800-172.
- Assessment via self, C3PAO, or DIBCAC; reported to SPRS/eMASS; limited POA&Ms (180-day closure).
Why Organizations Use It
Mandated for DoD contracts, ensuring eligibility and flow-down compliance. Reduces breach risks, enhances supply chain trust, and provides competitive bidding advantages. Builds operational resilience and stakeholder confidence.
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: scoping, gap analysis, remediation, assessment preparation, certification, sustainment. Targets DIB contractors (SMEs to primes); 12-18 months typical; requires SSP, evidence artifacts, annual affirmations. (178 words)
ISO 37001 Details
What It Is
ISO 37001 is the international certifiable standard for Anti-Bribery Management Systems (ABMS). It provides requirements and guidance to prevent, detect, and respond to bribery risks. The scope covers direct/indirect bribery by/for the organization, personnel, and business associates across sectors/sizes. It follows the ISO Harmonized Structure (HS) and PDCA cycle for risk-based management.
Key Components
- **Clauses 4-10Context, leadership, planning, support, operation, evaluation, improvement.
- Core controls: policy, risk assessment, due diligence, financial/non-financial controls, training, reporting.
- Built on proportionality and continual improvement principles.
- Optional third-party certification with audits.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mitigates legal risks (e.g., FCPA, UK Bribery Act).
- Builds trust with stakeholders/investors.
- Reduces compliance costs (up to 15%).
- Enhances reputation and market access.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, risk assessment, controls, training, audits.
- Applicable to all organizations globally.
- Certification via Stage 1/2 audits, 3-year cycle.
Key Differences
| Aspect | CMMC | ISO 37001 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Cybersecurity for FCI/CUI protection | Anti-bribery management system |
| Industry | DoD contractors and supply chain | All sectors worldwide |
| Nature | Mandatory certification for contracts | Voluntary certifiable standard |
| Testing | Self/C3PAO/DIBCAC assessments triennially | Certification body audits, surveillance |
| Penalties | Contract ineligibility, debarment | No direct penalties, certification loss |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CMMC and ISO 37001
CMMC FAQ
ISO 37001 FAQ
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