What It Is

Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0 is a 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 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). The approach emphasizes scoping, evidence-based assessments, and verified compliance.

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.
• Certification via self-assessments (Levels 1/2), C3PAO (Level 2), or DIBCAC (Level 3); POA&Ms limited to 180 days.

Why Organizations Use It

Mandated for DoD contractors/subcontractors handling FCI/CUI; ensures contract eligibility, reduces supply chain risks, enhances resilience, and provides competitive advantage in bids. Builds stakeholder trust via verified maturity.

Implementation Overview

Phased approach: scoping, gap analysis, remediation, assessment preparation, certification, sustainment. Applies to all DIB sizes; requires SSP, evidence artifacts, annual affirmations in SPRS/eMASS. Timelines 12+ months for Level 2.

What It Is

PDPA (Personal Data Protection Act) refers to a family of statutes in jurisdictions like Singapore, Thailand, and Taiwan regulating personal data handling. These are principle-based regulations focused on protecting individuals' data while enabling legitimate organizational use. They adopt a risk-based approach balancing privacy rights with business needs through consent, transparency, and safeguards.

Key Components

• Core obligations: consent/notification, purpose limitation, access/correction rights, security, retention/transfer limits, accountability.
• 8-10 main principles across regimes (e.g., Singapore's 9 obligations).
• Built on GDPR-influenced structures with local nuances like DPO requirements, breach notification (72 hours), Do Not Call registries.
• Compliance via self-assessment, no universal certification but regulator enforcement.

Why Organizations Use It

• Mandatory in applicable jurisdictions for data processors.
• Mitigates fines (up to SGD 1M/S$1M, THB 5M), builds trust, enables cross-border operations.
• Enhances reputation, reduces breach risks, supports digital economy participation.

Implementation Overview

• Phased: gap analysis, data mapping, policies, controls, training.
• Applies to organizations handling local residents' data; risk-based for SMEs/multinationals.
• No certification but audits, DPO appointment, ongoing DPMP required. (178 words)