In the context of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) 2.0, particularly at Level 2, organizations are required to implement stringent controls to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). This includes adhering to specific practices related to media protection and physical security.

Media Protection (MP):

MP.L2-3.8.1 – Media Protection:Organizations must protect (i.e., physically control and securely store) system media containing CUI, both paper and digital. This ensures that sensitive information is not accessible to unauthorized individuals.

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MP.L2-3.8.3 – Media Disposal:It is imperative to sanitize or destroy information system media containing CUI before disposal or release for reuse. This practice prevents potential data breaches from discarded or repurposed media.

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Physical Protection (PE):

PE.L2-3.10.2 – Monitor Facility:Organizations are required to protect and monitor the physical facility and support infrastructure for organizational systems. This includes ensuring that areas where CUI is processed or stored are secure and access is controlled.

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Application to the Scenario:

Given that the Organization Seeking Certification (OSC) operates within a shared, multi-tenant building and utilizes a common conference room for assessments, the following considerations are crucial:

Reviewing the Evidence File:The evidence file, which contains CUI, should be reviewed on a secure, authorized device to prevent unauthorized access or potential data leakage.

Printing the Evidence File:If printing is necessary, ensure that the printer is located in a secure area, and the printed documents are retrieved immediately to prevent unauthorized viewing.

Making Notes:Any notes derived from the evidence file should be treated with the same level of security as the original document, especially if they contain CUI.

Disposal of Printed Materials:After the assessment, all printed materials and notes containing CUI must be destroyed using a cross-cut shredder. Cross-cut shredding ensures that the information cannot be reconstructed, thereby maintaining confidentiality.

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Options A and D are inadequate as they involve leaving sensitive information in unsecured locations, which violates CMMC physical security requirements. Option B, while secure in terms of digital handling, does not address the proper disposal of any physical copies that may have been made. Therefore, Option C is the best practice, aligning with CMMC 2.0 guidelines by ensuring that all physical media containing CUI are properly reviewed, securely stored during use, and thoroughly destroyed when no longer needed.

Understanding FCI and Asset CategorizationFederal Contract Information (FCI)is any informationnot intended for public releasethat is provided by or generated for thegovernmentunder aDoD contract.

Acompany-issued laptopused by a sales representative to enter FCI into aspreadsheetis considered anFCI assetbecause it:

✅Stores FCI– The spreadsheet contains sensitive information.

✅Processes FCI– The representative is entering data into the spreadsheet.

✅Organizes FCI– The spreadsheet helps structure and manage FCI data.

Processing (Option B and C)is occurring, but since the laptop is primarily being used toorganize data,Option D is the most comprehensive.

Transmission (Option A and C)is not explicitly mentioned, soOption D is the best fit.

Why "Store, Process, and Organize FCI" is Correct?Breakdown of Answer ChoicesOption

Description

Correct?

A. Process and transmit FCI.

❌Incorrect–No indication oftransmissionis provided.

B. Process and organize FCI.

❌Incorrect–Storage is also a key function of the laptop.

C. Store, process, and transmit FCI.

❌Incorrect–Transmission is not confirmed in the scenario.

D. Store, process, and organize FCI.

✅Correct – The laptop is used to store, process, and organize FCI in a spreadsheet.

CMMC Asset Categorization Guidelines– DefinesFCI assetsbased onstorage, processing, and organization functions.

Official References from CMMC 2.0 DocumentationFinal Verification and ConclusionThe correct answer isD. Store, process, and organize FCI, as the laptop is used tostore information, enter (process) data, and structure (organize) FCI within a spreadsheet.

Understanding the Principle of Least Functionality in the CM DomainTheConfiguration Management (CM) domainin CMMC 2.0 focuses on maintaining the security and integrity of an organization’s systems through controlled configurations and restrictions on system capabilities.

The principle ofLeast Functionalityrefers to limiting a system’s features, services, and applications to only those necessary for its intended purpose. This principle reduces the attack surface by minimizing unnecessary components that could be exploited by attackers.

CMMC Practice CM.L2-3.4.6 (Use Least Functionality)explicitly states:"Employ the principle of least functionality by configuring organizational systems to provide only essential capabilities."

Thegoalis to prevent unauthorized or unnecessary applications, services, and ports from running on the system.

Examples of Implementation:

Disabling unnecessary services, such as remote desktop access if not required.

Restricting software installation to approved applications.

Blocking unused network ports and protocols.

A. Least Privilege

This principle (associated with Access Control) ensures that users and processes have only the minimum level of access necessary to perform their jobs.

It is relevant to CMMC PracticeAC.L2-3.1.5 (Least Privilege)but does not define system capabilities.

B. Essential Concern

There is no officially recognized cybersecurity principle called "Essential Concern" in CMMC, NIST, or related frameworks.

D. Separation of Duties

This principle (covered under CMMCAC.L2-3.1.4) ensures that no single individual has unchecked control over critical functions, reducing the risk of fraud or abuse.

While important for security, it does not define essential system capabilities.

CMMC 2.0 Level 2 Assessment Guide – Configuration Management (CM) Domain

CM.L2-3.4.6 mandatesleast functionalityto enhance security by removing unnecessary features.

NIST SP 800-171 (which CMMC is based on) – Requirement 3.4.6

States:"Limit system functionality to only the essential capabilities required for organizational missions or business functions."

NIST SP 800-53 – Control CM-7 (Least Functionality)

Provides detailed recommendations on configuring systems to operate with only necessary features.

Justification for the Correct Answer: Least Functionality (C)Why Other Options Are IncorrectOfficial CMMC and NIST ReferencesConclusionTheprinciple of Least Functionality (C)is the basis for defining essential system capabilities in theConfiguration Management (CM) domainof CMMC 2.0. By applying this principle, organizations reduce security risks by ensuring that only the necessary functions, services, and applications are enabled.

1. Understanding the Validation of Findings in CMMC AssessmentsValidation of findings is an essential part of theCMMC assessment process, ensuring that observations and preliminary conclusions drawn by the assessment team are accurate, fair, and based on complete evidence. This process occurs iteratively during theDaily Checkpointsand is fundamental in determining the overall compliance status of theOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC).

2. The Role of Preliminary Findings in the Assessment ProcessPreliminary findings arenot finalbut rather a mechanism for ensuring transparency, accuracy, and fairness. These findings serve several key purposes:

Allows for OSC Input & Clarification: The OSC has an opportunity to review andprovide additional evidencethat may address deficiencies identified by the assessment team.

Prevents Misinterpretations: By allowing the OSC to comment, the assessment team can refine or correct their understanding of the OSC's implementation of CMMC practices.

Supports Fair and Informed Ratings: Before finalizing MET or NOT MET determinations, the assessment team ensures they have considered all relevant evidence.

Encourages a Collaborative Assessment Process: This validation activity fosters open communication between assessors and the OSC, reducing disputes and misunderstandings.

The primary purpose of preliminary findings is to allow theOSC to comment and provide additional evidencebefore final determinations are made.

This aligns withCMMC Assessment Process guidance, which emphasizes iterative validation of findings throughDaily Checkpoints and Final Outbriefdiscussions.

The validation of findings ensures thatOSC responses and supplementary evidence are considered, making the assessment process more accurate and fair.

3. Why Answer Choice "A" is Correct4. Why Other Answer Choices Are IncorrectOption

Reason for Elimination

B. It determines whether the OSC will be rated MET or NOT MET on their assessment.

Incorrect: Preliminary findings do not directly determine the final rating. The assessment team reviews all collected evidence before making a final decision.

C. It confirms that the Assessment Team's findings are right and cannot be changed.

Incorrect: Findings arenot finalat the preliminary stage. The OSC has the opportunity to challenge findings by providing new or clarifying evidence.

D. It corroborates the Assessment Team's understanding of the CMMC practices and controls.

Partially Correct but Not the Best Answer: While validation helps refine understanding, itsprimary function is to allow OSC input, making optionA the most accurate choice.

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Document:

Section 5.3 – Validation of Findings: "The OSC is given the opportunity to provide additional evidence and comments to clarify or supplement preliminary assessment results."

Section 5.4 – Daily Checkpoints: "The assessment team discusses preliminary findings with the OSC, allowing the organization to address concerns in real time."

CMMC 2.0 Level 2 Scoping & Assessment Guide:

Confirms that the assessment process includes continuous dialogue with the OSC before final determinations are made.

5. Official CMMC References Supporting This Answer6. ConclusionPreliminary findings are acrucial validation stepin CMMC assessments, ensuring that organizations have the opportunity toprovide additional evidence and clarify potential misunderstandings. This iterative process improves accuracy and fairness in determining compliance with CMMC requirements. Therefore, the correct answer is:

A. It allows the OSC to comment and provide additional evidence.

Understanding Ethical Responsibility in the CMMC EcosystemEthics in theCMMC ecosystemis ashared responsibilitybetween theCMMC Accreditation Body (CMMC-AB)and itsmembers. TheCMMC-AB Code of Professional Conductoutlines ethical obligations forassessors, consultants, and other ecosystem participantsto ensure integrity, fairness, and professionalism.

CMMC-AB ensures the accreditation process remains fair, unbiased, and ethical.

CMMC ecosystem members (assessors, consultants, and organizations) are responsible for upholding ethical practices in assessments and implementations.

Ethical violations can result indisciplinary actions, revocation of certification, or legal consequences.

Key Ethical Responsibilities Include:

A. DoD and CMMC-AB → Incorrect

TheDoD oversees CMMC implementation, butit is not responsible for the ethical conduct of CMMC assessments.

B. OSC and Sponsors → Incorrect

TheOrganization Seeking Certification (OSC)is responsible for compliance but doesnot oversee ethics in the CMMC ecosystem.

C. CMMC-AB and Members of the CMMC Ecosystem → Correct

Ethics is explicitly stated as ajoint responsibility of the CMMC-AB and its ecosystem membersin official CMMC guidance.

D. Members of the CMMC Ecosystem and Lead Assessors → Incorrect

Lead Assessors are part of theCMMC ecosystem, butCMMC-AB is the governing body responsible for ethical oversight.

Why is the Correct Answer "CMMC-AB and Members of the CMMC Ecosystem" (C)?

CMMC-AB Code of Professional Conduct

Defines ethical responsibilities forassessors, consultants, and ecosystem members.

CMMC Ecosystem Governance Policies

Ethics isjointly managed by CMMC-AB and its accredited ecosystem members.

CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Document

Outlines ethical expectations forassessors and consultantsduring certification assessments.

CMMC 2.0 References Supporting this Answer:

UnderCMMC Level 2, contractors are required toidentify, document, and categorize assetsinvolved in handlingControlled Unclassified Information (CUI). This is part of thescoping process, which ensures that all security-relevant assets are properly protected and accounted for in the System Security Plan (SSP), asset inventory, and network diagram.

CMMC Scoping Requirements for Level 2 Assessments:

TheCMMC Scoping Guide(CMMC v2.0) identifies four asset categories:

CUI Assets:Systems that store, process, or transmit CUI.

Security Protection Assets (SPA):Systems providing security functions for CUI Assets (e.g., firewalls, SIEMs).

Contractor Risk Managed Assets (CRMA):Assets that interact with CUI but arenot directly controlledby the organization (e.g., personal devices).

Specialized Assets:These include IoT devices, OT systems, and Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) thatmay require specific security controls.

Where Documentation is Required:

The contractor mustdocument all assets (except out-of-scope assets)in:

The System Security Plan (SSP):A key document detailing security controls and asset categorization.

An asset inventory:Lists all in-scope assets (CUI Assets, SPAs, CRMA, and Specialized Assets).

The network diagram:Provides a visual representation of system connectivity and security boundaries.

Why Out-of-Scope Assets Are Excluded:

TheCMMC Scoping Guidespecifically states that Out-of-Scope Assets arenot required to be documentedin these compliance artifacts because they haveno direct or indirect interaction with CUI.

These assets do not require CMMC controls because they are completely isolated from CUI handling environments.

Why the Other Answer Choices Are Incorrect:

(A) GUI Assets:There is no specific "GUI Asset" category in CMMC scoping.

(B) CUI and Security Protection Asset categories:While these are included, this answerexcludesContractor Risk Managed and Specialized Assets, which are also required.

(D) Contractor Risk Managed Assets and Specialized Assets:These assetsare included in scopingbut this answer excludes CUI Assets and Security Protection Assets, making it incomplete.

Step-by-Step Breakdown:Final Validation from CMMC Documentation:According to theCMMC Assessment Scope Level 2 Guide, allin-scope assetsmust be documented in the SSP, inventory, and network diagram.The only assets excluded are Out-of-Scope Assets.

Thus, the correct answer is:

C. All asset categories except for the Out-of-Scope Assets.

This question pertains to theminimum evidence requirementsneeded by a CMMCAssessment Teamto score a practice asMETduring aLevel 2 Assessment.

The CMMC Level 2 assessment must align withNIST SP 800-171and follow the procedures outlined in theCMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Guide v1.0, particularly aroundevidence collection and scoring methodology.

✅Step 1: Refer to the CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) Guide v1.0CAP v1.0 – Section 3.5.4: Evaluate Evidence and Score Practices“To assign a MET determination, the Assessment Team must collect and corroborate at least two types of objective evidence: either through examination of artifacts, interviews (affirmation), or testing (demonstration).”

This meansat least two typesof the following evidence are required:

Examine(documentation/artifacts),

Interview(affirmation from personnel),

Test(demonstration of implementation).

✅Step 2: Clarify the Official Minimum Standard for a Practice to be Scored METThe CAP explicitly states:

“A practice can only be scored MET when a minimum oftwo types of evidencefrom the E-I-T (Examine, Interview, Test) triad are successfully collected and evaluated.”

Theevidence types must come from two different categories, for example:

An artifact(Examine)+ an interview affirmation(Interview),

A demonstration(Test)+ an interview(Interview),

Etc.

This cross-validation ensures that the control isimplemented, documented, and understoodby personnel — a core principle in assessing effective cybersecurity implementation.

❌Why the Other Options Are IncorrectA. All three types of evidence are documented for every control✘Incorrect:While collecting all three types (E-I-T) strengthens the assessment, theminimum requirementis onlytwo. Collecting all three isnot requiredfor a practice to be scoredMET.

B. Examine and accept evidence from one of the three evidence types✘Incorrect:This fails to meet theminimum two-evidence-type requirementset by the CAP. Single-source evidence is not sufficient to score a practice as MET.

C. Complete one of the following; examine two artifacts, observe one demonstration, or receive one affirmation✘Incorrect:Even if two artifacts are examined,this is still only one type of evidence(Examine). The CAP requires twotypes— not two instances of the same type.

✅Why D is CorrectD. Complete two of the following: examine one artifact, either observe a satisfactory demonstration of one control or receive one affirmation from the OSC personnel.

✔ This directly reflects theCAP’s requirement for collecting two different types of objective evidenceto determine a practice is MET.

BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front):To score a CMMC Level 2 practice asMET, the Assessment Team must collecta minimum of two distinct types of evidence— from theExamine, Interview, Test (E-I-T)categories. This requirement is clearly stated in the CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) v1.0.