Compliance with Department of Defense regulations is more than just a checklist—it’s a direct path to securing contracts and maintaining trust within the defense industry. However, even well-prepared organizations can miss critical details that lead to failed assessments. Many businesses assume their cybersecurity posture is solid, only to find that minor gaps in documentation or technical controls cause major setbacks. Understanding these overlooked requirements ensures a smooth path through the CMMC Level 2 Certification Assessment.
Missing or Outdated System Security Plans That Auditors Expect to Be Airtight
A System Security Plan (SSP) isn’t just a formality—it’s a foundational document that outlines how an organization protects sensitive data. Yet, many companies approach it as a one-time requirement instead of an evolving strategy. Outdated or incomplete SSPs raise red flags during the CMMC Level 2 Assessment, signaling to auditors that security practices may not align with actual operations.
A well-structured SSP needs to detail how security controls are implemented, monitored, and continuously improved. Many assessments fail because organizations submit vague documentation that lacks specifics on risk management, incident response, and ongoing security enhancements. CMMC Consulting experts recommend reviewing and updating SSPs regularly to ensure they accurately reflect both policy changes and real-world security practices. A weak SSP not only delays certification but also increases the risk of noncompliance penalties.
Weak Access Control Policies That Don’t Properly Limit Who Sees Sensitive Data
Data access restrictions are critical in protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), yet access control policies are often too broad or inconsistently enforced. Some organizations grant excessive privileges to employees who don’t need them, increasing the risk of unauthorized data exposure. A poorly structured access control policy creates compliance gaps that auditors will flag during a CMMC Certification Assessment.
Strict role-based access controls (RBAC) help mitigate these risks, ensuring only authorized personnel can view or modify sensitive data. Beyond setting initial access permissions, organizations must implement continuous monitoring to detect any unauthorized attempts. Without clear enforcement mechanisms, even the best-written policies become meaningless. Effective access control strategies not only strengthen security but also prevent unnecessary complications during assessments.
Incomplete Risk Assessments That Leave Cybersecurity Threats Unaddressed
A risk assessment should be a living document that evolves as new threats emerge, yet many organizations treat it as a one-time exercise. This oversight leads to outdated findings that fail to reflect real cybersecurity risks, making companies vulnerable to compliance failures. CMMC Level 2 Assessment requirements emphasize a proactive approach to risk management, yet many organizations struggle to demonstrate an ongoing evaluation process.
Assessments should go beyond surface-level vulnerabilities, identifying how threats impact both internal operations and external partners. Failure to regularly reassess and update risk management plans not only weakens cybersecurity defenses but also puts contract eligibility at risk. A strong risk assessment strategy includes frequent reviews, measurable action plans, and clear accountability for addressing vulnerabilities before they escalate.
Poorly Implemented Multi-factor Authentication That Doesn’t Meet Requirements
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a core security requirement, but not all implementations meet CMMC standards. Many organizations believe that enabling MFA on a few critical systems is enough to pass their assessment, only to find that gaps in enforcement cause compliance failures. Auditors look for consistent application across all systems handling CUI, ensuring that every login attempt includes a second layer of verification.
Common mistakes include failing to require MFA for remote access, using outdated authentication methods, or allowing users to bypass security controls. To meet assessment expectations, MFA should be applied organization-wide with strict enforcement policies. Companies that invest in properly configured authentication mechanisms not only strengthen compliance efforts but also reduce the risk of credential-based cyber threats.
Vendor and Subcontractor Security Risks That Go Unchecked in Supply Chains
A company’s security is only as strong as its weakest link, and third-party vendors often introduce significant risks. Many contractors focus on securing their internal systems while neglecting to assess the security posture of their suppliers and subcontractors. A weak supply chain can lead to compliance failures during a CMMC Level 2 Certification Assessment, as organizations are required to ensure all partners handling CUI meet the same standards.
Vendor risk assessments should be conducted regularly, with clear requirements outlined in contracts to ensure compliance. Organizations should also establish formal monitoring practices, ensuring that security expectations don’t end after an initial agreement. Ignoring supply chain vulnerabilities puts critical data at risk and jeopardizes certification, making third-party security oversight a key priority for successful assessments.
Unsecured Data Backups That Don’t Meet Compliance Standards
Data backups play a crucial role in cybersecurity resilience, but many organizations overlook their compliance requirements. Storing backups in unsecured locations, failing to encrypt sensitive data, or neglecting regular testing can all result in noncompliance during a CMMC Level 2 Assessment. Simply having backups isn’t enough—organizations must prove they are both secure and accessible in case of an incident.
Assessors expect clear documentation on how backups are managed, who has access, and how they are protected from cyber threats. Encryption should be standard practice, along with strict access controls that prevent unauthorized modifications. Regular testing ensures that backups function as expected, eliminating potential surprises during an audit. Proper backup management not only supports compliance but also strengthens an organization’s overall security posture.
