An Introductory guide for DFARS compliance
October 24, 2022 at 7:00 AM
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While DFARS compliance is critical to any contractor and company’s success, it can be wildly complicated and seem daunting to take on. However, you don’t need to fear, our skilled team at It’s Just Results is here to help you understand DFARS and DFARS compliance to a T. Making IT services approachable and easy is important to our team—and DFARS compliance is no different.

What is DFARS?

With the ever increasing threat of cyberattacks, the Department of Defense (DoD) has been placing a high priority on addressing cybersecurity threats and protecting sensitive information. That’s precisely what DFARS were created to address. DFARS stands for Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement and at it’s core is a set of regulations that seeks to enhance the security measures of organizations and their customers. DFARS guidelines are elaborate, and compliance is equal parts difficult and crucial.

DFARS requirements and guidelines are meant to ensure the integrity and safety of controlled unclassified information or (CUI) which basically means sensitive information belonging to individuals and third-parties, such as suppliers, partners, and businesses.

Cyber security was officially introduced to DFARS by the Department of Defense (DoD) in 2015 to ensure the confidentiality of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in electronic communication. All DoD contractors must meet the DFARS compliance requirements.

At Its Just Results, our team is up to date on all things DFARS. Our team maintains strict accordance with any DFARS guidelines new and old and ensure all of our client’s information is strictly regulated and up to date.

What is DFARS compliance?

DFARS compliance is essentially just a set of cybersecurity regulations that defense contractors and suppliers must follow in order to be awarded new DoD (Department of Defense) contracts. DFARS compliance protocols are rigid and comprehensive but are vital to the safety of the public’s information. As technology continues to develop and the complexity of cybersecurity threats continue to escalate, the federal government has to increase its priority for safeguarding sensitive defense information.

The specific goal of DFARS compliance is “to protect CUI under the control of defense contractors.” But to put it in plain English, it’s to keep information secure and safe and ensure any non-goverment entities that are handled sensitive information are maintaining rigid compliance with safety protocols.

This enforcement for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Covered Defense Information (CDI) has gotten particularly intense for private defense contractors and non-government employed personal. As a non-government employed entity, you’re often required to update your security frequently. At Its Just Results, we maintain a rigid schedule for updates and ensure our security measures are always up-to-date.

Who does DFARS compliance affect?

DFARS compliance is vast and far reaching.

DFARS 252.204.7000 and 7012 applies to all DoD contractors, vendors, and suppliers. It has been a requirement to comply with the DFARS clauses since December 2017.  Non-compliance may lead to an immediate loss of a contract and/or contracts with the Department of Defense.

It’s vital to maintain DFARS compliance to avoid legal issues and cyberattacks. However, you may still be wondering which companies must follow DFARS compliance regulations. The answer varies, but overall, your company must comply with the minimum DFARS standards if it provides procurement for the DoD, whether directly or indirectly. This also applies to all DoD primary and sub-contractors that process, store or transmit controlled unclassified information or (CUI).

Why work with It’s Just Results?

Our dedicated team at It’s Just Results is well-versed in all things data compliance. We keep businesses secure and in check, maintaining whatever compliance is necessary. When it comes to DFARS compliance, it’s vital to not skip out on working with the most skilled and experienced compliance contractors in the game. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at It’s Just Results and get started with your data compliance journey today.