During this month’s MAD Security Cybersecurity Town Hall, hosts Adam Starnes and Jaclyn Jones explained how the new rule affects organizations across the Defense Industrial Base. They discussed what the changes mean for contract eligibility, NIST 800-171 requirements, and the path to achieving CMMC assessment readiness.
48 CFR Final Rule Makes CMMC 2.0 OfficialThe 48 CFR update now formally requires CMMC Level 2 certification for contractors that handle CUI. This marks the end of the voluntary preparation phase and the beginning of mandatory compliance.
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SPRS Scoring and Affirmation RequirementsThe Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) now requires detailed scoring for all 110 NIST 800 171 controls. Organizations must provide documentation that supports their scores. Unsubstantiated or inaccurate submissions may result in False Claims Act liability or contract loss.
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Prime Contractors Are Enforcing Compliance EarlyPrime contractors have begun requiring subcontractors to show proof of CMMC progress. This includes SPRS scores, System Security Plans, POAMs, and remediation timelines.
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Start with a CMMC Gap AssessmentA CMMC Level 2 Gap Assessment is the most effective starting point. It evaluates current controls, identifies deficiencies, and creates a roadmap for remediation and assessment preparation.
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Partner with a Certified MSSPInterpreting control requirements can be challenging. MAD Security provides guidance through its Virtual Compliance Manager (VCM) program, which supports organizations through remediation, documentation, and CMMC assessment preparation. Our experts participate with clients during their C3PAO assessment sessions to help ensure clarity and accuracy.
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MAD Security is a CMMC Level 2 Certified MSSP with a perfect SPRS score of 110. Our mission is to support the Defense Industrial Base by delivering unmatched cybersecurity and compliance expertise.
| Top 250 MSSP for four consecutive years |
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| 85 percent of clients are defense contractors | |
| Cyber AB Registered Practitioner Organization | |
| The same experts who passed MAD’s CMMC assessment support our clients | |
| U.S. based 24/7 SOC staffed by cleared cybersecurity professionals | |
| Seamless alignment with Microsoft, Fortinet, and other major platforms |
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| Services covering GRC, SOCaaS, MDR, VCM, Risk Assessments, and Pen Testing | |
| Veteran Owned Small Business leadership |
Our experience ensures that clients are preparing assessments using the same high standards that helped us earn our own certification.
With the 48 CFR rule now in effect, organizations cannot afford to wait. Delaying CMMC preparation increases the risk of:
| Loss of new contract opportunities | |
| Failed assessments due to incomplete documentation | |
| Pressure from primes to demonstrate immediate progress | |
| High unexpected remediation costs | |
| Competitive disadvantage in DIB contracting |
Taking early action supports:
| Stronger cybersecurity maturity | |
| Predictable remediation budgeting | |
| Better relationships with prime contractors | |
| Reduced stress during assessment preparation |
Assessment readiness requires time.
MAD Security offers several free resources to support your compliance journey:
| CMMC Master Bundle with key templates and tools |
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| CMMC Assessment Guide outlining the full CMMC process |
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| Free Pre-Assessment with 30 readiness questions |
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| Free Consultation with MAD’s compliance experts |
These tools offer practical support to help organizations strengthen compliance and improve readiness at any stage of their cybersecurity journey.
CMMC is now a permanent requirement for defense contractors, and preparation is an ongoing responsibility. The most successful organizations begin early, build solid cybersecurity habits, and maintain readiness beyond their certification date. You are not alone in this process. MAD Security is ready to guide you every step of the way with proven expertise and mission aligned support.
Original Published Date: December 2025
By: MAD Security