What this control covers
This control requires implementing cryptographic mechanisms to protect the confidentiality of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). The cryptography must align with applicable laws, regulations, and standards, with FIPS-validated cryptography recommended for CUI protection. This control supports the Cryptographic Protection capability within the Situational Awareness (3.13) family.
Why it matters
Risk is the language an executive team understands; this control connects technical reality to board-level decisions and budget allocation.
How to implement
AWS
Codify the policy intent as SCPs, AWS Config conformance packs, and Security Hub standards so the cloud enforces what the document says.
Azure
Codify in Azure Policy initiatives (built-in regulatory compliance for CIS, ISO 27001, SOC 2, HIPAA) and assign at management-group level.
On-premises
Maintain a policy library with a documented review cadence (annual minimum); store in your GRC tool with attestation tracking. Map each policy to controls so an audit pull cites the exact policy clause.
Evidence to collect
policy_document— A signed, version-controlled policy stating leadership intent and the named owner.infra_scan— See the iCompaas Evidence library for the canonical source for this evidence type.
Signed policy or standard documents the safeguard. Focus: Cryptographic Protection.
Quick checklist
- Information — Management / Cui
- Protection — Management / Cui
- Risk — Management / Cui
- Cryptographic — Management / Cui
- Policy — Management / Cui
Related articles on this site
- NIST 800-171 3.8.6 Implement cryptographic mechanisms to protect the confidentiality of CUI stored on digital media during transport unless otherwise protected by alternative physical safeguards.
- NIST 800-171 3.1.13 Employ cryptographic mechanisms to protect the confidentiality of remote access sessions.
- NIST 800-171 3.13.11 Employ FIPS-validated cryptography when used to protect the confidentiality of CUI.
- CMMC 2.0 AC.3.014 Employ cryptographic mechanisms to protect the confidentiality of remote access sessions.