Training & Education

How do you properly mark Controlled Unclassified Information? This guide explains how to identify, label, and protect CUI across documents, computers, digital media, manufacturing areas, and controlled workspaces. It covers core CUI marking requirements, best practices by media type, common audit-failure mistakes, and a simple step-by-step framework for building a consistent CUI marking program aligned with NIST SP 800-171, DFARS 252.204-7012, and CMMC.

If you work with the Department of Defense (DoD) or support the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), you’ve almost certainly heard the term CUI—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood concepts in compliance. Understanding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is foundational to DFARS, NIST SP 800-171, and CMMC compliance. This guide breaks it down clearly and practically.

Does ITAR or EAR-controlled technical data count as CUI under a DoD contract? In many cases, yes. When export-controlled technical data or technology is provided by the government or generated during DoD contract performance, it may qualify as CUI and require proper marking, access controls, and physical safeguarding. This guide explains how ITAR, EAR, DFARS 252.204-7012, and CUI requirements intersect, what manufacturers need to protect, and how to reduce compliance risk in engineering, production, quality, and visitor-access areas.

Important clarifications provided by the DoD were recently released on the CMMC Phase I timeline and the impact on contracts after the effective date. The deadline is September 2025... Are you ready?