Training & Education

CMMC Phase 2 Pause: Steps for Defense Contractors to Maintain CUI Compliance

Training & Education

CMMC Phase 2 Is Paused—CUI Compliance Is Not: What Defense Contractors Must Do Now

by Josh Manuel on Jul 23 2026
The Department of War has paused the rollout of CMMC Phase 2, but that does not mean CMMC Level 2, NIST SP 800-171, DFARS requirements, or CUI safeguarding obligations have been canceled or suspended. Contractors should use this review period to close security gaps, maintain accurate self-assessments, and continue protecting Controlled Unclassified Information—not put compliance efforts on hold.
How to Store Physical CUI During Work Hours and After Hours

Training & Education

How to Store Physical CUI During Work Hours and After Hours

by Josh Manuel on Jun 18 2026
During work hours, keep CUI under the control of authorized people and do not leave it where unauthorized people can access, view, or overhear it. After hours, decide storage based on whether the facility provides continuous monitoring of access. If it does, unlocked desks, cabinets, or containers may be acceptable under the DoD rule. If it does not, use locked desks, file cabinets, bookcases, locked rooms, or similarly secured areas.
CUI Compliance for European Companies

Training & Education

CUI Compliance for European Companies

by Josh Manuel on Jun 18 2026
European manufacturers and engineering firms supporting U.S. defense programs may be required to protect Controlled Unclassified Information, even when operating outside the United States. This article explains why CUI requirements travel with U.S. technical data, where physical compliance gaps often appear, and how EU facilities can prepare for U.S. defense supply chain expectations.
DoD contractor reviewing 8-step checklist to identify Controlled Unclassified Information CUI 2026

Training & Education

Do I Have CUI? 8-Step Checklist to Identify Controlled Unclassified Information for DoD Contractors (2026)

by Josh Manuel on Apr 22 2026
Not sure if your documents contain CUI? Use this exact 8-step checklist based on DoDI 5200.48 and dodcui.mil. Perfect for DoD contractors and CMMC compliance in 2026.