Sharp takes on CMMC, Zero Trust, Secure AI, pentesting, and supply chain security for federal, state, commercial, and DIB teams.https://www.intersecinc.com/en-ushttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/gsa-quietly-adds-cmmc-style-rules-for-civilian-contractors/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/gsa-quietly-adds-cmmc-style-rules-for-civilian-contractors/GSA just moved the goalposts. Learn why civilian contractors must meet stricter-than-CMMC standards, including NIST 800-171 Rev 3 and "showstopper" controls.Fri, 15 May 2026 13:08:34 GMTcybersecurityhttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-to-build-a-stronger-ai-governance-strategy-by-integrating-iso-42001-with-nist-standards/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-to-build-a-stronger-ai-governance-strategy-by-integrating-iso-42001-with-nist-standards/ISO 42001 vs. NIST AI RMF is not an either/or choice. Learn how to layer these frameworks to build a certifiable, audit-ready AI Management System (AIMS).Fri, 15 May 2026 13:08:34 GMTsecure-aihttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/iso-27001-certified-organizations-are-already-40-percent-done-with-iso-42001/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/iso-27001-certified-organizations-are-already-40-percent-done-with-iso-42001/Your ISO 27001 ISMS provides the foundation for an AI Management System. Learn exactly which clauses transfer and how to accelerate your ISO 42001 certification by 40 percent.Fri, 15 May 2026 13:08:34 GMTsecure-aihttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/booking-your-c3pao-assessment-must-happen-while-you-are-still-writing-your-ssp/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/booking-your-c3pao-assessment-must-happen-while-you-are-still-writing-your-ssp/The CMMC scheduling trap is a sequencing error. Learn why the 6 to 12-month C3PAO backlog requires you to run documentation and scheduling in parallel to protect your contract renewals.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-assessors-will-test-your-people-and-live-systems-not-just-your-paperwork/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-assessors-will-test-your-people-and-live-systems-not-just-your-paperwork/Your SSP is only one-third of the CMMC assessment. Learn how C3PAO auditors use Interview and Test methods to find the gap between policy and operational reality.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-compliance-2025-insights-from-cyber-ab-town-hall-and-what-they-mean-for-defense-contractors/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-compliance-2025-insights-from-cyber-ab-town-hall-and-what-they-mean-for-defense-contractors/Explore the latest CMMC compliance updates from the May 2025 Cyber AB Town Hall. Learn what defense contractors must know to prepare, certify faster, and stay competitive in the DoD supply chain.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-compliance-a-checklist-and-guide/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-compliance-a-checklist-and-guide/Discover the must-know secrets for smooth CMMC compliance. Stay secure, protect your contracts, and get ahead of evolving cyber threats, starting now!Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-compliance-checklist-for-dod-contractors/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-compliance-checklist-for-dod-contractors/Explore our essential CMMC Compliance Checklist to ensure your defense contracting business meets DoD cybersecurity standards and safeguards sensitive information effectively. Start your CMMC preparation today!Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-compliance-mandatory-defense-contractors-trump-admin/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-compliance-mandatory-defense-contractors-trump-admin/CMMC is no longer optional. The Trump administration’s DFARS rule makes compliance a contractual requirement, forcing defense executives to act now or risk losing eligibility.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-enclaves-for-rapid-cmmc-compliance/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-enclaves-for-rapid-cmmc-compliance/Tired of confusing CMMC 2.0 demands? Dive in to discover simple, budget-friendly “enclave” strategies that keep your sensitive data safe and your DoD contracts on track.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-phase-2-enforcement-in-november-2026-will-leave-unprepared-contractors-behind/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/cmmc-phase-2-enforcement-in-november-2026-will-leave-unprepared-contractors-behind/CMMC Phase 2 begins November 2026. Learn why the transition from Phase 1 self-assessments to C3PAO certification requires early action to protect your DoD revenue.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/decoding-executive-order-14306-key-cybersecurity-changes-federal-contractors-must-know/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/decoding-executive-order-14306-key-cybersecurity-changes-federal-contractors-must-know/Stay ahead of cybersecurity compliance with this clear guide to Executive Order 14306. Learn essential changes, timelines, and actions federal contractors and critical infrastructure operators must take now.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/develop-your-cmmc-budget-with-cost-benchmarks-and-saving-strategies/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/develop-your-cmmc-budget-with-cost-benchmarks-and-saving-strategies/So, you’ve wrapped your head around CMMC 2.0, scoped your Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and even printed a copy of NIST 800-171 to keep on your desk. Now comes the awkward part: What’s this going to cost, and how do you keep the price tag from eating your margin? This guide answers both questions in plain English, using real numbers from recent rule-making documents, assessor quotes, and small-business case studies.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/effective-poam-tactics-for-cmmc-compliance-that-pass-auditor-scrutiny/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/effective-poam-tactics-for-cmmc-compliance-that-pass-auditor-scrutiny/A practical, 1-stop guide (With POA&M Template) for primes and subs who want to turn “NOT MET” controls into a green light, without annoying their C3PAOSun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/flow-down-101-prime-subcontractor-responsibilities-under-cmmc/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/flow-down-101-prime-subcontractor-responsibilities-under-cmmc/Your complete guide to keeping every tier of the defense-industrial supply chain compliant, and your contracts safe.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-a-cmmc-consultant-can-help-you-achieve-cybersecurity-compliance/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-a-cmmc-consultant-can-help-you-achieve-cybersecurity-compliance/Ensure your organization is protected with the help of a CMMC consultant. Learn about the role of a cybersecurity consultant in the CMMC compliance process and what to consider when choosing a consulting company. Discover the costs and other factors involved in achieving CMMC complianceSun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-b2b-saas-companies-use-iso-42001-to-close-enterprise-deals-faster/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-b2b-saas-companies-use-iso-42001-to-close-enterprise-deals-faster/Your AI policy isn't enough to close enterprise deals anymore. Learn how to bridge the documentation gap with ISO 42001 and move through procurement in weeks, not months.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTsecure-aihttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-does-c-scrm-enhance-the-security-of-your-businesss-supply-chains/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-does-c-scrm-enhance-the-security-of-your-businesss-supply-chains/Learn how to reinforce your supply chain against rising cyber threats. This blog highlights the strategic application of NIST-endorsed C-SCRM practices to advance your cybersecurity, ensuring complete resilience and strict compliance in challenging digital environment.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTc-scrmhttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-much-does-it-cost-to-get-your-cmmc-2-0-compliance/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-much-does-it-cost-to-get-your-cmmc-2-0-compliance/The Department of Defense is in the process of implementing CMMC 2.0 requirements for the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Contractors should stay informed about the latest timelines and prepare accordingly.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-to-achieve-a-perfect-110-in-sprs-quick-entry-4-0-for-cmmc-level-2-compliance/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-to-achieve-a-perfect-110-in-sprs-quick-entry-4-0-for-cmmc-level-2-compliance/Step-by-step SPRS Quick Entry 4.0 guide that walks defense contractors through submitting a flawless 110-point CMMC Level 2 self-assessment. Learn prerequisites, data-entry tips, and common errors to avoid so you can meet DoD requirements fast and keep contract opportunities open.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-to-avoid-costly-mistakes-by-sequencing-cmmc-assessments-correctly/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-to-avoid-costly-mistakes-by-sequencing-cmmc-assessments-correctly/Avoid costly CMMC mistakes by sequencing Gap and Readiness Assessments first. Get NIST SP 800-171 compliance right and protect defense contracts.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-to-choose-a-cmmc-compliant-msp-for-defense-contractors/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-to-choose-a-cmmc-compliant-msp-for-defense-contractors/Discover how defense contractors can select the right CMMC-compliant MSP to secure contracts, ensure compliance, and protect critical revenue streams.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-to-use-technical-discovery-to-map-shadow-ai-and-meet-iso-42001-clause-6-2-2/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/how-to-use-technical-discovery-to-map-shadow-ai-and-meet-iso-42001-clause-6-2-2/ISO 42001 Clause 6.2.2 requires a complete AI system inventory, but Shadow AI makes surveys useless. Learn why technical discovery is essential to close the compliance gap, map all unmanaged tools, and stop unauthorized data egress and security risks.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTsecure-aihttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/iot-security-challenges/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/iot-security-challenges/Read our article on IOT Security. From ransomware attacks to bad actor vulnerabilities, learn about IoT security challenges and how manufacturers can design secure devices without sacrificing ease-of-use. Explore the security vulnerabilities of IoT protocols and the importance of secure implementation.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTpentestinghttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/iso-42001-auditors-test-your-management-system-not-just-your-ai-policy/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/iso-42001-auditors-test-your-management-system-not-just-your-ai-policy/ISO 42001 requires an operational management system with auditable evidence. Learn why a policy alone fails audits and how to close the gap before the EU AI Act deadline.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTsecure-aihttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/iso-42001-implementation-is-an-operational-build-not-a-documentation-project/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/iso-42001-implementation-is-an-operational-build-not-a-documentation-project/ISO 42001 is a system build, not a documentation sprint. Learn why a certifiable AI Management System requires operational evidence and how to work through the four-phase roadmap.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTsecure-aihttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/nist-cybersecurity-framework-2-0/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/nist-cybersecurity-framework-2-0/Discover how NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 boosts your business's cybersecurity risk management with new governance functions, supply chain security, and broad sector applicability, ensuring strong defense against cyber threats.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/nist-guidelines-for-cybersecurity-supply-chain-risk-management/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/nist-guidelines-for-cybersecurity-supply-chain-risk-management/Explore NIST's guidelines for Cybersecurity Supply Chain Risk Management (C-SCRM), essential for safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring operational continuity. Learn how to identify, assess, and mitigate supply chain risks using NIST's structured approach.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTc-scrmhttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/preventing-software-supply-chain-attacks-essential-lessons-and-strategic-insights/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/preventing-software-supply-chain-attacks-essential-lessons-and-strategic-insights/As businesses rely on third-party software, supply chain attacks pose rising risks. Learn strategic insights on preventing these threats through vendor assessments, secure development practices, and continuous monitoring.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTc-scrmhttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/proposed-cmmc-rule/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/proposed-cmmc-rule/On December 26th, 2023, the DoD released the Proposed CMMC Rule, introducing pivotal changes and a phased approach that will notably influence the implementation of CMMC requirements. Learn more about what to anticipate.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/securing-industrial-iot-mitigating-risks-and-ensuring-resilience-in-industry-4-0/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/securing-industrial-iot-mitigating-risks-and-ensuring-resilience-in-industry-4-0/Discover the critical importance of IIoT security in Industry 4.0 and learn about the risks and challenges facing organizations. Explore the best practices for maintaining the safety and resilience of IIoT systems. Gain valuable insights and stay ahead of emerging threats with our in-depth IIoT blog.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTpentestinghttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/securing-iot-devices-owasp-top-10-vulnerabilities/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/securing-iot-devices-owasp-top-10-vulnerabilities/Dive into a thorough analysis of the OWASP Top 10 IoT vulnerabilities and learn how to secure IoT devices and environments by addressing common attack vectors. Stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of IoT security.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTpentestinghttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-180-day-cmmc-poa-m-clock-is-already-running-against-your-certification/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-180-day-cmmc-poa-m-clock-is-already-running-against-your-certification/Conditional CMMC Status triggers a mandatory 180-day POA&M closeout window. Learn which controls are ineligible for deferral to protect your Level 2 certification.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-ai-governance-evidence-enterprise-procurement-teams-demand-from-every-vendor/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-ai-governance-evidence-enterprise-procurement-teams-demand-from-every-vendor/Enterprise buyers now distinguish between AI policies and operating management systems. Learn how to satisfy procurement questionnaires with ISO 42001 artifacts and per-system impact assessments.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTsecure-aihttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-essential-role-of-soc-analysts-in-strengthening-cybersecurity/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-essential-role-of-soc-analysts-in-strengthening-cybersecurity/Discover the critical role of Security Operations Center (SOC) Analysts in protecting your organization from cyber threats, their key responsibilities, career path, certifications, and challenges faced by SOC teams.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcyber-workforce-developmenthttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-essentials-of-security-operations-centers-soc/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-essentials-of-security-operations-centers-soc/Discover the essentials of Security Operations Centers (SOC) in this blog, covering the importance, types, roles, key components, benefits, and challenges of implementing a SOC. Learn about Managed SOC services as a valuable solution to address these challenges.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTsochttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-importance-of-software-supply-chain-security--insights-from-the-2024-dbir-report/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-importance-of-software-supply-chain-security--insights-from-the-2024-dbir-report/The 2024 Verizon DBIR reveals a sharp increase in software supply chain attacks. Discover why securing your software supply chain is crucial, learn about high-profile incidents, and explore strategic measures to mitigate these escalating threats. Stay informed and protect your organization against vulnerabilities and sophisticated cyber adversaries.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTc-scrmhttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-logical-components-of-zero-trust/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-logical-components-of-zero-trust/As defined by NIST SP 800-207: Zero Trust Architecture, the three core logical components of the ZTA are the Policy Decision Point (PDP), the Policy Information Points (PIPs), and the Policy Enforcement Point (PEP). Read the article for more detail.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTzero-trusthttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-role-of-meps-in-helping-us-manufacturers-navigating-cybersecurity-challenges/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/the-role-of-meps-in-helping-us-manufacturers-navigating-cybersecurity-challenges/Dive into must-know cybersecurity tactics, explore MEP partnerships, and learn how future-proof strategies can keep your US manufacturing operations safe and thriving.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/three-silent-traps-that-sink-a-cmmc-level-2-assessment/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/three-silent-traps-that-sink-a-cmmc-level-2-assessment/Don't let a polished SSP mask operational gaps. Learn how missing evidence, BYOD scope creep, and strict POA&M limits lead to NOT MET findings during a CMMC Level 2 assessment.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/top-penetration-testing-methodologies-and-standards-for-optimal-cybersecurity/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/top-penetration-testing-methodologies-and-standards-for-optimal-cybersecurity/Explore the top penetration testing methodologies and standards crucial for effective cybersecurity. Understand how OSSTMM, OWASP, MITRE ATT&CK, NIST, PTES, and ISSAF help organizations identify vulnerabilities, enhance security posture, and ensure regulatory compliance. Learn why adopting these standards is essential for protecting digital assets and mitigating cyber threats.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTpentestinghttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/transforming-hidden-risks-into-business-resilience-with-api-security/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/transforming-hidden-risks-into-business-resilience-with-api-security/A strategic guide for leaders on API security. Learn to quantify API risks, close governance gaps, and implement a resilient framework to protect your enterprise from today’s number one attack vector.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTpentestinghttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/understanding-the-cost-of-cmmc-non-compliance/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/understanding-the-cost-of-cmmc-non-compliance/Explore the significant risks and costs of CMMC non-compliance for defense contractors, including severe legal penalties, substantial financial losses, and reputational damage. Learn why rigorous adherence to CMMC standards is crucial for securing defense contracts and maintaining trust within the federal sector.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/what-is-cybersecurity-supply-chain-risk-management-c-scrm-and-why-should-you-care/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/what-is-cybersecurity-supply-chain-risk-management-c-scrm-and-why-should-you-care/Explore the critical role of Cybersecurity Supply Chain Risk Management (C-SCRM) in protecting supply chains from cyber threats. Essential for organizations seeking to enhance security, ensure operational continuity, and maintain customer trust in today's interconnected world.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTc-scrmhttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/what-is-pen-testing-and-why-is-it-important-in-software-testing/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/what-is-pen-testing-and-why-is-it-important-in-software-testing/Discover the importance of penetration testing in software security. Learn what pen testing is, its types, methodologies, and why it is crucial for identifying vulnerabilities, preventing data breaches, and ensuring compliance with regulations like PCI-DSS and HIPAA. Explore how regular pen testing enhances security posture and protects organizational reputation.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTpentestinghttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/what-is-zero-trust/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/what-is-zero-trust/The Zero Trust methodology demotes trust by applying authentication and authorization from the edge, using intelligent security services that combine cloud computing and Information technology to enable new levels of defense. Let's understand ZTA in detailSun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTzero-trusthttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/why-professional-penetration-testing-services-are-essential-for-cybersecurity/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/why-professional-penetration-testing-services-are-essential-for-cybersecurity/Discover why professional penetration testing services are crucial for cybersecurity. Learn how these services identify vulnerabilities, enhance security posture, ensure regulatory compliance, and provide unbiased assessments. Explore the benefits of using certified experts for thorough security testing, actionable insights, and ongoing support.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTpentestinghttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/why-securing-your-software-supply-chain-is-now-a-critical-leadership-responsibility/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/why-securing-your-software-supply-chain-is-now-a-critical-leadership-responsibility/Cyber threats to the software supply chain are rising. Learn why securing it is now a critical leadership responsibility and how to protect your organization’s assets and reputation.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTc-scrmhttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/your-2026-contract-renewals-are-already-at-risk-from-the-c3pao-assessment-backlog/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/your-2026-contract-renewals-are-already-at-risk-from-the-c3pao-assessment-backlog/The C3PAO backlog isn't an industry stat, it's a threat to your 2026 contract renewals. Learn why the assessor shortage means you must book your CMMC assessment now.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTcmmchttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/zero-trust-omb-implementation-strategy/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/zero-trust-omb-implementation-strategy/The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released an implementation strategy for a Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) that requires agencies to achieve specific Zero Trust security goals by the end of the fiscal year in 2024. The strategic goals outlined in the memorandum also align with CISA’s five pillars.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTzero-trusthttps://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/zero-trust-the-five-pillars-of-cisa-maturity-model/https://www.intersecinc.com/blogs/zero-trust-the-five-pillars-of-cisa-maturity-model/CISA Zero Trust Maturity Model provides a blueprint to help you continuously improve your security program. Taking a Zero Trust approach allows you to maximize the value of your security investment and mitigate cyber risk.Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:06:08 GMTzero-trust