SOCFortress Integrations — Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) Security Controls

3 min readSep 12, 2023

Intro

SOCFortress integration and visualization tools allow security analysts the visualization of CUI security controls for compliance purposes.

About Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)

Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is a category of sensitive but unclassified information in the United States that is subject to safeguarding and dissemination controls.

CUI includes information that, while not classified, is still sensitive and requires protection due to its potential impact on national security, privacy, or other important interests. The CUI program was established to standardize the way this information is handled across the federal government.

Some key points about Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI):

Definition: CUI is information that is not classified but is still sensitive and controlled by various laws, regulations, and government policies. This can encompass a wide range of data, including sensitive financial information, law enforcement data, privacy information, and more.
Protection and Handling: Agencies and organizations that handle CUI must follow specific guidelines and security measures to protect the information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or loss. These measures may include access controls, encryption, secure storage, and employee training.
Standardization: The CUI program aims to standardize how CUI is marked, handled, and protected across the federal government. This ensures consistent practices and enhances information sharing between agencies.
Sharing and Dissemination: CUI can be shared with authorized individuals and organizations as needed for official purposes, but it should not be disseminated to unauthorized parties.
Regulations and Oversight: The handling of CUI is governed by various laws, regulations, and executive orders, including Executive Order 13556, which established the CUI program. The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) oversees and provides guidance on the program’s implementation.
Impact on Businesses and Contractors: Private sector companies that work with the government may also be required to handle and protect CUI if they are given access to such information as part of their contracts. They must comply with CUI requirements to ensure the protection of sensitive government information.

CUI Categories

CUI is organized into categories, each with its own set of handling and safeguarding requirements. These categories include:

Critical Infrastructure Information (CII): Information related to the nation’s critical infrastructure sectors.
Defense Information: Information related to the Department of Defense.
Export Control: Information related to the export and transfer of controlled technology and goods.
Financial Information: Sensitive financial data.
Law Enforcement Information: Information related to law enforcement activities.
Legal Information: Privileged or sensitive legal information.
Privacy Information: Personal and sensitive information related to individuals.

Challenges: Implementing CUI requirements can be challenging, as they may vary depending on the specific category of CUI and the agency involved. Compliance with these requirements requires careful planning, training, and resources.

CUI security controls can be aligned with other security frameworks. As a reference see http://nist-800-171.certification-requirements.com/appendixdassessmentmethoddescriptions.html

Visualizations and Security Controls

Events Classified by CUI Security Control

Events Classified by Detection Rule (Wazuh)

Need Help?

The functionality discussed in this post, and so much more, are available via the SOCFortress platform. Let SOCFortress help you and your team keep your infrastructure secure.

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