What this requirement asks
Implement cryptographic mechanisms to protect the confidentiality of CUI stored on digital media during transport unless otherwise protected by alternative physical safeguards.
This is a CMMC Level 2 requirement in the Media Protection family, drawn from NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2. An assessor evaluates it objective by objective — every objective below must be supported by evidence, not just described in a policy.
Assessment objectives (1)
- 3.8.6[a] — the confidentiality of CUI stored on digital media is protected during transport using cryptographic mechanisms or alternative physical safeguards
What an assessor examines
Examine:
- System media protection policy
- procedures addressing media transport
- system design documentation
- system security plan
- system configuration settings and associated documentation
- system media transport records
- system audit logs and records
- other relevant documents or records
Interview:
- Personnel with system media transport responsibilities
- personnel with information security responsibilities
Test:
- Cryptographic mechanisms protecting information on digital media during transportation outside controlled areas
Evidence that defends it
BitLocker/USB encryption evidence
Check your readiness
Score this requirement against your own environment with the Level 2 self-assessment checklist, or estimate your SPRS score with the free CMMC compliance tool. Self-reported answers are planning signals only — they do not establish a verified or assessor-accepted result.