Certified Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Professional (CCP) Practice Exam

Which method is NOT used for evidence collection by the C3PAO?

1. Artifact gather and availability

2. Random sampling of contractor employees

3. Interviews and observation approaches

4. Requests for information via surveys

The correct answer is: Random sampling of contractor employees

The correct response highlights that random sampling of contractor employees is not a method utilized for evidence collection by the Cybersecurity Compliance, Assurance, and Performance Assessment Organization (C3PAO). The C3PAO focuses on structured evidence collection methods that provide a clear understanding of a contractor's cybersecurity practices in compliance with the CMMC framework. Methods such as artifact gathering and availability, interviews, observations, and requests for information via surveys are all systematic approaches to collect relevant evidence. Artifact gathering involves reviewing documents, records, and other forms of evidence to assess compliance against CMMC standards. Interviews and observation approaches are used to directly assess processes and practices in place, providing insights from personnel responsible for implementation. Requests for information via surveys can help gauge a contractor's policies and procedures from an organizational perspective, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the cybersecurity environment. Randomly sampling contractor employees would lack the structured and formal approach necessary for C3PAO’s evidence collection efforts. It could also lead to inconsistencies in the quality of information gathered and does not effectively target the specific controls being assessed under the CMMC framework. Therefore, avoiding this method helps preserve the integrity and consistency of the evidence collection process.