NIST SP 800‑171: Securing Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) on Digital and Non‑Digital Media

Key Takeaways (TL;DR)

• Media Protection (MP) controls ensure CUI remains confidential from creation to destruction—whether on a USB drive, backup tape, or printed document.
• Labelling, encryption, and secure transport are non‑negotiable for compliant handling of both digital and non‑digital media.
• Total Assure's experts provide practical playbooks and managed services to help contractors implement MP controls without disrupting operations. citeturn0search0

Why Media Protection Matters

Data breaches often begin with lost laptops, stolen hard drives, or improperly disposed paper. NIST SP 800‑171's Media Protection family (controls 3.8.1 – 3.8.9) focuses on safeguarding CUI wherever it resides—on‑premise, in transit, or in long‑term storage. Proper execution reduces insider threats, accidental leakage, and supply‑chain compromise.

Breaking Down the Controls

1. Protect (and Control) All Media (3.8.1)

Establish and enforce security measures—such as encryption and tamper‑evident seals—for any media containing CUI. Maintain an inventory and track custody chains.

2. Limit Media Access (3.8.2)

Only authorized users in approved locations may access CUI media. Implement least privilege and secure storage (e.g., locked cabinets, safe rooms).

3. Mark Media Clearly (3.8.3)

Label digital and non‑digital media as "CUI" with classification markings and handling instructions. Color‑coding or bar‑coding aids quick visual identification.

4. Secure Transports (3.8.4)

Use encrypted containers (digital) or locked cases with tamper seals (physical) when moving media outside controlled areas. Employ approved couriers and require receipt confirmation.

5. Protect During Transport (3.8.5)

Monitor shipments end‑to‑end: GPS‑tracked couriers, shipping logs, and incident‑response plans for lost/stolen media.

6. Sanitize or Destroy Before Disposal (3.8.6)

Apply DoD 5220.22‑M or NIST SP 800‑88 destruction guidelines—e.g., secure erase, degaussing, shredding, or incineration—and retain certificates of destruction.

7. Document Sanitization Methods (3.8.7)

Keep detailed records of sanitization/destruction actions, dates, personnel, and verification steps for audit readiness.

8. Prohibit Unauthorized CUI Sharing (3.8.8)

Implement DLP rules and physical‑access restrictions to prevent unapproved transfer of CUI to public media (e.g., cloud drives, external social platforms).

9. Control Mobile Devices & Bring‑Your‑Own Media (3.8.9)

Enforce mobile‑device‑management (MDM), USB port control, and automatic encryption on portable drives/laptops. Require immediate reporting of lost devices.

Best Practices for Compliance

1. Encrypt by Default – FIPS‑validated encryption for all removable media.
2. Zero‑Trust USB Policy – Disable, restrict, or digitally sign USB devices.
3. Chain‑of‑Custody Logs – Use tamper‑proof logs or barcodes during media transfer.
4. Regular Training – Teach employees CUI handling and destruction protocols.
5. Monthly Media Audits – Verify inventory, markings, and storage conditions.

Next Steps with Total Assure

Achieving and maintaining NIST SP 800‑171 compliance can be challenging for SMB contractors. Total Assure's cybersecurity specialists:

• Conduct gap assessments focused on Media Protection controls.
• Design encryption and labeling workflows that integrate with existing operations.
• Deliver secure media‑destruction services and audit documentation.
• Provide 24/7 monitoring to detect unauthorized media use.

Ready to strengthen your Media Protection controls? Contact our team for a free consultation.

About Total Assure

Total Assure delivers cost‑efficient managed security, in‑house 24/7 SOC monitoring, and compliance consulting tailored for DoD contractors and regulated SMBs.