252.204-7012 — Safeguarding Covered Defense Information and Cyber Incident Reporting
Researched by the BidStride Research Team
What This Clause Requires
Requires contractors to implement NIST SP 800-171 security controls to protect Covered Defense Information (CDI) processed on contractor information systems. Mandates rapid cyber incident reporting (72 hours) to DoD.
Official Regulation Text
See 48 CFR 252.204-7012 for the full regulatory text.
Compliance Checklist
- Implement NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2 security controls on all covered contractor information systems
- Report cyber incidents to DoD Cyber Crime Center (DC3) within 72 hours of discovery
- Preserve images of compromised systems for 90 days
- Submit a Medium Assurance certificate to report incidents
- Conduct a review of all media containing CDI for evidence of compromise
Flow-Down to Subcontractors
Flow-down required
This clause must be included in subcontracts with all subcontractors at all tiers where the subcontractor will perform work covered by this clause. Typically appears in contract Sections H, I.
This summary is for informational purposes only and reflects the BidStride Research Team's plain-English interpretation of the regulation. It is not legal advice and does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Always consult the official Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) or Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) text and qualified legal counsel for compliance decisions.