Collaborative Device Control
Prohibit remote activation of collaborative computing devices and provide indication of devices in use to users present at the device.
What an assessor scores, the objectives
SC.L2-3.13.12 is met only when every one of these 3 objectives, from NIST SP 800-171A, is satisfied. A single missed objective makes the whole requirement not met.
- a.collaborative computing devices are identified
- b.collaborative computing devices provide indication to users of devices in use
- c.remote activation of collaborative computing devices is prohibited
How a C3PAO checks it
NIST SP 800-171A defines three assessment methods. For SC.L2-3.13.12, an assessor uses these:
System and communications protection policy; procedures addressing collaborative computing; access control policy and procedures; system security plan; system design doc umentation; system audit logs and records; system configuration settings and associated documentation; other relevant documents or records
System or network administrators; personnel with information security responsibilities; system developer; personnel with responsibilities for managing collaborative computing devices
Mechanisms supporting or implementing management of remote activation of collaborative computing devices; mechanisms providing an indication of use of collaborative computing devices
What it means, in context
Collaborative computing devices include networked white boards, cameras, and microphones. Indication of use includes signals to users when collaborative computing devices are activated. Dedicated video conferencing systems, which rely on one of the participants calling or connecting to the other party to activate the video conference, are excluded.
Notification that a device is in use can include an indicator light that turns on or a specific text window that appears on screen. If a device does not have the means to alert a user when in use, the organization should provide manual means. Manual means can include, as necessary: • paper notification on entryways; and • locking entryways when a collaborative computing device is in use. This requirement is not intended to include technologies that enable users to share the contents of their computer screens via the internet. Example A group of remote employees at your company routinely collaborate using cameras and microphones attached to their computers [a]. To prevent the misuse of these devices, you disable the ability to turn on cameras or microphones remotely [c]. You ensure the machines alert users when the camera or microphone are in use with a light beside the camera and an onscreen notification [b]. Although remote activation is blocked, this enables users to see if the devices are active. Potential Assessment Considerations • Are the collaborative computing devices configured to provide indication to users when in use (e.g., a light, text notification, or audio tone) or are users alerted before entering a space (e.g., written notice posted outside the space) where they are in use [b]? • Are the collaborative computing devices configured to prevent them from being turned on without user interaction or consent [c]?
What passing evidence looks like
Collaborative devices (cameras, mics, room systems) not remotely activated without indication: the rule plus the note that conferencing tools show active indicators.
Common ways contractors fail SC.L2-3.13.12
- !For most shops this is Teams or Meet on laptops: the camera light and on screen indicators ARE the indication. State the rule against remote activation and the built in indicators; dedicated room systems need their settings shown.
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Prove SC.L2-3.13.12, and the other 109
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SC.L2-3.13.12 questions, answered
How many points is CMMC requirement SC.L2-3.13.12 worth?+
SC.L2-3.13.12 is worth 1 point in the CMMC Level 2 score under 32 CFR 170.24. If it is not met, you lose 1 from your total of 110.
Can SC.L2-3.13.12 be placed on a POA&M?+
Yes. A gap on SC.L2-3.13.12 can be deferred to a Plan of Action and Milestones, provided your overall score is 88 or better and the item closes within 180 days.
What family does SC.L2-3.13.12 belong to?+
SC.L2-3.13.12 is in the System & Communications Protection (SC) family, one of the 14 families of NIST SP 800-171 that make up CMMC Level 2.
- NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 3.13.12