How to Secure Your PreVeil for DFARS and Get the DFARS Badge/Seal

Securing your PreVeil environment for DFARS (Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement) compliance is essential if you handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) for the Department of Defense (DoD). Below is a practical, detailed guide to understanding DFARS, how PreVeil helps, and what steps you need to take—even if you don’t have a cybersecurity background.

• Understand the Basics: DFARS clause 252.204-7012 requires organizations to safeguard CUI and report cyber incidents. It wants you to follow the NIST SP 800-171 security controls, a federal standard with 110 requirements for protecting information in non-federal systems and organizations.
• Why PreVeil? PreVeil is an encrypted email and file sharing platform designed for easy defense-grade protection of CUI. PreVeil helps cover most NIST SP 800-171 controls out-of-the-box, including end-to-end encryption and strong access controls.
• Step 1: Set Up PreVeil Correctly
  • Deploy PreVeil for all users who handle CUI (including executives and contractors).
  • Ensure everyone uses PreVeil for ALL communications and file exchanges of CUI. Avoid using non-compliant email systems.
  • Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all PreVeil accounts.
  • Set up User and Admin accounts with appropriate permissions. Do not share accounts.
  • Make sure devices used with PreVeil are up to date, have antivirus, and full disk encryption enabled.
• Step 2: Policies and Procedures
  • Create a written Data Handling Policy stating that CUI is only handled within PreVeil.
  • Train all staff annually on handling CUI and incident reporting procedures.
  • Document processes: how new users are added, how you retire users, and how you control/prevent unauthorized access.
  • Set up a security incident response plan: who to notify, what to do in case of a suspected breach.
• Step 3: Assess and Close Gaps
  • Measure your compliance—compare your practices to NIST SP 800-171’s 110 requirements.
  • Document everything, including what you’re doing now, and your plans (called a POA&M, Plan of Actions and Milestones) for any missing items.
  • Work with experienced consultancies like OCD Tech for a professional readiness assessment. They specialize in helping small and mid-sized firms identify their weak spots, generate required documentation, and prepare for audit.
• Step 4: Prepare for the DFARS Badge/Seal (“How to Get How to Secure Your PreVeil for DFARS Badge/Seal”)
  • Register in the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) and upload your NIST SP 800-171 self-assessment score as required by the DoD.
  • Maintain evidence: screenshots, policies, logs, and training records. Auditors look for proof, not just promises.
  • Stay audit-ready by reviewing controls every 6-12 months and updating your POA&M when you make improvements.
  • If you want extra confidence for passing an audit and displaying a compliance seal, use readiness assessment services from OCD Tech. They guide you through all documentation, technical configurations, and can provide a third-party attestation for your clients or partners, bolstering your credibility.
• What Auditors Care Most About
  • Is CUI segregated and always protected?
  • Are users following your policies (including contractors)?
  • Are policies, controls, and devices enforced—WITH EVIDENCE?
  • Do you have a clear POA&M for any gaps?
  • Do you promptly report security incidents?
  • Has a qualified third party, like OCD Tech, validated your controls?