CAC (Common Access Card)

What is CAC (Common Access Card)?

The Common Access Card (CAC) is a smart card used by the United States Department of Defense (DoD). It serves as the standard identification for active-duty military personnel, reserve components, civilian employees, and eligible contractor personnel. For government contractors, understanding the CAC's purpose and proper usage is crucial for compliance with security protocols and fulfilling contractual obligations.

Definition

The CAC is a critical component of the DoD's security infrastructure, providing both physical and logical access control. It's mandated by DoD regulations, primarily DoD Instruction 1000.13, "Identification (ID) Cards for Members of the Uniformed Services, Eligible Family Members, and Other Eligible Personnel." The card contains digitally stored personal information, including the holder's photograph, name, rank, and other relevant data. It uses a public key infrastructure (PKI) to enable secure authentication, digital signatures, and encryption. Contractors often require a CAC to access government facilities, computer networks, and secure online resources necessary to perform their contractual duties. Improper handling or misuse of a CAC can lead to serious security breaches and potential legal repercussions.

Key Points

• Access Control: CACs are essential for gaining entry to DoD facilities and accessing secure networks, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information and resources.
• Authentication: The card's embedded microchip and PKI certificates enable multi-factor authentication, strengthening security by requiring both the card and a personal identification number (PIN).
• Email Encryption and Digital Signatures: CACs are used for encrypting and digitally signing emails, protecting sensitive communications and verifying the sender's identity.
• Mandatory Compliance: Contractors must adhere to strict DoD policies regarding CAC usage, including proper storage, reporting lost or stolen cards, and avoiding unauthorized sharing or use.

Practical Examples

1. Accessing a Military Base: A contractor working on a construction project at a military base uses their CAC to pass through security checkpoints, verifying their identity and authorization to be on the premises.
2. Secure Email Communication: A contractor sending classified documents to a government client encrypts the email using their CAC, ensuring that only authorized recipients can read the contents.
3. Logging into a Government System: A contractor accesses a secure government website to submit project reports, using their CAC for authentication and authorization.