FedRAMP Continuous Monitoring Requirements: Monthly Scans, Annual Assessments and Significant Changes

Monthly Scans and Ongoing Reporting

• Authenticated vulnerability scanning across the authorization boundary on the programme cadence (commonly monthly)
• Track, risk-rank, and remediate findings into the POA&M
• Deliver ConMon deliverables to the authorizing official / PMO per your authorization agreement

Annual Assessments

A FedRAMP-accredited 3PAO performs annual assessment activities to confirm controls continue to operate. Treat annual assessment as a planned campaign: freeze evidence packs, refresh SSP deltas, and close high-risk POA&M items before fieldwork.

Significant Changes

Architecture shifts, new services inside the boundary, major identity changes, or crypto module swaps can be significant changes. Document impact, update the SSP, and engage the AO / 3PAO for testing as required — do not silently expand the boundary.

Telemetry That Makes ConMon Defensible

• AU logging and retention (see audit logging requirements)
• Vulnerability and configuration management evidence
• Incident response tickets tied to detections
• Inventory accuracy for assets in scope

How CyberSilo Helps

• Evidence workflows for SSP, POA&M, and control status via Compliance Standards Automation
• ThreatHawk SIEM for AU-family logging, ConMon telemetry, and investigation evidence
• Advisory scoping for readiness, baseline selection, and agency-path planning — contact CyberSilo

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ConMon only monthly scans?

No. Scanning is a core cadence, but ConMon also includes reporting, annual assessment, POA&M hygiene, and significant-change control.

What happens if we miss ConMon deliverables?

Authorization risk increases — AOs and the PMO can require corrective action or, in severe cases, threaten authorization status.

Does 20x change ConMon?

Expect more emphasis on continuous, machine-readable indicators. Keep Rev 5 ConMon obligations intact until your package formally transitions.

Related FedRAMP Resources

ThreatHawk FedRAMP · POA&M 30/90/180 · 20x · Hub