Protecting UEI and CAGE codes requires vigilant security practices within SAM.gov. Organizations should designate multiple administrators with security training, enable two-factor authentication, and conduct quarterly reviews of account activity. Direct engagement with official government channels reduces risks associated with third-party services that may charge unnecessary fees or mishandle information. Warning signs include suspicious communications from non-government addresses, unexpected payment requests, and unauthorized registration changes. The following security measures will provide extensive protection for these essential federal contracting identifiers.
Why Safeguarding Your UEI and CAGE Code Matters
Every government contractor must protect their Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code with the same vigilance they would apply to financial information or proprietary data.
These identifiers serve as digital keys to government contracting opportunities, making them valuable targets for unauthorized access.
The risks involved with compromised identifiers extend beyond simple administrative issues. Unauthorized access can lead to fraudulent contract activities, financial losses, and damaged relationships with federal agencies.
Additionally, compliance importance cannot be overstated, as failure to maintain secure identifiers may result in non-compliance with federal regulations, potentially triggering penalties or contract termination. Since April 2022, the UEI has replaced DUNS numbers as the standard identifier for federal contracts.
Be wary of using unvetted third-party services for SAM registration as they may mishandle your sensitive information or charge excessive fees.
For contractors, safeguarding these codes protects not only immediate contract opportunities but also long-term business reputation within the government procurement ecosystem. Remember that annual updates in the System for Award Management are required to maintain valid registration status.
Best Practices for Securing Your SAM Account Information
While establishing a government contracting presence requires obtaining UEI and CAGE codes, securing these valuable identifiers demands equally rigorous attention to your System for Award Management (SAM) account. Implementing proper account management protocols prevents unauthorized access and protects your business from potential fraud. Regular updates of your SAM information help maintain account integrity and prevent administrative delays in federal contract processing. Phishing attempts targeting SAM.gov users have increased significantly, making vigilance essential for protecting sensitive company information. Creating strong passwords that combine letters, numbers, and symbols is fundamental to preventing unauthorized access to your SAM credentials.
| Security Measure | Implementation Strategy |
|---|---|
| Administrator Controls | Appoint at least two SAM Administrators with security training |
| Authentication | Enable two-factor authentication for all Login.gov accounts |
| Monitoring | Review account activity quarterly for suspicious changes |
| Validation Procedures | Verify all business information matches across government databases |
Organizations should establish regular review cycles every 3-6 months to validate SAM registration details and guarantee continued compliance. SAM Administrators should undergo periodic security training to recognize phishing attempts and follow proper protocols when responding to communications claiming to be from government entities.
Warning Signs of Potential UEI and CAGE Code Compromise
Vigilant business owners must recognize the warning signs that indicate potential compromise of their UEI or CAGE code credentials.
Suspicious communications from non-government email addresses, especially those containing spelling errors or creating artificial urgency, often signal scam attempts. Messages requesting payment for SAM-related services particularly warrant caution.
Monitor your SAM account for unauthorized changes to registration information, unexplained recent activity, or logins from unfamiliar locations. Legitimate communications about SAM registration will always originate from official government sources rather than third-party domains like samamprocessingcenter.com.
Be alert to third-party “mediation services” claiming to manage CAGE code modifications for a fee, as these are typically fraudulent. Remember that all legitimate SAM registration processes are completely free and never require payment for renewals or technical support.
Spoofed email domains that mimic official government addresses (like gsassam.com instead of .gov domains) represent another common tactic used by scammers. Education and awareness initiatives help businesses identify these fraudulent schemes that exploit those seeking government contracts.
When communications lack personalization or contain inaccurate expiration dates, treat them with heightened suspicion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Update My SAM Registration Information?
SAM registrations require annual renewal, with updates recommended two months before expiration. Immediate updates are necessary for entity structure, contact information, NAICS code, and banking detail changes to maintain federal contract eligibility.
Can I Have Multiple UEI Numbers for Different Business Locations?
Yes, separate UEI numbers are required for different business locations when each operates as a distinct legal entity. Each location independently participating in federal contracting must complete its own SAM registration requirements.
What Happens if My CAGE Code Expires?
When a CAGE code expires due to an inactive SAM registration, significant implications arise. The entity faces registration consequences including federal contract ineligibility, grant disqualification, payment disruptions, and potential supply chain relationship strain.
Can Foreign Entities Obtain UEI and CAGE Codes?
Foreign entities can obtain UEIs through SAM.gov registration but receive NCAGE codes instead of CAGE codes. The registration process requires an NCAGE application first, followed by SAM.gov registration for foreign entity eligibility.
Is a CAGE Code Transferable During Business Acquisitions?
CAGE codes are not directly transferable during business acquisitions. Each code is tied to specific legal entities and locations. Ownership changes require formal processes including novation agreements to maintain contractual obligations with federal agencies.