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The Cyber Essentials Certification was launched in 2014. Designed to help businesses protect themselves from cyber threats, this scheme is backed by the government. The Cyber Essentials scheme uses five technical controls that, if implemented and maintained correctly, will allow you to gain certification and demonstrate to your customers that you take cyber security seriously. Two levels of certification are available:
- Cyber Essentials
- Cyber Essentials Plus
Why would I want the certification?
If you have never been the victim of a cyber attack, it may seem pointless. With technology advancing, cyber attacks are becoming more common, and cyber threats are no longer a question of ‘if’ but ‘when’. You will have a solid foundation for your cyber defences with the certification. Cyber security is designed to keep your systems safe against the most common cyber threats rather than making your network impossible to breach (which is impossible due to technology’s constant advancement). As a result of implementing Cyber Essentials – and correctly maintaining the five key controls – you will be protected from nearly eighty percent of cyber threats, a very large number that should serve as a solid foundation for your cyber security.
Certain government contracts require it to bid
Several government contracts now require bidding companies to hold the Cyber Essentials certification. For contracts that involve the handling of sensitive data, a bidding company must hold Cyber Essentials Plus certification in addition to Cyber Essentials. Therefore, if you don’t have it, you’re already behind your competitors. Furthermore, you are removing yourself from contention for lucrative contracts that many businesses are eager to win.
It can help you comply with GDPR
It is stated in the GDPR’s security principle that personal data must be ‘Processed in a way that ensures appropriate security, including protection against unauthorised or unlawful processing and against accidental loss, destruction or damage, using appropriate technical or organisational measures’. Having Cyber Essentials certification is a good way to show that your systems are secure to a standard that this regulation requires.
An investment that will pay off in the long run
Certification requires a small investment, but the long-term financial benefits are enormous – and not just because of the contracts we discussed earlier. Certification entitles your organisation to ‘Cyber liability insurance’, which offers £25,000 in coverage against cyber attacks. You will not be eligible for this if your business has a turnover of more than £20 million, but you might be able to benefit from lower insurance rates.
The cost of cyber-attacks is high. With Cyber Essentials, you can reduce the likelihood of a security breach causing downtime, as well as boost your business’s reputation and revenue by attracting new customers. Many benefits can be obtained at a ridiculously low annual fee, making it a no-brainer for many.
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We’re a young, fun, and enthusiastic bunch of down-to-earth people that strive to relieve our clients’ IT headaches. We do love to engage and create enjoyable relationships with our clients, but, ultimately, we’re here to help your business to run smoothly and securely. Our team has many years of experience in IT Consultancy, Website Development, Email/Web Hosting, Server Builds/Installations/Maintenance, Network Issues, and IT Security… and more! Contact us now to find out how we can help you.
