Benefits of the Cyber Essentials Scheme to a Small Business
Cyber Essentials helps you to guard against the most common cyber threats and demonstrate your commitment to cyber security.
There are 2 levels of certification
Cyber Essentials
This is an online self-assessment, the purpose of this assessment is to explore and assess how your business is protected against common cyber attacks. The assessment is done in conjunction with the Cyber Essentials: Requirements for IT infrastructure document which provides guidelines on the technical controls you should have in place to protect from common cyber threats. The document is designed to help businesses of all sizes protect themselves from common cyber threats such as malware, phishing, and denial-of-service attacks. It sets out five technical controls companies must implement to achieve certification, Firewalls, Secure Configuration, Security Update Management, User Access Control & Malware Protection.
Cyber Essentials Plus
Cyber Essentials Plus involves a technical audit of your systems to ensure they meet the scope set out in the online assessment. An assessor will visit your site and perform test of sample of your devices.
What are the benefits of Cyber Essentials
Prevents Common Cyber Attacks: The scheme is designed to protect against approximately 80% of common cyber threats, particularly basic ones that are widely prevalent.
Eligibility for Government Contracts: Small businesses with Cyber Essentials certification can bid for government contracts that involve handling sensitive and personal information.
Reduces Insurance Premiums: Some insurance organisations offer incentives, such as reduced premiums, to businesses that achieve Cyber Essentials certification.
Enhances Efficiency and Productivity: By preventing cyber attacks, the scheme helps maintain operational efficiency and productivity.
Demonstrates Commitment to Security: Certification shows customers and suppliers that your business takes cyber security seriously, which can enhance your reputation.
Compliance with Regulations: Cyber Essentials can help ensure that your business complies with data protection regulations, thereby avoiding potential fines.
Builds Trust: Having the certification can establish trust within your industry and with vendors in your supply chain.
Attracts New Business: The promise of secure IT practices can attract new business and reassure existing customers.
Clear Security Picture: The scheme provides a clear picture of your organisation’s cyber security level, helping to identify areas for improvement.
Supports Cyber Hygiene: It encourages good cyber hygiene practices, which are essential for protecting against phishing, malware, and other network attacks.
Find out more
Complete the Cyber Essentials readiness toolkit to find out how your Cyber security stacks up. If you have any questions about your compliance contact us to discuss how we can help you achieve Cyber Essentials Certification.