Learn more about the benefits of gaining a Cyber Essentials Certification.
What is Cyber Essentials?
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)describe Cyber Essentials (CE) as “an effective, Government backed scheme that will help you to protect your organisation, whatever its size, against a whole range of the most common cyber-attacks.”
It consists of five security controls which are:
· Boundary firewalls and internet gateways
· Secure configuration
· Access control
· Malware protection
· Patch management
How does the scheme work?
Within this scheme, there are 2 levels of certification: Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus. Both are crucial for enhancing your organisation's cybersecurity, but they offer different levels of assurance.
Cyber Essentials is a self-assessment certification that helps you protect your organisation against common cyber threats. It ensures you have the basics in place, such as secure firewalls, secure configuration, malware protection, and patch management.
Cyber Essentials Plus takes everything a step further with a more hands-on technical audit. An external certifying body conducts vulnerability tests to validate your cyber defences. This certification provides a higher level of assurance and demonstrates a more secure approach to your cybersecurity.
What are the benefits of the CE Scheme?
1. Protect Your Organisation From 80% of Cyberattacks
The main aim of the scheme is to ensure that businesses are protected from cyber-attacks. Statistical Research by the University of Portsmouth revealed that more than 80% of the cyber-attacks affecting UK businesses could have been prevented by the implementation of some basic security controls such as CE.
2. You Could Become Eligible for Government Tenders
CE is a requirement for many UK public sector organisations. Having this certification increases your eligibility to tender for contracts in UK government departments.
All suppliers must be compliant where contracts include handling personal identifiable information as well as the provision of certain technical services. Being able to bid on a UK Government contract is a massive opportunity for businesses.
3. Reduce Your Insurance Premiums
Compliance with CE scheme signals that you take cybersecurity seriously and have taken proactive steps to reduce exposure to cyber threats. By showing that you are compliant with the scheme, you are eligible for free cyber insurance - this could mean savings up to £25,000!
If your organisation is domiciled in the UK, has a turnover under £20 million and is certified with an IASME certification body, you are automatically entitled to free cyber liability insurance.
4. Gain Respect in The Industry and Improve Your Credibility
Having a cyber certification is evidence that you take cybersecurity seriously. Showing partners and prospective clients that you care about their data protection, this will encourage them to support your business. The earlier you receive this certification, the better for your credibility and reputation.
5.You Can Avoid GDPR Fines
Currently, if you experience a data breach, you could be fined up to 4% of your global turnover if found negligent.
With a CE certification, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) can establish that you had procedures and systems in place and have taken necessary precautions protecting you from hefty fines.
Stay Protected with Morgan & Morgan
Here at Morgan & Morgan, we’re proud to be a Cyber Essentials Certification Body and a NCSC Assured Service Provider.
We take great care ensuring that all our partners remain cyber safe. We can support you through your Cyber Essentials assessment to ensure that you feel confident and knowledgeable about your cybersecurity.
Check out our website to book your assessment today!
