We’ve received our Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation!

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What is Cyber Essentials Plus?

Let’s start by distinguishing between Cyber Essentials and the more comprehensive Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation. Both are cybersecurity accreditations, but they differ in terms of the depth of assessment and verification. 

Cyber Essentials 

Designed as an entry-level certification, Cyber Essentials is a foundational level perfect for organisations focused on establishing fundamental cybersecurity practices. It entails a questionnaire-based self-assessment against five key security controls: Boundary Firewalls and Internet Gateways, Secure Configuration, Access Control, Malware Protection, and Patch Management.

You can learn more about Cyber Essentials here. 

Cyber Essentials Plus

Building upon the basics of Cyber Essentials, Cyber Essentials Plus offers a more comprehensive and externally validated certification through an independent assessment. This meticulous and independent assessment includes both the self-assessment as well as an additional rigorous examination conducted by qualified cybersecurity professionals. 

Unlike the questionnaire-based approach of Cyber Essentials, Cyber Essentials Plus involves hands-on testing of the organisation’s systems and networks to verify the implementation of security controls. Due to the additional scrutiny, Cyber Essentials Plus provides a higher level of assurance regarding the organisation’s cybersecurity measures to stakeholders, clients, and regulatory bodies.

You can learn more about Cyber Essentials Plus here. 

The Five Pillars of Security Controls

The self-questionnaire of Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus is formed from five core security controls.

• Boundary Firewalls and Internet Gateways: This pillar focuses on ensuring that an organisation’s network is secure by implementing firewalls and internet gateways. It secures the organisation’s network perimeter by controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic to prevent unauthorised access and potential cyber threats.

• Secure Configuration: Secure configuration involves evaluating how well an organisation configures its systems and devices to minimise vulnerabilities. This includes ensuring that default settings are changed, unnecessary services are disabled, and configurations align with security best practices.

• Access Control: Access control assesses how an organisation manages user access to systems and data. It involves ensuring that only authorised individuals have access to specific information or resources and that user privileges are appropriately restricted to minimise the risk of unauthorised access.

• Malware Protection: Malware protection evaluates the measures in place to defend against malicious software by assessing the organisation’s antivirus solutions, anti-malware practices, and other mechanisms to detect, prevent, and respond to malware threats. 

• Patch Management: This examines how well an organisation keeps its software and systems up-to-date by applying security patches and updates. It aims to address vulnerabilities promptly to reduce the risk of exploitation by cyber threats.

Organisations undergoing the Cyber Essentials certification process need to demonstrate their adherence to these five pillars by providing detailed information about their cybersecurity practices.

What are the benefits of Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation? 

So, why would a business consider gaining a cybersecurity accreditation in the first place – particularly if it involves a rigorous assessment? Let’s look into a few of the reasons below.  

Enhanced Cybersecurity Posture

Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation signifies a comprehensive commitment to cybersecurity excellence. The independent assessment and hands-on testing ensure that an organisation’s cybersecurity measures go beyond the basics, resulting in a more robust and resilient security posture.

Increased Customer Trust and Confidence

Customers and stakeholders place a premium on the security of their data. Instil confidence in them by showcasing that your organisation has undergone an independent verification process with the Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation.

This tangible commitment to cybersecurity excellence serves as a powerful trust-building tool, fostering stronger relationships with clients, partners, and customers who are reassured by the organisation’s dedication to safeguarding sensitive information. 

Competitive Advantage in the Market

In an era where data breaches and cyber threats are prevalent and marketplaces are crowded and competitive, Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation acts as a differentiator in the market. It sets the accredited organisation apart from competitors by communicating to potential clients and partners that the organisation takes cybersecurity seriously and is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of information security. This strategic advantage positions the accredited organisation as a trustworthy and reliable choice, potentially influencing decision-making in its favor.

Meeting Regulatory Requirements

Many industries and regions have stringent regulatory requirements regarding data protection and cybersecurity. With the increasing emphasis on data protection and privacy regulations globally, Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation helps organisations align with and often exceed regulatory standards. By meeting these requirements, the organisation mitigates the risk of legal consequences, ensuring that it operates within the bounds of the law and upholds its commitment to data protection.

Proactive Defence Against Cyber Threats

By meeting these requirements, the organisation mitigates the risk of legal consequences, ensuring that it operates within the bounds of the law and upholds its commitment to data protection. This proactive defense mechanism ensures that the organisation is better prepared to withstand and respond to evolving cyber threats, reducing the likelihood of successful cyber attacks.

Risk Mitigation

By identifying, assessing, and mitigating cybersecurity risks, organisations can identify and mitigate cybersecurity risks effectively. This risk-aware approach contributes to the overall resilience of the organisation, minimising the potential impact of security incidents and safeguarding against financial and reputational damage.

Demonstration of Corporate Responsibility

Cybersecurity is not only a business imperative but also a matter of corporate responsibility. By prioritising the protection of sensitive information, organisations with Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation demonstrate their commitment to ethical and responsible business practices. As a result, organisations contribute to a safer digital environment for themselves, their clients, and the broader business community.

Continuous Improvement and Adaptability

The accreditation process encourages a culture of continuous improvement. Organisations that achieve Cyber Essentials Plus understand the importance of adaptability in the face of evolving cyber threats. This mindset fosters an environment where cybersecurity measures are continually refined to address emerging challenges.

Global Recognition of Cyber Resilience

Internationally recognised, Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation communicates a commitment to global cybersecurity standards. This recognition can be particularly valuable for organisations with international operations, providing assurance to stakeholders across borders.

The Role of IT Service Providers in Attaining Cyber Essentials Plus Accreditation

Many businesses now turn to seasoned IT service providers to navigate the complexities of achieving Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation. These providers bring specialised expertise and support, guiding organisations through the rigorous process and ensuring the establishment of a robust cybersecurity foundation. Their in-depth knowledge ensures that organisations not only meet the requirements but implement these controls effectively to enhance their overall cybersecurity posture.

IT service providers become even more important when applying for Cyber Essentials Plus rather than Cyber Essentials as they facilitate the hands-on testing required. This includes penetration testing and vulnerability scanning to identify and address potential weaknesses in the organisation’s systems and networks. They initiate the process with a comprehensive gap analysis, identifying areas where the organisation falls short of Cyber Essentials Plus requirements, and then guide the remediation process.

Selecting the right IT Service Provider 

Choosing your IT partner carefully. is a critical decision in the journey towards Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation. Consider factors such as experience, expertise, reputation, and references. Look for providers with a proven track record in cybersecurity and a deep understanding of the certification requirements.

Assess the reputation of the IT service provider by seeking references, client testimonials, or case studies. A reputable provider will have a history of successful cybersecurity engagements and satisfied clients. Then, evaluate the cost of services in relation to the value provided. While cost is a factor, prioritise value and the comprehensive support the IT service provider brings to enhance your organisation’s cybersecurity resilience. Remember, IT support is an investment, not merely a cost! 

Verify the certifications and qualifications of the IT service provider and its cybersecurity professionals. Industry-recognised certifications demonstrate a commitment to maintaining high standards of expertise (for example, you may want to select an IT partner that has a Cyber Essentials Plus certificate themselves!) 

Conclusion

Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation signifies a commitment beyond mere compliance. It showcases a proactive approach to cybersecurity, demonstrating to stakeholders, clients, and regulatory bodies that the organisation has undergone rigorous testing and met stringent security standards.

That’s why we’re so proud to have been recognised for our efforts in cybersecurity with our accreditation. If you’re looking to replicate our successful qualification within your business, we’re ready to help. Get in contact with a member of our team today.