Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed scheme designed to help organisations protect themselves against common online threats. Launched in 2014, it provides businesses with a set of security standards and guidelines to follow, ensuring they implement basic cyber hygiene practices. The scheme offers two levels of certification: Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus. While the basic Cyber Essentials certification involves a self-assessment process, Cyber Essentials Plus requires independent verification and testing of the organisation’s cybersecurity measures.
The Cyber Essentials certification focuses on five key technical controls:
- Boundary Firewalls and Internet Gateways: Configuring firewalls and gateways to protect your network from unauthorised access.
- Secure Configuration: Ensuring that systems are configured securely to reduce vulnerabilities.
- Access Control: Implementing measures to control access to data and services, ensuring that only authorised personnel have access.
- Malware Protection: Installing and regularly updating anti-malware software to protect against malicious software.
- Patch Management: Keeping software and systems up to date with the latest patches to mitigate security risks.
Cyber Essentials Plus builds upon the basic certification by requiring a hands-on technical assessment. This includes internal and external vulnerability scans, as well as a thorough review of your organisation’s cybersecurity processes. Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus demonstrates a higher level of commitment to cybersecurity and provides additional assurance to clients and partners.
Becoming Cyber Essentials accredited offers numerous advantages for businesses of all sizes and sectors. Here are some key benefits:
By adhering to the Cyber Essentials guidelines, your business can significantly reduce the risk of cyber attacks. Implementing these basic security measures helps protect against common threats such as phishing, malware, and ransomware.
Achieving Cyber Essentials accreditation signals to clients, partners, and stakeholders that your business is committed to cybersecurity. This can enhance your reputation and build trust, potentially leading to increased business opportunities.
Many industries are subject to regulatory requirements related to data protection and cybersecurity. Cyber Essentials accreditation can help your business demonstrate compliance with these regulations, avoiding potential fines and penalties.
In an increasingly competitive market, Cyber Essentials accreditation can set your business apart from competitors. It showcases your dedication to cybersecurity, giving you an edge when bidding for contracts or attracting new customers.
Some insurance providers offer discounts or favourable terms to businesses that are Cyber Essentials accredited. This reflects the reduced risk associated with robust cybersecurity measures.
Steps to Achieve Cyber Essentials Accreditation
Achieving Cyber Essentials accreditation involves several steps, but the process is straightforward and can be completed relatively quickly. Here is a step-by-step guide to help your business become accredited:
Familiarise yourself with the Cyber Essentials guidelines and technical controls. Ensure that your business meets the criteria for certification.
For the basic Cyber Essentials certification, complete the self-assessment questionnaire. This involves evaluating your current cybersecurity measures and identifying areas for improvement.
Based on your self-assessment, make any necessary changes to your cybersecurity practices. This may involve configuring firewalls, updating software, or enhancing access controls.
Once you have implemented the required changes, submit your self-assessment questionnaire to a certification body. They will review your submission and issue the Cyber Essentials certificate if you meet the criteria.
Pursue Cyber Essentials Plus
If you opt for Cyber Essentials Plus, arrange for an independent technical assessment. A certified assessor will conduct vulnerability scans and review your cybersecurity processes. Upon successful completion, you will receive the Cyber Essentials Plus certificate.
Northern Star is a trusted partner for businesses preparing their infrastructure for Cyber Essentials Accreditation. We excel in guiding companies through both the foundational Cyber Essentials certification and the more comprehensive Cyber Essentials Plus, which is rapidly becoming the gold standard for SME’S.
If you would like to discuss this with one of our IT security specialists, contact us today on 0800 319 6032 or email us at sales@northernstar.co.uk
