Cyberattacks are becoming so frequent and sophisticated that adopting an ‘it isn’t going to happen to us’ approach is no longer an option. But less than half of companies globally are sufficiently prepared for a cybersecurity attack, according to a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers of 3,000 business leaders.
To avoid the damaging consequences of a cyberattack, including the loss of critical data and high costs of recovery, the UK government-backed scheme - Cyber Essentials provides a range of benefits to your business.
Gaining a Cyber Essentials certificate not only protects your business against 80% of the most common cyberattacks, but also prepares you for being GDPR compliant, increases your credibility and reputation, and altogether creates new business opportunities.
Let’s take a look at some key benefits of gaining a Cyber Essentials certification.
Protection against 80% of common cyber threats
Developed and operated by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Cyber Essentials provides peace of mind, helping to protect your business against 80% of the most basic cyber security breaches. This is achieved by covering 5 controls:
- Firewalls to police incoming web traffic.
- Secure configuration to make sure your security settings are optimal.
- Control user access, which adds another line of defence should an attacker get in.
- Malware protection to stop viruses, trojans, worms and more infecting your systems.
- Patch management to keep your applications and devices up to date with maximum protection.
Once the above 5 controls have been reached, this is when you can apply for your Cyber Essentials certification. But don’t worry, our in-house experts at Total Group are there to guide you all the way.
To find out how we can help you tick off the cyber essentials certification checklist, talk to one of our friendly team members today.
Boost your credibility and reputation
Showcasing that you’ve gained a Cyber Essentials certification to your customers, prospects and vendors adds a layer of proof that you’re taking cybersecurity seriously. Its credibility is further enhanced by the fact that it’s been developed by the NCSC and backed by the UK government.
It also enables you to bid for government contracts, which has been made mandatory by the UK government for contracts involving certain technical services or handling of sensitive information.
Save money in the long term
Although there’s an initial Cyber Essentials certification cost in the way of an assessment payment, you can actually save money in the long term in several ways, including:
- Lowering your insurance premiums by showing you’re GDPR compliant.
- Reducing the risk of a cyberattack, therefore avoiding the costs of recovery.
- Decreasing downtime, resulting in improved efficiency.
To learn more about the initial costs of getting Cyber Essentials certified, as well as the long term cost-benefits to your business, talk to one of our knowledgeable staff members today.