Over 80% of cyber-attacks on UK businesses could have been prevented by implementing some basic security controls. As a result, the UK government introduced the Cyber Essentials Certification scheme in 2014. It is operated by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
What is Cyber Essentials?
NCSC’s Cyber Essentials scheme is a government-backed, industry-supported certification. Cyber Essentials was launched on 05 June 2014 and from 1 October 2014 all suppliers bidding for Government contracts involving the handling of sensitive or personal information were required to meet the scheme’s requirements.
The scheme provides businesses with basic security controls to fight most cyber security threats. By achieving the certification, your business demonstrates its commitment to cyber security. Cyber Essentials (CE) certification comes in two levels, CE and CE Plus.
Why do you need Cyber Essentials?
With Cyber Essentials, your business shows its commitment to cyber security. Suppliers, partners, and clients feel more comfortable sharing sensitive data with you. In order to bid on Government projects, you must have Cyber Essentials. Some MoD projects and local authorities require CE Plus. It is also now common for organisations to require suppliers, especially small and medium enterprises, to hold Cyber Essentials certification in order to tender for their projects.
There are certain government contracts that require it to bid
Many government contracts now require Cyber Essentials certifications. For contracts involving sensitive data, a bidding company must also hold Cyber Essentials Plus certification. You’re already behind your competitors if you don’t have it. As a result, you’re removing yourself from competition for lucrative contracts.
It can assist you in complying with GDPR
Using appropriate technical or organisational measures, GDPR requires that personal data be processed in a way that ensures appropriate security, including protection against unauthorised or unlawful processing, as well as protection against accidental loss, destruction, or damage. By obtaining a Cyber Essentials certification, you prove that your systems meet the requirements of the regulation.
This is a long-term investment that pays off
Long-term financial advantages of certification go beyond contracts. You can protect your organization against cyberattacks by purchasing ‘Cyber liability insurance’. This policy covers £25,000 in damages. You won’t be eligible if your business has a turnover over £20 million, but you might be able to get a lower insurance rate.
The cost of a cyber-attack can be high. Implementing Cyber Essentials can reduce security breaches, attract new customers, and boost your business’s reputation by reducing downtime. For many, it is a no-brainer considering the many benefits available for a relatively low annual fee.
Why choose JMV solutions?
Since 2012, JMV Solutions has provided IT Support for a wide range of small and medium sized businesses throughout Devon and Cornwall. Our company is formed of a personable, friendly and expert team of IT and Security experts that have your best interests at heart. We protect your business, your valuable data, and help sustain your compliance requirements against a rapidly growing cyber threat. Contact us today to learn more.
