To demonstrate our ongoing commitment to cyber security we have completed the certification process and achieved Cyber Essentials status for another year. Achieving this certification proves to stakeholders that we take data security seriously and have thorough cyber security controls to mitigate the data breach risk.  

What is Cyber Essentials?

Cyber Essentials is a Government-backed, industry-supported scheme to help organisations protect themselves against common online threats. The Cyber Essentials scheme includes five key security controls which provide the basic level of protection that you need, allowing you to focus instead on your core business objectives. 1. Secure configuration Confirm that computers and network devices are properly configured to reduce the level of inherent vulnerabilities. 2. Secure your Internet connection Confirm that only safe and essential network services can be accessed from the Internet. 3. Access control Confirm that user accounts are assigned to authorised individuals only. 4. Patch management Confirm that devices and software are not vulnerable to known security issues for which fixes are available. 5. Malware protection Restrict the execution of known malware and untrusted software.

Why is Cyber Essentials so useful?

Since GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and DPA (Data Protection Act) 2018 came into effect, all organisations that process personal data must implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure security. Implementing Cyber Essentials controls is recognised by the ICO (Information Commissioner’s Office) as one of many ways of demonstrating that organisations are taking action to mitigate the risks they face. Cyber Essentials certification can also reduce insurance premiums. A 2015 government report found that most insurers believed Cyber Essentials provides “a valuable signal of reduced risk when underwriting cyber insurance for SMEs”. If you want to apply for government contracts, you’ll need Cyber Essentials certification too. The UK Government now requires “suppliers of most contracts and services to hold a Cyber Essentials certificate.”

Would you like to know more?

We’re passionate about cyber security, our experts would love to speak to you about the benefits improved cyber security can bring to your business. For a free, no-obligation consultation. For more information, or to get a quote, contact us at 01482 210999 or info@GenesisIT.co.uk