What is the Cyber Essentials scheme?
The Cyber Essentials scheme is a UK government-backed framework supported by the NCSC (National Cyber Security Centre). It sets out five basic security controls that can protect organisations against 80% of common cyber attacks.
The scheme is designed to help organisations of any size demonstrate their commitment to cyber security – while keeping the approach simple and the costs low.
Cyber Essentials is suitable for all organisations, of any size, in any sector.
Prevent around 80% of cyber attacks
- Phishing attacks
- Malware
- Ransomware
- Password-guessing attacks
- Network attacks
Work with the UK government and MOD
Cyber Essentials will permit you to work with the UK government and Cyber Essentials Plus will allow you to work with the MOD.
Why Cyber Essentials?
Cyber attacks come in many shapes and sizes, but the vast majority are very basic in nature, carried out by relatively unskilled individuals. They’re the digital equivalent of a thief trying your front door to see if it’s unlocked.
Certification gives you peace of mind that your defences will protect against the vast majority of common cyber attacks simply because these attacks are looking for targets which do not have the Cyber Essentials technical controls in place.
Cyber Essentials shows you how to address those basics and prevent the most common attacks.
Cyber security for small businesses can sometimes be a low priority. This could be because businesses may have to worry about various other aspects such as revenue, staffing, competitors, markets, and regulations. We know as a small business owner, it’s probably the last thing you’re thinking about, but there’s some good reasons why you should consider it.
So what happens next?
Cyber Essentials certification demonstrates a base-level appreciation of cyber security within your organisation.
The assessment process comprises of an online questionnaire being completed by the organisation, which captures information that supports the five controls being in place. Once the questionnaire has been submitted, an accredited Cyber Essentials assessor examines the responses to ensure that these are line with the list of requirements produced by the NCSC (National Cyber Security Centre). If successful, the organisation will be awarded Cyber Essentials certification.
If you need more information on how to get Cyber Essentials certified, please get in touch! https://www.hfcsystems.com/contact-us/
