Security

The question is: Can You Afford Not to Be Cyber Essentials Certified?

Adele Spencer
Adele Spencer
Published 28th June 2024

The question is: Can You Afford Not to Be Cyber Essentials Certified?

Obtaining Cyber Essentials Certification can create valuable opportunities for your business. It showcases your dedication to cybersecurity and proves that you are taking proactive steps to safeguard data in today’s dynamic digital environment.

Why Cyber Essentials Certification Matters

Many local authorities, NHS bodies, Insurance companies and other public sector organisations now require their suppliers to have Cyber Essentials certification. As it becomes a standard requirement in many tenders, businesses without this certification risk being left behind. The question is: can you afford not to be certified?

The Five Essential Steps to Achieve Cyber Essentials Certification

The Cyber Essentials program outlines five essential technical controls that can be implemented to protect your organisation from cyber threats. Here’s a quick overview:

  1. Install a Firewall – A firewall acts as a protective barrier between your IT network and the internet, filtering incoming and outgoing traffic based on security rules. It helps prevent unauthorised access to your network by allowing only safe, verified traffic in.
  2. Secure Your Device Settings – Change default settings on your devices to enhance security. This includes using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible to add an extra layer of protection.
  3. Control Access to Your Data – Limit access to sensitive data to only those employees who need it for their work. By minimising unnecessary access and permissions, you reduce the risk of a data breach. Even if an account is compromised, the potential damage to your organisation is minimised.
  4. Protect Against Malware – Malware can infiltrate your systems through the internet, USB drives, or email attachments. Protect your network by using reputable antivirus software, which can detect and neutralise malicious software before it causes damage.
  5. Regularly Update Your Software – Software providers frequently release updates to address security vulnerabilities. Ensure that all software and devices are regularly updated to benefit from the latest protections and patches.

Steps to Achieve Cyber Essentials Certification

Getting certified is straightforward and involves three simple steps:

  1. Contact Eitex – Our team of cybersecurity experts will assess your current systems and recommend the necessary changes to align with Cyber Essentials requirements.
  2. Implement Necessary Changes – We will guide you through the process of implementing changes to your systems and processes to ensure compliance with the five key controls.
  3. Complete the Self-Assessment Questionnaire – With our support, you’ll complete the self-assessment questionnaire required for certification.

Why Choose Eitex for Cyber Essentials Certification?

Eitex has a proven track record of helping organisations become Cyber Essentials certified. We break down the five technical controls into easy, manageable steps so you feel well-prepared and confident when it’s time to complete your self-certification.

Our expertise guarantees that you’ll pass on your first attempt. We also offer training and consultancy services to further strengthen your cybersecurity posture, providing direct support in implementing the required changes for accreditation.

Interested in pursuing Cyber Essentials certification? Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you secure your business and take advantage of new opportunities.

For more information on Cyber Essentials, visit the official website: Cyber Essentials.

Written by
Adele Spencer
Adele Spencer
Filed Under