In the increasingly digital world, cybersecurity is a top priority for businesses of all sizes. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are particularly vulnerable to cyber-attacks, as they often lack both the resources and expertise to implement security measures. By earning a Cyber Essentials certification, SMEs can start to protect themselves from cyber threats.

Cyber Essentials is a scheme backed by the UK government and designed to help businesses protect themselves against common cyber threats. Here ITSD, offering IT Support in Surrey, London, and across the UK and the EU, discuss the benefits of Cyber Essentials certification.

Enhanced Security

The Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus certifications ensure that your business has implemented basic security controls to protect against common cyber threats, such as malware, phishing attacks, and hacking attempts.

Competitive Advantage

Having the Cyber Essentials certification can give your business a competitive advantage over other companies that do not have the certification. By having Cyber Essentials in place, you are demonstrating that your business takes cyber security seriously and has taken steps to protect data. This can give you the edge over a competitor that has not certified. It can also help you build better business relationships.

Compliance

The Cyber Essentials certification can help your business to comply with regulatory requirements, such as GDPR and the UK Data Protection Act. Each of these regulatory frameworks require companies to implement appropriate security measures to protect personal data. Failure to comply with either regulation can result in significant fines and penalties, so earning your Cyber Essentials certificate will help you comply with these laws.

Bottom Line Savings

By implementing basic security controls, your business can reduce the risk of cyber-attacks and the costs involved in having to recover from such cyber-crime. Cyber-crime cost the UK economy nearly £30 billion in 2022, or roughly £4,200 per business. Additionally, you could potentially save money on the cost of cyber insurance premiums as your organisation will be seen as less of a risk.

Reassurance to your Stakeholders

Your Cyber Essentials certification can provide reassurance to stakeholders, such as investors and shareholders, that your business takes cyber security seriously and has taken steps to mitigate the risk of cyber threats.

Overall, obtaining a Cyber Essentials (Plus) certification can help your organisation to improve what is called its cyber security posture, gain a competitive advantage, and demonstrate commitment to protecting sensitive information.